Retrieving data from hard disk

[efficient]

My parents computer recently died. I have placed the hard disk from the old computer into a new computer and i cannot figure how to access the files that were in "My Documents" on the old computer.

I know these files still exist, because i can run the search function and spot them. However, i cannot find them in windows explorer (the file path that is specified in the search doesn't appear exist in windows explorer) I have tried playing with the visibility options.

does anyone know the easiest way to access these documents so i can transfer them to the new hard drive?

thanks in advance for any suggestions.

 

[corkyg]

Assume the drive is PATA? If so, when you put it in your computer did you change the jumper to SLAVE?

Alternatively, you could put it in an external USB case and access the files that way.

 

[RebateMonger]

If you can see SOME files on the drive, but can't access those in "My Documents", then you should try to "Take Ownership" of the entire drive. READ and follow the instructions carefully (most folks don't). After taking ownership, an Administrator-level account on their new PC should be able to grab the documents.

 

[efficient]

that "Take Ownership" link looks like it could be what i am after, thanks. i will give it a shot when i drop over next and let you know how it goes.

as you said i can see some of the files but cant access those that were in My Documents. However, i cannot actually see "My Documents" in windows explorer, do you think taking ownership will still work?

 

[Tenet]

Originally posted by: efficient
that "Take Ownership" link looks like it could be what i am after, thanks. i will give it a shot when i drop over next and let you know how it goes.

as you said i can see some of the files but cant access those that were in My Documents. However, i cannot actually see "My Documents" in windows explorer, do you think taking ownership will still work?

Yes.
The reason My Documents isn't visible in Explorer now is because the original user used the "make private" option on that folder.

Since My Documents is a subfolder of the drive (several levels deep), when you take ownership of the entire drive, it will provide access to everything in it - including My Documents.

 

[bwatson283]

Have you checked the sub folders of "Documents and Settings" ? My conclusion is he is trying to find "My Documents" in the root of the drive.