How do I transfer data from my old laptop to another laptop or desktop?

Question

Here is the problem. My old laptop, when I press power button, all it does is make a couple of clicking sounds. I've had that problem before in 2005. That time, the tech replaced a small circuit underneath the power button. Last year, it happened again, this time another tech said I need to buy a new one since fixing it will cost more than new.
I know the hard drive is still in good condition. I want all data from my old laptop into my new laptop or into my desktop. Keep in mind my old one cannot power up. How do I transfer files in this case? I'm not computer smart so you have to explain to me in details. Thanks!!

Answer 1

Get an external hard drive case (also called an external hard drive enclosure) for a 2.5" drive (the 3.5" drive cases are for desktop drives). You can find them for $20-$50, and a lot of them come with a USB interface so once you install the laptop drive into the enclosure, you connect the case to your new laptop or desktop through a USB port. Your new computer will see it as an external drive pretty much automatically (if you're running Windows XP). The link below shows some enclosures from Frys.

You'll have to remove the hard drive from the laptop and remove any mounting hardware from the drive (if you don't have a manual for your laptop, download one from the manufacturer's web site). For the enclosure, you normally just slide out a board that has a connector on one end. You slide your laptop drive onto the connector, screw the drive down onto the board, then slide the board (with drive mounted on it) into the enclosure. Attach the AC power adaptor to the enclosure and run a USB cable from the enclosure to your new laptop/desktop. Turn on the power, and voila! Your laptop/desktop will say that it's found a new USB storage device. It's pretty easy. You'll be able to drag & drop your files from your old hard drive onto your new one. And now you'll have a separate spare external hard drive that you can use for backups or to transfer files from one machine to another.

Answer 2

Hi. You (or a new best friend) have to remove the hard drive from the old laptop. Connect it to the desktop (two cables, one power and one data). Set the jumper on the back to SL and reboot. The old drive will show up. Copy and Paste to your hearts content.