Depth sensing techniques for virtual, augmented, and mixed reality systems

A system for operating a depth sensor, the system comprising:

• a processor configured to execute a method comprising:
• performing a configuration operation for a depth sensor, the configuration operation comprising:
• storing a first sequence of operation steps which define a first depth sensing mode of operation in a memory of the depth sensor, the first sequence of operation steps including one or more common operation steps, and
• storing a second sequence of operation steps which, in combination with the one or more common operation steps, define a second depth sensing mode of operation in the memory of the depth sensor;
• receiving a first request for depth measurements according to the first depth sensing mode of operation;
• in response to the first request, operating the depth sensor in the first mode of operation by causing it to execute the first sequence of operation steps;
• receiving a second request for depth measurements according to the second depth sensing mode of operation;
• and
• in response to the second request, and without performing an additional configuration operation, operating the depth sensor in the second mode of operation by causing it to execute the second sequence of operation steps and the one or more common operation steps.