Morse Code Translator
Convert text to Morse code and Morse code to text instantly. Listen to Morse code audio playback and learn the international Morse alphabet.
International Morse Code Chart
Letters A-Z
Numbers 0-9
Common Punctuation
Famous Morse Code Signals
International distress signal. Chosen for its distinct, easy-to-recognize pattern.
Universal acknowledgment signal indicating everything is fine.
General call to all stations. Used by ham radio operators to invite responses.
How Morse Code Works
Morse code is a method of encoding text using sequences of dots (·) and dashes (−). Developed in the 1830s by Samuel Morse and Alfred Vail, it was originally designed for telegraph communication.
Timing Rules
- Dot (·) - 1 unit of time
- Dash (−) - 3 units of time
- Gap between symbols - 1 unit
- Gap between letters - 3 units
- Gap between words - 7 units
Mnemonics for Learning
Common letters have shorter codes (E = ·, T = −) while rare letters have longer codes. Many people use word mnemonics where the syllable count matches the code pattern.
Related Tools
- Binary Translator - Convert binary to/from text
- Hex Translator - Hexadecimal conversion
- Invisible Text Generator - Hidden characters
Uses for Morse Code
Ham Radio
Amateur radio operators still use Morse code (CW) for long-distance communication due to its efficiency and reliability.
Emergency Signals
SOS (···−−−···) is universally recognized. Morse can be signaled with flashlights, sounds, or any on/off mechanism.
Aviation & Navigation
Radio navigation beacons (VORs, NDBs) identify themselves using Morse code signals.
Education
Learning Morse code improves pattern recognition, memory, and provides insight into communication history.
Accessibility
People with limited mobility can communicate using Morse code with minimal physical movement (blinks, taps).
Games & Puzzles
Morse code appears in escape rooms, video games, and puzzle challenges as a decoding element.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do SOS mean in Morse code?▼
SOS (···−−−···) is the international Morse code distress signal. It was chosen because it's easy to transmit and recognize - three short, three long, three short. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't stand for "Save Our Souls" - that's a backronym.
How long does it take to learn Morse code?▼
With daily practice of 15-30 minutes, most people can learn the basic alphabet in 2-4 weeks. Achieving fluency at 15-20 words per minute typically takes 2-3 months of consistent practice.
Is Morse code still used today?▼
Yes! While no longer required for amateur radio licenses, many ham operators still use CW (Continuous Wave) Morse. It's also used in aviation beacons, by assistive technology users, and in emergency situations where voice communication isn't possible.
What's the fastest way to learn Morse code?▼
The Koch method is widely considered most effective: start by learning characters at full speed (15-20 WPM) but with wide spacing. Learn 2 characters, then add more as you reach 90% accuracy. Audio practice is essential - don't just memorize visually.
Why is E just a dot and T just a dash?▼
Samuel Morse designed the code so that the most common letters in English have the shortest codes. E is the most common letter, so it's just one dot. T is second most common, so it's one dash. This makes transmission more efficient.
Can I use this for emergency communication?▼
Yes, Morse code can be transmitted using any medium that can be turned on and off: flashlight, whistle, tapping, or even blinking. The SOS signal (···−−−···) is universally recognized as a distress call.