File recovery for dumb sh-ts . . .

[dgsg]

Duh! Long story short. New Vista installation, Vista pukes and takes WP docs with it and backups are also FUBAR. Tried "free" recovery tool, but they seem worthless.
I have the old HD from my XP machine that has the info I need.
What do I need to purchase to use the old HD as a externally connected HD by USB or Fire wire? Ant other suggestions?

"tell me about the rabbits, George"

 

[Fullmetal Chocobo]

Take your pick. But dear god don't get anything from Vantec, damn them to hell. I've had about 3 of the external hd products, and they were all cheap worthless craptastic things. I have heard good things about AMS and Bytecc. Dual format (USB & firewire) is preferred in my opinion for availability on all systems. Active cooling isn't a bad idea either.