Fieldpiece is a well-known brand among HVAC professionals, offering clamp meters designed specifically for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning applications.
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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 |
| 💳 Pricing | 💲Check Price | 💲Check Price |
👍 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.
