Monotypes contain a separate keyboard and typecasting machine. The keyboard was used to set the text, which was then saved on a paper roll. Based on this roll, the typecasting machine then casts the letters one by one.
The following image provides the most important steps which happen within the Monotypes.
The left side is the keyboard of the machine (nr 1). Different kinds of keyboards have been in use (see the diagrams here). This keyboard punches into a paper roll (nr 2). This roll can be stored for re-use later on. When the text is needed, the roll is placed into the casting machine (nr 3). Herein, a box containing the matrices is moved into position, and each letter is cast individually (at nr 4). Letters are put in the right order, so what comes out of the machine (at nr 5) is a text ready to be moved to the printing press.
Note that there are contemporary adjustments to the casting part which allows the use of a computer in stead of a paper roll.
The matrices of the Monotype are contained in a 'box', which the machine positions in place when casting (figure). The output of the machine are separate lead letters. Those letters are cast in the right order, which means that the type can immedeately be taken to the printing press. Note that the type is mirrored. This is because the Monotype is NOT used for printing. It sets type, just like you would do with Microsoft Word. The type has to be taken to a printing press, where they are inked and where the letters are printed on paper.
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