An electrical panel cover, often called a “dead front,” is the metal barrier that fits over the circuit breakers inside the main electrical box. What is a Distribution Board? A distribution board or distribution panel (DP) is an important part of an electricity supply system. Three key. A distribution board (also known as panelboard, circuit breaker panel, breaker panel, circuit breaker, electric panel, fuse box or DB box) is a component of an electricity supply system that divides an electrical power feed into subsidiary circuits while providing a protective fuse or circuit. Panel Types Explained If you've ever opened that gray metal box on your wall to flip a tripped breaker, you've encountered an electrical distribution box.