Dumb question. I'm assuming diodes are like resistors in that there are different ones for different applications. If I remember correctly, resistor color codes are pretty much universal. Is this the case with color codes on diodes as well?

 

in the case of diodes... how to identify them varys alot depending on the manufacturer.

if they come as color bands, some of them follow the same standard color format as resisitors, but not always.

it's best to find out how to read the diode either by looking at the datasheet, box it comes in, or looking it up online..

but do remember.... the color band is used to denote the cathode side too.

 

i thought most of the diodes were just marked on the diode itself.

 

yeah.. most.