Resistor Color Code Calculator Download

Resistor Value Formula:

\[ R = (band1 \times 10 + band2) \times 10^{band3} \]

Band 1 (1st Digit):

Band 2 (2nd Digit):

Band 3 (Multiplier):

Resistance (ohms):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is a Resistor Color Code Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the resistance value of a resistor based on its color bands.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers, technicians, and hobbyists quickly identify resistor values without memorizing the color code.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ R = (band1 \times 10 + band2) \times 10^{band3} \]

Where:

\( R \) — Resistance value (ohms)
\( band1 \) — First significant digit (color)
\( band2 \) — Second significant digit (color)
\( band3 \) — Multiplier (color)

Explanation: The first two bands represent digits, the third band is the multiplier (power of 10).

3. Importance of Resistor Color Codes

Details: Color codes provide a standardized way to represent resistor values on small components where printed numbers would be impractical.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Select the colors for each band from the dropdown menus. The calculator will display the resistance value in ohms.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What about 4-band and 5-band resistors?
A: This calculator handles 4-band resistors (3 value bands + tolerance). For 5-band, we'd need an additional digit band.

Q2: What do gold and silver bands mean?
A: As multipliers, gold = ×0.1 (10^-1), silver = ×0.01 (10^-2). As tolerance bands, gold = ±5%, silver = ±10%.

Q3: How accurate are color codes?
A: The colors themselves are precise, but actual component values have tolerances (typically ±1% to ±10%).

Q4: What if my resistor has more bands?
A: Additional bands typically represent tolerance (4th band) and temperature coefficient (5th band).

Q5: Where can I download a color code chart?
A: Many electronics websites offer downloadable charts, or you can print one from online resources.