The second step of the INA226EVM configuration process allows the user to set the operating mode and the averaging mode.

The operating mode allows the user to restrict the amount of calculations done within the INA226 by changing the conversion to be triggered or continuous, or shutting down the part altogether. When the device is operating in triggered mode, it only performs conversions when the operating mode is set and the Write All Reg button at the top of the screen is selected. After the mode changes and Write All Reg has been selected, the Read All Reg button must also be selected in order for the changes on the device to be reflected in the software.

When the INA226 is operating in continuous mode, conversions are performed directly after the previous conversion is completed. When the INA226EVM software is in continuous mode, the software can be updated at any time by pressing the Read All Reg button.

Power-down mode stops all conversions from taking place until the operating mode changes again. The device remains attached to power but draws minimal current and does not perform any conversions.

Figure 6-4 shows how to limit all three operating modes to measure only certain components of the device. It is important to note that for complete functionality of the INA226, a configuration must be chosen with Shunt and Bus configuration. Failure to choose Shunt and Bus configuration disables a considerable portion of the unit functionality as discussed in the INA226 data sheet.

Figure 6-4 Configuring Operating Mode

The Configure Operation step also contains a drop-down box to help the user select the averaging mode. The INA226 can be setup to take the average of several measurements before storing the value of the measurements in the register table.