+++ Day

❓ What is +++ Day?

+++ Day is a celebration of the Hayes modem escape sequence, first patented on October 22, 1985. It marks the invention of the iconic +++ command that allowed users to switch from data mode to command mode on Hayes-compatible modems without hanging up. On October 22 each year, we honor this essential piece of modem history and all things BBS! ❓ Why celebrate +++?

Because +++ changed the way we connected to the world! Before this invention, sending commands to your modem often meant losing your connection. Hayes' elegant guard-time solution allowed for control without disconnection — a vital innovation in the early days of online communication. Also... it’s just fun to say "Happy +++ Day!" and pretend we’re war dialing again. ❓ What exactly is the +++ escape sequence?

It’s a string of three plus signs (+++) sent to the modem with at least one second of silence before and after. If done correctly, the modem interprets this as a signal to leave data mode and enter command mode — without dropping the call. This guard-time feature was part of Hayes' patent and became a defining standard in modem communications. ❓ What’s with the “three-plus salute”?

It's our retro twist on a military-style gesture. Instead of saluting with your hand, you honor the day by typing +++ somewhere — in your terminal, on your blog, in a meme, or just in spirit. Think of it as a ceremonial escape back to the 1980s. ❓ How do I celebrate +++ Day?

Here are some fun ways to join the festivities:

• 🔌 Dial into a BBS — Bonus points if it's using a real modem!

• 🧠 Share a modem war story from back in the day.

• 📼 Post retro computing memes, ANSI art, or modem screencaps.

• 👕 Wear a +++ shirt or make one!

• 🎂 Bake a cake with +++ on it. (Yes, that’s been done.)

• 📰 Write a blog post about your old BBS or dial-up adventures.

• 🤖 Run a real or emulated Hayes modem or simulate AT commands.

• 🎨 Create and share +++ art, including ASCII/ANSI or pixel-style.

• 🧵 Post in our southernamis.com group and join the movement!

❓ What makes October 22 special?

On October 22, 1985, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted patent US4542517 to Hayes Microcomputer Products for their modem escape sequence. That patent secured the company’s place in tech history and shaped modem behavior for years to come. ❓ Is +++ Day just for modem nerds?

Heck no! +++ Day is for anyone who appreciates:

• Retro tech

• DIY computing culture

• BBS history

• Tactile keyboards

• Glorious screeching handshake tones

• That feeling when the ATDT command actually connects

Even if you're new to the scene, you’re welcome to celebrate! ❓ Where can I find more info?

📍 Join the official group: +++ Day on SouthernAmis📡 Explore retro forums like r/bbs or r/vintagecomputing📼 Dust off your old hardware and ask your local SysOp what’s up! ❓ Final question: what if I accidentally send +++?

😱 Don’t worry. Unless you’re connected to a 2400 baud modem over an RJ-11 line in 1992, nothing bad will happen. But hey, if you are doing that, please post a picture. You’re a legend.