PowerWatch 1 FAQ
Got a question about the PowerWatch?
If you can’t find what you’re looking for here, contact us and we’ll help you out.
BASIC QUESTIONS
What technology does PowerWatch use?
How does the PowerWatch use electricity generated?
What is the Real Time Display?
How much power can the PowerWatch generate?
What’s the best way to show the PowerWatch to my friends?
USING POWERWATCH
How do I pair the watch with my smartphone?
How do I set the date and time?
How do I reset the sleep counter, step counter and calorie counter?
How do I turn on the backlight?
How do I use Sleep Tracking mode?
How do I keep my PowerWatch charged?
What notifications are available on the PowerWatch X?
How do I download the smartphone app?
How do I adjust the PowerWatch so it stays in direct contact with my wrist?
Which languages are supported?
TECHNICAL QUESTIONS
PowerWatch
I’m having difficulty pairing my PowerWatch with my smartphone. Can you help?
Can you explain more about the calorie counting mechanism?
Is it necessary to turn off my PowerWatch when it’s not in use?
How long will my PowerWatch maintain its memory when I’m not wearing it?
Does the watch work without an app?
How do I pair my PowerWatch with an Android device?
How do I pair my PowerWatch with an iOS device?
Can I import data into another fitness app or send it to my computer?
Can my PowerWatch control media apps such as playing/pausing music or adjusting audio?
Can I load Android or iOS apps to my PowerWatch?
How do I disconnect my watch from my smartphone?
How often should I sync my PowerWatch with my smartphone?
What can I do with the fitness data?
Can I connect my PowerWatch with another Bluetooth heart rate sensor?
Can I put a new wristband on my PowerWatch?
What kind of mechanism closes the straps?
What kind of material is the PowerWatch and the strap? Will it irritate my skin?
What happens when I wear my PowerWatch when it’s 105°F/40°C or greater outside?
How have you tested the PowerWatch?
SHIPPING, ORDERS, RETURNS
& WARRANTY
When will I receive my PowerWatch?
Is custom engraving still available?
How much is shipping? Is VAT included?
What are the details of your satisfaction guarantee / warranty?
What’s considered “normal use”?
Are refunds allowed after the Indiegogo campaign ends?
Where’s the PowerWatch designed and manufactured?
CONTACT INFO
How do I get in touch with someone at MATRIX?
How can I incorporate the PowerWatch’s thermometric technology into my own products?
Where can I find you on social media?
BASIC QUESTIONS
What are thermoelectrics?
A thermoelectric is a device that converts heat to electricity. They have been used for decades in niche applications to power NASA satellites. MATRIX has developed a thermoelectric technology that is highly efficient and can convert low grade heat from a person's body to power a smartwatch. MATRIX not only has the most advanced thermoelectrics but the world's most efficient boost converter that is required to run the watch electronics. You can learn more here: www.matrixindustries.com.
What technology does PowerWatch use?
The PowerWatch uses a thermoelectric generator (TEG) that senses body heat and converts it into energy. TEGs need to have a hot side and a cold side to operate. The hot side is the circular black aluminum plate on the back of the watch. The cold side is the entire metal bezel and body of the watch. The hot and cold sides are separated from each other by a layer of insulating thermoplastic. The TEGs harvest the heat flowing from the hot side to the cold side and turn it into electricity.
How does the PowerWatch use electricity generated?
The PowerWatch has a small battery inside that’s constantly charged whenever you wear the watch. This battery maintains the time and fitness data when you are not wearing the PowerWatch for up to one year.
What is the Real Time Display?
The Real Time Display is the arc of display bars around the outside of the watch face. The Real Time Display indicates how much power is being harvested from your body heat. The bars around the display rise and fall depending on how much heat you provide.
When PowerWatch is turned on and worn on your wrist, the bars activate. They’ll appear from the 12 o’clock position and move clockwise around the watch face. For most people, the Real Time Display will stabilize at around 6 and 9 bars. Exercise and other body heat-inducing activities increase this value – all the way to 11!
How much power can the PowerWatch generate?
The PowerWatch requires a temperature differential with the ambient air to charge its internal battery. It generates more power when the air is cooler. Also when your skin is warmer from being active. The chart below shows how fast the PowerWatch charges its internal battery at different air temperatures.
The PowerWatch charges its battery the fastest when you are active (walking or running), and when the ambient temperature is below 80°F (26°C). Above 90°F (32°C), the PowerWatch cannot charge its internal battery.
In conditions where PowerWatch is unable to charge, it will work for up to one year. Boost the rate of energy production by wearing the watch snugly on the wrist, allowing your arm to swing naturally during physical activity, and ensuring your clothing doesn’t obstruct or cover the PowerWatch.
What’s the best way to show the PowerWatch to my friends?
Here’s our favourite way to do it…
- Remove the PowerWatch and wait for the Real Time Display to show zero bars. This could take a minute or two. Shorten the time by setting the PowerWatch down on a cool surface
- Ask your good buddy to hold out their wrist
- Set the PowerWatch against their wrist and show them the Real Time Display bars suddenly increasing
- Say the magic words: “Thank you, your body heat just charged my battery!”
- Repeat this with several friends. Why not start a battle royale to see whose warm-hearted soul generates the most power?
USING POWERWATCH
How do I pair the watch with my smartphone?
You need to download and launch the MATRIX iOS or Android app directly from your mobile device. From the welcome screen on your PowerWatch, press SET.
(When you turn on your PowerWatch for the first time, you must pair it with your Android or iOS device. You only need to do this once for setup. Once it’s paired, you don’t need to use the app again if you so wish.)
How do I set the date and time?
To set the time and date manually, go to the Watch Settings screen, then press SET. Use the SCROLL and SET buttons to set the time and date.
You can set the date and time automatically using the MATRIX companion app.
How do I track my activity?
Press MODE until the Daily Activity screen appears. Turn the SCROLL to read Steps, Calories and Sleep.
How do I reset the sleep counter, step counter and calorie counter?
The step, calorie and sleep counters all reset every night at midnight, local time. Each day’s totals are synchronized with your Android or iOS device so you can track your progress over time.
How do I turn on the backlight?
Just hold the MODE button for two seconds.
How do I use the stopwatch?
Press MODE until the stopwatch screen appears. Press SET to cycle through Start, Stop, and Reset. In some cases the display may update slowly, but the result is accurate.
Be aware that running the stopwatch for long periods of time may lead to increased power consumption.
Does the watch have an alarm?
Only the PowerWatch X offers an alarm at this time. It can be set from within the MATRIX companion app.
How do I use the Running Mode?
The PowerWatch can track the data for every run you take. Simply press MODE until the Running Mode screen appears, then press SET to cycle through Start, Stop and Reset.
How do I use Sleep Tracking mode?
The PowerWatch automatically senses when you sleep and wake up.
Press MODE until the Daily Activity screen appears. Turn SCROLL to read today’s sleep data.
What is Power Save mode?
Power Save keeps PowerWatch in a state of low power hibernation. After about 45 minutes of inactivity, the PowerWatch will automatically turn on a screensaver. Moving the watch or pressing any button will clear the screensaver.
After one week of inactivity, the PowerWatch will enter Power Save mode and its screen turns off. If it’s fully charged, your settings should be saved for one year or more. When you’re ready to use your PowerWatch again, turn it on by pressing MODE and SET simultaneously.
How do I keep my PowerWatch charged?
Your PowerWatch charges whenever you wear it. It charges even faster on the inside of your wrist.
What notifications are available on the PowerWatch X?
The notifications available for PowerWatch X are...
- Incoming call
- Message received
- Activity goal met
- Alarm
How do I download the smartphone app?
Click the badges below for either the iOS or Android app from your mobile device.
Is the PowerWatch waterproof?
Every single PowerWatch is tested for water resistance at the factory before shipping.
The PowerWatch is tested to 50 meters, while the PowerWatch X is tested to 200 meters.
How do I adjust the watch so it stays in direct contact with my wrist?
The back of the PowerWatch needs to be in tight contact with the inside or outside of your wrist. It will not work if it is loose enough to slip around. As long as the back stays touching the flat part of your wrist (inside or outside), the PowerWatch will charge.
Which languages are supported?
We currently support English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese and Korean.
TECHNICAL QUESTIONS
PowerWatch
I’m having difficulty pairing my PowerWatch X with my smartphone. Can you help?
For iOS users
- Beginning from a state where the watch cannot pair with the app, double-click on your smartphone’s home key and swipe up to force-quit the MATRIX companion app.
- Open the app and start the pairing process by going to Profile > My Device > Add Device.
- On the app, select the PowerWatch X. Press NEXT on the upper right corner of the app until “Searching for PowerWatch” is shown.
- Perform a soft reset by holding both buttons on the PowerWatch X down for 8 seconds until the MATRIX logo appears. As soon as the MATRIX logo appears, immediately release. If you see spinning bars, you have pressed for too long and need to repeat step 4.
- The app should detect the PowerWatch X as soon as it resets and will pair immediately.
- Click on Pair, then on the Bluetooth Pairing Request dialog once it appears.
For Android users
- Beginning from a state where the watch cannot pair with the app, tap the square key and swipe left to force-quit the MATRIX companion app.
- Open the app and start the pairing process by going to Profile > My Device > Add Device.
- On the app, select the PowerWatch X. Press NEXT on the upper right corner of the app until “Searching for Powerwatch” is shown.
- Perform a soft reset by holding both buttons on the PowerWatch X down for 8 seconds until the MATRIX logo appears. As soon as the MATRIX logo appears, immediately release. If you see spinning bars, you have pressed for too long and need to repeat step 4.
- The app should detect the PowerWatch X as soon as it resets and pair immediately.
- Enable the Notifications Service on the permissions screen that appears.
Can you explain more about the calorie counting mechanism?
We augment step count using thermoelectric and temperature data to provide an estimated calorie count. This is inherently more accurate than fitness monitors that calculate calories based on counting steps and other activity-based approaches.
Is it necessary to turn off my PowerWatch when it’s not in use?
No. It will show a screensaver after about 45 minutes of inactivity. After one week of inactivity, it will enter Power Save mode and its screen will turn off. Your settings will be saved for one year or more. For more information, read our FAQ about Power Save mode here.
How long will my Powerwatch maintain its memory when I’m not wearing it?
The PowerWatch keeps one week of fitness data in its memory, so we recommend syncing at least once a week. The time and date is retained for at least 6-12 months when fully charged. It can save other settings for up to one year or more.
Does the watch work without an app?
Yes and no. You need to first pair your PowerWatch with its MATRIX companion app for its first use. After that, you can discontinue using the app if you choose. However, any step, running and sleep data will disappear after one week if not synced with the app.
For the PowerWatch X, you’ll need to pair it with your smartphone to receive push notifications.
How do I pair my PowerWatch with an Android device?
Download the MATRIX app from the Google Play store to your mobile device. Launch the app, and its step-by-step tutorial will guide you on pairing your PowerWatch to your Android device.
How do I pair my PowerWatch with an iOS device?
Download the MATRIX app from the iTunes app store directly from your iOS device. Launch the app, and the step-by-step tutorial will guide you on pairing your PowerWatch to your iOS device.
Can I import data into another fitness app or send it to my computer?
Not at this time. We will keep this in mind for future updates.
Can my PowerWatch control media apps such as playing/pausing music or adjusting audio?
Not at this time.
Can I load Android or iOS apps to my PowerWatch?
No.
How do I log out of the app?
From the profile screen, scroll down on the lower half until you see the logout button. Tap the logout button to successfully log out.
How do I disconnect my PowerWatch from my smartphone?
There is an unpair button located under your profile on the app. To reconnect, follow the pairing instructions above.
How often should I sync my Powerwatch with my smartphone?
The PowerWatch keeps one week of fitness results in memory. You don’t have to sync with the app more than a few times per week.
We recommend limiting Bluetooth activity to one sync event per day while wearing the PowerWatch.
What can I do with the fitness data?
The app stores as much data as you want, so you can track and compare your progress in running, step count, sleep, etc.
Can I connect my PowerWatch with another Bluetooth heart rate sensor?
Not at this time.
Can I put a new wristband on my PowerWatch?
The PowerWatch uses standard watch band spring pins for attachment.
You can attach any 22mm band to the Powerwatch and 24mm band to your PowerWatch X.
What kind of mechanism closes the straps?
The PowerWatch uses a metal buckle on a nylon strap.
The PowerWatch Black Ops uses a long Milanese-style strap with a strong magnet that adjusts to your wrist size.
The PowerWatch X uses a metal buckle on a silicone rubber strap.
What kind of material is the PowerWatch? Will it irritate my skin?
The portion of the PowerWatch that touches your skin is made of anodized aluminum.
The materials we use, including the straps, are non-irritating to most people.
What happens when I wear my PowerWatch when it’s 105°F/40°C or greater outside?
The watch won’t generate much power when the temperature is very high.
How have you tested the PowerWatch?
The PowerWatch has been tested extensively. We’ve applied different tests depending on the requirements of the country where it is sold.
These tests include water resistance, RF interference tests, drop resistance, strain tests and flex tests.
SHIPPING, ORDERS, RETURNS
& WARRANTY
How can I order a PowerWatch?
Please visit our product page here.
When will I receive my watch?
The PowerWatch and PowerWatch Black Ops ship in 3-5 business days.
Is custom engraving still available?
Custom engraving was briefly available to Indiegogo backers as an exclusive thank you when the PowerWatch first launched. This is no longer available.
How much is shipping? Is VAT included?
Shipping is calculated at checkout and depends on your location. Tax will be collected if you reside in California, USA. VAT, import duties, taxes and other charges are not included in PowerWatch’s price or shipping cost.
What are the details of your satisfaction guarantee / warranty?
There is a one-year warranty for factory defects. For more on our return policy and limited product warranty, please visit Shipping & Returns.
Are refunds allowed after the Indiegogo campaign ends?
No, unfortunately, refunds will not be permitted after the campaign ends.
What’s considered “normal use”?
The MATRIX PowerWatch will charge under normal use as follows
- Adjusting the watch to stay in direct contact with the user’s wrist
- Limiting backlight and Bluetooth activity while wearing the watch
- Not activating the watch unnecessarily or repeatedly when not being worn
What is your return policy?
Our return policy is 14 days and subject to a $35 restocking fee. The customer is responsible for shipping costs to send the watch and packaging back to MATRIX. All returns must be in the original packaging with all original content included. There is a one-year warranty within the United States, and a two-year warranty within the EU. For more, please visit our Conditions of use.
Where’s the PowerWatch designed and manufactured?
The PowerWatch was designed in California. It is manufactured in China.
CONTACT INFO
How do I get in touch with someone at MATRIX?
Send tech support and product questions to support@matrixindustries.com
Send business enquiries to info@matrixindustries.com
Send editorial, press and product review enquiries to info@matrixindustries.com
How can I incorporate the PowerWatch’s thermoelectric technology into my own products?
Send an email to info@matrixindustries.com with details about your application. Visit matrixindustries.com for more information.
Where can I find you on social media?
@ us on Twitter
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Instagram
Subscribe to our channel on YouTube
Connect on Linkedin