Hi!

Which version of PoKeys you have 55 or 56U or 56E?
Do you have latest firmware? (PoKeys software-> upgrade)

Iz should work iit has HD44780 controller. But if it is hot, probably you did not connected it OK and/or it is broken.

There was one or two refurbished LCDs which I cannot remember make and model or they was not visible.

LCD chips should not be hot.
Please check LCD connection. Probably LCD is not OK.
We checked many types of LCDs and most of them are work without any problems.

Hi!

You can use only one 16x8 per PoKeys. But you can use more PoKeyses with Brians new plugin.

The old plugin was made Scott Schaffer Poppabear, new plugin is made By Brian.
PoLabs did not write any plugin.

Brian is working on new plugin. You can also use old one from PoKeys55. Will upload it in short also to PoKeys56U site.

Answer is yes, twice.

New PoNET kbd48CNC keyboard will be avaiable after September 16th 2011.
http://www.poscope.com/product.php?pid=29
It is dustproof, watterproof, came with beautiful hard anodized aluminium frame = very simple montage, And it is connected with simple 5 pin cable to PoKeys56 E and U.
Brian made a plugin which is directly supportin these keyboard.

And last not least: It is based on Scott Schaffer idea, so thanks Scott for great idea!

Hi!

New PoKeys56U was released recently. They are 100% replacement for PoKeys55. Mechanical dimensions are the same, all software which works on PK55, should work also on PK56U. New PK56U has more procesor speed and it is prepared for upcoming aditions.
http://www.poscope.com/product.php?pid=28
Here is also comparision between all PoKeys models: http://www.poscope.com/uploads/files/PoKeysComparison.pdf