IX-CHART 1.8.170 (Smart HVAC Psychrometric Chart Software)

Overview of IX-CHART 1.8.170

IX-CHART is a psychrometric analysis platform built specifically for HVAC design workflows. The software enables engineers to plot air processes, calculate psychrometric properties, and integrate multiple specialized calculators into a single environment.

The core strength of IX-CHART lies in its dual chart system support. Users can work in either the Mollier (i-x) diagram—the European standard based on the relationship between heat content and water vapor content of air—or the Carrier psychrometric chart, which is widely used in Anglo-American engineering practice.

Beyond basic charting, IX-CHART 1.8.170 functions as a comprehensive HVAC calculation suite. The software includes dedicated modules for air handling unit calculations, pool hall design, acoustic analysis, energy consumption estimation, and duct pressure drop calculations.

The software is developed by Piotr Przybycin, an HVAC engineering specialist who has created a tool that reflects real-world design office requirements rather than generic charting functionality. This domain expertise is evident in the modular architecture and the practical orientation of the built-in calculators.

Key Features of IX-CHART 1.8.170

Dual Psychrometric Chart Systems

IX-CHART 1.8.170 supports both the Mollier (i-x) and Carrier psychrometric chart formats. Engineers can switch between chart systems without converting data manually. The software handles SI and Imperial units, allowing international project collaboration and compatibility with equipment specifications from different regions.

Air Process Visualization

Users can plot complete air treatment processes directly on the psychrometric chart. This includes cooling, heating, humidification, dehumidification, and mixing processes. The AI Assistant feature allows users to enter commands such as “cool 32 °C / 55 % to 11 °C, then reheat to 18 °C,” and the software automatically draws the processes and calculates the resulting parameters.

Built-In HVAC Calculators

IX-CHART 1.8.170 includes five specialized calculation modules:

• KCW (AHU Calculator) : Sizes air handling units and calculates all parameters for any AHU configuration. The module automatically draws processes on the psychrometric chart after calculation.

• KHB (Pool Hall Calculator) : Analyzes the unique psychrometric conditions in indoor swimming pool environments.

• KOA (Acoustics Calculator) : Evaluates noise attenuation and sound pressure levels in ventilated spaces.

• KZE (Energy Use Calculator) : Estimates annual energy consumption for HVAC systems.

• KSC (Air Balance and Duct Pressure Drop) : Performs hydraulic calculations for duct networks.

Acoustics Analysis Module

The KOA module addresses a critical gap in HVAC design: calculating the actual noise level established in a room. While most silencer selection programs only indicate the dB reduction behind a specific source, IX-CHART’s KOA module considers the noise source, silencer performance, attenuation through the installation, and sound propagation within the room itself. This comprehensive approach enables designers to predict the sound pressure level experienced by room occupants.

AI Assistant Integration

IX-CHART 1.8.170 incorporates an AI Assistant that accepts voice or text commands. Users can describe air processes in natural language, and the assistant inserts points and processes, performs the drawing, and executes calculations. This feature is designed for occasional design work and reduces the learning curve for new users.

Export and Reporting

Charts and calculation results can be exported in multiple formats including PNG, PDF, and SVG. This supports documentation workflows and enables integration with project reports and presentations.

What’s New in IX-CHART 1.8.170

Version 1.8.170 represents a substantial update to the IX-CHART platform, building on the psychrometric foundation established in earlier releases.

The most significant addition is the enhanced AI Assistant integration. The natural language processing capabilities allow users to describe HVAC processes conversationally. For example, a user can type “cool 32 °C / 55 % to 11 °C, then reheat to 18 °C,” and the software automatically calculates the cooling coil load, condensation rate, and reheating requirements while plotting the complete process on the chart.

The dual-unit system support has been refined in this version. Engineers can now work seamlessly in both SI and Imperial units within the same project, with automatic conversion and consistent chart rendering. This is particularly valuable for international projects where equipment specifications may come from manufacturers using different measurement conventions.

The acoustics module (KOA) has been expanded to include more detailed duct attenuation calculations. The KSC module now performs both hydraulic calculations and attenuation property calculations, providing a more integrated workflow for acoustic analysis.

The energy consumption calculator (KZE) has received algorithm improvements for more accurate annual energy estimates. This supports building energy efficiency assessments and compliance documentation.

Licensing flexibility has also been enhanced. The software now supports transferable licenses through a license server, allowing design offices to share a single seat across multiple engineers and workstations.

System Requirements for IX-CHART 1.8.170

IX-CHART 1.8.170 is a desktop application designed for professional engineering workstations. The software runs on Windows operating systems.

Minimum Requirements

Recommended Configuration

For optimal performance when working with complex HVAC projects and multiple chart windows, a more robust configuration is recommended:

• Processor : Multi-core processor (Intel Core i5 or equivalent)

• Memory : 8 GB RAM or higher

• Display : 1920 x 1080 or higher resolution

• Storage : SSD for faster project loading and chart rendering

• Internet : Stable connection for AI Assistant features and license validation

Platform Compatibility

IX-CHART 1.8.170 is a Windows-native application. The psychrometric chart engine and calculation modules are optimized for desktop environments where engineers perform detailed design work. The software does not currently offer a web-based version, ensuring full computational performance and offline capability for critical design tasks.

Installation Guide for IX-CHART 1.8.170

Installing IX-CHART 1.8.170 follows a straightforward process designed for engineering professionals who need to get productive quickly.

Step 1: Download the Installer

Visit the official IX-CHART website at www.ix-chart.com and navigate to the download section. A free 30-day trial of IX-CHART is available before purchase, allowing full evaluation of the software’s capabilities.

Step 2: Run the Installation Wizard

Locate the downloaded installer file and double-click to launch the installation wizard. Follow the on-screen prompts to select the installation directory and complete the setup process.

Step 3: License Activation

After installation, launch IX-CHART. On first run, the software prompts for license activation. Enter the license key received after purchase. IX-CHART offers several licensing options:

• OEM License: Perpetual license for a single workstation, non-transferable.

• LM License: Perpetual license transferable between computers via a license server, ideal for shared design office seats.

• Subscription: 12-month license for one computer.

Step 4: Verify Installation

After activation, verify that all modules are accessible. The main interface should display the psychrometric chart with the process list panel and module selection options. Test the AI Assistant by entering a simple process command to confirm full functionality.

Step 5: Configure Units and Preferences

Navigate to the settings panel to configure default units (SI or Imperial) and chart system preference (Mollier or Carrier). These settings can be adjusted per project as needed.

How to Use IX-CHART 1.8.170

Basic Chart Operations

1. Select Chart System: Choose between Mollier (i-x) and Carrier psychrometric charts from the main interface.

2. Set Units: Toggle between SI and Imperial units according to project requirements.

3. Plot Air Processes: Click on the chart to place state points, then connect them to visualize air treatment processes.

4. Read Parameters: The software displays enthalpy, humidity ratio, dry-bulb temperature, wet-bulb temperature, and relative humidity for each state point.

Using the AI Assistant

The AI Assistant accepts natural language commands for common HVAC processes. Example commands include:

• “Cool 32 °C / 55 % to 11 °C, then reheat to 18 °C” — the assistant calculates cooling coil load, condensate rate, and reheating requirements.

• “Mix outdoor air at 35 °C / 60 % with return air at 24 °C / 50 % at 30 % outdoor air fraction” — the assistant plots the mixing process and calculates the mixed air state.

Accessing Built-In Calculators

1. KCW (AHU Calculator) : Select the KCW module from the tools panel. Input design conditions, supply air requirements, and equipment constraints. The module calculates coil performance and automatically draws the process on the chart.

2. KOA (Acoustics) : Launch the KOA module for acoustic analysis. Input room dimensions, sound absorption coefficients, and equipment sound power levels. The module calculates sound pressure levels and required attenuation.

3. KZE (Energy Use) : Open the KZE calculator to estimate annual energy consumption based on operating schedules, climate data, and system efficiency parameters.

4. KSC (Duct Calculations) : Use the KSC module for hydraulic calculations and attenuation properties of duct systems.

Exporting Results

Charts and calculation results can be exported as PNG, PDF, or SVG files. Use the export function from the file menu to save charts for inclusion in project documentation, reports, or presentations.

Best Use Cases for IX-CHART 1.8.170

HVAC System Design

IX-CHART is a daily working tool for HVAC designers. It enables rapid analysis of air treatment processes, supports equipment selection, and provides the psychrometric foundation for system sizing. The KCW module streamlines AHU selection by automatically calculating coil performance and generating chart visualizations.

Swimming Pool and Natatorium Design

Pool halls present unique psychrometric challenges due to high moisture loads and the need to control both temperature and humidity precisely. The KHB module addresses these requirements with specialized calculations for pool hall environments.

Acoustic Analysis in Ventilated Spaces

The KOA module is essential for projects where noise control is critical, such as offices, conference rooms, and residential buildings. Unlike simple silencer selection tools, IX-CHART calculates the actual noise level established in the room, considering the complete noise path from source through the distribution system to the occupant.

Building Energy Efficiency Assessment

The KZE module supports energy consumption calculations for HVAC systems, enabling designers to estimate annual energy use and evaluate the impact of different design strategies. This is valuable for green building certification and energy code compliance.

Educational and Training Applications

The interactive chart environment and AI Assistant make IX-CHART suitable for teaching psychrometrics and HVAC fundamentals. Students and early-career engineers can experiment with air processes and immediately see the results on the chart.

International Project Collaboration

The dual unit system support (SI and Imperial) and compatibility with both Mollier and Carrier chart conventions facilitate collaboration across regions with different engineering standards.

Advantages and Limitations of IX-CHART 1.8.170

Advantages

• Comprehensive Psychrometric Foundation: Supports both Mollier and Carrier chart systems, covering European and Anglo-American engineering conventions.

• Integrated Calculation Modules: Five specialized calculators (KCW, KHB, KOA, KZE, KSC) eliminate the need for separate software tools.

• AI-Powered Workflow: Natural language commands reduce manual input and accelerate routine design tasks.

• Accurate Acoustic Analysis: The KOA module provides room-level noise predictions that most silencer selection programs cannot deliver.

• Flexible Licensing: Options range from single-workstation perpetual licenses to transferable LM licenses and 12-month subscriptions.

• Free Trial: A 30-day trial allows full evaluation before purchase.

• Regular Updates: The developer continues to enhance the software with new features and improvements.

Limitations

• Windows-Only Platform: The software is designed for Windows desktop environments, limiting use on macOS or Linux without virtualization.

• Learning Curve for Beginners: While the AI Assistant helps, new users may need time to become proficient with the full range of modules and calculations.

• Unit Limitation in KCW: The AHU calculator currently works primarily with SI units, though all chart processes are drawn and recalculated to I-P units.

• No Web-Based Version: The desktop-only approach means no browser-based access for remote or collaborative work.

• Pricing Investment: Professional licenses represent a financial commitment, though the free trial and flexible licensing options mitigate this.

Alternatives to IX-CHART 1.8.170

Carrier Psychrometric Chart Software

Carrier’s psychrometric chart software provides basic chart plotting and air process analysis. It is widely recognized in North America but lacks the integrated calculation modules and acoustic analysis capabilities of IX-CHART.

CoolPack

CoolPack is a free collection of refrigeration and psychrometric calculation tools. It offers good coverage of basic psychrometric processes but lacks the HVAC-specific modules and AI assistance found in IX-CHART.

PsychroApp

PsychroApp is a mobile-friendly psychrometric calculator for iOS and Android. It is convenient for quick calculations on site but does not match the computational depth of IX-CHART for detailed design work.

Daikin Psychrometric Chart

Daikin provides a psychrometric chart tool as part of its HVAC selection software ecosystem. It integrates well with Daikin equipment selection but is less flexible for general HVAC design.

Excel-Based Psychrometric Calculators

Many engineering offices use custom Excel spreadsheets for psychrometric calculations. While flexible and inexpensive, these solutions lack the visualization quality, integrated modules, and acoustic analysis capabilities of IX-CHART.

HVAC FEM Simulator

The HVAC FEM Simulator is a plugin for IX-CHART that performs full thermal and moisture load simulation of rooms. It is an extension rather than a competitor, offering deeper dynamic analysis for projects requiring full-year simulation.

Frequently Asked Questions About IX-CHART 1.8.170

What is IX-CHART 1.8.170 used for?

IX-CHART 1.8.170 is psychrometric chart software for HVAC design. It is used to plot air processes, size air handling units, analyze acoustics, calculate energy consumption, and perform duct pressure drop calculations.

Is IX-CHART available for Mac?

No, IX-CHART is a Windows-native application. Mac users would need to run it through virtualization software such as Parallels or Boot Camp.

Does IX-CHART offer a free trial?

Yes, a free 30-day trial of IX-CHART is available before purchase. This allows users to evaluate all features and modules before committing to a license.

Can I transfer my IX-CHART license to another computer?

License transferability depends on the license type. The OEM license is tied to a single workstation and cannot be transferred. The LM license can be transferred between computers through a license server, making it suitable for shared design office seats.

What units does IX-CHART support?

IX-CHART supports both SI (metric) and Imperial (I-P) units. Users can switch between unit systems or work with both in the same project.

Does IX-CHART include an AI assistant?

Yes, IX-CHART 1.8.170 includes an AI Assistant that accepts voice or text commands. Users can describe air processes in natural language, and the assistant performs the calculations and draws the processes on the chart.

How does IX-CHART calculate acoustic performance?

The KOA module considers the noise source, silencer attenuation, installation attenuation, and room sound propagation. This comprehensive approach calculates the actual sound pressure level established in the room, not just the reduction behind a silencer.

Can IX-CHART be used for swimming pool design?

Yes, the KHB module is specifically designed for pool hall calculations, addressing the high moisture loads and precise humidity control requirements of natatorium environments.

Is IX-CHART suitable for students?

Yes, the interactive chart environment and AI Assistant make IX-CHART a valuable educational tool for learning psychrometrics and HVAC fundamentals.

What file formats does IX-CHART export to?

Charts and results can be exported as PNG, PDF, and SVG files for documentation and reporting purposes.

Final Thoughts

IX-CHART 1.8.170 represents a mature, well-designed psychrometric analysis platform that addresses the real needs of HVAC design professionals. The combination of dual chart systems, five integrated calculation modules, AI assistance, and flexible licensing makes it a compelling choice for engineers who need accurate, efficient psychrometric analysis.

The software’s strength lies in its practical orientation. Each module addresses a specific HVAC design task—from AHU sizing to acoustic analysis to energy estimation—rather than offering generic charting functionality. The AI Assistant further reduces friction by allowing natural language process descriptions.

For HVAC engineers working on ventilation, air conditioning, and building services projects, IX-CHART 1.8.170 provides the computational rigor and visualization quality needed for professional design work. The free 30-day trial makes it easy to evaluate whether the software fits your workflow before making a licensing commitment.