A data stream search system can include a plurality of search data inputs logically divided into at least M+N sets. The sets have a logical order with respect to one another, each set providing more than one bit value. A key application circuit can comprise a plurality of data paths that each couple a different group of at least M data input sets to a corresponding content addressable memory (CAM) section. Each different group of at least M data input sets can be contiguous with respect to the logical order, and shifted in bit order from one another by at least two bits.