Need a boot disc to transfer files to USB

Calixtus

My laptop's Windows installation committed harakiri, and the repair claims it will need to delete all files on the computer. I would like to take a few select folders from the computer before this happends.

To do this, I need to make a boot CD with some suitable software that allows me to copy files to a USB stick. I have located on such, MiniTool Power Recovery something-or-other, but it is not free, and the demo version just let's me look at the files, not copy them (which was a fucking waste of my time, but okay).

I need some software that is actually free that does the same thing, but my google-fu is either returning paying programs or some seriously dodgy sites. Help!


I tried something called PEBuilder, but for reasons unknown, it failed to generate a working disc from the Windows recovery disc (at a guess it's because it really is a recovery disc and lacked some files neccesary, based on the warnings the builder generated).

(Worst case, I'd brute force it and just plug the HD into my desktop, but one of the fucking screws on the lid won't come off with the tools I have at my disposal)

Conroy Bumpas

knoppix possably could be some use


http://www.knoppix.net/

http://www.knopper.net/knoppix/index-en.html

http://www.knopper.net/knoppix-mirrors/index-en.html

Calixtus

Knoppix did indeed do the trick, after a few initial attempts and some raging, before I realized that the disc I was trying to burn it to was too small. Once that was fixed, it worked and I have now succesfully retrieved all the files I wanted.

Many, many thanks!