SOS encoded as binary (ASCII) is 01010011 01001111 01010011. As Morse code it's ··· ——— ··· — two completely different encoding systems, both covered below.
Only use the real SOS signal in genuine emergencies requiring rescue.
Binary encoding of text uses ASCII: each character has a decimal code number, and that number is written in base-2 (binary). SOS is three ASCII characters — S, O, S.
| Letter | ASCII decimal | Binary (8-bit) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 83 | 01010011 | 8² position: 64+16+2+1 = 83 |
| O | 79 | 01001111 | 64+8+4+2+1 = 79 |
| S | 83 | 01010011 | Same as first S |
| Full SOS in binary: | 01010011 01001111 01010011 | ||
You can verify this instantly in the Binary Translator — type "SOS" on the left and the binary output matches exactly.
SOS in Morse code is ··· ——— ··· — three dots, three dashes, three dots. Unlike other Morse words, SOS is sent as one continuous sequence without the normal inter-letter pause, making it unmistakable even on a noisy signal.
| Symbol | Pattern | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| S | ··· | 3 dots (1 unit each) |
| O | ——— | 3 dashes (3 units each) |
| S | ··· | 3 dots (1 unit each) |
| SOS (full) | ···———··· | Sent without inter-letter gaps |
These are two completely separate encoding systems that happen to both be used for SOS.
01010011 01001111 01010011. Each letter is encoded as its ASCII decimal value in 8-bit binary: S = 83 = 01010011, O = 79 = 01001111, S = 83 = 01010011.Full SOS history, timing breakdown and one-click audio player for the distress signal.
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