Help & Reference
MCForms are compact text forms for low-data-bandwidth message paths. They let operators transfer more structured information with fewer characters by using a coordinated form template shared by the sender and receiver.
Project purpose
MCForms were initially utilized and well executed through JS8Spotter for JS8Call. That remains the best-known and most complete implementation. While working with local and regional communications, we found the same idea useful beyond JS8Call: APRS, VarAC, Meshtastic MeshCore, Winlink, packet, email, and other paths where message space is limited or where consistent structure matters.
MCForms.org exists to make quick encoding and decoding practical online or locally. It is intended as a support site and utility, not a replacement for JS8Spotter or SITREPNET.
How an MCForms message works
A form template defines the questions, allowed answers, answer characters, and prompt fields. The transmitted string carries the form ID and selected answer characters. The receiving operator decodes the message by using the same form template.
F!505 3333333332X2333 ST[NC] GR[EM85VK] CT[LAKE LURE] #DUWPIn a cross-mode context, the same payload may be wrapped with a simple label:
N2NVY: MCFORMS F!505 3333333332X2333 ST[NC] GR[EM85VK] #DUWPSynchronization warning
Both sender and receiver must have the same current form. If the answer order or codes differ, the message may decode incorrectly without obvious failure. For operational use, identify the form ID, version, source, and distribution date before relying on results.
Load Form behavior
The Load Form tab does not upload anything to MCForms.org. Pasted and fetched forms are saved in the browser's localStorage on that device. They persist between visits in that browser until removed, but they are not added to the public repository.
To share a form with others, use the generated or downloaded raw form text. Public forms shown on MCForms.org are managed separately from browser-loaded personal forms.
Offline version
The offline version is a single self-contained HTML file. It can be downloaded before field deployment and opened directly from a laptop, tablet, or phone browser. It supports filling, encoding, decoding, loading pasted forms, building forms, and saving browser-local custom forms. It does not require internet once downloaded.
Features that depend on the website, including online form updates and viewing YouTube videos, require connectivity. For best results, download a fresh copy before planned exercises or deployments.
Training videos
The home page includes a pre-staged area for demonstration videos, walkthroughs, and field examples. Add the final embeds directly when videos are published.
Credits and source links
Credit for MCForms belongs to Joe Lyman, KF7MIX, and the JS8Spotter ecosystem. The primary JS8Spotter MCForms repository is maintained by SITREPNET. MCForms.org is an independent community support site focused on broader cross-mode use.