S/PIDF not working? R4

I have already checked the bios (A10) and the windows 7 sound settings in the control panel and I think my s/pidf optical audio out is some how shut off?

Not sure what else to check. This is Windows 7 on an R4.

 

You sure the optical adapter for the R4 is not broken? You can figure out if the optical signal is present by plugging the optical to 3.5mm adapter in, then plug an optical cable into the adapter and check the other end of the optical cable to see if the red optical light is present. I do remember there was an issue with the optical adapter and the M17x wasn't switching back and forth from the computer speakers to the optical port and vice versa.

 

I sure hope its not broke. I ordered my first R4 in november, It got RMA'ed and this is the second one. I noticed when I got this one in the beginning of January, You could see the red light coming out of the optical even without a cable plugged in.

Last week I ordered 2 optical cables with the 3.5 head that fit the mini optical jack and I looked at the port and there was no red light even before plugging the cables in.

Thats when I checked the audio properties in the control panel. everything checked out. Rebooted just to be 100% sure and no red light out of the optical on the port. :-(.

 

Ooh, no bueno. I know its a hassle, but I'd get in touch with the Alienware reps here in the forums and tell them that there's no signal (red light) coming out of the S/PDIF adapter. Ask for a new adapter. It shouldn't be a problem getting a new on of those. Plus I have no other suggestions.

PS: can you take a photo of the S/PDIF adapter's male plug and post it. I have a hunch, but I just don't want to go over to my neighbor's and bug him to find his adapter this late at night.