An electric switchboard is a device that directs electricity from one source to another. It is an assembly of panels, each of which contain switches that allow electricity to be redirected. The operator is protected from electrocution by safety switches and fuses.

There can also be controls for the supply of electricity to the Switchboard, coming from a generator or bank of Generators, especially frequency control of AC Power and load sharing controls, plus gauges showing frequency and perhaps a Synchroscope . The amount of power going into a switchboard must always equal the power going out to the loads.

Inside the switchboard are a bank of Busbars - generally wide strips of copper to which the switchgear is connected. These act to allow the flow of large currents through the switchboard, and are generally bare and not insulated. Power to a switchboard should first be isolated before a switchboard is opened for maintenance, as the bare Busbars represented a severe electrocution hazard. Working on a live switchboard is rarely necessary, and if it is done then precautions should be taken, such as standing on a thick rubber mat, the use of gloves etc.

The device is similar in function to the telephone switchboard, which redirects telephone calls rather than electric currents.