Unlocked Mode – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

Unlocked Mode is a software setting found on many advanced vape mods that removes the built-in puff-limit timer and allows the fire button to stay engaged for as long as the user holds it down. Unlike the default “locked” or “protected” setting—which automatically cuts power after 8–12 seconds to prevent overheating—Unlocked Mode hands full control to the vaper. It is intended for experienced users who build low-resistance coils or use temperature-control wires that need sustained ramp-up time. Beginners should treat it as an expert feature, because it bypasses a key safety net.

Technical Details

When a mod is placed in Unlocked Mode, the firmware sets the maximum fire-time register to 0 (infinite). The microcontroller still reads atomiser resistance every millisecond and monitors board temperature, but it will not force a shutdown until the button is released or the battery reaches critical voltage. Most devices cap continuous output at the battery’s continuous discharge rating (CDR), so a 30 A cell still limits the theoretical top wattage to roughly 90 W on a fresh 3.7 V charge. Variants include “Unlimited,” “Bypass,” or “Mech” mode—the latter also removes wattage regulation, turning the regulated mod into a semi-unregulated mod that obeys Ohm’s law directly. DNA, YiHi, and recent AS chips expose the setting through their desktop companion apps, while cheaper boards require a three- or five-click fire-button dance plus up/down button holds.

Usage & Tips

• Use only with rebuildable atomisers that have been dry-burn tested and wicked correctly; sub-ohm tanks such as the Tank“>UFORCE Tank are not designed for 20-second pulls.
• Keep your battery wraps pristine—Unlocked Mode pushes cells harder, and any tear can arc against the mod wall.
• Check board temperature after two or three long draws; if the display shows ≥75 °C, let the device cool before continuing.
• Chain-vapers should prefer dual- or triple-cell mods to reduce voltage sag and avoid early low-battery cut-off.
• If the mod gets “stuck on,” immediately remove the batteries; most modern boards include a hard-reset fuse, but manual removal is fastest.

History & Context

Unlocked Mode first appeared in early Evolv DNA 20 boards (2012) to satisfy cloud-chasers who needed more than the stock 10-second cut-off. As Australian vaping competitions grew, manufacturers copied the feature, and it is now standard on most 200 W-plus devices. Regulators in the EU (TPD) and Australia (TGA) still recommend a 10-second cut-off, so many vendors ship mods with the mode hidden but unlockable via software.