Abstract: An array of magnetically-actuatable electrical switches is controlledly operated in response to changes in position of a movable member controlling the magnetic field reaching the switching elements. The movable member may for example comprise a panel, supporting permanent magnets which are moved into switch-closing or switch-opening positions by motion of the panel, or a movable magnetic shielding arrangement used in conjunction with fixed permanent magnets so that the position of the magnetic shield determines whether the switches are open or closed. The preferred arrangement is such that the motion of the movable switch-controlling member can be accomplished mechanically by a manually-operable actuator or electrically by an electrically-controlled solenoid arrangement, at the option of the operator.

Abstract: A first set of conductors (e.g. 25 of them) leading for example to a communications modem, is connected by way of a corresponding set of normally-closed switches to corresponding conductors of a second set, leading for example to local equipment such as a computer. At least one of the above sets of conductors is also connected to connector means into which a multi-wire (e.g. 24 wire) patching cable may be plugged. The plugging-in of the patching cable automatically opens the normally-closed switches to isolate the first and second sets of conductors from each other, as is usually desired for patching purposes. Preferably the switches are magnetically-operable reed switches, switched between their open and closed states by magnet means controlled by the plugging-in of the patching cable.