1. What is a 5-Band Inductor Color Code Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the inductance value from the color bands on a 5-band inductor.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers, technicians, and hobbyists quickly decode inductor values without memorizing color codes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( L \) — Inductance in microhenries (μH)
• \( band1 \) — First significant digit (1st band color)
• \( band2 \) — Second significant digit (2nd band color)
• \( band3 \) — Third significant digit (3rd band color)
• \( band4 \) — Multiplier exponent (4th band color)

Explanation: The first three bands represent significant digits, the fourth is the power-of-ten multiplier, and the fifth band (not shown here) typically represents tolerance.

3. Importance of Inductor Value Calculation

Details: Accurate inductor identification is crucial for circuit design, troubleshooting, and replacement in electronic devices.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the digit values for the first three bands (0-9) and the exponent value for the multiplier band. The fifth tolerance band is not included in this calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are there 5 bands on some inductors?
A: 5-band inductors provide more precise values - three significant digits instead of two, plus multiplier and tolerance bands.

Q2: How do I convert μH to other units?
A: 1 mH = 1000 μH, 1 H = 1,000,000 μH. Divide by 1000 to convert to millihenries, by 1,000,000 for henries.

Q3: What's the typical range for inductor values?
A: Common inductor values range from nanohenries (nH) to millihenries (mH), depending on application.

Q4: How accurate are color-coded inductors?
A: Accuracy depends on the tolerance band (5th band), typically ±5% to ±20% for standard inductors.

Q5: Where are 5-band inductors commonly used?
A: In precision circuits where exact inductance values are critical, such as RF applications and tuned circuits.