Resistor Color Code Calculator

Reading resistor color codes

Resistors use colored bands to indicate their value since printing numbers on a tiny component is impractical. 4-band resistors use two digit bands, one multiplier, and one tolerance band. 5-band resistors (higher precision) add a third digit band for values like 1% and 0.1% tolerance parts. Always read bands from the end with the band closest to a lead — the tolerance band (gold/silver) is usually on the right.