An ink stick for use in a phase change ink imaging device is provided. The ink stick comprises an ink stick body configured to fit within an ink loader of the imaging device. At least one coded sensor feature is formed in the exterior surface of the ink stick body. The at least one coded sensor feature comprises a plurality of code element patterns. Each code element pattern of the plurality of code element patterns is configured to actuate at least one sensor in the feed channel to generate the same coded pattern of signals.