Abstract: A system for supplying ink to a composite printing head has a first compartment in fluid flow communication with a first set of orifices, and a second compartment in fluid flow communication with a second set of orifices. The first and second compartments are configured to allow the egress of ink to maintain the level of ink therein at a desired fill height. A reservoir is also provided for supplying ink to the first and second compartments.

Abstract: Laser marker apparatus for marking indicia onto a substrate includes an exit lens having a focal length, a plurality of lasers, a plurality of turning mirrors, and at least one directing mirror. The surface of the substrate to be marked is positioned generally at the focal plane of the lens. The plurality of lasers is arranged so that their energy output beams are oriented in a generally parallel relationship. The plurality of turning mirrors are positioned along the beam path of each respective laser and are oriented to reflect the output beams at predetermined angles. The directing mirrors redirect the output beams to form a column of spaced apart spots on the substrate. One of the directing mirrors is then moved in a first direction so as to form another column of spots on the substrate. Movement in another direction forms a third column of spots on the substrate. The columns are interleaved to create a composite column of higher resolution for marking Alpha-numeric characters.