Features and Settings
This section covers advanced configuration options and premium features available in miAlarm. Proper configuration ensures optimal performance and user experience.
Primary Device Configuration
Understanding Primary Devices
A primary device is your most frequently accessed alarm system, receiving:
- Priority connection allocation
- Prominent home screen placement
- Faster response times
- Quick access controls
Setting Your Primary Device
Method 1: Home Screen Setup
- Tap "Assign Primary Device" on the main screen
- Select your preferred device from the available list
- Confirm your selection
Method 2: Device Settings
- Open device settings
- Navigate to the "Primary" tab
- Enable "Set as Primary"
- Confirm the change
Managing Primary Status
- Only one device can be designated as primary
- Change primary designation at any time
- Remove primary status through device settings
- Visual indicators show current primary device
User Management
Understanding User Roles
The system supports multiple user types with varying permission levels:
- Master Users: Full administrative privileges
- Standard Users: Limited operational access
- App Users: Mobile-only access permissions
User Administration (Master Users Only)
- Access device settings
- Select "User Names" tab
- View all users with system access
- Manage user permissions and access levels
User Management Capabilities
Master users can:
- View complete user lists
- Remove standard user access
- Edit user display names
- Monitor access patterns
- Audit user activities
User Code Management
- Each user has a unique 4-digit code
- Codes link to specific user profiles
- All actions are logged for security
- Regular code updates recommended
Notification Configuration
Comprehensive Alert Management
Customize your notification preferences to receive only the information you need, when you need it.
System-Wide Notifications
Device-Specific Settings
- Open device settings
- Navigate to "Push Notifications"
- Enable or disable global notifications
- Select specific alert types
Available Alert Categories
- 24-Hour Monitoring: Always-active zone alerts
- Access Events: Entry and exit notifications
- System Health: Automated test results
- Security Alerts: Intrusion detection warnings
- Bypass Notifications: Zone override alerts
- Fire Alarms: Fire detection system alerts
- Patrol Updates: Security patrol confirmations
- Medical Alerts: Emergency medical notifications
Notification Best Practices
- Enable only essential notifications to avoid alert fatigue
- Test notification delivery monthly
- Ensure phone permissions are properly configured
- Consider quiet hours for non-emergency alerts
Emergency Contact Management
Personal Emergency Contacts
Configure trusted contacts for emergency situations:
- Add primary emergency contacts
- Set WhatsApp integration preferences
- Enable automatic location sharing
- Test contact functionality regularly
Official Emergency Services
Customize official emergency numbers for your region:
- Police Services (SAPS)
- Fire Department
- Medical Emergency Services
- Armed Response Units
Location Sharing Features
- Automatic GPS coordinate transmission
- WhatsApp integration for quick communication
- Manual sharing options available
- Offline SMS fallback capability
Subscription Management
Account Tiers
Free Account
- Connect up to 5 devices
- Access all core features
- Standard support channel
- No time restrictions
- Connect up to 10 devices
- Priority technical support
- Advanced feature access
- Early access to new features
Subscription Options
- Monthly Plan: R14.99 per month
- Annual Plan: R149.99 per year (save 17%)
Managing Your Subscription
To Purchase:
- Tap the crown icon on home screen
- Select your preferred plan
- Choose payment method
- Complete transaction through app store
To Manage Existing Subscription:
Premium Benefits Summary
- Double device capacity
- Priority connection queuing
- Dedicated support channel
- Beta feature access
- Ad-free experience
Advanced Configuration
Device Synchronization
Keep your device configuration current:
- Access device settings
- Tap "Sync" button
- System retrieves latest configuration
- Updates include:
- Area definitions
- Zone configurations
- Smart action settings
- User permissions
Operating Mode Selection
For compatible systems, switch between operational modes:
Security Enhancements
Biometric Authentication
- Enable fingerprint or facial recognition
- Provides quick, secure access
- Password fallback always available
- Recommended for all users
Auto-Logout Protection
- 30-second inactivity timeout
- Prevents unauthorized access
- Configurable timeout periods
- Applies to sensitive screens
Session Management
- "Remember Me" option for trusted devices
- 30-day token expiration
- Biometric re-authentication required
- Secure token storage
Privacy and Permissions
Required Permissions
The app requires specific permissions to function properly:
- Location: For emergency GPS sharing
- Camera: For QR code scanning
- Notifications: For alert delivery
- Contacts: For emergency contact integration
Privacy Considerations
- All data transmissions are encrypted
- Location data only shared during emergencies
- No background location tracking
- User data never sold or shared
Troubleshooting Tools
Connection Diagnostics
When experiencing connection issues:
- Verify network status indicators
- Confirm user code accuracy
- Check dial-in authorization
- Test unit power status
Reset Options
- Clear application cache
- Reset notification preferences
- Re-synchronize device data
- Remove and re-add devices
Debug Mode (Advanced Users)
For detailed diagnostic information:
Remember: With great power comes great responsibility. Use advanced features wisely, and when in doubt, consult the documentation or contact support.