What Is Resistor Color Code?
A resistor color code is a standardized way of indicating the resistance value using colored bands printed on the resistor body. Each color represents a number, multiplier, or tolerance. This system is essential for identifying resistance in small components where printed text is impractical.
Understanding 4-Band Resistor Code
The 4-band code is the most common format found in general-purpose resistors. It includes:
- Band 1: First significant digit
- Band 2: Second significant digit
- Band 3: Multiplier
- Band 4: Tolerance
Example: Red - Violet - Brown - Gold = 270 Ω ±5%
Understanding 5-Band Resistor Code
High-precision resistors often use 5-band color codes:
- Band 1: First digit
- Band 2: Second digit
- Band 3: Third digit
- Band 4: Multiplier
- Band 5: Tolerance
Example: Brown - Black - Black - Red - Brown = 1,000 Ω ±1%
Resistor Color Code Chart
Refer to the chart below to decode any resistor's color bands:
| Color | Digit | Multiplier | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 0 | x1 | - |
| Brown | 1 | x10 | ±1% |
| Red | 2 | x100 | ±2% |
| Orange | 3 | x1,000 | - |
| Yellow | 4 | x10,000 | - |
| Green | 5 | x100,000 | ±0.5% |
| Blue | 6 | x1M | ±0.25% |
| Violet | 7 | x10M | ±0.1% |
| Gray | 8 | x100M | ±0.05% |
| White | 9 | - | - |
| Gold | - | x0.1 | ±5% |
| Silver | - | x0.01 | ±10% |
| None | - | - | ±20% |
Practical Examples
- Red - Red - Orange - Gold: 22kΩ ±5%
- Brown - Black - Yellow - Gold: 100kΩ ±5%
- Orange - Orange - Black - Gold: 33Ω ±5%
Video Tutorial: Reading Resistor Color Codes
Watch this quick guide to mastering resistor color codes visually:
Tips for Reading Resistors Accurately
- Always start reading from the side with the color bands closer to the edge.
- If unsure, use a multimeter to verify the resistance.
- Use a resistor color code calculator tool to double-check values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I tell which side to read first?
A: Begin from the side where the bands are closest to the edge or where there are more bands.
Q: Do SMD resistors use color codes?
A: No, surface-mount resistors typically use numerical codes instead of colors.
Q: What's the difference between 4-band and 5-band codes?
A: 5-band resistors offer more precision by using three digits before the multiplier.
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Recommended Reading: Ultimate Guide to Resistors
