A fluid-jet printhead has a substrate having at least one layer defining a fluid chamber for ejecting fluid. The printhead also includes a resistive layer disposed between the fluid chamber and the substrate wherein the fluid chamber has a smooth planer surface between the fluid chamber and the substrate. The printhead has a conductive layer disposed between the resistive layer and the substrate wherein the conductive layer and the resistive layer are in direct parallel contact. The conductive layer forms at least one void creating a planar resistor in the resistive layer. The planar resistor is aligned with the fluid chamber.