MediaWiki Extensions Configuration

This document describes the configuration and usage of key MediaWiki extensions in this project, specifically Cargo and Page Forms.

Cargo Extension

Cargo provides a way to store, query, and format data defined within wiki pages, turning the wiki into a structured database.

Configuration

The extension is loaded in LocalSettings.php. Key configurations include:

  • Loading the Cargo extension.
  • Database configuration using environment variables.
  • Cache settings optimized for research data entry (caching disabled).

Usage

Cargo is used for structured data storage, complex queries, and integration with PageForms.

  • Tables are declared using #cargo_declare in the Category: namespace.
  • Queries are performed using #cargo_query to generate reports.

For actual implementation, see the Data Schemas.

Troubleshooting

If Cargo tables are not being created:

  1. Check LocalSettings.php.
  2. Verify database permissions.
  3. Run the update script: docker-compose exec mediawiki php maintenance/update.php --quick
  4. Check MediaWiki logs.

Page Forms Extension

Page Forms allows users to create and edit wiki pages using forms, providing a structured data entry interface.

Configuration

The extension is loaded in LocalSettings.php. Key configurations include:

  • Loading PageForms and PageSchemas.
  • Enabling file uploads and allowed extensions.
  • Integration with VisualEditor.

Usage

PageForms is used for structured data entry, validation, and template integration.

  • Forms are defined in the Form: namespace.
  • Templates in the Template: namespace use #cargo_store to save form data into Cargo tables.

For actual implementation, see the Data Templates.

Permissions

Form editing respects MediaWiki permissions defined in LocalSettings.php.

Troubleshooting

If forms are not appearing:

  1. Verify extension loading.
  2. Check namespaces (Form:, Template:).
  3. Check browser console for JS errors.

If data is not stored in Cargo:

  1. Verify #cargo_store in templates.
  2. Recreate Cargo tables: php extensions/Cargo/maintenance/cargoRecreateData.php --table=TableName
  3. Run update script.

Maintenance Tasks

Recreating Forms/Tables

When changing structure:

# Update MediaWiki
docker-compose exec mediawiki php maintenance/update.php --quick

# Recreate Cargo tables
docker-compose exec mediawiki php extensions/Cargo/maintenance/cargoRecreateData.php --table=TableName

# Process job queue
docker-compose exec mediawiki php maintenance/runJobs.php --maxjobs=1000

References

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