Resistor Decoder

Bret Victor / March 11, 2010

This chart is perhaps the fastest way to decode the value of a resistor. Simply match the colors of the bands, and read off the value. After you use it for a little while, you'll be decoding resistors with a single quick glance.

I created this to demonstrate how clever graphic design can often beat interactive software. There are a lot of resistor-decoding widgets and websites out there, and they are all incredibly tedious to use. When you've got your hands full of soldering equipment, the last thing you want to do is navigate through pull-down menus.

This chart requires zero interaction, zero memorization, and zero mental arithmetic. Just let your eyes do the work.

If you would like to print this out and hang it near your workbench, you can download the PDF.

For more on visual alternatives to interactivity, take a look at Magic Ink.