A system and method for operating a depth sensor. A configuration operation can be performed by storing a first sequence of operation steps which define a first depth sensing mode of operation, and a second sequence of operation steps which define a second depth sensing mode of operation, in the memory. In response to a first request for depth measurements according to the first depth sensing mode of operation, the depth sensor can be operated in the first mode of operation by causing it to execute the first sequence of operation steps. In response to a second request for depth measurements according to the second depth sensing mode of operation, and without performing an additional configuration operation, the depth sensor can be operated in the second mode of operation by causing it to execute the second sequence of operation steps.