Alienware ALX front usb not working

can't photo my ALX right now, here's an old one that shows the bottom right of the mthrbrd; 1st connector is the front panel header, #1 and #2 are my top external USB 2.0 headers / connectors, #3 I have the MIO AlienFx board's USB cable plugged into. Check to make sure your top external USB 2.0 connectors are firmly seated onto the headers (inspect cable for cuts or kinks / damage)

As a test, plug in a keyboard or mouse to top external USB ports, perhaps reinstall USB drivers again

As a test, unplug your MIO USB connector; if it's on #3, place it on #2, then #1; if AlienFx lights work, then USB headers are ok > reseat 1 2 and 3 and recheck AlienFx + keyboard/ mouse > if USB headers tested ok, problem may be in the cabling or the actual top USB assembly > Inspect the physical USB wiring, and the connectors, make sure all pins are pushed in and make contact on the header pins

Though unlikely the PCB board on yours is shot / defective, a new U637R top I/O assembly might cure things, but there are none available on eBAY at the moment, so play the waiting game for what is typically a $15 part

U637R

to replace top i/o, consult PDF service manual on Dell.com A51 support page / manuals > example photo with top activent assembly removed

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edit: eBAY search term = motherboard usb 2.0 header (or use similar language)

For about $5 - $7, I might buy a PCI slot-based USB 2.0 rear ports patch in, as a test unit:

• unplug your top external connectors, patch this in, test with keyboard mouse
• if it works = motherboard is ok = begin to suspect U637R and / or its cables / wiring
• keep the PCI bracket USB alive until u find U637R (eBAY / Dell / google etc)

p.s. if you need a new activent top assembly for cosmetic reasons, the part# is P701R