Ink cartridges for inkjet printers have various forms and functions depending on the printer model. However, they share something in common; they store ink and have a structure for injecting ink. We will briefly describe the basic structure of cartridges in the following

The structure of every cartridge can be divided into three parts: a space for storing ink, a head to transmit signals between computer and printer, and a nozzle to inject ink.

The differences based on the positions of the head and the nozzle

Cartridges can be distinguished by the positions of the head and the nozzle.

1. Integrated Type

The cartridges of HP and Lexmark are the typical examples of this type. Their head and nozzle are attached to the cartridge: the head is on the side and the nozzle is at the bottom which is usually stained with ink.

The integrated type can be divided again into Empty Space Type (Air Pressure Type), Sponge Type, and Blended Type depending on the formal structure of the cartridges. The details for each type will be described below.

2. Divided Type

The cartridges of Epson printers are the typical examples of this type.

The head and the nozzle are built in the printer, and only the cartridges that store ink are replaced. The cartridges of Canon printers have both the integrated types of HP style, and the other types that consist of the head-assembly and the cartridge.