Some notes on fuses: (a) It is best to use a "slow-blow" type in
the power-line circuit, because there is invariably a large
current transient at turn-on (caused mostly by rapid charging of
the power-supply filter capacitors). (b) You may think you know
how to calculate the fuse current rating, but you're probably
wrong. A dc power supply has a high ratio of rms current to
average current, because of the small conduction angle (fraction
of the cycle over which the diodes are conducting). The problem
is worse if overly large filter capacitors are used. The result
is an rms current considerably higher than you would estimate.
The best procedure is to use a "true rms" ac current meter to
measure the actual rms line current, then choose a fuse of at
least 50% higher current rating (to allow for high line voltage,
the effects of fuse "fatigue," etc.). (c) When wiring
cartridge-type fuse holders (used with the popular 3AG fuse,
which is almost universal in electronic equipment), be sure to
connect the leads so that anyone changing the fuse cannot come in
contact with the power line. This means connecting the "hot"
lead to the rear terminal of the fuse holder (the authors learned
this the hard way!). Commercial power-entry modules with
integral fuse holders are usually arranged so that the fuse
cannot be reached without removing the line cord.