Here is the simple answer. If you wrongly try to measure volts while the
meter is setup to measure current (amps), you create a short circuit.
Short circuits melt or fry things, like the meter. The meter companies
put a fuse inside to protect the meter from this damage while it is set
to measure amps. If you never misuse the meter in this way, the fuse
will likely never blow.

It is very easy to make the mistake of leaving the meter set for amps
when you go to measure volts. When you do, the fuse will likely blow and
then the amps setting will no longer work until you replace the fuse.

Mark

Don Hanson wrote:

>
>   So, just because something is new doesn't mean it will always work
> properly..I guess..  Why the hell does a multimeter even have a fuse, any
> how?  I mean, you are trying to fix an electrical problem but you shouldn't
> have to trouble shoot your tool, too, should you?  Me dumb!
>   Don Hanson
>