Abstract: An illuminated light socket is provided for powering a light bulb in a typical light string system. The illuminated socket contains its own lighting element, separate and distinct from the light bulb. The lighting element remains off when the light bulb is inserted into the socket and is illuminating properly. The lighting element illuminates when either the bulb is removed from the socket or the bulb is not illuminating correctly. The illuminated light element provides a visually perceptible warning, on the socket itself, that the associated light bulb is either absent or defective. Alternatively, a collar performing the same function is provided such that the collar may be mounted to existing light sockets. The illuminated sockets and housings may accommodate light bulbs of any technology, e.g. incandescent, LED (single or multiple color), or electroluminescent. The socket lighting element itself is preferably a low power LED or electroluminescent light.

Abstract: A light string power module is provided for providing power to light strings while replicating a lighting pattern from a first light string in providing said power. The illumination pattern of the first light string, which is not powered by the light string power module, is detected by examining the voltage polarities presented on the leads of a first connector to which the first light string is attached. These detected polarities are replicated by a switching module at matching leads on a second connector to which a second light string is attached. A power processing module accepts input power and provides output DC power to the switching module such that the second light string is powered by said output DC power in concert with the replicated voltage polarities so as to replicate the light pattern presented by the first light string on the second light string.

Abstract: An enhanced control mechanism for an LED light string system is provided for switching between one of two DC output phases or polarities so as to actuate one or the other of two LEDs within the bulbs on the light string. The control mechanism is further configured to allow switching so as to pass through the input power provided by a light string that is plugged into its electrical power feeding end. The control mechanism may provide either AC, rectified AC, or DC voltage of various values to the LED string according to the particular needs of the LED bulbs.

Abstract: A decorative light assembly comprises a plurality of optical fibers formed into a bundle having a length greater than one inch, the bundle having a first end for receiving light, and a second end that is fused for providing the received light as decorative illumination. The decorative light assembly is for use on, e.g., Christmas trees, windows, doors, etc.