Modular Glossary

This glossary is intentionally short and practical. It focuses on terms that matter while using Patcher.

Analysis modes

Views that read a rack from different angles — power, function, layout, and signal. Layout mode adds suggestions such as Same HP fits, Combos, Remix, and Shuffle when there is enough module data to work with. See Racks.

Collection

The list of modules you have saved as part of your own workspace. In Patcher, the collection powers racks, patches, and manual shortcuts.

Digital twin

A practical digital representation of your real modular setup. In Patcher, that means your saved modules, racks, patches, and related context staying connected instead of being spread across separate tools.

HP

The horizontal unit used to size Eurorack modules — one HP is roughly five millimeters wide. Rack layouts add up to a fixed HP width per row, so a module that "fits Same HP" is a module that occupies exactly the same slot width as another.

Instance

A specific copy of a module inside a patch. Patcher is instance-aware: when the same module appears more than once, each copy is a numbered instance so connections can target the intended copy rather than collapsing into a single generic reference.

Manual

The reference document for a module — usually the manufacturer's PDF. In Patcher, manual links attach to module records and aggregate in the User Area so a growing collection turns into one searchable list. See Manuals.

Module

A single hardware unit in a modular system. In Patcher, module pages can include size, manufacturer, power information, panel images, manuals, and related public usage.

Panel variant

An alternate visual version of the same module. This can matter when you want a rack plan to match the real hardware you actually own.

Patch

A saved record of a modular setup or signal-routing idea. In Patcher, a patch can include modules, connections, names, and notes for later recall.

Public profile

A shareable page tied to a user's username, addressable at /u/:username. It can show selected public racks and patches, plus profile-related stats.

Rack

A saved case or layout plan. In Patcher, a rack is not just a picture — it can be edited, rearranged, analyzed, and shared.

Recall

The ability to reopen an old session and still understand what mattered. This is one of the main reasons to document patches and racks carefully.

Share URL

The link that opens a public rack, patch, or profile. Patcher uses opaque public_id share URLs; older numeric links redirect for public items and are retired for private items.

User Area

Your signed-in workspace inside Patcher. It brings together your modules, racks, patches, manuals, comments, and search.