Method of generating print data for inkjet printhead

A printer controller for generating print data for an inkjet printhead, the printer controller being configured for:

• receiving image data for a print job in the printer controller;
• retrieving keep-wet pattern data for each ink plane of the printhead, the retrieved keep-wet pattern data being determined using one or more input parameters;
• generating first print data for each ink plane of the printhead in the printer controller based on the received image data;
• merging the first print data with the keep-wet pattern data to provide second print data for each ink plane of the printhead;
• and
• sending the second print data, or third print data based on the second print data, from the printer controller to the printhead, thereby causing the printhead to print an image together with a keep-wet pattern.

A printer comprising:

• (A) an inkjet printhead;
• and
• (B) a printer controller configured for:
• receiving image data for a print job in the printer controller;
• retrieving keep-wet pattern data for each ink plane of the printhead, the retrieved keep-wet pattern data being determined using one or more input parameters;
• generating first print data for each ink plane of the printhead in the printer controller based on the received image data;
• merging the first print data with the keep-wet pattern data to provide second print data for each ink plane of the printhead;
• and
• sending the second print data, or third print data based on the second print data, from the printer controller to the printhead, thereby causing the printhead to print an image together with a keep-wet pattern.