I need data off of one computer before I reinstall the os on it. Before I do that, can I make that hdd that's coming out of one computer a slave on another to get the data off of it?

There should be on problems in doing that, you may have to take ownership of the files though on the other machine in order to access them (otherwise all your folders will be there but they will show that they are empty and may get access is denied errors.)

To do so if necessary, make sure simple file sharing is disabled to do so:

Open pretty well any folder that gives you an explorer window
Click the Tools menu then Folder Options.
You should see a tab near the top of the resulting window called View...click it.
In the box with all the checkboxes...scroll down to the bottom and uncheck simple file sharing.

Instead of clicking OK. make sure you click on "apply to all folders" near the top of the window, then click ok.

Then once you have the drive installed and set as a slave, right click it and select properties. Then click on the Security tab. Click on advanced and find the option to replace owner, make sure the apply to all child folders option is checked, hit ok and let it do it's thing.

I will try it and see what happens...thanks for getting back with me also.

I suggest much easier:

Unplug the IDE cable going to the CD drive on the new computer. Connect the drive you want the data from to that cable,

When you boot it'll recognise the hard disk and assign a drive letter. Away you go

Sorry to bother you with simple questions but I can't figure out how to make new post i pchf. Can anyone guide to the right place?

Hi Oistein.

Welcome to PCHF.

In order to post a new thread, simply click on the Home link, scroll down and find the category that most fits your question (worst case we can move it if necessary). Near the top of the page, above all the thread titles you should see a "button" called "new topic". Simply click that and you're on your way.