A Morse Code Oscillator generates an audio tone (typically a sine wave between 400–1000 Hz) that turns on and off to produce the dots and dashes of Morse code. This online tool uses the Web Audio API to generate precise audio tones directly in your browser — no downloads or plugins required. You can use the on-screen telegraph key (click & hold) or your keyboard's spacebar to practice sending Morse code. The tool automatically detects the duration of your key presses to distinguish between dots (short press) and dashes (long press), then decodes them into readable text in real time.

WPM stands for "Words Per Minute" and measures Morse code transmission speed. The standard reference word is "PARIS," which equals 50 time units. At 5 WPM, each dot lasts about 240 milliseconds — very slow and perfect for absolute beginners. At 15–20 WPM, you're at a comfortable intermediate speed. Most amateur radio operators communicate between 15–30 WPM. We recommend beginners start at 5–10 WPM and gradually increase speed as their recognition improves. Our tool's auto-detection thresholds adjust automatically based on your selected WPM setting.

Effective Morse code practice involves both sending and receiving. Use the telegraph key to practice sending — focus on maintaining consistent timing between your dots and dashes. Switch to the Receive Practice panel to test your listening skills: the tool plays a random character and you identify it. Start with the "Easy" character set (E, T, A, N, I, M) which uses only simple patterns, then progress to full letters and numbers. Aim for at least 15 minutes of daily practice. The built-in reference table helps you look up any code you're unsure about.

A straight key (what this online tool simulates) is the classic telegraph key — you manually control the duration of every dot and dash by holding the key down. An iambic paddle uses two levers: one produces dots automatically, the other produces dashes, with an electronic keyer controlling the precise timing. This online tool emulates a straight key experience, which is excellent for learning proper timing and rhythm from scratch. Once you master the straight key, transitioning to a paddle is easier.

Most operators prefer a sine wave for its clean, pure tone that's easy on the ears during long practice sessions. Square waves produce a sharper, more aggressive sound reminiscent of vintage military equipment — some find it helps with distinguishing signals in noisy conditions. Triangle waves offer a middle ground. We default to sine at 700 Hz, which sits in the most sensitive range of human hearing. Feel free to experiment with different waveforms and frequencies to find what works best for you.

Absolutely! This tool is fully responsive and works on smartphones and tablets. On touchscreen devices, simply tap and hold the telegraph key button to send Morse code — the tool detects your touch duration the same way it does with mouse clicks. The interface adapts to smaller screens, and all features including the practice mode, reference table, and text-to-Morse player remain fully functional. For the best mobile experience, we recommend using the on-screen key rather than an external keyboard.