Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Everything you need to know about Crystal Alarm
We know that peace of mind starts with understanding. Here we've gathered answers to the most common questions about Crystal Alarm — from how to set up your alarms and carry out self-tests, to technical questions about your device. Can't find the answer you're looking for? Contact us at support@crystalalarm.com or call 08 – 55 118 993 and we'll be happy to help.
General information
Why has the design changed?
We've updated the app's design to make it more user-friendly and modern. The new design makes it easier to navigate, while also introducing improvements that many of our users have been asking for.
What's new in the new design?
The new design includes: a simplified navigation structure, improved visibility of key features, and a more modern look with a more intuitive user flow.
How will the new design affect me as a user?
You'll still have access to all the features you're used to, but with a refreshed look that we hope makes your experience even better.
Has any features been moved or changed?
Yes, some features have been updated. "Group" and "Task" are now accessible directly from the home screen for faster access and a more user-friendly experience. This makes it easier to view and edit relevant information without navigating through multiple menus. NFC scanning on iPhone has also been moved and is now available directly on the home screen. The NFC scanner is located in the top right corner, just to the left of the Crystal Alarm icon.
How do I set up my alerts in the new design?
Under the Features section (p.6 – 8) you will find information on how to set up the alarms.
Safety & our buttons
Why does the "Activate time alarm" button need to be held down for three seconds to start the alarm?
This is a safety measure to prevent accidental activation of the alarm, for example by an unintentional brief press.
Why do you have to hold down the "Cancel" button and the "DIRECT ALARM" button for three seconds?
For peace of mind that none of these features are accidentally triggered or disabled. By requiring a long button press, the risk of false alarms or unwanted interruptions to the alarm process is reduced.
Self-assessment
How does the Self-Test work in the new design?
Under the Features section (p.8) you will find a step-by-step guide on how to perform a Self-test.
How often do you need to carry out a self-test?
A self-test must be completed at least every 30 days to ensure that all functions required for the app to work optimally are enabled. If this is not completed, the app will send reminders.
How do you perform a Self-Test?
Follow the steps below to perform a Self-Test: 1. Tap the icon in the top right corner of the app's home screen. 2. Tap the Start self-test button under the "Self-Test" heading. 3. Make sure all functions are checked. 4. If a red button with the word FIX appears, tap FIX and resolve the issue in your phone's settings. 5. Once all boxes are checked, tap the back arrow in the top left corner.
Device & Platform
Does the app look different on Android and iPhone devices?
Here's the translation: The app looks identical whether you have an iPhone or Android. There are minor differences in the finer details.
Alarm features
When should you use the Instant Alarm?
Direct alarm should be used in acute situations where immediate help is needed. When a Direct alarm is activated, both the alarm centre and colleagues are contacted immediately. The phone is put into alarm mode and, if you are using Android, a call can be connected to the alarm centre to monitor the surrounding environment. The alarm remains active until it is deactivated by the alarm centre.
When should you use a Time Alert?
A Time Alarm should be used before carrying out high-risk work or in areas with poor signal coverage. It activates at a set time and continuously sends the user's location to the alarm centre. Once the work is complete, the alarm can be cancelled — but if it is not stopped in time, it automatically converts to a Direct Alarm, alerting both the alarm centre and colleagues with the user's current position.
Safe Return: When Should You Use It?
Säker hemkomst ska användas när du vill känna dig tryggare på väg till eller från arbetet, särskilt under sena kvällar eller när du rör dig ensam. Du anger en förväntad ankomsttid, och om du inte stänger av funktionen innan dess omvandlas den automatiskt till ett Direktlarm, vilket säkerställer att hjälp kan tillkallas om något skulle hända.
How do I choose an alarm group?
To select an alarm group in Crystal Alarm, follow these steps: 1. Open group settings – Tap Group to display a list of all available alarm groups. 2. Select an alarm group – Choose the group you want your alarms to be sent to. 3. Save your selection – Tap Save to confirm your choice. 4. After saving, the selected group will appear under Group, confirming that alarms will now be sent there.
How do I choose a task?
Job title serves as additional information for the alarm receiver and can be important for providing the right support during an alarm event. To select a job title in Crystal Alarm, follow these steps: 1. Open job title settings – Tap on Job Title to display a list of available job titles. 2. Select a job title – Choose your job title. 3. Save your selection – Tap Save to confirm your choice. 4. Under Job Title, you can now see your selected job title.
When should you use Man Down?
Man Down should be used when you suspect you may be in a situation where you could suddenly fall and become motionless. The feature is designed to automatically detect interruptions in movement or unusual movement patterns that may indicate a fall or other critical situation. When activated, the app continuously monitors movement using the phone's sensors. If a suspected fall or prolonged period of inactivity is detected, Man Down automatically triggers an alarm, sending GPS location and other essential information to the control centre or colleagues for a swift response.
Trial alarm
Test mode is no longer available?
Previously, there was a test mode in the settings that allowed you to avoid triggering a live alarm during test alerts. This feature is no longer available. We have replaced the test mode with the Test Alarm Portal, which provides a safer and more structured method for testing alarms without the risk of activating a live alarm.
What is the test alarm portal?
Drill Alert Portal is a secure and structured portal for testing alarms without the risk of triggering a live alert. Previously, a test mode was available in the settings, but this feature has now been replaced by the Drill Alert Portal to provide a more reliable and controlled testing process.
Without a monitoring centre connection, how do you carry out a test alarm?
IMPORTANT! This is the procedure for test alarming for customers who do not have their alarms connected to an alarm monitoring centre. Here's how to carry out a test alarm: 1. Go to https://www.crystalalarm.se/sjalvserviceportalen-enterprise/ 2. Log in: Enter your activation code. 3. Click on "Test Alarm Portal". 4. Enter your phone number and authorisation code. 5. Click on "Start test alarm". 6. When "Test alarm mode activated" is checked, you can test the alarm in the app. 7. The alarm is handled automatically and ends after the test. 8. Your phone will automatically call +46 10 888 71 07 – this is our test number, which confirms that the test alarm has been completed.
How do you carry out a test alarm with monitoring centre connection?
NOTE! This is the procedure for test alarming for customers who have their alarms connected to an alarm monitoring centre. Here's how to carry out a test alarm: Go to https://www.crystalalarm.se/sjalvserviceportalen-enterprise/ Log in: Enter your activation code. Click on "Test Alarm Portal". Enter your phone number and authorisation code. Click on "Start test alarm". Once "Test alarm mode activated" is checked, you can trigger a test alarm in the app.
Technical questions
How will my settings and data be affected by the update?
Your settings and data remain unchanged after the update. Everything is saved automatically, so you can continue using the app just as before.
Which devices and operating systems does the new version support?
From Android 8 and above. From iOS 12 and above. For a detailed list of compatible devices, visit our wiki: https://wiki.crystalalarm.com/Crystal_Alarm
The app isn't working properly after the update – what should I do?
If the app isn't working properly after the update, here are a few steps you can try: 1. Double-check that you have the latest update: Go to your app store (App Store or Google Play) and check whether a newer version of the app is available. 2. Uninstall and reinstall the app: Sometimes a fresh installation can resolve issues. 3. Restart your phone: A simple restart can often fix many technical problems. If none of these steps work, please contact our support team at support@crystalalarm.com or 08 – 55 118 993.
Which phones support SOS alerts using the power button?
Specific to Samsung phones running Android 13 or higher, it is not possible to use the ON/OFF button to activate the alarm, as Samsung has restricted this functionality in these versions of Android. This may vary depending on the phone model and operating system version, so if you have a phone running an older version of Android, it may still be possible to use this feature.
Does Crystal Alarm use a lot of battery?
Tests have shown that Crystal Alarm does not noticeably affect power consumption when the app is running in the background. There is no noticeable difference in battery usage between having the app installed or not. However, when you use the alarm or test the alarm, the app will consume more power, as it requires active functionality, including sound and possible GPS positioning. If you have recently enabled location services on your Android device to get an accurate position in Crystal Alarm, other apps may also start using the new location data. This can cause increased power consumption. To get a better overview of which apps are using your location data, you can go to: Settings > Privacy & Security > Location.
Feedback & support
We'd love to hear your thoughts on the new design — how do I share feedback?
We truly appreciate your feedback on the new design. You can share your thoughts by filling in the form here: https://forms.gle/ULHpiTvhoXpSoHkQ9, or by emailing our support team: support@crystalalarm.com
Where can I get help if I don't understand the new design?
Here's the translation: To help you get started with the new design, we've put together tutorial videos, guides, and other useful resources. You'll find everything on our support page, where you can get help navigating the new features and making the most of what's new.
Can I continue using the old design?
If you wish to continue using the old version, please contact us at support@crystalalarm.com. However, we recommend getting familiar with the new design now to ensure a smooth transition.
What happens to features that exist in the previous version but are no longer visible?
All features that were available in the old design are still accessible in the new design. Some features may have been repositioned or presented in a new way, but they remain fully functional. If you're having trouble locating a specific feature, you can check our guides or contact support for assistance.
Will there be more updates based on this design?
Yes, there will be ongoing updates to the new design. These updates will primarily consist of bug fixes and other improvements. However, there will be no major visual changes.