Firstly, check out the pic I have attached, this will give you the computer specs required for the iPad, then make sure that iTunes on your computer is the very latest version then try connecting again.
EDIT: re-reading your post, you may be saying that your computer is broken, if so it may be possible to recover if the HD is still serviceable.....let us know?
There is lots of good advice and info on here plus plenty of members all too willing to help with any problems.