Electronic – How to detect fuse failure

dcdetectionfailurefusestransistors

I have two components in parallel on a DC circuit driven by a single momentary switch. Each component is individually fused.

I need to detect failure of either fuse and in that event power on a warning indicator.

The most direct approach is to wire a NC relay in series with each fuse, but the specs of the circuit aren't tolerant to the voltage drop as power output from each component must be maintained.

I'd like to solve with common cheap components as this is a hobby implementation.

Any ideas?

Best Answer

You could connect an LED and its ballast resistor in parallel with each load, as shown below.

The LED would stay on while the fuse wasn't blown, and you could use a high-efficiency LED to minimize its impact on the fuse.

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