Standard · ITU-R M.1677
International Morse Code Standard
International Morse code is defined by ITU-R M.1677, which fixes both the symbols and their timing. This translator follows that 1:3:7 timing so playback and decoding stay accurate.
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Farnsworth keeps each character at 18 WPM but slows the gaps to 18 WPM — ideal for learning. Set both equal for standard timing.
Timing follows ITU 1:3:7 · 100% client-side
Timing
The 1:3:7 rule
Everything in Morse is measured in a single base "unit". A dotis one unit long and a dash is three units. Within a character, symbols are separated by one unit of silence. Between characters there are three units, and between words there are seven units — the 1:3:7 ratio that keeps Morse legible at any speed.
Speed is expressed in words per minute (WPM) using the reference word PARIS, which is exactly 50 units long including spacing. That gives the simple relationship unit (ms) = 1200 / WPM: at 20 WPM a unit is 60 ms, so a dot is 60 ms and a dash 180 ms. Farnsworth timing keeps characters fast while lengthening the gaps, which is useful when learning.
Answers
Standard FAQ
What is ITU-R M.1677?
ITU-R M.1677 is the International Telecommunication Union recommendation that defines International Morse code: the symbols for each character and the exact timing of dots, dashes and gaps.
What is the 1:3:7 timing rule?
A dot is one unit and a dash is three units. The gap between symbols in a letter is one unit, between letters three units, and between words seven units.
How is Morse speed measured?
Speed is given in words per minute (WPM) using the reference word PARIS, which is exactly 50 units long. One unit equals 1200 / WPM milliseconds.