Not sure what IIRC chip is but. As the electronic world move to smds. More and more chips and other parts will be obsolete.
That said RJ has purchased a quality of chips for the 7 segment display. The RS485 chip has a drop in replacement so that is not a problem.
At some point the current PCB will have to be redesigned.
I don't see the diy version of the LE going away anytime soon. Updated sure
I have been using my LE's since 2008 with no problems with failed chips.
Rick R.