Try an example

1. Digit2. Digit3. Multiplier4. Tolerance

Select a band, then choose its color

4.7 kΩResistance

±5%Tolerance

Which side first?

Start at the end opposite the tolerance band. The tolerance band is often gold or silver and usually sits farther from the other bands.

Package and power guide

Markings identify resistance, not wattage. Check the package dimensions and manufacturer datasheet before choosing a replacement.

How to read it

Read a through-hole resistor from the end opposite the tolerance band. Four bands use two digits; five and six bands use three.

IEC 60062 color semantics

Band meanings follow IEC 60062. Display colors are screen approximations, not normative color references.

Portico Ω checks jumpers and special decimal marks, EIA-96, generic numeric codes, then RKM notation. Family rules still take precedence.