Abstract: An ink jet printhead includes a chip layer having a via for receiving ink, and having at least one actuator. A barrier layer is disposed adjacent the chip layer, and forms at least one throat which has a width and a cross-sectional area. The barrier layer also forms at least one bubble chamber, with each throat adapted to receive ink from the via and provide it to the respective bubble chamber. A nozzle layer is disposed adjacent the barrier layer, opposite the chip layer, and forms at least one nozzle for ejecting ink from the respective bubble chamber when the ink is energized by the associated actuator. At least one post is disposed proximate the throat, and extends part way between the chip layer and the nozzle layer. The post forms one or more gates through which the ink must pass from the via to the at least one throat.