If you are using version 3.14, a good way to begin a project is to use the wizard, which was first introduced in version 3.1. This step-by-step assistant guides you through creating a room, selecting luminaires, and placing them based on a required target illuminance level. This is an excellent starting point for beginners. For more advanced projects, the full manual interface gives you complete control over every aspect of the design.
Using Dialux 3.14 in a modern professional environment introduces significant challenges:
Dialux 3.14 is a legacy version of the popular DIALux lighting design software developed by DIAL GmbH. Released in the early 2000s, this version was engineered to compute indoor and outdoor lighting layouts based on international standards. It allowed engineers to calculate illuminance levels, uniformity, and glare ratings before installing physical fixtures. Dialux 3.14
: Modern versions allow for the import of 3D formats like .3ds, M3D, SAT, and IFC, and can export to AutoCAD. Software Access and Requirements
: Computes the relationship between minimum and average (or maximum) illuminance levels. This is a critical metric for preventing eye strain and ensuring safe workspaces. If you are using version 3
: A detailed inventory including brand names, product series, wattage, and luminous flux for each fitting used.
One reason Dialux 3.14 refuses to die is its robust file handling. For more advanced projects, the full manual interface
was the swan song of the original codebase. Version 4.0 (later renamed "evo") was already in development. DIALux 3.14 represents the peak of CAD-based, calculation-first design.
DIALux 3.14 focuses squarely on the raw calculation of artificial light behavior. It bypassed heavy visual rendering to optimize processing speeds on legacy computer architectures.