Qforms Basic instructions with winlink
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Installing Qforms
The software can be downloaded from www.activeham.com.
http://www.activeham.com/mw/index.php?title=Downloads or http://kb9mmc.ath.cx:8080
Go to the downloads section of the website.
To install this software just create folder c:\qforms and unzip the *.exe file into the directory.
Then double click the executable file qforms.exe to install and start the application.
You may want to create a shortcut to your desktop if you wish to access the application.
QForms
QForms supports ICS, Radiogram, and Simple format messages. QForms allows entry of text into an electronic form to create a message. The message is saved in an XML format. The XML file is then sent (using any packet program) to a remote packet station that is also running QForms where it can be opened, displayed and printed. Optionally, a text version of the message can be created, saved and sent to a remote station (again, using any packet program you like). The text format can not be re-opened by QForms other than as a simple text file.
Using form IC-213 General message form
The first step is to open qforms, click on the IC-213 tab. Next, fill in the message id as dictated by the situation
Example VTA2401
Then click on the dots for date and time auto fill
Fill in the to (addressee) and location
Example Jim Darrow Milwaukee, WI
Fill in the From part and location part
Example Jim Markstrom Mount pleasant, WI
The rest is very straight forward for message format. When complete preview the output by clicking F10 or view -> view message in browser
To save the message for transmission File then save it preferably as a *.xml file. It is good to name the file as your message ID stated above. This helps one keep track of things in a hurry. Another good hint is to keep all your messages in a single separate folder under the qforms directory like c:\qforms\messages.
Example vta2401 stored in c:\qforms\messages\VTA2401.xml.
Send the message as an attachment to the parties needing the message per net protocol.
It is good in the subject line to put Tactical call (if applicable) - message ID in the subject line
To reply ICS-213
To reply it is best to export the attachment and open it again in qforms using file open.
This is usually saved in the directory you that contains message C:\qforms\messages.
To edit the message you can export the attachment open it again in qforms and use the reply tab and necessary data fill.
Save the file as that same name with a R on the end for reply, or your return message id number. Examples VTA2401r.xml or mma1023.xml
Make sure your subject is appropriate and helps identify the message as described above.
Send file back as an attachment to the parties of interest per digital protocol.
NTS Traffic
A basic assumption that will be made is that you understand NTS traffic handling. For more help see the http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/nts-mpg/ or other sources for help there. The required fields are Starred for you to fill in.
The first is the message number this identifies the message.
Example MMA0129
The precedence has only four standard options listed in the drop down box. Skip the check for now.
Anytime you have to auto datafill a box the three dots do it for you. Click to fill in Date and time filed.
Datafill the station of origin, Place of Origin, the addressee's phone number, and address.
A good place to put operators notes and other information is This radio message was recieved at:
Compose the message in the message text box, fill in the signature and date and time at the bottom. Save the file as your message number.
Example: MMA0129.xml in your c:\qforms\message folder. It sometimes is good to keep a NTS subfolder if you wish.
It is good in the subject line to put tactical call (if applicable) - - message ID in the subject.
Transmit message per digital protocols.
NTS reply
If a full NTS message is required, datafill a new form out as described above. and retransmit that form.
If you just need to relay date and time, depending on handling instructions, import the existing message into qforms
Datafill Sent To: Date and Time, and sent to information. Save message as below Example MMA129R.xml
Send message back to station with that information, with updated message id and file name. Also put in subject this message is a confirmation it was sent
Example: Subject: Your tactical call (if applicable)- MMA129R-confirmation message sent.
General Hints & Tricks
File extension association method option
Disclaimer please know what you are doing here!
Windows does allow to relate a file extension relationships to a file tag.
The easiest way is to find the file in question, right click.
Choose open with and choose program and check always use with this type of file
Go browse and the c:\qforms\qforms.exe and relate that with the file chosen.
Shortcut to message folder hint
Create a shortcut to the c:\qforms\messages folder
Right click on desktop go to browse file c:\qforms\messages folder.
