USB thumb drive is not seen once computer is up!

[Rapidrob]

I've been using Linux Lite on my laptop for over a year. I got an error saying my HDD was going to fail.
I replaced the HDD with an exact same type and loaded the Linix Lite 4.6 AND all of the updates.
Everything boots as it should and connection to the internet is just fine.
I went to download from a 15 Gb USB thumb drive and the laptop does not see the drive in any of the 3 USB ports!
IF, I plug the drive into any of the USB ports and BOOT the laptop the software see's the USB thumb drive!
This has N E V E R been a problem with this laptop running Linux Lite before, it has just started.
I did the Linux Lite System Report and all is well and recognized.
The Dell Self test at boot up also shows nothing wrong.
The Thumb drive IS instantly seen on a Ubuntu and Tower Linux Lite computers with no problems.
There is something not right with my software or settings but I do not know what it may be.
Please Help.
Dell Inspiron 1545
Intel core duo T9600 2.8Ghz
4 Gb memory
I use the thumb drive with this laptop many times during the day. It has always worked.

[Valtam]

Does it show under the Disks application? If so, can you screenshot it please.

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[Rapidrob]

Out of nowhere it started to work again. No idea why. I have another odd problem that I will post under a new heading.