How do I transfer files from an old iBook when it won't recognize the external HD?

Hi all,
Subject says it -- I'm trying to transfer the contents of an old iBook onto a Seagate external hard drive to upload into a newer computer, but the iBook "cannot verify" the external hd (which is in fine shape -- works with both a MacBook Pro and an iBook G4), and cannot locate it in disk utility.
Any help would be appreciated -- seriously, all I want to do is copy files out of the computer so I can keep the data and recycle the computer.
Thanks,
Nathan

It could be that the external drive requires USB 2.0, whereas the iBook's USB ports are USB 1.1.
Which exact model is the Seagate drive? Do you have a link to it so you can check out its requirements?
If you have a FireWire cable and your newer Mac has a FireWire port, you can connect the two using FireWire Target Disk Mode, with the iBook as the Target Disk and the newer computer as the Host and transfer your files directly without using the external drive as an intermediary. (This is one reason I won't buy a Mac that doesn't have a FireWire port.)

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