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Resistor Color Code Calculator

Decode or generate 4-, 5- and 6-band resistor values, or combine ideal series and parallel resistors.

Your numbers

Make it your own
Updates as you type
Nominal resistance
4,700Ω

Calculated from your inputs · rounded for display

Color bandsyellow · violet · red · gold
Tolerance5%
Minimum resistance4,465Ω
Maximum resistance4,935Ω

Conventional axial resistor color coding. Confirm component documentation and power rating; color code alone does not establish circuit suitability.

Your calculation, step by step

No black boxes
  1. 2 significant digit bands × multiplier, followed by tolerance.
  2. Read the bands in their indicated order.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter your own values in the labeled fields. Check the units and assumptions before comparing results. Only the fields needed for your selected calculation mode are shown.
  2. Your answer updates automatically. Review the calculation steps to see exactly how it was calculated.
  3. Copy, share, save, or download your result. Saved inputs stay on this device.

How the calculation works

R = significant digits × color multiplier; series=ΣR; parallel=1/Σ(1/R)

Four-band resistors use two significant digits; five- and six-band codes use three. The final sixth band describes temperature coefficient. Tolerances follow the linked Vishay chart, including gray at 0.05%; confirm the manufacturer convention for a physical part. Encoding rounds to the chosen digit count; it does not choose a preferred E-series part or certify power suitability. Review the units, period and assumptions before comparing scenarios. Displayed values are rounded, while the underlying calculation retains its available precision.

A worked example

Yellow, violet, red, gold means 47 × 100 = 4,700 Ω with ±5% tolerance, giving a 4,465 to 4,935 Ω range.

Reading your result

Use the main result together with its units and supporting figures. Display values are rounded; calculations keep their underlying precision. A change in inputs or assumptions can change the answer. Compare the step-by-step working with your intended use before relying on an estimate.

Frequently asked questions

What assumptions does this calculation use?

Four-band resistors use two significant digits; five- and six-band codes use three. The final sixth band describes temperature coefficient. Tolerances follow the linked Vishay chart, including gray at 0.05%; confirm the manufacturer convention for a physical part. Encoding rounds to the chosen digit count; it does not choose a preferred E-series part or certify power suitability.

Can I save or check a scenario?

The result includes the working and supporting values. Save and Restore keep inputs on this device; Copy, Download and Print export the result. Sharing a scenario explicitly includes the inputs in its link.

Sources & methodology

Vishay: resistor color code ↗

Formula review: October 24, 2026. Read our methodology.