A side-firing printhead comprises a stack that includes a plurality of slices, wherein each slice includes a PCB trigger layer and a diaphragm layer, the PCB trigger layer controls the flow of ink from the diaphragm layer, a first side of the diaphragm layer includes at least one cavity that delivers ink via one or more aperture braces. An aperture plate is coupled to one side of the stack to interface to the diaphragm layers contained therein, wherein the aperture plate contains a plurality of apertures that are located at each aperture brace. A first bracket is disposed on the top of the stack and a second bracket is disposed on the bottom of the stack, wherein at least one fastener couples the second bracket to the first bracket such that a predetermined amount of pressure is applied to the stack.