M17x R3 Dead, Need Files

My M17x R3 died completely yesterday. The power button does nothing. I called Dell and they're shipping a box to send it in for repairs. My question is, is there any way for me to get my important files off of it now? I don't have anything backed up and I'm afraid I may lose my files while they have it. It's my main computer so it has everything on it. The hard drive is the 1.5 TB with Raid configuration. I know if it were just one drive I could get an enclosure. Is there any easy, quick, and preferably cheap way for me to retrieve those files before sending in the machine?
Any information you could provide is appreciated.

 

You could get a RAID enclosure. I believe that there is one by Silverstone that's for 2.5" drives. I'll see if I can find it.

edit: This is the one I had in mind: Model DS221. There are other ones though.

 

You can run to your local Fry's and get a SATA to USB cable. You should be able to plug your HDD on the SATA port and the other port to your PC for back up/ clone.

 

You are not required to include the hard drive for depot service. You can just keep your drive and when they send back the fixed computer it should boot right up as if nothing happened.

 

I just sent my cousin's laptop in for Depot service. You DO NOT have to include the hard drive with it. Along with the box, they will send a form you fill out. On the very top it tells you that your hard drive does not need to be sent in with your laptop.

 

Thanks for the information everyone. They didn't make it clear on the phone that I didn't need to send in the hard drive. I will more than likely just send in the laptop without then. Thanks again.

 

Just to provide our official word, no need for it unless it is completely related to the issue (PSA HDD error or something). Just take it out and put it back in when you get it back.