Learn Electronic Circuits - Color Codes for Resistances

 

What are color codes for resistances

ChatGPT

Color codes are used to indicate the resistance value and tolerance of electronic resistors. These color codes are typically found on the body of the resistor in the form of color bands. The color bands represent digits and multipliers that can be decoded to determine the resistor's resistance value. Here's how the color codes work:

1.     Digit Color Bands:

The first two or three color bands represent digits of the resistance value. Each color corresponds to a specific digit:

·         Black: 0

·         Brown: 1

·         Red: 2

·         Orange: 3

·         Yellow: 4

·         Green: 5

·         Blue: 6

·         Violet: 7

·         Gray: 8

·         White: 9

2.     Multiplier Color Band:

The next color band represents a multiplier that determines the order of magnitude for the resistance value. This multiplier is typically a power of 10. Common values are:

·         Black: x1 (multiplier of 10^0)

·         Brown: x10 (multiplier of 10^1)

·         Red: x100 (multiplier of 10^2)

·         Orange: x1,000 (multiplier of 10^3)

·         Yellow: x10,000 (multiplier of 10^4)

·         Green: x100,000 (multiplier of 10^5)

·         Blue: x1,000,000 (multiplier of 10^6)

·         Violet: x10,000,000 (multiplier of 10^7)

·         Gray: x100,000,000 (multiplier of 10^8)

·         White: x1,000,000,000 (multiplier of 10^9)

3.     Tolerance Color Band:

The final color band, which is sometimes included, represents the tolerance of the resistor. Tolerance indicates the allowable range within which the actual resistance value can deviate from the indicated value. Common tolerance values are:

·         Gold: ±5%

·         Silver: ±10%

·         No color (bare metal): ±20%

·         Brown: ±1%

·         Red: ±2%

To decode the resistance value of a resistor, you read the color bands from left to right. For example, if you have a resistor with color bands of Yellow-Violet-Red-Gold, you can decode it as follows:

·         Yellow: 4 (digit)

·         Violet: 7 (digit)

·         Red: 2 (digit)

·         Gold: ±5% (tolerance)

So, the resistance value is 47 x 10^2 ohms, which is equal to 4,700 ohms or 4.7 kilohms with a tolerance of ±5%.

Keep in mind that there may be variations in color codes depending on regional standards and manufacturers. Always double-check the color codes on the resistor or refer to the datasheet for precise information.