Abstract: Shaking table tests of the conventional shear wall model and a new coupled shear wall model are conducted. In the new shear wall model, friction-damp control devices are installed at the central sections of the coupling beams over the span. It is shown that the devices control effectively the dynamic behavior and the seismic responses of the new shear wall. As a consequence, the development of the plastic state in the shear wall is delayed and the damage degree of the structure is reduced significantly. In addition, the new shear wall exhibits good aseismic characteristics in comparison with the conventional shear walls.