Full technical review FNIRSI SG-004A | Specs, Features & Feedback

Product Introduction

The FNIRSI SG-004A Multifunctional Signal Generator is a compact yet powerful process calibrator designed to address the complex needs of industrial automation, electrical engineering, and DIY electronics. This device stands out in the market by offering an extensive range of signal generation and measurement capabilities, including current, voltage, frequency, resistance, and a comprehensive suite of thermocouple types. It serves as an indispensable tool for calibrating pressure transmitters, PLC systems, and various process instruments, ensuring precise control and accurate readings in critical applications. Its mini size, combined with a backlit screen and rapid 1-second result display, makes it uniquely portable and efficient for field use, empowering professionals and enthusiasts alike to troubleshoot, test, and maintain complex electrical systems with unparalleled ease and accuracy. Check out our other technical reviews for more hardware testing.

Hardware specifications

Core Specifications: FNIRSI SG-004A

Model Number: SG-004A
Brand Name: FNIRSI
Origin: Mainland China
Certification: CE
DIY Supplies: Electrical
Battery Included: Yes
High-concerned chemical: None
Display Size: 2.9 Inches & Under
Current (mA) Range: 0-24mA
Voltage (V) Range: 0-24V
Passive(XMT) Range: 0-24mA
24V loop Range: 0-24mA
FRQ(Hz) Range: 0-9999Hz
Millivolt (mV) Range: -10 — 100mV
Thermocouple (TC-S) Range: 0-1760℃
Thermocouple (TC-B) Range: 0-1810℃
Thermocouple (TC-E) Range: 0-990℃
Thermocouple (TC-K) Range: 0-1320℃
Thermocouple (TC-R) Range: 0-1760℃
Thermocouple (TC-J) Range: 0-1190℃
Thermocouple (TC-T) Range: 0-390℃
Thermocouple (TC-N) Range: 0-1290℃
Thermocouple (WRe3/25) Range: 0-2320℃
Thermocouple (WRe5/26) Range: 0-2320℃
Resistance (ohm) Range: 0-390Ω
Pt100 Range: -200 — 650℃
Cu50 Range: -20 — 150℃

Available Versions

Available Versions & Selection Guide

The FNIRSI SG-004A is available in two color variants: SG-004A-BU (Blue) and SG-004A-YE (Yellow). Both versions offer the same robust functionality and user-friendly interface, designed for intuitive operation by electrical DIY enthusiasts. The device features Digital Signal Processing and covers a wide temperature range, from TC(TC-N) at 0-1290℃ up to TC(WRe5/26) at 0-2320℃, accommodating diverse temperature calibration requirements. It provides versatile signal output, supporting Millivolt (mV), Current (mA), and Passive(XMT) signals for compatibility with various devices. Comprehensive thermocouple support is a key feature, including TC(TC-N), TC(TC-J), TC(TC-K), TC(TC-E), TC(TC-S), TC(WRe3/25), and TC(WRe5/26) types for extensive temperature calibration. Furthermore, it boasts high frequency capability, generating signals up to 9999Hz with FRQ(Hz), which is ideal for precise frequency testing in electrical systems.

FULL TECHNICAL REVIEW FNIRSI SG-004A 4-20mA Multifunctional Gerador de sinal PT100 Thermocouple Resistance Pressure Transmitter Process Calibrator 7 | andibond.com

Package Contents

What’s in the Box?

The FNIRSI SG-004A comes with a comprehensive set of accessories to ensure immediate usability and versatility. The package includes four Alligator Test Clips, one USB charger, the SG-004A Signal Generator unit itself, one User Manual for detailed operation instructions, one Type-C Cable for charging and data transfer, and a protective Packing Box.

Features and benefits

Why I love FNIRSI SG-004A

The FNIRSI SG-004A offers exceptional precision and versatility, making it an invaluable tool for a wide array of electrical and industrial applications. Its ability to generate and measure Current (mA) from 0 to 24 mA with an impressive precision of ±(0.02%+0.003) and a resolution of 0.001mA, coupled with an internal impedance of 100Ω, ensures highly accurate calibration and testing of 4-20mA loops, which are standard in process control systems. This level of accuracy is critical for maintaining the reliability of sensors and actuators in industrial environments.
The device’s Voltage (V) capabilities, spanning 0 to 24 V with the same high precision of ±(0.02%+0.003) and a resolution of 0.001V, along with a substantial internal impedance of 500K, allow for precise simulation and measurement of control voltages. This is essential for verifying the operational parameters of various electronic components and control circuits, providing confidence in system performance.
For Passive (XMT) current generation, the SG-004A supports a range of 0 to 24mA with a precision of ±(0.02%+0.003) and a resolution of 0.001V, maintaining an internal impedance of 100Ω. This feature is particularly useful for testing devices that draw power from the current loop itself, such as certain types of transmitters, ensuring they function correctly under real-world conditions. The dedicated 24V loop function, also covering 0 to 24mA with a precision of ±(0.1%+0.005) and a resolution of 0.01mA, and an internal impedance of 100Ω, provides a stable power source for loop-powered devices, simplifying setup and troubleshooting in complex industrial setups.
The Frequency (FRQ) generation up to 9999Hz with a precision of ±2% and 5 digits resolution, alongside an internal impedance of 1MK, makes the SG-004A suitable for testing frequency-dependent sensors, actuators, and control systems. This high frequency capability, as highlighted in the product versions, is ideal for precise frequency testing in electrical systems, from simple pulse generation to more complex signal analysis. Additionally, its Millivolt (mV) range of -10 to 100mV, with a precision of ±(0.03%+0.03) and a resolution of 0.01mV, and an internal impedance of 2K, is crucial for working with low-voltage signals, including those from specialized sensors and transducers.
A standout feature is its Comprehensive Thermocouple Support, covering an extensive array of types including TC-S (0~1760°C), TC-B (0~1810°C), TC-E (0~990°C), TC-K (0~1320°C), TC-R (0~1760°C), TC-J (0~1190°C), TC-T (0~390°C), TC-N (0~1290°C), WRe3/25 (0~2320°C), and WRe5/26 (0~2320°C). Each thermocouple type offers specific precision (ranging from ±(0.2%+1) to ±(0.5%+1)) and a resolution of 1°C, with an internal impedance of 2K. This wide temperature range, extending up to 2320°C for WRe thermocouples, caters to diverse and extreme temperature calibration needs, making it indispensable for industries like metallurgy, ceramics, and high-temperature processing.
Furthermore, the device supports Resistance (ohm) measurements from 0 to 390Ω with a precision of ±(0.2%+1) and a resolution of 0.1°C, along with Pt100 (-200~650°C) and Cu50 (-20~150°C) thermal resistance types, both with a precision of ±(0.5%+1) and a resolution of 0.1°C. These capabilities are vital for calibrating RTD sensors and other resistance-based transducers, ensuring accurate temperature and position sensing. The SG-004A also boasts Extended Functions such as program automatic lift output, signal linear conversion output, history record, USB analog serial communication, preset output, real-time curve display, output timing, and USB Emulated U Disk Firmware Upgrade, significantly enhancing its utility for advanced diagnostics and system integration. Its user-friendly interface, mini size, backlit screen, and ability to deliver results in just 1 second further streamline operations, making complex tasks more manageable and efficient. The wiring display instructions clearly illustrate its application with PLC/Process instruments and pneumatic valves, providing all-round signal output for current, voltage, millivolt, frequency, resistance, thermal resistance, and various thermocouple signals, including specific guidance for valve position feedback and power supply configurations.
Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Strengths & Weaknesses:

What I Like

Highly versatile with comprehensive signal generation and measurement capabilities (Current, Voltage, Frequency, Millivolt, Resistance, Thermocouples).
Exceptional precision for current and voltage outputs: ±(0.02%+0.003).
Wide temperature range support, including specialized WRe thermocouples up to 2320°C.
High frequency output up to 9999Hz for diverse testing needs.
Compact, mini size with a backlit screen for portability and ease of use in various environments.
Fast measurement results, typically within 1 second.
Includes advanced extended functions like real-time curve display, history record, and USB communication/firmware upgrade.
Dedicated 24V loop power supply for loop-powered devices.
Robust build quality and well-protected packaging, as noted by users.

Points to Consider

Lacks the capability to generate sine wave signals, limiting its application in certain AC signal testing scenarios.
The included operational manual could be more comprehensive for immediate optimal use, as suggested by user feedback.
Some users reported minor display rotation issues, which might affect user experience.
Perceived accuracy might not always meet the highest expectations for all users, despite high stated precision.
While user-friendly, the full potential of advanced features might require some learning curve without a detailed manual.

Price and Availability

Where to Buy & Customer Reviews

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Store info

STORE

⭐ 98.6% Positive Feedback | 123.0K Followers

Name:	FNIRSI Official Store
Store no.:	2939001
Location:	China
Open since:	Feb 26, 2017

Detailed seller ratings

Item as Described	4.9 Above Average
Communication	4.9 Above Average
Shipping Speed	4.9 Above Average

OTHER GOODS

User reviews

User Reviews & Feedback Analysis ⭐ 4.6 (22) | Sold (569)

Reviews FNIRSI SG-004A

Authentic Feedback Analysis:
⭐ 5/5 | AliExpress Shopper: Material received on time, parcel tracking worked well, very satisfied. I used the SG-004A 4-20mA to adjust a 4-20mA to 0-3.3V conversion board and explored the device’s possibilities, I am happy with this purchase.
⭐ 5/5 | E***r: Super recommend, working normally, professional Automation, Instrumentalist, Electrical Engineer, recommend, arrived on time. Thank you, super recommend, arrived on time thank you.
⭐ 5/5 | a***r: Very precise when it comes to mA values. Easy to use.
⭐ 5/5 | S***z: The delivery was very fast, much earlier than the estimated date. So far I have been very satisfied, the equipment feels of very good quality and is very easy to use. It also came very well protected. 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐ 4/5 | AliExpress Shopper: Very good product. it is a pity that does not include the capability amongst varios types of signals also sine signals. For the rest it is excellent. if i have the opportunity to give an advise to the producer: attach a more comprehensive operational manual to get immediately the best out of this excellent instrument.
⭐ 5/5 | M***s: this is very good products.
⭐ 5/5 | A***q: Excellent equipment in accuracy and precision in measurement and Calibration.
⭐ 5/5 | D***o: Excellent value for money.
⭐ 5/5 | AliExpress Shopper: Very cool interface.
⭐ 3/5 | N***o: The device is not bad. I expected better accuracy, but it turned out as always.
⭐ 3/5 | D***r: The display is significantly rotated from its correct position.

Pinout and Interface Map

PRODUCT PARAMETER FNIRSI SG-004A

FNIRSI SG-004A

Comparison table

Technical Specifications & Comparison FNIRSI SG-004A

Signal Type	Scope	Precision	Resolution	Internal Impedance
Current (mA)	0~24 mA	±(0.02%+0.003)	0.001mA	100Ω
Voltage (V)	0~24 V	±(0.02%+0.003)	0.001V	500K
Passive (XMT)	0~24mA	±(0.02%+0.003)	0.001V	100Ω
24V loop	0~24mA	±(0.1%+0.005)	0.01mA	100Ω
FRQ (Hz)	0~9999Hz	±2%	5 digits	1MK
Millivolt (mV)	-10~100mV	±(0.03%+0.03)	0.01mV	2K
Thermocouple (TC-S)	0~1760°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-B)	0~1810°C	±(0.5%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-E)	0~990°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-K)	0~1320°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-R)	0~1760°C	±(0.3%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-J)	0~1190°C	±(0.3%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-T)	0~390°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (TC-N)	0~1290°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (WRe3/25)	0~2320°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Thermocouple (WRe5/26)	0~2320°C	±(0.2%+1)	1°C	2K
Resistance (ohm)	0~390Ω	±(0.2%+1)	0.1°C	/
Pt100	-200~650°C	±(0.5%+1)	0.1°C	/
Cu50	-20~150°C	±(0.5%+1)	0.1°C	/
Output Signal
Active current	0~24mA
Passive current	0~24mA
Voltage	0~24V
Frequency/ PWM	0~9999Hz
24V loop	0~24mA
mV/ Thermocouple	—10~110mV
Resistance/ Thermal Resistance	0~390Ω
Input Signal
Active current	0~24mA
Voltage	0~24V
Frequency/PWM	0~9999Hz
mV/thermocouple	-10~110mV
Resistance/Thermal Resistance	0~400Ω
Extended Function
Program automatic lift output	Signal linear conversion output	History record	USB analog serial communication
Preset output	Real-time curve	Output timing	USB Emulated U Disk Firmware Upgrade

Final summary

Final Verdict: FNIRSI SG-004A

The FNIRSI SG-004A stands out as an exceptionally versatile and precise multifunctional signal generator and process calibrator, offering significant value for its price point. Its broad range of capabilities, from highly accurate 4-20mA current and 0-24V voltage generation to extensive thermocouple and resistance support, makes it an ideal choice for professionals in industrial automation, instrumentation, and electrical engineering. While the absence of sine wave generation and a potentially more detailed manual are minor drawbacks, these are largely overshadowed by its compact size, rapid response time, backlit display, and comprehensive extended functions like real-time curve plotting and USB communication. For anyone requiring a reliable, portable, and highly capable tool for calibration, testing, and troubleshooting in complex process control environments, the SG-004A is an excellent investment. Its main advantage lies in its unparalleled versatility and precision across a multitude of signal types, making it a true all-in-one solution for field and bench work. For more in-depth analyses, visit andibond.com.

FULL TECHNICAL REVIEW FNIRSI SG-004A 4-20mA Multifunctional Gerador de sinal PT100 Thermocouple Resistance Pressure Transmitter Process Calibrator