Pulse Mode – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

Pulse Mode is an advanced output setting found on many modern vape mods and pod systems that delivers power in rapid, rhythmic bursts instead of one continuous stream. Rather than sending a constant wattage to the coil, Pulse Mode fires the coil in micro-seconds on/off cycles—typically 30–50 times per second—so the coil temperature stays within a tighter range. The result is a smoother, more consistent vape with noticeably richer flavour from your PG/VG e-liquid, reduced risk of dry hits, and often a longer coil life. Beginners can think of it as cruise-control for your wattage: the board “pulses” energy to keep the coil at the sweet spot between puffs without overheating.

Technical Details

Inside the chipset, Pulse Mode uses high-frequency PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation). The processor monitors Resistance“>coil resistance every few milliseconds and adjusts the duty cycle—e.g., 40 W may be rendered as 0.02-second “on” peaks followed by 0.02-second “off” valleys, averaging 40 W but never letting the coil overshoot its ideal temperature. Most boards run 25 kHz–50 kHz switching frequencies, imperceptible to the user yet gentle on cotton. Variations include “Soft Pulse” (ramps up then pulses), “Hard Pulse” (initial 120% wattage spike then settles), and “Curve Pulse” (user-programmable 5-step pulse widths). Compatible with Kanthal, SS, Ni80, and many mesh coils, Pulse Mode is usually selectable only in VW/Power Mode—not TC—because it relies on fixed resistance. Firmware may show a small “P” or pulse icon next to the set wattage.

Usage & Tips

  • Start 5–10 W lower than your normal Power Mode setting; Pulse Mode feels stronger because peak voltage is higher.
  • Prime new coils as usual and take 2–3 gentle primer puffs to let the pulsing break in cotton evenly.
  • If you notice spitting, raise wattage 2–3 W or switch to a thicker high-VG juice; the rapid heating can thin out high-PG liquid.
  • Battery life improves slightly—duty-cycling draws less average current—but carry spares if chain-vaping at 80 W+.
  • Always unlock the fire button before pocketing; accidental pulses can overheat a dry coil and create a burnt hit.

History & Context

VooPoo first marketed Pulse Mode in 2018 with the GENE.FIT chip, promising “constant output after the first puff.” Competitors like Geekvape (AS-3 Pulse), Smok (Pulse), and Vaporesso (Pulse) followed, making it a standard flagship feature. Originally aimed at cloud chasers chasing stable flavour, the tech has trickled down to mid-tier pod systems, helping Australian vapers meet the 2024 nicotine prescription landscape with longer-lasting coils and reliable puff count consistency.

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