Abstract: In an alpha numeric and indicator light emitting diode (LED) display apparatus, a typical flow of displayed information seldom requires that more than half of the LEDs be illuminated. Illuminating current pulses of predetermined duration are directed to selected ones of the LEDs from a power supply normally capable of supplying an average current of up to a predetermined limit, for example up to that which would normally be used to illuminate about half of the LEDs. The display apparatus includes control apparatus for reducing the predetermined duration of the current pulses during an operating condition in which the predetermined limit of the average current would otherwise be exceeded.