Everything you need to know about Morse code.
What is Morse code and who invented it? ▼
Morse code is a system of encoding text using sequences of short dots (·) and long dashes (–). It was developed by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail in the 1830s-1840s for the electric telegraph. It became the standard for telegraph communication worldwide and was later used in radio communication. The original American Morse Code was later replaced by International Morse Code, which is what this tool uses.
What is SOS in Morse code? ▼
SOS in Morse code is: · · · – – – · · · (three dots, three dashes, three dots). It was adopted as the international distress signal in 1908. Contrary to popular belief, SOS doesn't stand for "Save Our Ship" or "Save Our Souls" — it was chosen simply because its Morse pattern is easy to recognize. It's transmitted as a continuous sequence without the standard letter gaps.
How do dots and dashes define timing in Morse? ▼
Morse code timing follows a unit system: 1 dot = 1 unit long. 1 dash = 3 units long. Gap between elements of one letter = 1 unit. Gap between letters = 3 units. Gap between words = 7 units. Speed is measured in WPM (words per minute), where one "word" = PARIS (a standard 50-unit word).
What does WPM mean in Morse code? ▼
WPM (Words Per Minute) measures Morse code transmission speed. The standard word "PARIS" (50 dot units) is used to define 1 WPM. At 20 WPM, a skilled operator can send approximately 20 words per minute. Beginners typically start at 5-10 WPM. Expert operators can reach 30+ WPM.
Is Morse code still used today? ▼
Yes. Amateur (ham) radio operators worldwide still use Morse code, often called CW (Continuous Wave). Aviation radio beacons still transmit Morse identifiers. It's used in accessibility technology for people with disabilities. Morse is also popular in games, puzzles, and survival training as a reliable communication method that requires minimal equipment.
How do I read Morse code? ▼
Each letter is separated by a space, and each word is separated by a forward slash (/). For example: "HELLO" = .... . .-.. .-.. --- and "HELLO WORLD" = .... . .-.. .-.. --- / .-- --- .-. .-.. -.. Start by learning common letters (E, T, I, A, N) and practice with slow playback to train your ear.