patchboard(n = noun.artifact) plugboard, switchboard - telephone central where circuits are completed with patchcords;
is a kind of central, exchange, telephone exchange
is a part of phone system, telephone system
A circuit board where circuits are completed and modified by making connections with patchcords. [WordNet 1.5]
patchboard, n. a board with electrical sockets linked to enable changeable permutations of connection.