LS210D now not appearing (on network or via NasNavigator) and flashing white LED

[harbo]

Hi Folks,
Hopefully someone has the advice I need - most material relating seems to be 2011-2016!
I've had a Linkstation LS210D many years and for the most part it worked ok - I have a large amount of family photos on there.
It's had some intermittent issues and sensing that some weeks ago I decided to take off the photos in case it failed. To try and expedite transfer I was using WinSCP but wierdly it would begin really quick then after seconds reduce in speed and either disconnect or grind to a halt.
The unit is also making a constant sound like a disk searching.
I have a proportion of my files ... but now I can't seem to connect at all.
The LED power light flashes white constantly. The power switch doesn't work and to power off I have to unplug.
So, I appear a little stuck. I have read about:
a. Connecting directly to a laptop/pc via ethernet - however neither of my laptops have an ethernet connection :(
b. Dismantling the unit and connecting to the disk direct
I want to take the safest route possible to protect the files. I am reasonably savvy but not hardware so.
All responses gratefully received.