Need some tips on accessing old computer

Helping somebody get some files of an old computer. Its an old gateway 504gr that uses the round pin style mouse and keyboard that are MIA. I can't get a usb keyboard or mouse to work, as the system displays a 'the drivers you are loading have not passed,blah blah, with the option to continue, but cant because the keyboard or mouse doesn't work. BIOS is no help either. What is the easiest way to remedy this? THanks!

 

Greetings, Crash&Burn.

Probably the quickest/simplest solution would be a USB/PS2 adapter, something like this - I'd be willing to bet you could find one or two at a local Radio Shack, Walmart, computer store, etc.

 

If me, I would just pull the hard drive and install it into an enclosure attached to the new computer, or install it as a secondary (NOT boot) drive in the new computer. Then, scan it to make sure it is free of malware, then copy off the files they want to keep.

That way, no need to worry about any drivers, or if the system is even bootable.