MULTI-CHIP PRINTHEAD UNIT FOR A PAGEWIDTH PRINTER

摘要

Provided is an elongate multi-chip printhead unit for a pagewidth printer. The unit includes a number of integrated circuits laid end-to-end, each having a multitude of micro-electromechanical nozzles for ejecting printing fluid. The unit also includes an ink distribution molding defining a plurality of elongate conduits for distributing printing fluid to the printhead. Also included is a printed circuit board (PCB) configured to relay data signals from a printer controller to respective ends of the integrated circuits, as well as busbars positioned to provide drive current to the micro-electromechanical nozzles of the printhead. The busbars are retained in position at one end by a socket, and at both ends by wrap-around wings of the PCB. The unit further includes a support member for holding the integrated circuits, molding, busbars and PCB in appropriate alignment.