The Schottky diode D1, shown in the Typical Application
on the back page, conducts during the dead-time between
the conduction of the two power MOSFETs. This prevents
the body diode of the bottom MOSFET from turning on and
storing charge during the dead-time, which could cost as
much as 1% in efficiency. A 1A Schottky is generally a good
size for 4A regulators due to the relatively small average
current. Larger diodes can result in additional transition
losses due to their larger junction capacitance.
The diode may be omitted if the efficiency loss can be
tolerated.