Your problems sound like they are in the install and tune. Not the ecu.
The sm4 still has only 4 ignition drivers so the expander increases this to as many as 8 or 12. That way you dont have to run waste spark and your coils will go further without breakdown.
I use mine for *A/C control like standard
*NOS control
*Launch control
*Boost control
*Fan 1 and Fan 2
My own car has had limited amount of tuning due to lack of time, but still starts, drives nicely and makes heaps of power all with no missing or flatspot's.