TALLY
In CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitors, a tally input and tally light are features commonly used in professional broadcasting, production, and studio environments. They serve to provide visual cues and communication between the monitor and other equipment or personnel involved in a production.
The tally input is a dedicated input on the CRT monitor that receives signals indicating the active status of the monitor. This signal is typically provided by an external device, such as a video switcher or production mixer, and is used to inform the monitor when it is on-air or being actively viewed in a production setup.
The tally light, also known as a tally indicator or tally lamp, is a small light located on the front or top of the CRT monitor. It is directly connected to the tally input and illuminates to indicate the active status of the monitor. When the monitor is "on-air" or selected for viewing, the tally light will typically light up. Conversely, when the monitor is not active or not being viewed, the tally light will remain off.
The purpose of the tally input and tally light is to provide a clear visual cue for the production crew, camera operators, and on-air talent. They help indicate which specific monitor is currently being used or viewed in a multi-monitor setup. This feature is especially useful in live broadcasting environments, where multiple monitors are used simultaneously, and it's important to ensure that the correct monitor is being monitored or captured on camera.
By utilizing the tally input and tally light, the production crew can easily identify which monitor is actively being used, enabling better coordination and communication during live broadcasts or studio productions. It helps to prevent confusion and ensures that everyone involved in the production is aware of the current viewing status of each monitor.
It's worth noting that tally inputs and tally lights are primarily found in professional-grade CRT monitors designed for broadcasting and production applications. Consumer-grade CRT televisions or monitors typically do not include these features, as they are not necessary for regular home use.
In summary, the tally input and tally light in CRT monitors provide visual cues to indicate the active status of the monitor in a production environment. They enable better coordination and communication between the monitor and other equipment or personnel involved in live broadcasts or studio productions, ensuring that the correct monitor is being viewed or captured on camera at any given time.