SanDisk Extreme Pro CFast Reader/Writer SSDR-299-A46

Hi All, 

I’m a complete newbie in terms of the product listed in the subject. I recently purchased it as an open box item and I’m not sure if it’s operational. 

I do not currently own an CFast card, so I don’t have a card to insert to test it. I have connected it via USB to a couple Macs and a PC and I get no indication that the Reader/Writer is connected. The blue light doesn’t come on, as shown in several of the photos of the item, and it doesn’t show in the list of USB devices connected to any of the computers when plugged in. 

I called SanDisk and got conflicting information. The representative first said the item would show the blue light if it was working properly, even without a card inserted. She then “checked her resources” and said the opposite was true, and that a card was necessary for the item to show it was powered and working properly.

So I’m hoping someone out there could provide the correct, definitve information on this. I thank you in advance for any info!