short answer
CAB A4.3+ and SQUIX 4.3 use the same 4.3-inch printhead family and offer similar DPI options (commonly 203 and 300 dpi). However they have different OEM part numbers and are associated with different CAB printer families (A-series vs SQUIX). In many cases a mechanically identical 4.3" printhead of the same DPI will work if the connector, mounting and firmware parameters match.
1) What these names mean (quick background)
"4.3" refers to the printhead size (≈4.3 inches / ~109 mm) and not a proprietary technology - it's the family/type of linear thermal printhead used across multiple CAB models.
A4.3+ is the printhead used in CAB's older A-series (A4+/A4.3+ lines) and sold under CAB part numbers for that family (examples: 5954085 for 203 dpi, 5954089 for 300 dpi).
SQUIX 4.3 is the printhead type used in the SQUIX 4 / SQUIX 4.3 printer family (SQUIX being CAB's newer replacement/industrial line). SQUIX printheads have their own CAB part numbers (e.g., 5977xxx series for various DPIs).
2) Technical comparison - what to check before assuming compatibility
Below are the concrete parameters that determine whether two printheads are interchangeable. For every swap you must confirm each item:
DPI / element density - 203, 300 (and sometimes 600) dpi versions exist. Swap only between identical DPI models. Differences in DPI are not interchangeable.
- Physical size & mounting holes - both A4.3+ and SQUIX 4.3 are "type 4.3" heads (same nominal width), but small differences in mounting brackets or guides can exist between printer series - compare the mechanical drawings or the old vs new mounting plates.
- Connector & ribbon path / pinout - the electrical connector and ribbon path alignment must match. Even when the head looks identical, a different pinout or sensor wiring will prevent correct operation.
- Head firmware / EEPROM parameters - many modern CAB heads store head energy, max temp and other parameters in internal memory; the printer reads these to control drive currents. Using a head whose stored parameters don't match the printer's profile can cause under/over-heating or poor print quality.
3) Evidence from CAB and major suppliers
- CAB's spare parts lists for SQUIX show distinct SQUIX 4.3 part numbers (different SKU ranges) - CAB documents SQUIX printhead items separately. That indicates CAB treats SQUIX heads as specific spare parts even though they are the same type 4.3 family.
- Distributors list A4.3+ and SQUIX 4.3 printheads with different OEM part numbers (examples: 5954089 for A4.3+ 300 dpi; 5977383 or similar for certain SQUIX 4.3 300 dpi parts). Use the part numbers on your printer's parts list.
