I need to access the files on a HP laptop (uses XP) that the monitor has failed. What is the best the best way to get the files off the hard drive and off desk top, Considered connecting laptop to TV and considered connecting to another laptop in home that had vista but not sure how to do either. Any sugestions with instructions please.

Most laptops have a VGA connector on them. If you plug a monitor into there, the screen should come up. If not, wait until the computer has fully booted up, then hit the VGA-out key combo (ex. Control F7)