FAQ

What is the latest version of DIALux?
The latest version is DIALux evo 10.1 (5.10.1.58260, released 2022-01-11). Learn what’s new in DIALux evo 10.1. You can find a detailed version history here.

Is DIALux really a free software? How is that possible?
DIALux is free of charge for users. Anyone can use DIALux for personal, educational and commercial purposes. Luminaire manufacturers can present their brand in DIALux and offer detailed product data for planning. To do so, manufacturers need to buy a DIALux membership and these membership fees fund the development of the DIALux software. Additionally, since 2020, we also sell extensions/add-ons for DIALux to users by subscription. Learn more about our business model here.

Where can I get luminaire data for planning in DIALux?
We cooperate with all leading brands in the lighting industry. You can download their catalogues here to use the products in DIALux. DIALux is open to standard photometric file formats like EULUMDAT *.ldt or *.ies. You can support DIALux by using products and data from DIALux members. Learn more about our business model here.

What are the hardware requirements for DIALux evo?
As DIALux evo is a 3D CAD application, you benefit from a powerful multi-core CPU and graphics card and a sufficiently large main memory (RAM). The RAM should be at least 4 GB, we recommend 8 to 16 GB for the professional use. Your graphics card should support OpenGL 3.2 and a large memory is also useful here: at least 1 GB, 2 GB+ is recommended. Furthermore, your graphics card should have "own memory" and not use a "shared memory". In our experience, there are often problems with (new) drivers of Intel graphics cards so we recommend a graphics card from Nvdia or AMD. Please hold your drivers as up-to-date as possible. DIALux evo runs in 32/64 Bit on Windows 8.1 and Windows 10.

Is it possible to run DIALux evo on a Mac?
We develop DIALux evo for Windows environments and have currently no plans to provide a Mac version in the future. We know that it is possible to run DIALux evo on a Mac by using virtualization software such as Parallels or Fusion. Check out Google and you will find some first-hand information from users who have successfully done so. Please understand that we do not provide support for problems on Mac systems.

Can I still use DIALux 4.13?
Sure, you can. However, we strongly recommend using DIALux evo. As the successor to DIALux 4, DIALux evo offers a lot more features, a more convenient interface and uses the latest technology. DIALux 4 is technically outdated; it was limited to single rooms and therefore unsuitable for contemporary BIM workflows. The calculation of DIALux 4 is based on outdated standards. We do not maintain the version any further. We also do not offer DIALux 4 for download any longer. Please also keep in mind that Microsoft gradually phases out the Windows versions supported by DIALux 4.

Is it possible to import DIALux 4 projects (*.dlx) into DIALux evo?
Yes, but you can only import interior scenes to DIALux evo created with DIALux 4 from version 4.10.0.2 onwards. Unfortunately, it is not possible to import outdoor scenes. In addition, a room-based design from DIALux 4 cannot be converted properly into a building during import. As before, it will be composed of simple objects. Likewise, calculation results may differ because DIALux 4 is working with outdated standards and calculation surfaces or value specifications may have changed. Please note: It is necessary that DIALux 4.13 is installed on your computer. For the import to work, you need to run the 32-bit version of DIALux evo, as DIALux 4 is also a 32-bit application. Watch our short video How to open a DIALux 4 project in DIALux evo for instructions.

How do I archive DIALux 4 projects for future reference?
Our recommendations: Create a comprehensive documentation of the project as a PDF with all important views, plans and values. Make sure that you store any luminaire data (e.g. ULDs), textures or 3D objects that you have used in the project as well. You may also export the geometry as an *.STF file. This way you have your results fixed and a good basis if you have to rebuild the project in DIALux evo.

Is there any material available to help me switch from DIALux 4?
Don’t worry: DIALux evo is much more powerful than DIALux 4 and is easy to use. Of course, the interface and the workflow will be unfamiliar to you if you have worked with DIALux 4 up to now. In 2020 we offered a webinar you can still watch on YouTube: DIALux evo for DIALux 4 users. If you need a detailed introduction to DIALux evo, you can find a free, multi-part DIALux basic course on our website that explains the complete workflow: Free DIALux Basic Course.

But, DIALux evo does not support sports lighting, right?
Yes and no. With the current version of DIALux evo, most of the calculation surfaces required for sports lighting can be created, with the exception of running tracks. You can also calculate camera-oriented illuminance. So there is no reason to stay with DIALux 4. DIALux evo is to support sports lighting even more in the future, of course, but no specific extension is planned at present.