The article explores how to create a basic message queue using only two UNIX signals, specifically SIGUSR1 and SIGUSR2. It begins with a brief overview of UNIX signals and their common functions, such as terminating processes or handling interrupts. The author highlights how signals can be utilized for inter-process communication (IPC) beyond their traditional roles. By trapping signals in Ruby, the author demonstrates how to send and receive messages, transforming the signals into binary representations of characters. The key innovation lies in encoding a message as a series of signals. Each signal corresponds to a binary digit, with SIGUSR1 representing a '0' and SIGUSR2 a '1'. For example, sending a sequence of these signals can encode the letter "h" as 01101000. The article details the process of decoding this binary sequence back into its ASCII representation, illustrating how to convert individual bits into decimal values. The breakdown of the decoding process emphasizes the mechanics behind interpreting the signals as meaningful data. Throughout the piece, the author employs practical examples and Ruby scripts to showcase the concept. By using simple commands and code snippets, the reader can follow along and understand the underlying principles of IPC via UNIX signals. The article's approach is hands-on, making complex topics like binary operations accessible and engaging.