Resistor Color Code Calculator
Calculate the resistance value using the color code table for resistors
This calculator helps you decode the color bands on resistors to determine their resistance value, tolerance, and temperature coefficient. Select the number of bands and their colors to instantly see the resistance value, including support for 3, 4, 5, and 6-band resistors. The tool provides visual feedback, explanations, and tips for reading and understanding resistor color codes, making it ideal for electronics hobbyists, students, and professionals.
Resistance Value
1kΩ ±5%
- Select the number of bands
Choose the number of colored bands on the resistor (3-6 bands).
- Select the colors
Choose the colors of the bands on the resistor in the correct order
- Read the value
The resistance value is calculated automatically from the combination of colors
- Understand the tolerance
The tolerance band indicates the allowed variation of the resistance value
Tips and Tricks
- Differences between the number of bands
Resistors with 3 bands have an implicit tolerance of 20%. 4 bands add tolerance. 5 bands add the third digit for precision. 6 bands add the temperature coefficient.
- The meaning of the colors
Each color represents a specific value according to the international standard
- Tolerance
Gold represents ±5%, and silver ±10% tolerance. Other colors have specific tolerance values.
- Standard values
Resistors are available in standard values according to the E12 series
- Temperature coefficient
For resistors with 6 bands, the last band indicates the change in resistance value as a function of temperature (ppm/K)
FAQ
- How to convert color bands to resistance value?
- The color bands on a resistor represent the resistance value, tolerance, and sometimes the temperature coefficient. The first two bands represent the significant digits, the third band represents the multiplier, and the fourth band represents the tolerance. The fifth band represents the temperature coefficient for 6-band resistors.
- Is resistor color code calculator free?
- Yes, the resistor color code calculator is free to use. It does not require any registration or payment.
- How to use the resistor color code calculator?
- To use the resistor color code calculator, simply select the number of bands on the resistor, select the colors of the bands, and the value is calculated automatically. The calculator will display the resistance value, tolerance, and temperature coefficient.
- What is the tolerance of a resistor?
- The tolerance of a resistor is the allowed variation of the resistance value. It is represented by the color of the fourth band on the resistor.
- What is the temperature coefficient of a resistor?
- The temperature coefficient of a resistor is the change in resistance value as a function of temperature. It is represented by the color of the fifth band on the resistor for 6-band resistors.
- What is the multiplier of a resistor?
- The multiplier of a resistor is the power of 10 that multiplies the significant digits. It is represented by the color of the third band on the resistor.
- What is the significance of the first two bands on a resistor?
- The first two bands on a resistor represent the significant digits. The first band represents the first significant digit, and the second band represents the second significant digit.
- What is the significance of the third band on a resistor?
- The third band on a resistor represents the multiplier. It is the power of 10 that multiplies the significant digits.
- What is the significance of the fourth band on a resistor?
- The fourth band on a resistor represents the tolerance. It is the allowed variation of the resistance value.
- What is the significance of the fifth band on a resistor?
- The fifth band on a resistor represents the temperature coefficient. It is the change in resistance value as a function of temperature.