Stories with Tag Morse Code

• Show HN: I Built a Telegraph Simulator

  permalink

  Posted: 2025-03-04 22:00:08

  Verbose tl;dr

  A developer created a web-based simulator that recreates the experience of using a telegraph. The simulator allows users to input a message, which is then converted into Morse code and visually transmitted as flashing lights and audible clicks, mimicking the original technology. It also features a receiver that decodes the transmitted Morse code back into text. This project provides a hands-on way to understand and interact with the historical process of telegraphic communication.

  A software developer has meticulously recreated the experience of using a 19th-century electrical telegraph, presenting their work online as "Telegraph Simulator." This interactive web application emulates the functionality and even the aesthetic of the original telegraph machines. Users are presented with a visually accurate representation of a telegraph key and a sounder. The simulator allows users to manipulate the telegraph key, sending and receiving messages in Morse code. By pressing and holding the key, users can generate the dots and dashes that comprise the Morse alphabet. These signals are then translated into audible clicks, mimicking the sounds produced by a real telegraph sounder. The simulator provides a text-based output of the decoded Morse code message as it's being received, facilitating understanding for those unfamiliar with the code itself. This allows users to learn Morse code interactively through practice and immediate feedback. The entire presentation is designed to evoke the historical context of telegraphy, giving users a sense of what it might have been like to operate this groundbreaking communication technology. Furthermore, the simulator highlights the fundamental principles of electrical signaling and coding that underpinned the telegraph's operation.

  • Telegraph
  • simulator
  • HN
  • Show HN
  • javascript
  • Morse Code
  • web application
  • Coding Project
  • historical technology
  • Communication
  • interactive

  Summary of Comments ( 16 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43260251

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users generally praised the Telegraph simulator for its simplicity, clean design, and accurate recreation of the Telegraph experience. Several commenters appreciated the nostalgia it evoked, recalling childhood memories of playing with similar toys. Some suggested improvements, such as adding sound or the ability to send messages between two simulated devices. A few users discussed the historical significance of the Telegraph and its role in communication technology. One commenter even shared a personal anecdote about their grandfather's career as a telegraph operator. The overall sentiment was positive, with many finding the project a charming and educational homage to a bygone era of communication.

  The Hacker News post "Show HN: I Built a Telegraph Simulator" at https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43260251 has generated several comments discussing the project and the history/mechanics of telegraphs.

  One commenter expresses admiration for the project, particularly the attention to detail in simulating the sound and feel of a telegraph. They mention the historical significance of telegraphy, highlighting its role as a precursor to the internet. This commenter also draws a parallel between learning Morse code and learning to program, suggesting that both involve mastering a new language to communicate with a machine.

  Another commenter delves into the technical aspects of telegraph operation, explaining how the length of dots and dashes could vary depending on the skill and individual style of the operator, a phenomenon known as "fist." They also discuss the use of "Phillips Code," a shorthand system used by telegraph operators to speed up communication, further highlighting the nuances of the technology.

  One commenter asks a clarifying question about the project, inquiring whether the user needs physical telegraph hardware to interact with the simulator. The creator of the project responds, explaining that the simulator can be used with a straight key or a mouse, offering flexibility to users.

  Several commenters share anecdotes and historical information related to telegraphs. One recounts a childhood experience of encountering a working telegraph at a historical site, emphasizing the lasting impact of experiencing this technology firsthand. Another discusses the historical context of telegraph usage during wartime, mentioning its vulnerability to interception. Another still points out the role of telegraphs in the development of standardized time zones.

  A few comments center on the practical applications of the project. One commenter suggests using the simulator as an educational tool to teach Morse code, highlighting its interactive and engaging nature. Another discusses the possibility of using the simulator for amateur radio communication.

  Overall, the comments on the Hacker News post demonstrate significant interest in the telegraph simulator, with discussions ranging from technical details and historical context to potential applications and personal experiences. The commenters' engagement with the project reveals a fascination with the history of communication technology and an appreciation for the creator's effort in bringing this piece of history to life in a digital format.

• Morse Code in Tubular Bells (2021)

  permalink

  Posted: 2025-01-23 20:19:59

  Verbose tl;dr

  The blog post explores a purported connection between Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells," famously used in The Exorcist, and Morse code. The author analyzes a specific section of the album and argues that the tubular bells play a sequence that translates to "BELLS." While acknowledging the possibility of coincidence, the author speculates that Oldfield, known for his meticulous approach to composition and interest in radio, might have intentionally embedded this message as a playful nod to his amateur radio background, potentially referencing his callsign "G3SWE." The post further links this potential Morse code to a rumored "curse" surrounding The Exorcist, suggesting the message could be interpreted as a signature or playful acknowledgement of the film's ominous themes.

  The blog post, "Morse Code in Tubular Bells (2021)," explores a fascinating, albeit ultimately debunked, theory connecting Mike Oldfield's iconic instrumental piece "Tubular Bells" with the world of amateur radio and specifically, Morse code. The author meticulously details their investigative journey, sparked by a fleeting, almost subconscious, perception of Morse code within the familiar melodies of the composition. This initial impression prompted a deep dive into analyzing specific sections of "Tubular Bells," particularly the introductory movements.

  The author employs various methods to scrutinize the music for encoded messages. These include painstakingly transcribing suspected Morse code sequences heard in the piece, converting these sequences into alphanumeric characters, and attempting to decipher any potential hidden meanings within the resulting text. The author demonstrates a clear understanding of Morse code principles, explaining the distinction between dots and dashes, and the process of translating these auditory elements into letters and numbers.

  The investigation focuses on isolating melodic phrases from "Tubular Bells" which exhibit rhythmic similarities to Morse code transmissions. The author provides detailed descriptions of these phrases, even specifying timestamps within the musical piece for reference. They then present their interpreted Morse code sequences alongside the corresponding decoded text. Despite the meticulousness of this approach, the deciphered messages ultimately yield incoherent and seemingly random strings of characters, suggesting no intentional coded communication.

  Furthermore, the blog post delves into the historical context surrounding the creation of "Tubular Bells," including the recording equipment used by Mike Oldfield. The author explores the possibility that unintended electromagnetic interference, perhaps from nearby amateur radio transmissions, might have inadvertently imprinted Morse-like patterns onto the recording. However, this hypothesis is also deemed unlikely, given the controlled studio environment and the nature of the recording process.

  Ultimately, the author concludes that the perceived Morse code in "Tubular Bells" is likely a product of pareidolia, the psychological phenomenon of perceiving meaningful patterns within random or ambiguous stimuli. While the initial suspicion of hidden messages proved unfounded, the author emphasizes the value of the investigative process itself, showcasing the power of curiosity and the analytical approach applied to unraveling a musical mystery. The investigation serves as an interesting example of how our brains can sometimes create connections where none actually exist, even within the intricate tapestry of a musical masterpiece.

  • Morse Code
  • Tubular Bells
  • The Exorcist (1973 film)
  • Soundtrack
  • Mike Oldfield
  • Music
  • Film
  • Horror
  • Amateur radio
  • Hidden Message
  • Easter Egg

  Summary of Comments ( 19 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42807653

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN users discuss the plausibility and technical details of the claim that Mike Oldfield embedded Morse code into "Tubular Bells." Some are skeptical, pointing out the difficulty of discerning Morse within complex music and suggesting coincidental patterns. Others analyze specific sections, referencing the provided audio examples, and debate whether the supposed Morse is intentional or simply an artifact of the instrumentation. The use of a spectrogram is highlighted as a method for clearer analysis, and discussion arises around the feasibility of Oldfield's equipment and knowledge of Morse at the time. Some express appreciation for the in-depth analysis of the blog post while others remain unconvinced, citing the lack of definitive proof. The comment thread also diverges into discussions about Oldfield's other work and general discussions on musical analysis techniques.

  The Hacker News post titled "Morse Code in Tubular Bells (2021)" has several comments discussing the linked article about potential Morse code hidden within Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells."

  Several commenters express skepticism about the claims made in the article. One points out that the supposed Morse code appears in a section of the piece with heavy phasing effects, making it unlikely that a deliberate, clean Morse signal could be embedded without being distorted. They also highlight the unlikelihood of Oldfield, known for his meticulous studio work, allowing such imperfections. Another commenter echoes this sentiment, suggesting the perceived Morse code is likely an auditory illusion or pareidolia, where random patterns are interpreted as meaningful information. This commenter further notes the lack of any known motive for Oldfield to include such a message, strengthening their skepticism.

  One commenter questions the methodology used in the analysis, suggesting that the author should have compared the audio to a known recording of the Morse code sequence they claim to have heard, rather than relying solely on their subjective interpretation. They also propose the possibility of the sounds being unintentional artifacts of the recording process or the instruments used.

  Another commenter delves into technical details, suggesting that the described sounds are more likely due to phasing between two slightly detuned oscillators rather than deliberate Morse code. They explain how such phasing can create rhythmic patterns that might be misconstrued as coded signals.

  One commenter recalls a similar experience listening to a different piece of music, where they perceived a Morse code-like rhythm, but ultimately attributed it to the natural rhythms of the music itself. This further emphasizes the potential for misinterpretation of musical patterns.

  Finally, some comments express general interest in the topic, even while remaining skeptical. They appreciate the exploration of the idea and the technical analysis provided by other commenters, demonstrating the engagement of the community with the topic despite the lack of definitive proof of hidden Morse code. There's a general sense of appreciation for the mystery and the discussion it generated.