A method of using a phase change ink imaging device includes receiving an nth ink stick in an ink loader of a phase change ink imaging device where n is a predetermined number. The nth ink stick includes at least one sensor contour formed thereon. The at least one sensor contour is associated with an ink stick identifier. The at least one sensor contour on the nth ink stick is detected using a sensor system in the ink loader. At least one signal is generated based on the detection of the at least one sensor contour, the at least one signal being indicative of the ink stick identifier. The ink stick identifier indicated by the at least one signal is then stored as a designated ink stick identifier for use with the phase change ink imaging device.