How can I access files on external hard drive

[m8knstamps]

My computer died, which I was receiving help in the hardware section from someone. In the meantime I bought a Rocketfish external hard drive storage device. I've put the hard drive from my old computer in it and attached it to my laptop. As you can see, I'm not very computer savvy, don't use the common lingo. Unfortunately, the device doesn't come with instructions on how to do things. I'm having trouble getting to excel, word and publisher files on the external drive. This is the message I get.
"The folder, 'E:\Documents and Settings\Sheila Dochnal\*,*' isn't accessible. The folder may be located in an unavailable location, protected with a password, or the filename contains a / or \.
I was able to open my music file, but I'm also having problems with my photos. When I first attached it I had the choice of doing c to e, e to c, or sychronize. I chose synchronize. I'm praying I didn't lose data from e because of that because I have photos of my dad who is deceased now. Any help would be appreciated.

[EzyStvy]

Guessing your using Windows XP...

How to take ownership of a file or folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default...b;en-us;308421

[Kuch]

I don't believe you can run any MS Office applications unless they are installed in the operating system you are using, meaning they probably won’t run from your external drive.

EzyStvy beat me to the rest.