Spark 2 Won't Turn On - Power Failure Troubleshooting

Step 1: Power Button Test

Press and hold the power button for 3–5 seconds to turn on Spark 2.

If Spark 2 powers on normally, you're done. If nothing happens, continue to Step 2.

Step 2: Recovery Mode Power Test

This test forces Spark 2 into MCU update mode so we can check whether the firmware is recoverable.

1. Unplug the power supply from Spark 2.
2. Press and hold the pair button.
3. While still holding the pair button, reconnect the power supply.
4. Keep holding the pair button until you see the LED respond.

Now check the power LED — the next steps depend on what you see.

Path A: Power LED stays OFF

This usually indicates a hardware issue beyond what self-service can resolve. Contact our support team and provide the following so we can assist you faster:

• Order number or receipt screenshot.
  If you purchased Spark 2 from a retailer (not directly from Positive Grid), please attach a copy of the purchase receipt.
• Serial number (15 digits, starting with S501).
  You can find it on the bottom of Spark 2 (just above the battery cover) or on the side of the original packaging.

Path B: Power LED is BLINKING

A blinking LED means the MCU firmware needs to be re-flashed. You can recover the unit yourself using the alternative firmware updater below. Keep the power supply connected throughout the entire procedure.

1. Download the firmware updater

Pick the version that matches your operating system:

• macOS (macOS 11 or later) — Download Here
• Windows (Windows 10 or later) — Download Here

2. Run the updater

1. Extract the downloaded ZIP file.
2. Launch the updater:
   • Windows: Right-click the updater file and select "Run as administrator".
   • macOS: Right-click the updater file and select "Open". If you see a security warning, follow How to Bypass macOS Security Warnings.
3. With the power supply still connected, connect Spark 2 to your computer via USB.
4. Click "Next" in the updater.
   Spark 2 is already in MCU update mode from Step 2 above — ignore any on-screen instructions about entering MCU update mode.
5. The update completes automatically and Spark 2 powers off when finished.

If the updater can't find your Spark 2

This usually means the unit exited MCU update mode. Re-enter it:

1. Keep the USB cable connected to Spark 2.
2. Unplug the power adapter from Spark 2.
3. Press and hold the pair button.
4. While still holding the pair button, plug the power adapter back in.
5. Keep holding the pair button until the LED blinks, then release.
6. Now try running the updater again.

If the update fails

Please contact our support team and include the log file located at:

• macOS: ~/Documents/PositiveGrid/spark_2_updater.log
• Windows: \Documents\PositiveGrid\spark_2_updater.log