Determine the value and tolerance of a 4-band or 5-band axial resistor by selecting its color bands.
How do I know which end to start reading from?
Usually, the tolerance band (typically Gold or Silver) is at the end, separated by a slightly larger gap. You should start reading from the opposite end.
What is the difference between 4-band and 5-band resistors?
A 4-band resistor uses the first two bands for significant digits, the third for a multiplier, and the fourth for tolerance. A 5-band resistor is more precise; it uses the first three bands for significant digits, the fourth for a multiplier, and the fifth for tolerance.