Alright, so you've found yourself with a 1st Gen iPad that's locked, and you're stumped on how to access it due to not knowing the owner. Don't worry, you're not alone in this scenario, but there are a few things you can try to unlock the iPad and hopefully use it as your own.
First things first, if the iPad is locked with a passcode, your best bet is to try some basic combinations such as 0000, 1234, or even 1111. Sometimes people go for simple passcodes, so it's worth a shot. If that doesn't work, you may have to reset the iPad to its factory settings, but keep in mind that this will erase all data on the device, so make sure you're okay with losing any information stored on it.
To reset the iPad, you'll need to put it into recovery mode. Connect the iPad to a computer with iTunes installed and then force restart the device. For a 1st Gen iPad, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button at the same time until you see the recovery mode screen.
Once you're in recovery mode, iTunes should detect the iPad and give you the option to restore it. Click on the restore button and follow the on-screen instructions to reset the iPad to its factory settings. This process can take some time, so be patient and make sure not to disconnect the iPad during the reset.
After the reset is complete, the iPad should be unlocked and ready for you to set it up as a new device. You'll be guided through the initial setup process, including connecting to a Wi-Fi network, signing in with your Apple ID, and customizing your settings.
If the iPad is still tied to the previous owner's Apple ID, you may encounter Activation Lock, which requires the previous owner's Apple ID and password to unlock the device. In this case, your best option is to try contacting the previous owner and asking them to remove the device from their Apple ID account.
If you're unable to reach the previous owner, your next step would be to visit an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider with proof of purchase to see if they can assist you in unlocking the iPad.
Remember, it's important to always try to return lost or stolen devices to their rightful owners, so if you're unable to unlock the iPad, consider turning it in to local authorities or reporting it to Apple as found.
Hopefully, these tips help you unlock the 1st Gen iPad you've found, and you can enjoy using it for your own purposes.