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IC Color Code & Pin 1 Identification Chart (JEDEC / MIL-STD)

Reference guide for color dots, pin 1 orientation notches, and military specification markings on integrated circuit packages per JEDEC and MIL-STD.

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Integrated Circuit
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Prefix: RCA (digital)
1st Band (Prefix)
2nd Band (Series)
3rd Band (Value)
4th Band (Value)
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS
Decoded Part ID
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Manufacturer Prefix
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Series Identifier
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Logic Type
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Integrated Circuit Manufacturer Abbreviations

CA PrefixRCA (Analog IC classification). Represented by a Brown color band.
CD PrefixRCA (Digital CMOS logic chip). Represented by a Red color band.
DM PrefixNational Semiconductor (Digital logic). Represented by an Orange color band.
GD PrefixGoldstar (Digital logic). Represented by a Yellow color band.
HA / HD PrefixHitachi Analog (HA) or Hitachi Digital (HD). Represented by Green and Blue bands.
MC PrefixMotorola logic semiconductors. Represented by a Violet color band.

Vintage IC Color Band Identification

In early logic circuits, manufactures utilized a colored system to print part numbers on small plastic dual-inline (DIP) packages where traditional text could smear or fade. Reading from left-to-right, the bands resolve directly into the manufacturing prefix and logic category index.

Formulas & String Decryption Logic

Part Number = Band 1 (Prefix) + Band 2 (Series) + Band 3 (Value) + Band 4 (Value)
The values are cleanly concatenated to reveal the standard logic code (such as CD4017 or MC14011).

Step-by-Step Example

Example Selected: Red, Yellow, Brown, Grey
Step 1: First Band (Red) represents RCA Digital prefix (CD).
Step 2: Second Band (Yellow) represents 4 series.
Step 3: Third Band (Brown) represents 1 value.
Step 4: Fourth Band (Grey) represents 8 value. Concluding value = CD4018 logic chip.

How to Correctly Read IC Codes

Locate the alignment notch at one end of the integrated circuit body.
Orient the chip notch upwards or to the left side of the layout.
Match the color stripes starting from the notch side to determine part identification.
Read the final output code to source modern logic IC drop-in replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did manufacturers use color bands on ICs instead of printed text?

Early laser and ink stamping techniques were fragile and could rub off easily during assembly or when exposed to common circuit board solvents. Color bands offered a high-durability alternative.

2. Are these color codes still used today?

No, standard modern logic microchips feature highly readable printed laser markings. However, decoding these indicators remains vital for preserving and repairing vintage computing hardware.

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IC Color Code & Pin 1 Identification Chart (JEDEC / MIL-STD) is a free online calculator tool. Use it to get instant, accurate results for your electronics calculations.