Here's how I do this. I unplug my CDROM connectors and use that cable with this $3.65 adapter -> http://www.compgeeks.com/details.asp?invtid=HD-108&cat=HDD for laptops or if it's a desktop, I just put in on top of the CDROM driver or let it hang out on the floor.
Then I boot up, drag the files out and start over.
In extreme cases, I use a KNOPPIX CD like you read at http://tips.oncomputers.info/archives2004/0401/2004-Jan-11.htm
Bob
(I'm not sure what Forum this question should go on.)
Problem: How to get the data off a hard disk that I pulled from my daughter's dead (and old) computer. Hard Disk works. But I could not install it to another computer as a slave because none of my home computers has an empty 3.5" bay. So I have just bought on-line a 3.5" External Enclosure. It arrived today and I had no problem placing the HD inside of it and connecting it to a working computer via USB. I see its contents on-screen. The HD operating system is Windows 98. I see 2 folders on the main screen: PROGRA~ and WINDOWS. Within these are the various other Windows folders such as CHAT, COMMON, etc. But I cannot access the contents of the subfolders of these 2 main folders (with the exception of the COMMAND subfolder which shows all files and their properties). I have tried changing the attributes to Archive from Read-Only. I am stumped. I have this HD as a disk drive on a Windows XP system if that is useful info. Other info: I do know that the dead computer OS was set up to 4 User Accounts, each with a password. Perhaps this is preventing me from gaining access (?). All I want to do is retrieve saved images, Word documents, Quicken accounts, emails. I do not need to save the Win98 OS or any installed applications. What to do now????

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