Speaking of references, I made a resistor value calculator with Excel, some VB programing, and some artwork. I use this pretty often as it helps me make the constant correlation between the colors and the values of the resistors. Most often, it is best to memorize the "conversions" so that you're not chained to a reference, but this nifty little spreadsheet helps me memorize the color combinations and their conversions. It's also good for finding values quickly if you're sifting through the ol' junk box.
The excel spreadsheet uses macros, so you will receive a warning when opening the file. THERE ARE NO MALICIOUS MACROS WITHIN THIS FILE!!! I GIVE YOU MY WORD. The macros are there for the buttons and the various visual basic commands only! If you're still leary, scan it with your virus software before opening.
I've protected the workbook without a password, just to eliminate the accidental movement of objects etc. Feel free to adjust to your tastes. Just click on Tools, then protection, then unprotect workbook. no password is needed, just click "OK".
I've tried to make the process as visual as possible, accounting for those who are colorblind by adding text. The rest is self explanatory. Let me know what you think.
I'm planning to make similar pages for Inductor color codes, and capacitor markings, for our electronic newby friends.