Fieldpiece is a well-known brand among HVAC professionals, offering clamp meters designed specifically for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning applications.
Two of their most discussed models are the SC260 and the SC480. Both are True-RMS clamp meters, but they serve different types of users.
The SC260 is a mid-range meter for everyday HVAC tasks, while the SC480 is a premium, advanced model for professionals who need more diagnostics and power measurement features.
📋 Overview of the Fieldpiece SC260
The Fieldpiece SC260 is a compact True-RMS clamp meter designed with HVAC essentials in mind. It’s affordable, easy to use, and has just the right functions for most technicians.
Key Features:
- True-RMS for accurate readings on non-linear loads
- AC/DC voltage up to 600V
- AC current up to 400A
- Temperature measurement (thermocouple included)
- Capacitance for motor start/run capacitors
- Continuity and resistance
- Auto-ranging with data hold
- Backlit dual display
- CAT III 600V safety rating
The SC260 is ideal for HVAC technicians who need a reliable, no-frills clamp meter for day-to-day service work.
📋 Overview of the Fieldpiece SC480
The Fieldpiece SC480 is a premium wireless clamp meter packed with advanced features for professionals who need more than just basic measurements.
Key Features:
- True-RMS for accurate readings
- AC/DC voltage up to 1000V
- AC/DC current up to 600A
- Power measurement: watts, VA, and PF (power factor)
- Harmonics measurement (THD)
- Inrush current capture
- Temperature measurement (K-type thermocouple)
- Capacitance, resistance, continuity, and diode test
- Wireless connectivity via Job Link® system for data logging and sharing
- CAT IV 600V / CAT III 1000V safety rating
The SC480 is designed for HVACR professionals and industrial technicians who need advanced diagnostics, wireless logging, and high-capacity measurements.
⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Fieldpiece SC260 | Fieldpiece SC480 |
|---|---|---|
| True-RMS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Max Voltage | 600V AC/DC | 1000V AC/DC |
| Max Current | 400A AC | 600A AC/DC |
| Temperature Measurement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Capacitance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Inrush Current | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Power Measurements (Watts, PF) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Harmonics (THD) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Wireless Connectivity | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (Job Link system) |
| Safety Rating | CAT III 600V | CAT IV 600V / CAT III 1000V |
| Best For | HVAC service techs | Advanced HVACR & industrial diagnostics |
| Price Range (approx.) | $$ (mid-range) | $$$ (premium) |
👍 Pros and Cons
Fieldpiece SC260
✅ Affordable and reliable
✅ Covers all HVAC essentials (temp, capacitance, continuity)
✅ Compact and easy to use
❌ Limited to 600V and 400A
❌ No advanced diagnostics like inrush or harmonics
Fieldpiece SC480
✅ High-capacity measurements (1000V, 600A)
✅ Advanced diagnostics (power, harmonics, inrush)
✅ Wireless logging via Job Link®
✅ Higher safety rating (CAT IV 600V)
❌ More expensive
❌ Bulkier than the SC260
🛠️ Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Fieldpiece SC260 if you are a residential or light commercial HVAC technician who needs an affordable and reliable clamp meter for daily service calls.
- Choose the Fieldpiece SC480 if you work in advanced HVACR or industrial environments, where you need high-capacity measurements, wireless logging, and advanced power diagnostics.
💡 Final Thoughts
Both the SC260 and SC480 are excellent HVAC clamp meters, but they serve different roles. The SC260 is the go-to choice for everyday technicians, while the SC480 is a premium tool for advanced diagnostics and industrial work. Your choice comes down to whether you need a simple, affordable clamp meter or a feature-packed powerhouse.