Are 4-Wire Gauge Fuse Holders Necessary for your Car Audio?
When looking for car audio and video with a clear sound, sharp viewing, and seamless function, many naturally focus solely on the system itself. Yet it is vitally important to protect this usually expensive equipment with the right AMP fuses and their holders, which protect all wiring and electrical equipment from any power surges that could potentially destroy the system and the vehicle's electronics themselves.
What features are important in a fuse holder?
The function of fuse holders is to safely hold and protect fuses which can be mounted on either an open block or in an enclosed holder. With this in mind, it is important that they meet some of the following criteria:
- They are non-conducting in nature and are also non-combustible, thus ensuring that if there is an electrical surge or a fire is sparked, it doesn't move any further through the electrical circuit.
- They should be waterproof and resistant to vibrations to allow optimal function under the hood of a car and the stresses of wet weather
- Those that have a blown fuse indicator are also handy.
What are the different types of fuse holders?
In car audio and video equipment, there are typically three types of holders that can be used depending on the type of fuse they hold, and the amount of current that will flow through that it:
- The AGU or barrel or cylindrical in shape is usually covered in glass. They are usually used in low to medium power amplifiers and systems.
- The ATL, ATC, or blade type are usually used in vehicles electrical systems.
- The ANL or wafer, usually handles currents over 100 amps and plays a role in helping between the main battery and the audio-visual system.
Why 4 gauge?
Wire gauge is a measure of the diameter of a wire and this width decides how much electrical current it can safely transmit. Standard 4 gauge wire converts to 5 mm diameter wire, which is thicker than many other commonly used ones. It offers faster flow of current, therefore enhancing the performance and capabilities of a system.
There are a wide range of vehicles this gauge can be used in from smaller vehicles to boats and even caravans and trucks with a larger capacity and electrical demand. The brands Audiopipe and Stinger offer a range based on amperage. There is also a wide range of unbranded holders that could be used, and Xscorpion offers cable kits with an built-in fuse holder.
Content provided for informational purposes only. eBay is not affiliated with or endorsed by brands mentioned above.