kjmcentee

I realize that questions have been asked on this discussion board previously, but I have a really basic question. I recently bought a Sony MZ-R50. It records just great. I have a good laptop computer, but I'm really unfamiliar with audio hardware and software. My MD has an optical cable. What do I need to get the audio to my PC? What hardware am I looking for on my PC? What software will I need. Can any of this be done for free? I'm just looking for a way to record simple recordings of readings for my mother-in-law because of her sight problems. Any help would be greatly appreciated.