Transfer HDD contents to another computer?

[Slovig]

Hello,

Here's my predicament: I have an old macbook that I no longer use, because I have a new macbook air. However, there's files on the computer that I know I still want, and would like to have from it. Can I simply use time machine to back up the hard drive to an external drive, and then browse the files at my leisure? Or does time machine (never used it before, bare with me if this is a dumb question) write the back up in a different format? Or is it just a copy of the hard drive?

Thanks!

-Slovig

 

[simsaladimbamba]

You could also network them, but Time Machine will work too.

Mac OS X 10.5, 10.6: How to use Migration Assistant to transfer files from another Mac
Pro Tip of the Week: Move All Your Stuff to a New Mac — Quick
Migration Assistant - Use Migration Assistant to Copy Data from a Previous OS
6 easy steps to migrate your Mac using Time Machine

Time Machine FAQ - 14. How do I restore my entire system?

Setting-up a new Mac from an old one or its Backups

Target Disk Mode

 

[Slovig]

Ok cool. Networking isn't really an option, I'm looking to sell it, so I wanna reformat and get it all packed up. Plus, knowing me, it'll take two months to get a handful of files from the backup -_-

 

[MacmancUK]

Use Target disc mode, type target into Help for info

Basically connect two computers with firewire cable, press T on startup on slave computer

 

[simsaladimbamba]

Use Target disc mode, type target into Help for info

Basically connect two computers with firewire cable, press T on startup on slave computer

1. TDM has been linked to in the first reply.
2. It will no work in the OP's situation, as an MBA is involved.