Try this first -> http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/use-ubuntu-live-cd-to-backup-files-from-your-dead-windows-computer/
Then you can copy your files out if it's just a blown OS.
Bob
I have a Dell Inspiron M5030. I closed the lid (it doesn't turn off or make the computer sleep) and after a while I heard 2 beeps (I believe) and I lifted up the lid and it said to reboot and select proper device. What do I do? D: I've looked at other solutions and it said to use a recovery disk. If you use a recovery disk, will all of my personal data be lost? I don't want that to happen. Is there an alternative solution? And I don't want to change the hard drive and motherboard and stuff. I don't do those kinds of stuff. There's also this "BIOS" alternative solution, but I have no idea how to do that. Please explain about that if that is a solution. Thanks~

Chowhound
Comic Vine
GameFAQs
GameSpot
Giant Bomb
TechRepublic