MRC Decoder

The MRC Decoder reads standard MRC/CCP4 map headers to reveal key metadata required for downstream processing. It exposes dimensions (NX, NY, NZ), data mode, origin, and map flags, along with simple statistics derived from the data block. This enables researchers to quickly verify compatibility with visualization tools and analysis pipelines. Conceptually, the tool treats the map as a 3D voxel array and validates the header before accessing data values. It parses the header, determines the appropriate data type from MODE, and checks the MAP signature to confirm endianness and integrity. When requested, it computes min, max, and mean values over the voxel data to support QA checks and provenance documentation. The tool is particularly useful before segmentation, refinement, or comparative analyses, where header consistency is critical for reproducible results. A key differentiator is robust validation against common header anomalies and its ability to batch-process multiple files, exporting a structured headerJSON for integration with pipelines. Core features include header extraction, endianness validation, data type interpretation, and basic statistics. Use cases cover routine QA of maps, cross-checking voxel counts against experimental design, and exporting header metadata for project records. It targets structural biology workflows, delivering precise, machine-readable outputs without requiring custom software beyond standard formats.