Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for feeding printing ink in an inking unit of a printing press having an ink fountain to which, for the purpose of metered filling, there is assigned a cartridge in a holder, the cartridge having a displaceable cartridge piston, which is acted upon pneumatically for the purpose of pressure discharge, and having at the other end a closable outlet opening. The device includes a holder for the cartridge, the holder having a controllable pneumatic connection, and a valve that is closed when the cartridge is being acted upon by pressure. Also provided are a spacing or distance sensor for determining the position of the cartridge piston in the upper part of the holder, and a pneumatic actuator for opening the cartridge valve, pressure being applied separately to the cartridge and to the actuator.