How to check if old desktop hard drive still works

[1expressltd]

The hard drive I'm referring to is from my old desktop which I have sold. It was used as 2nd drive, for data storage. Windows software was installed on an ssd. Prior to selling my old pc, I encountered a problem with the said hdd when it all of a sudden caused my pc not booting to windows; this occurred when the hdd was connected to the mobo- pc booted fine and functioned if it was disconnected. I never had the chance to diagnose said problem. I just removed the affected hard drive from my pc entirely.
Now I am using a new pc with an ssd as boot drive and a separate hdd for storage. I'm wondering how I can check the old hard drive using my new computer without causing harm or problem. Thanks for the assistance.

 

[USAFRet]

Buy a USB SATA dock. Maybe $20
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817182145

Power up the PC, and only turn that on with the defective drive after the system is up and running.

 

[1expressltd]

Buy a USB SATA dock. Maybe $20
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817182145

Power up the PC, and only turn that on with the defective drive after the system is up and running.

Thanks for your suggestion. Besides the option of buying a sata dock, is it possible to simply hook the hard drive to the motherboard via sata then proceed thereafter?

 

[USAFRet]

Buy a USB SATA dock. Maybe $20
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817182145

Power up the PC, and only turn that on with the defective drive after the system is up and running.

Thanks for your suggestion. Besides the option of buying a sata dock, is it possible to simply hook the hard drive to the motherboard via sata then proceed thereafter?

Yes, but...
If it is defective, as seems to be the case, it will directly influence booting up the system.

I encountered a problem with the said hdd when it all of a sudden caused my pc not booting to windows; this occurred when the hdd was connected to the mobo

Hence, the dock, which can be turned on or connected after the system is up and running.