At a time when everything seems to speed up, some things tend to slow down. That’s exactly why Morse code has been regaining popularity in recent times. Its simplicity is making some people question whether it’s not a better alternative to Twitter.
What Is Morse Code Really?
Morse code emerged almost 200 years ago. In the 1830s, Samuel F.B. Morse made a remarkable invention that completely revolutionized the world of communication. Previously known as a portrait painter, Morse decided to experiment with initiating an electrical pulse in one place and transmitting it through electromagnetic waves to another place. And so, the Morse code was born. The code consists of a sequence of dots and dashes that represent the 26 letters of the alphabet.
Why Is Morse Code Back in Fashion?
Although Morse Code is no longer regularly used by military and maritime users, its popularity is surging. According to ARRL, 2021 saw an increase in ham participants (amateur radio operators), and more and more people are looking to buy Morse code-supported equipment. Even the latest Apple Watch has a feature where if you put two fingers on the face, it can silently buzz out the time in Morse.
Experts believe that the reason behind this Morse renaissance is attributed to the code’s innate simplicity. It’s also most likely a result of people looking to slow down and catch a break from high-tech while still being able to communicate.
Making a Morse Code Practice Generator
If you’re curious about building your own practice generator, you’ll need a piece of wood, stiff metal wire, two screws, a buzzer, and a nine-volt battery and clip. Then, follow these steps:
- Take an opened paper clip, loop one end around a screw head, and fasten it to the wood piece. This will serve as your “key.”
- Press down the key and use a pencil to mark where the free end touches the wood. Put the second screw there. Don’t tighten.
- Connect the first screw to a wire from the nine-volt battery clip. Tighten it well. Connect the other battery wire to the buzzer, then connect the other buzzer wire to the second screw. Tighten.
- Each time you press the key, the buzzer will make a sound. If there’s no sound, replace the two buzzer wires.