How Morse Code Timing Works
Morse code timing starts with one basic unit: the duration of a dit. A dah lasts three units, the gap between elements inside one character lasts one unit, the gap between characters lasts three units, and the gap between words lasts seven units.
- Dit — 1 unit
- Dah — 3 units
- Gap inside one character — 1 unit
- Gap between characters — 3 units
- Gap between words — 7 units
Standard Timing vs Farnsworth Timing
Standard timing uses the same base unit for the characters and the spaces between them. Farnsworth timing keeps each Morse character at the selected character speed but increases the gaps between characters and words, reducing the effective speed of the complete message.
Character Speed
Character speed controls how quickly the dots, dashes, and internal spacing of each individual Morse character are sent.
Effective Speed
Effective speed describes the overall pace of the message after the spaces between characters and words are included.
With Farnsworth timing, the characters keep their original rhythm while the extra spacing gives you more time to recognize what you heard.
How Morse Code WPM Is Calculated
Morse speed is commonly measured using the standard word “PARIS,” which represents 50 timing units when its following word space is included. This leads to a simple relationship between WPM and the duration of one dit.
A dah lasts three times as long, so at 20 WPM it lasts 180 ms.
How Farnsworth Timing Changes the Spacing
Farnsworth timing does not slow the dots and dashes inside a character. Instead, it increases the spaces between characters and words. This allows individual characters to keep their normal rhythm while the complete message moves at a lower effective speed.
Example
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WPM mean in Morse code?
WPM means words per minute. Morse code speed is commonly measured using a standard reference word so different sending speeds can be compared consistently.
How long is a Morse code dot at 20 WPM?
At 20 WPM, one dit lasts 60 milliseconds because the standard timing formula is 1200 divided by WPM.
What is the difference between character speed and effective speed?
Character speed controls the timing inside each individual Morse character. Effective speed describes how quickly the complete message progresses after the spaces between characters and words are included.
What is Farnsworth timing?
Farnsworth timing keeps Morse characters at the selected character speed while increasing the spaces between characters and words. This lowers the effective message speed without changing the rhythm inside each character.
Why is PARIS used to calculate Morse WPM?
PARIS is a standard reference word used for measuring Morse speed. Its Morse pattern and spacing form a 50-unit timing reference when the following word space is included.
Does Farnsworth timing change the speed of dots and dashes?
No. The dots, dashes, and spacing inside each character remain at the character speed. Farnsworth timing changes the spacing between characters and words.
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