Keysight N1500A Materials Measurement Suite 2026 – Comprehensive Software Platform for Characterizing Electromagnetic Properties of Materials from 20 Hz to THz

The Keysight N1500A Materials Measurement Suite is a powerful software platform that automates the complex measurement and calculation of the electromagnetic, dielectric, and magnetic properties of materials . It works in conjunction with a Keysight measurement instrument—such as a network analyzer, impedance analyzer, or LCR meter—to control the hardware, acquire S-parameter data, and calculate key material parameters . The system’s frequency range is exceptionally broad, spanning from 20 Hz to the low THz range, depending on the specific instrument and test fixture used .

The 2026 release (Version 26.0.26060801) represents a significant update, transitioning the software to a 64-bit architecture and adopting the KAL licensing system

The Keysight N1500A Materials Measurement Suite serves as a comprehensive platform for professionals in materials science, RF/microwave engineering, and semiconductor research. It facilitates the detailed characterization of electromagnetic properties, which are fundamental to the design and development of electronic components and systems. This software is particularly valuable for quality control laboratories requiring certified material specifications and academic researchers exploring novel material behaviors.

Primary Users

The Keysight N1500A Materials Measurement Suite 2026 is designed for materials scientists, RF/microwave engineers, and quality assurance professionals who need to characterize the dielectric and magnetic properties of materials. It serves professionals who:

  • Need to measure complex permittivity (εr*) and permeability (μr*) over a wide frequency range for R&D or quality control 

  • Work in industries such as 5G/6G communications, automotive radar, aerospace, and defense 

  • Require automated testing with a variety of measurement methods to accommodate different material types (solids, liquids, powders) and sample forms 

  • Value flexibility to run the software directly on a network analyzer (PNA/ENA) or on a PC for offline data analysis

Key Features & Capabilities

Wide Frequency Range and Instrument Compatibility

The software supports a vast frequency range from 20 Hz to the low THz and works with a variety of Keysight instruments, including PNA and ENA network analyzers . Its versatile compatibility makes it suitable for characterizing materials across a broad spectrum of applications.

Multiple Measurement Method Options

The N1500A software suite offers a selection of optional measurement methods, allowing users to choose the approach that best suits their material and application . Key options include:

  • Option 001 – Transmission Line & Free Space: This method analyzes materials placed in a transmission line (e.g., coaxial airline or waveguide) or suspended in free space between two antennas . It calculates permittivity and permeability from S-parameter measurements .

  • Option 002 – Arch Reflectivity: The NRL arch method is used to measure the angle-dependent absorption and reflection characteristics of materials, often used for radar-absorbing materials .

  • Option 003 – Resonant Cavity: A highly sensitive method for characterizing low-loss dielectric materials. It measures the shift in resonant frequency and Q-factor when a sample is placed inside a cavity .

  • Option 004 – Coaxial Probe: Suitable for liquids and semi-solid materials.

Automated Measurements and Data Analysis

The software automates the entire measurement process, controlling the instrument and calculating results . It provides robust data analysis capabilities, including multiple chart and trace formats (permittivity, permeability, S-parameters, Smith charts), trace math functions, markers, and zoom functions .

Offline Data Analysis and API

Users can run the software in offline mode on a PC, enabling them to perform data analysis without needing to be connected to the instrument . Additionally, an Application Programmable Interface (API) allows for advanced automation, enabling users to set up, trigger, and read measurements from their own programs .

What’s New in the 2026 Release

The 2026 version (26.0.26060801) is a major update with the following key changes :

  • 64-bit Architecture: The software has been upgraded to a 64-bit application, which can result in improved performance and the ability to handle larger datasets more efficiently.

  • KAL Licensing: The software now uses the Keysight Authorization License (KAL) system for license management.

  • Updated OS Support: Officially supports Windows 10 and Windows 11 .

  • Supported Instruments: Now compatible with the PNA-X Pro (NA52xxA series) network analyzers and E4980B LCR meters