What do the different resistor color bands mean?

Resistor color bands represent different values: • First two bands: Significant digits • Multiplier band: Decimal multiplier • Tolerance band: Precision of resistance value • TCR band (optional): Temperature coefficient

How do I read a resistor's color bands?

Reading resistor color bands: • Orientation: Tolerance band (Gold/Silver) on right • 3-band: First two bands = digits, third = multiplier • 4-band: First two bands = digits, third = multiplier, fourth = tolerance • 5-band: First three bands = digits, fourth = multiplier, fifth = tolerance • 6-band: Adds temperature coefficient (TCR) band

What are the standard resistor tolerances?

Common resistor tolerances: • ±20%: Lowest precision (3-band resistors) • ±10%: Silver band • ±5%: Gold band • ±1%: Brown band • ±0.1%: Very high precision resistors

Resistor Color Code Calculator - reliable and accurate

Calculate resistor values from color bands with precision and ease. Supports 4, 5, and 6-band resistors with automatic tolerance calculation and SMD code conversion.

Number of Bands

digit 1

digit 2

multiplier

tolerance

Calculation Result

Resistance

10.0 kΩ

Tolerance

±5%

Range: 9.50 kΩ to 10.5 kΩ

Important Disclaimer

Educational Purpose: This tool provides general guidance based on standard resistor color codes. While it helps identify potential values, no tool can guarantee complete accuracy for all scenarios.

Professional Consultation: For critical applications or warranty claims, consult with qualified professionals or manufacturers for definitive assessments.

No Liability: We provide this tool for educational purposes only. Users are responsible for their own decisions and any actions taken based on the results.

How to Use the Resistor Color Code Calculator

Select Band Count

Choose the number of bands on your resistor (3-6 bands).

Choose Calculation Mode

Select whether you want to convert color bands to a resistance value or find color bands for a specific resistance.

Enter Colors or Resistance

In color-to-value mode, select colors for each band. In value-to-color mode, enter the desired resistance.

View Results

The calculator will display the resistance value, tolerance, and other relevant information.

Pro Tips

Hold the resistor with the tolerance band (usually Gold or Silver) to the right
Read color bands from left to right
3-band resistors have assumed ±20% tolerance
More bands mean more precise resistance values

Understanding Resistor Color Codes

Resistor color codes are a standard way to indicate the resistance value, tolerance, and sometimes the temperature coefficient of a resistor. This calculator decodes those colors to help you quickly understand your component's specifications.

Understanding these codes is essential for electronics work, as it allows for precise circuit design and troubleshooting.

Electronics Tool

Resistor Color Code Calculator for Quick Electronics Reference

Decode resistor values from color bands and understand their tolerance and properties with this straightforward tool for electronics enthusiasts and professionals.

Instant Decoding

Quickly convert color bands to resistance values, tolerance, and TCR.

Accuracy First

Based on standard EIA color codes for reliable results.

Easy to Use

Step-by-step guidance for beginners and experts alike.

Comprehensive Methods & Features

How It Works

• Enter the color bands from your resistor
• Get the calculated resistance and details instantly
• Use the results for your electronics projects

Technical Details

• Supports 3 to 6 band resistors
• Calculates based on standard values like E24 and E96 series
• Includes tolerance and temperature coefficient analysis

Key Topics

Resistor Color Code CalculatorWhat Do Resistor Colors MeanElectronics Color DecoderResistor Value CalculatorElectronic Component Tool

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