Morse Code Timing Rules - Dot, Dash & Spacing | MorseHub

Morse Code timing rules define how long dots and dashes last and how much space separates symbols, letters, and words. International Morse Code uses a simple unit-based system where a dot equals one unit, a dash equals three units, and specific spacing rules ensure accurate decoding.

This guide covers the timing standard as defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Whether you are learning to send Morse by hand or building a decoder, these rules apply.

Dot Duration

A dot (also called "dit") is the basic unit of Morse code timing. All other durations are measured relative to the dot.

• Duration: 1 time unit
• The dot is the shortest signal in Morse code
• It serves as the reference for all other timing calculations

Dash Duration

A dash (also called "dah") is exactly three times longer than a dot.

• Duration: 3 time units
• The 3:1 ratio between dash and dot is consistent across all speeds
• This clear difference makes dots and dashes easy to distinguish

Spacing Between Symbols

The silence between dots and dashes within the same letter equals one time unit.

• Duration: 1 time unit
• This short gap keeps symbols grouped together as a single character
• Example: The letter "A" (.-) has a 1-unit gap between the dot and dash

Letter Spacing

The silence between letters equals three time units.

• Duration: 3 time units (same length as one dash)
• This gap is long enough to separate letters but short enough to keep words together
• If this spacing is too short, letters will merge and become unreadable

Word Spacing

The silence between words equals seven time units.

• Duration: 7 time units
• This noticeably longer gap makes word boundaries clear
• Even at high speeds, the 7-unit pause is easy to recognize

Visual Timing Example

Here is how the timing units look visually:

Dot:         ■         (1 unit)
Dash:        ■■■       (3 units)
Symbol gap:  _         (1 unit)
Letter gap:  ___       (3 units)
Word gap:    _______   (7 units)

Example: Sending "HI"

H = .... (four dots), I = .. (two dots)

■_■_■_■___■_■
H H H H   I I

■ = signal on
_ = signal off (1 unit each)

Why Timing Matters

Correct timing is what makes Morse code readable. Without proper spacing:

• Dots and dashes blur together
• Letter boundaries become unclear
• Words merge into unreadable streams

Proper timing is especially important in radio communication, where noise and interference can make signals harder to decode. Consistent rhythm helps receivers distinguish signal from noise.

To practice timing, try the Morse Code Translator to hear properly-timed signals. For character references, see the Morse Code Alphabet.

Advanced Topics

Speed: Words Per Minute (WPM)

Morse code speed is measured in words per minute (WPM) using "PARIS" as the reference word (50 timing units including the final word space).

Formula: Unit duration (ms) = 1200 / WPM

Farnsworth Timing

Farnsworth timing is a learning technique where characters are sent at a faster speed, but extra space is added between letters and words. This helps beginners recognize character patterns at realistic speeds while having more time to process.

• Characters sent at higher WPM (e.g., 18 WPM)
• Extra silence added between characters and words
• Overall effective speed is lower (e.g., 10 WPM)

As you improve, gradually reduce the extra spacing until character speed equals overall speed.

Master Morse Code Timing

Understanding Morse Code timing rules is essential for clear communication. The 1-3-7 unit system provides a universal framework that works at any speed. Practice with proper timing from the start, and your Morse Code skills will develop faster and more accurately.

Related Resources

• Morse Code Alphabet — Complete A-Z and 0-9 reference
• Morse Code Chart — Printable reference guide
• Morse Code Translator — Instant text-to-Morse conversion