EIA resistor values explained

Technology
EIA resistor values explained
e24011309.png

Jeff, he of the mightyOhm, asks:

Have you ever wondered why standard 5% resistors have strange values, like 330 and 470 Ohms, instead of nice round numbers like 300 or 500 Ohms?

It turns out that standard resistor values form a preferred number series defined by the EIA.  5% values are part of a standard called E24.  The standard is based on a geometric series – each value is approximately 1.1 times the previous one in the set.


EIA Resistor Values Explained
[via The Steampunk Workshop]

4 thoughts on “EIA resistor values explained

  1. KNfLrPn says:

    I remember when I figured this out. I was so proud of myself. And if you look at 1% resistors, it’s the same thing but at a finer resolution.

    If you think about it, there’s no reason to have a higher resolution than the accuracy of the resistor.

  2. Metalworking says:

    Like linear dimensions with the “Renard numbers” : R5, R10, R20, and R40 … or the rounded values…

Comments are closed.

Discuss this article with the rest of the community on our Discord server!
Tagged

Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.

View more articles by Gareth Branwyn

ADVERTISEMENT

Maker Faire Bay Area 2023 - Mare Island, CA

Escape to an island of imagination + innovation as Maker Faire Bay Area returns for its 15th iteration!

Buy Tickets today! SAVE 15% and lock-in your preferred date(s).

FEEDBACK