RESISTORS:- Resistor Values
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Resistor Values
Preferred Values
Resistor Colour Code
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Resistor values can be determined using a Resistor Colour Code. For the 4-band type, the first two bands are numerical values the third is the multiplier or number of noughts. For example 3.9kOhms = Orange(3), White(9), Red(2) = 3900ohms or 3.9kOhms. For values below 10ohms the third band is coloured gold which is a multiplier of 0.1. The fourth band indicates tolerance. Resistor values are also available as 5-band types shown in the next topics and for Preferred Resistor Values. Resistors are available in a number of ranges, the most common being the E12(10%) and E24(5%) series, the latter having a closer tolerance, therefore more values are required to ensure every likely value is covered. TEST YOUR UNDERSTANDING: Once you are happy that you understand how to read the resistor values from the coloured bands. Take a handful of actual components and tape them to a piece of paper to prevent moving around. Write down your value for each and compare with a test meter. If you are measuring a component in-circuit, unless its a very low value the test meter will most probably show a different resistance (always alower value) as it takes into account other circuit connections in parallel. NEVER attempt to measure resistance in a live circuit as you will most likely damage your meter and or the circuit under test.
