Inductor Color Code Decoder
Decode an axial inductor value from its color bands.
Configuration
Select Colors
Results
Color Reference
| Color | Digit | Multiplier | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
Black | 0 | ×1 | — |
Brown | 1 | ×10 | ±1% |
Red | 2 | ×100 | ±2% |
Orange | 3 | ×1000 | — |
Yellow | 4 | ×10000 | — |
Green | 5 | ×100000 | — |
Blue | 6 | ×1000000 | — |
Violet | 7 | — | — |
Grey | 8 | — | — |
White | 9 | — | — |
Gold | — | ×0.1 | ±5% |
Silver | — | ×0.01 | ±10% |
Component guide
Read an inductor colour code in context
Some through-hole inductors use a colour code related to resistor codes. This marking is not universal: the manufacturer part number and measurement remain authoritative.
Method and assumptions
Bands generally represent significant digits and a multiplier to produce inductance in microhenries, then possibly tolerance. The calculator decodes this common case without assuming it covers every package.
Inputs to verify
Component type
Verify that this is a colour-coded inductor, not a resistor, diode, or differently marked moulded component.
Available part number
Any printed part number or BOM is more reliable than visual interpretation alone.
Recommended workflow
- 1Identify reading direction from spacing or the tolerance band.
- 2Decode the value and compare it with the range expected in the circuit.
- 3Confirm with the datasheet or an LCR meter when inductance is critical.
Verification example
A decoded value is plausible only if it fits the circuit function: supply filtering, RF inductors, and power inductors use different ranges and current criteria.
Limits to keep in mind
Nominal inductance alone says nothing about saturation current, DC resistance, Q factor, or self-resonant frequency. Those parameters are essential for a replacement choice.
Frequently asked questions
Is the colour code identical to a resistor’s?
It can be similar, but unit, tolerance, and direction conventions are not universal. Always check the component documentation.
Can I replace an inductor with the same µH value?
Not necessarily. Saturation current, DCR, package, Q, and operating frequency can be equally important.
References to consult
- Method references: manufacturer-documented marking, datasheet, and LCR measurement at the appropriate frequency.
Original educational content, reviewed for technical clarity on 20 August 2026. Always verify datasheets, applicable standards, and your design before power-up or manufacture.