Abstract: A system and method for automatically generating URLs which reference one or more data sources or data targets connected to a computer. The data sources/targets may be of any type including files, http servers, ftp servers, hardware devices, etc. The generated URLs may be used together with a system such as the Data Socket system to seamlessly read data from disparate data source types or write data to disparate data target types without having to manually perform configuration, connection operations, data format conversion, etc. The URLs are generated automatically and contain all the information necessary for accessing the data source/target. This greatly abstracts a user or application from the I/O process.

Abstract: A retirement savings calculator for computing a deferral percentage needed to replace income at retirement age. One embodiment includes a sleeve having an open end and a plurality of windows. An insert is slidably inserted into the open end of the sleeve. The retirement savings calculator calculates a savings ratio based on savings and income. A deferral percentage is calculated based on the savings ratio, current age, and replacement income percentage. In another embodiment, the deferral percentage is calculated in software. The retirement savings calculator can be used to promote savings in a retirement plan.