What is a two-section address LED string?

A two-section address LED string uses PowerMOS driver ICs carrying a 10-bit laser-trimmed address code split into a 6-bit and a 4-bit section. The controller recognizes each section as an independent address performing its own function — for example 4 bits as sequence addresses (0#–15#) and 6 bits as random addresses (0#–63#) — so a single fixed-address string can run sectioned effects and random sparkle simultaneously.

How is it different from conventional fixed-address strings?

Conventional options are either 7-color strings without dimming (synchronized color change and random blink only), or 3-bit / 8-address fixed-code strings with 256 dimming levels — full color but too few sections for layered effects. Two-section address provides 10 bits of depth split into two independent address groups, keeping fixed-code cost advantages while multiplying effect possibilities.

What effects can a two-section address string perform?

A single string divides into sections performing Up & Down, Wave, Stacking, Snow, Firework and similar layered effects — end users simply wrap the string on the tree. The companion app offers 10 dynamic effects, 5 music-reactive modes, 16-million-color customization with up to 8-color palettes, 3-level microphone sensitivity, and timer with daily cycle.

Which PowerMOS chips implement two-section addressing?

The P9867 series (RGB, 3 channels) and P9868 series (RGBW, 4 channels), both serial fixed-address power-line carrier ICs available in AC 110/220V high-voltage, DC low-voltage and battery versions.

Two-Section Address LED String | 10-bit Sectioned Fixed-Address Christmas Lights IC

Q: Does it require production line changes?

No. Addresses are laser-trimmed at wafer stage, so strings are produced on existing automated string-making machines without any modification or addressing step.

Background

The fixed-address dilemma

Before two-section addressing, fixed-address strings offered two options, each with a hard ceiling:

Option 1 · No dimming

7 colors, all-sync only

Without dimming levels and limited to 7 colors — fully synchronized color-changing and random-blinking effects only. Cheap, but visually monotonous.

Option 2 · 3-bit fixed code

Full color, but 8 addresses

3-bit (8) fixed addressable code with 256 dimming levels — full color range, but too few sections for layered color-changing applications.

The Innovation

10 bits, split in two

The PowerMOS answer: a 10-bit address written by laser trimming, divided into 6-bit and 4-bit sections — each recognized as an independent address performing different functions.

The controller addresses both sections simultaneously with different commands — sequence flow on 4 bits, random sparkle on 6 bits — far beyond what an 8-address fixed code can express.

Advantages

Three advantages that land on the cost sheet

01 · Flexible

Define each section's role

Sequence + random, section control + sync, coarse zoning + fine positioning — one chip design, laser-trim graded into multiple function/price tiers.

02 · Zero retooling

Existing machines, unchanged

Addresses are written at wafer stage. Strings are produced on existing automated string-making machines without any modification — adoption cost approaches zero.

03 · Sectioned effects

One string, layered motion

A single string divides into sections performing Up & Down, Wave, Stacking, Snow, Firework — end users just wrap the string on the tree and the layers appear.

App Ecosystem

An app that turns strings into playable products

10 dynamic effects + 5 music modes — Twinkle, Sparkles, Wave, Snow, Firework and more, straight from the effect gallery or dancing to music
16 million colors — color-wheel picking, palettes of up to 8 colors, brightness and speed sliders
3-level microphone sensitivity — Quiet / Normal / Loud for any listening environment
Timer & daily cycle — on at 18:00, off at 6:00, set once for the whole season

The app solution is volume-proven in smart light string product lines on US and European retail shelves.

Christmas tree showing layered gold, magenta, blue and green sectioned lighting effect

Chipset

Implementing chips

Series	Channels	Address architecture	Voltage options	Typical application
P9867 series	RGB × 3	10-bit two-section (6+4) fixed code	AC 110/220V · DC · 2.5V battery	Full-color tree lights, high-volume retail strings
P9868 series	RGBW × 4	10-bit fixed code	AC 110/220V · DC	Four-channel tree lights, warm white + full color

Put two-section addressing in your next product line

Tell us your target market and price band — PowerMOS delivers the complete chip + controller + app solution with samples.

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