9.3.2 Mode Selection

The MODE terminal allows to select the operating mode of the device. Connecting this terminal to GND enables the automatic PWM and power-save mode operation. The converter operates in regulated frequency PWM mode at moderate to heavy loads and in the PFM mode during light loads, which maintains high efficiency over a wide load current range.

Pulling the MODE terminal high forces the converter to operate in the PWM mode even at light load currents. The advantage is that the converter operates with a fixed frequency that allows simple filtering of the switching frequency for noise-sensitive applications. In this mode, the efficiency is lower compared to the power-save mode during light loads.

For additional flexibility, it is possible to switch from power-save mode to PWM mode during operation. This allows efficient power management by adjusting the operation of the converter to the specific system requirements.