..try this, External Cd R again HP or the IOMEGA are very popular if slow alternatives. Even better still from a sale get a used Pentium grade machine with Win32 already installed which can be bought around 70 USD.

Obtain a domestic network pack and install that on both Lap Top and Pc. Then setup - I think 98 automates this - a routine backup. These would only occur if there were new files on the Laptop. Into the Pc you can also install CD R if you wish. When not in use turn off the PC - I have two older machines for different tasks. All my terminals are networked as well but only need the one CD R for making Data backups, thats the neatest thing about a network you can attach as many thing as you like once you get it setup.