When loss of supply occurs, the output is shut down regardless of whether the ENx pin is high or low. For a resistive or a capacitive load, loss of supply has no risk. But for a charged inductive load, the current is driven from all the I/O pins to maintain the inductance current. To protect the system in this condition, TI recommends two types of external protections: the GND network or the external free-wheeling diode.

Figure 8-11 Protection for Loss of Power Supply, Method 1

Figure 8-12 Protection for Loss of Power Supply, Method 2