Read the digits
The first two bands give the digits. On 5- and 6-band resistors, use the first three.
A LITTLE COLOR. A LOT OF CLARITY.
Know your resistance.
Select the bands. Get the value. Back to building.
4.7 kΩ ±5%
4.465 kΩ — 4.935 kΩ
Read left to right
4
7
× 100
± 5%
47 × 100 = 4.7 kΩ
Try a common value
From value to workbench.
Find components for your next build.
THE QUICK GUIDE
Every band tells a part
of the story.
Start at the end with the band closest to the edge. The tolerance band is usually spaced farther apart.
Vishay color-code referenceApply the multiplier
The next band scales those digits into the resistance in ohms (Ω).
Check the tolerance
This is the allowed variation. Three bands have no tolerance band and imply ±20%. A sixth band gives the temperature coefficient in ppm/°C.