Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a method for creating a database for a form-based data collection system, comprising the steps of receiving from a user a document comprising data regarding shapes or graphical objects associated with information comprising one or more of the following: data type, data field size, and field location; and populating a database from the information, using the data. Preferably, the shapes or graphical objects are dragged and dropped into the document. Typically, the document comprises a plurality of pages, and the method comprises creating a form using information associated with each page. In one embodiment, each form includes a form number. Typically, the form also includes a form identification bubble. Preferably, after the forms are created, they are emailed to the user. Software for performing the above steps in an automated manner is also disclosed.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a software plug-in that allows a peripheral device to communicate via a host (e.g., a personal computer) with a remote server through a communications port. The plug-in is preferably downloaded from the remote server and allows the peripheral device to communicate with that server or other remote servers, and the remote servers are able to communicate and control the peripheral device without any additional software being installed to the host.