> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.revrobotics.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.revrobotics.com/brushless/legacy/spark-max-client/troubleshooting.md).

# SPARK MAX Client Troubleshooting

{% hint style="info" %}
This is **legacy documentation** for our discontinued SPARK MAX Client Software. If you are interested in running a SPARK MAX via a computer, please see our newer documentation: [Getting Started with the REV Hardware Client.](https://docs.revrobotics.com/rev-hardware-client/)
{% endhint %}

### Error During First-time Firmware Update

If this is the first time installing the SPARK MAX Client or connecting a SPARK MAX in Recovery Mode, you may see an error the first time you try to update firmware on your computer. The DFU driver is one of two drivers installed by the Client and is used for updating firmware. It may not install completely until a SPARK MAX in DFU Mode (Recovery Mode) is plugged into the computer. 

If you see an error during your first firmware update, please do the following:

1. Close the Client application.
2. Unplug the SPARK MAX from the computer.
3. Plug the SPARK MAX back into the computer.
4. Open the Client application.

Alternatively, you can preemptively finalize the DFU driver installation by following the [Recovery Mode](/brushless/legacy/spark-max-client/recovery.md) steps before using the Client for the first time.

We are aware of this issue and will release a fix in a future update of the SPARK MAX Client.

### Troubleshooting

As we get feedback from users and identify exact causes for issues, please look back here for troubleshooting help. If you are running into issues running the SPARK MAX Client try the following **BEFORE** contacting <support@revrobotics.com>:

* Try running the SPARK MAX Client as an Administrator
* Make sure that Windows is fully up-to-date. Some computers have Windows Update disabled and need to be updated manually.
* Check the Device Manager and verify that the SPARK MAX shows up as one of the following two devices with no caution symbols:
  * Normal operating mode: Device Manager -> Ports (COM & LPT) -> USB Serial Device (COMx)
  * Recovery mode: Device Manager -> Universal Serial Bus Controllers -> STM Device in DFU Mode
    * If the device shows up with errors or as STM32 BOOTLOADER, try installing the [DFU drivers](https://www.revrobotics.com/content/sw/max/STMDFUDriver.zip) separately.


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.revrobotics.com/brushless/legacy/spark-max-client/troubleshooting.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.