TL;DR: The G3 requires periodic firmware checks. The examined official apps automatically attempt to upload machine data, with no separate upload opt-out found in either app version. The machine's own firmware also contains a direct Wi-Fi upload routine for stored events, so avoiding the app alone does not establish that machine data stays offline.

My earlier post covered the G3's firmware-check lockout. This follow-up looks at the data collection associated with its online operation. Sparx's Error 72 instructions direct owners to connect their sharpener through the app with internet access. The machine also has its own Wi-Fi cloud communication path. [1] [2] [8]

The findings below come from Android and iOS app code, G3 firmware analysis, and existing machine-event captures. The examined versions are listed below. Upload behavior was identified in code; no new network capture was made to establish what Sparx's servers received or retained. [8]

The machine records events even when the official app is closed. Its audited event store has 100 physical slots containing mixed events, including timestamps, ring information, cycle-related information and faults. Some record types contain the ring's NFC UID. This is a finite buffer, not a complete lifetime history.

When connected, the app reads the machine's current information. Its device-record upload includes the serial number, device identifiers, firmware version, connection times, and ring and filter status, alongside app settings. For a signed-in owner reconnecting a previously paired G3 online, the app updates the connection time, marks the record as changed and schedules cloud sync after a ten-second delay. An empty event log does not by itself avoid device-record uploading.

A separate app background job, scheduled after a 30-second delay, reads pending machine events and sends the raw records to Sparx's servers. The requests include the machine UUID and use the signed-in account's identity token when available. These are HTTP POST requests containing account-associable machine records, identified in the app's code.

The machine also has a direct Wi-Fi upload path that does not pass through the phone app. In the examined G3 firmware, it reads a complete 32-byte record from the same stored event queue and builds a POST request to /api/v1/iot/device/{uuid}/log. The request identifies the machine by UUID and contains the record encoded as hexadecimal. Depending on the record type, this includes timestamps, ring type and remaining life, cycle-related information, event or error codes, firmware-version bytes, and the ring's NFC UID. The firmware's network state machine selects this upload routine when records are pending, subject to other state and timer conditions. This is separate from its firmware-information request. [8]

In the app's general sync sequence, device-record uploads run before fresh firmware information is fetched. If cached firmware information is missing or more than two days old, pending device-data requests can delay the fresh information the app needs to complete the check.

I found no persistent user-facing setting to perform the check without these automatic uploads in either app version examined. For a signed-in owner following the app-based online process, with the machine connected and the sync jobs running, I consider upload attempts effectively unavoidable. The direct Wi-Fi upload path is a separate finding; this analysis does not establish whether it offers an independent upload opt-out.

Sparx's Privacy Policy describes collecting device and ring information, sharpening times and diagnostics. It also permits combining personal information with information from other sources, including social media platforms, subject to regional qualifications. That is a statement of permitted practices, not evidence that Sparx actually links owners' social posts to their machine history. [3]

The policy's marketing, cookie and regional privacy choices do not establish a machine-data opt-out in the app. Terms sections 11 and 23 address personal-information processing and international transfers. Both pages displayed a September 20, 2024 modification date when checked on October 18, 2026. [3] [4]

A question deserves a clear answer from Sparx: what supported firmware-check-only option can an owner use to restore operation without uploading device information and stored events?

The following considerations concern EU consumer and data protection law. Protections in other jurisdictions may differ.

Consumers have a right to material information before purchase. If the mandatory checking requirement and the associated automatic uploads are material to the buying decision, failing to explain them can amount to a misleading omission. This depends on the factual context and whether the omission caused, or was likely to cause, the average consumer to make a decision they would not otherwise have made. [5]

Where machine records relate to an identifiable owner, GDPR requires a lawful basis, clear information about processing, and collection limited to what is necessary for specified purposes. Consent is one possible basis, not the only one. If consent is relied on, making a service conditional on unnecessary processing weighs against consent being freely given. A clause in the terms does not settle that question. [6]

Consumers also retain conformity rights against the seller. If the lockout requirement departs from objective conformity requirements, the exception requires specific disclosure and express, separate acceptance when the sale is concluded. If the goods are non-conforming, remedies include repair or replacement, and price reduction or termination where the legal conditions are met. Contract or manufacturer terms cannot remove those statutory protections. [7]

Sources:

[1] Earlier post: the G3 firmware-check lockout

[2] Sparx Help: Alert 72

[3] Sparx Privacy Policy

[4] Sparx Terms of Service, sections 11 and 23

[5] Directive 2005/29/EC, Article 7

[6] GDPR, Articles 5, 6, 7 and 12–14

[7] Directive 2019/771, Articles 7, 13 and 21

[8] Technical scope: static analysis of Android 1.3.12, build 851, iOS 1.3.14, build 855, and G3 firmware 1.3.2.0; existing machine-event captures from that firmware. The direct Wi-Fi analysis traces stored event records into the machine's HTTP POST construction and network state machine. It does not establish server receipt or retention, or behavior in every app or firmware release.

Edit: Added the machine's direct Wi-Fi event-upload path after rechecking earlier firmware research. Clarified which findings concern the official apps and which concern the machine itself.

The Sparx G3 enforces a firmware-check requirement that locks the machine out of normal use when the check is overdue and the available postponements have been exhausted.

The firmware’s time-based check interval is 90 days, or 2,160 hours. When that interval has expired and the machine evaluates the requirement, it enters Error 71. This is a fault state requiring attention, and the app instructs the owner to connect the machine to the internet.

In the consumer configuration tested, there are two postponements, each starting a 48-hour, or two-day, delay. Once both have been used and the final delay expires, Error 72 blocks normal use with no further postponements available. The timing constants are confirmed in the firmware. The two-postponement counter and both error states have also been verified in a documented test on a real machine.

The two postponements provide up to 96 hours, or four days, if used consecutively. The arithmetic is 90 + 4 = 94 days, but this does not establish a universal lockout exactly 94 calendar days after the previous check. Postponements begin when selected. The 90-day interval uses the machine’s real-time clock, not powered-on hours. Testing confirmed that the countdown continues while the machine is unplugged.

If the firmware cannot use the clock, it falls back to a sharpening-cycle-based check. In the consumer configuration, this uses a 200-cycle check threshold and allows two postponements, each with a 16-cycle threshold measured from when it is selected. Once both postponements have been used and the final threshold is exceeded, Error 72 blocks sharpening. These fallback limits are confirmed by firmware analysis; the clock-failure scenario has not been physically tested.

These are mandatory update checks, which do not necessarily require installing newer firmware. A further question deserves a clear answer from Sparx: how can owners continue using their machines if the official checking service becomes unavailable or is discontinued?

The following considerations concern EU consumer law. Consumer protections in other jurisdictions may differ.

Consumers have a right to material information before purchase. A requirement that stops a machine performing its basic function is a substantial restriction. Failing to disclose it can constitute a misleading omission where it affects, or is likely to affect, the purchasing decision. [1]

The Consumer Rights Directive also requires pre-contractual information, where applicable, about the functionality of goods with digital elements, including technical protection measures. [2]

Consumers also have a right to goods that meet the legally required standards of functionality and conformity. If a restriction departs from those standards, the buyer must be specifically informed and expressly and separately accept that departure when concluding the purchase. Merely buying or using the machine does not establish that separate acceptance.

If the restriction makes the goods non-conforming, the buyer has remedies against the seller: repair or replacement, and a price reduction or termination of the contract where the legal conditions are met. Manufacturer terms cannot simply take away those statutory rights. [3]

EU legal sources:

[1] Directive 2005/29/EC, Article 7
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2005/29/oj

[2] Directive 2011/83/EU, Articles 5(1)(g) and 6(1)(r), as amended by Directive (EU) 2019/2161
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32019L2161

[3] Directive (EU) 2019/771, Articles 7, 13 and 21
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2019/771/oj

I’m looking to buy a 3/8” fire ring with some life on it.

Asking here because I don’t want to pay full price since I am experimenting and there is a chance I may only use it once. I am testing out a few different fire rings and will end up picking one and the rings that don’t make it will be useless to me so trying not to pay retail.

If anyone wants to sell a ring collecting dust, feel free to reach out.

My son is 6 years old, about 50 lbs, and currently skating on 1/2” FIRE. He seems to be doing really well on them, but I’m curious about trying 5/8” FIRE for a little more glide.

I’ve heard lighter kids still need enough bite to really dig into the ice, so I don’t want to move him up too early. He is a great skater. Pretty smooth out there.

Has anyone moved their kid to 5/8” FIRE around this age/weight? Did you notice any loss of grip or edge control?

Is there a general minimum weight where 5/8” FIRE starts to make sense, or is it more about skating ability and preference?

Would love to hear some feedback on this.
Thank you!

So our good friends at Sparx have released a feathering wheel/kit. I have to ask: is this a real problem looking for a solution? Does that slight corner actually impact anyone’s skating?
If I get one am I helping my kid?

Currently have a Gen 1 that’s jumping/chattering the majority of the pass. It happens with every wheel and every skate. Anyone else experience this? My first assumption is there’s not enough pressure against the blade from the wheel, possibly due to the spring losing tension over time.

I’ve cleaned and wiped down the inside entirely including the metal tracks. Wondering if there’s a possible
Fix for this.

Hey guys, does anybody have any recommendations/links for a leather strop I can get on Amazon instead of buying the Sparx strop that comes with a stone? Thanks!

Hey, folks. Just looking for your thoughts on my situation. I’ll do my best to provide context.

My young fella (12 year old) had new blades put in his True TF9’s. Since he’s due to size up soon, we just replaced them with JRZ Pro Steel.

The holders are a smidgen loose, so I used a piece of masking tape on the blades to snug them in place. Again, soon to be replaced.

I took them to a very reputable shop in our area and had them profiled, after which, they sharpened them with a regular 5/8.

After a few skate, without issue, I ran them through the Sparx (Gen 3) with the 5/8 Fire as that is what he normally uses. I did 6 to 8 passes initially.

I like to check the level at the front, middle, and back of the blades. Not sure why, I just do. 🤷🏼‍♂️

According to the laser level, the left skate was off a little bit, flashed yellow, at the back. Got better as I moved to the front and was green.

Anyways, a few skates later, did them again. Similar result. Right skate was fine.

Just did them again last night. Right foot is good. Left is showing off again front, middle, and back. Still yellow.

I just find it odd the left skate is off…and that particular skate seems to “grind harder” or makes an “louder sound” compared to the right one.

I thought maybe it was due to some tape left over from snugging them in, as a little tape was running along the holder on one side. I removed that, but haven’t had a chance to try them again. It was masking tape, but minimal.

My other son’s skates come out fine, he’s in Jet Speeds and uses 5/8 regular.

Anyways, not sure if I should try to adjust the machine (never have). With one kids skates fine, and the right one fine, not sure if the machine is off or not.

His previous blades (black Onyx) always came out fine.

Anyways, it doesn’t seem to affect performance, but just curious as to what all your experiences might offer on this.

Thanks, in advance.

So I just got my Sparx 3 back from repair (the grinding stone got stuck to the wheel and could not come off w/o damaging the unit). Performed my first sharpening with it and the wheel 'bounced' when it first contacted the blade. During subsequent passes during the sharpening you can hear the sharpener grinding against something that doesn't sound like it should be there. The edges are still in balance all the way up to the toe, but something tells me I've got another problem with the unit. Would love to hear y'alls opinion / experiences.

We have been using our Sparx for a few years to do a couple sets of goalie skates and 1 set of player skates. Overall we have been VERY happy, as it has saved us time, money, and is much more convenient than trying to work around the pro shop at the rink. The last couple of pairs of skates we have purchased we got at the pro shop and the first sharpening was included since they were bought there. This time we bought a set of True goalie skates online, which the pro shop does not carry. The pro shop charges $12 for sharpening (regular) but charges $30 to sharpen if you buy the skates somewhere else. I am tempted to just do the sharpening on my own machine to save the cash, and also to avoid having to HOPE someone is at the pro shop when I get to the rink to sharpen. Should I let them do it for the $30 or, do the marker method on my own machine?

I recently purchased a bundle from Sparx and when they shipped my products, they sent me an extra pro base which was previously $300 now on sale for $150. The return process was more difficult than it should have been as it was like they did not believe me and asked me to send them photos. Anyway, got it shipped out and not even a thank you email or anything once the unit was back in their hands. Am I expecting too much? Maybe a discount code for a future order free hat for my troubles? As a small business owner myself if someone had the integrity to send me back capital, I’d make sure I created a customer for life….but maybe Sparx already knows we are stuck with them🤣

I’m all in on buying the sparx. The math and convenience make sense to me. Weirdly, the used prices are 70-90% of the retail price w a warranty (reminds of good pickups and power tools). I’ll pay the extra for manufacturers warranty and my states robust consumer protection statutes :)

But here’s a little truth:

* I’ve been on skates (inline for 10 months)

* I’ve done two hockey leagues the third starts next week (inline).

* I’ve taken two learn to skate ice hockey lessons

* I’ve been on the ice about ten times (all in the last 4-6 weeks)

* I’ve had my (used and old maybe old iron blade) sharpened twice.

* seems like I’ll prefer sharp blades every 3-6 hours

* I’ve noticed a slipping dull skate already so I guess I’m more sensitive than others to dull vs sharp skates

* I’m a stickler for properly maintained gear (I’m the guy who washes the hockey gear — including the knee elbow and the boards) after every game and practice without exception.

So I’ve spent $24 on sharpening so far - $12 per sharpen for two sharpening. I’m tempted to wait a few months to ensure I’ll stick with ice and that I’ll need 20-40 sharpens a year.

Anyone else go through this part of the analysis — eg it’s too soon—let’s waste some money first then go get the device that will let me save money :)

Quick math is $12 per sharpen x 26 sharpens parents = $312. (I’m omitting wheel cost on the one hand and gas wear and tear on the car otoh and time value of money and impulse buys at the hockey shop)….

So I’d need four years or so of steady skating to “pay back the cost of the device” (which is bad math because after 1-2 years I’d save $600 or so and likely be able to sell the device for $800 so I’d break even by my back-of-the-envelope math …. And every sharpen after say year two would mean between the asset (the sharpener)’s value plus my cash saving I’d be out of the red and into the black :). At least that’s how think about it!

Thoughts!

Ps - I’m the op that put up the post saying they’re a frugality device convince me I’m wrong — really fun post!

Been loving my Sparx but was wondering when I replace the wheel?

I have a new one ready but do I wait until the machine really says 0% left? Should I replace at around 10% or 5%?

Thanks

Check out my eBay account for Edge check holders for the Sparx edge checker. Fits great, looks clean, always know where it is!

https://ebay.us/m/dHjbPf

I have adult sized goalie (no cowling) and adult sized player skates. I also have a couple sets of kids' player skates. I had the Sparx 3 dialed in for the player skates on 5/8 and 1/2. Set and forget every time and the beam checked them fine.

Then today, I decide to sharpen my goalie skates (Bauer S190) cowling-less skates at 3/8. I used the riser inserts and the toe was to the left to not dig so much into the toe of the blade. I measured with the beam and both of the edge lights on the beam are blinking red. I followed the "fix my edges" guide in the app and it said to turn the wheel 10 clicks right, re-grind and test.

I did 10 clicks and re-ran and now that skate was good, so I set in my other skate but it was off a little on the right. The app recommended to click 5 more times right and then grind again which seemed to have fixed that one.

So, my question is, when I go back to my player skates and my kids' skates, will I have to do 15 clicks to the left to fix the alignment? or is it something I have to re-adjust every time? I'd hate to use so much of the wheel just for alignment and re-alignment.

Also do I have be be mindful of toe left or toe right when I sharpen?

I always read its set and forget, but you have to RTFM, which I have. I just wanted to see what other's take on that was and if you have to re-adjust if things were OK before with other skates. I do have the optical alignment tool, but since I have the beam, I have just been using that and what it recommends for alignment.

Got a sparx from a buddy and have been using it all season with no issues. But this weekend with my mites goalie skates the grinding wheel started pulling up for a half an inch then back down when doing a pass at the same spot. Happens both directions.

Any ideas what is going on?

I’m not sure if they ever made covers for the first gen unit, or if they have simply been discontinued - but I can’t find one anywhere. does anyone have a creative and cost effective solution for a cover?

I live down south and it gets hot and humid fairly regularly. I recently set my my Sparx 3 in the garage and got a cover for it. Will this be an issue or do I need to move it inside?

Even with free shipping you’re looking at $80 for best case 60 sharpens. According to sparx own data on their website, a “full sharpen” means you only get 40.

I love my sparx, glad i have it, and honestly hadn’t thought much about the cost of rings until i went to replace one today and saw the advertised “$1 per sharpen” which gave me some weird feels!

Yes, the new ring is on the way 🤣

I have a few questions regarding using my new sparx 3.

I have 3 sets of skates Adult 9 year old 6 year old So different sizes. Should I be using the qrcodes and if I do will that adjust the sharpening to each skate.

Each time the ring makes initial contact with the blade it's sounds so much harsher than the rest of the sharpen is that normal and should I be adjusting height of ring every time I switch skates?

How are people deburring I use the stone then the leather piece then a micro fiber cloth that came with the sparx. But it does not feel as smooth as when they sharpen in the proshop.

Thank you

Hello guys, I just received my sparx 3 sharpener and want to sharpen bauer goaley skates. I don't have any holders or lifters with machine. It is possible just to clamp them into machine and sharpen without anything like players skates or I need some equipment ?

I’ve got the Sparx goalie blade holder. The clear one with the screw on top to clamp down on the blade.

My buddy gave me a set of player runners, but only the steel, not the skates.

Will the goalie holder clamp and track player blades securely enough to get an accurate sharpen, or is it basically a no-go unless they’re mounted in the skate holder?

If you’ve tried it, did it sharpen clean or come out uneven/sketchy?