It's important to know the operating systems involved , processor speeds, and whether they both have "Network Interface Cards", or USB ports etc. It also makes a difference on "how much" information you're trying to transfer. Remember that most of the programs will need to be "reinstalled" on the new computer if you're going to use them again. So, if you only have a handful of documents, or small pictures, to transfer, do it with a floppy disk or a CD Writer, if available. Some folks have done it by sending themselves, or a friend e-mail, then retrieving it when the new computer is installed.

On the other hand, if the old computer has large amounts of pictures, or other files, then you might want to network the two computers temporarily so the data can be transferred quickly and easily. Here are a couple of links on how you might choose to do that:

Direct Connection with a "Laplink" Cable

USB LinQ Link Cable Networking

USB Cable Networking : Introduction

If both machines have a network card installed, purchase a CAT5 Cross-over cable and simply connect the two computers through the NIC's.:
Configuring Your Home Network

Hope this helps.

Grif