DVD/VCR combo, will not power up, could it have an in-line fuse that has blown?

Question

The power cord has an oblong 'box' (2 3/4" long, 1 7/8" diameter) situated 10" from the unit housing. I have not seen such a set up on a device like this before, jus wanted to know if it a fuse, before I pry it open!

Answer 1

That's most likely a weight to keep the cord down. Don't pry it open, it won't help. You should first make sure it has power to the outlet then replace the cord using one from another device (they're usually interchangeable with other cords from a tv or dvd player). If you still don't get it to power up then there's a problem in the unit.