Arcade machines, beloved for their classic games and vibrant cabinets, rely on stable and protected power supplies to function correctly. A critical component for safety within these power systems is the fuse, which acts as a sacrificial device to prevent overcurrent damage. Understanding the most common fuse types used is essential for maintenance and repair. The primary fuse types found in arcade machine power supplies are glass cartridge fuses and ceramic fuses.

Glass cartridge fuses are among the most prevalent. They feature a transparent glass tube that allows for quick visual inspection of the internal fuse element. If the metal wire inside is broken or melted, the fuse has blown and needs replacement. These are often fast-blow fuses, meaning they react quickly to overcurrent situations. Common ratings for these in arcades are 2A, 3A, and 5A.

Ceramic fuses serve a similar purpose but are constructed with an opaque ceramic body. They are more robust than glass fuses and are better at containing an arc if the fuse element violently fails, making them a safer choice for higher-energy circuits. Some ceramic fuses are slow-blow (or time-delay) types, which can tolerate temporary current surges, such as those occurring when the machine is first powered on.

Another type sometimes encountered is the resettable fuse, or PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) fuse. While less traditional, these polymeric devices can automatically reset after a fault condition cools down, eliminating the need for physical replacement.

When replacing a fuse in an arcade machine, it is absolutely critical to use one with the identical current rating, voltage rating, and blow type (fast or slow) as specified by the machine's manufacturer or the original fuse. Using an incorrect fuse can create a serious fire hazard or lead to permanent damage of the power supply and other internal components. Always prioritize safety by disconnecting the machine from power before inspecting or replacing any fuses.