Multiphase converter design with multi-path phase management

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a multiphase converter design with multi-path phase management circuit and output logic. The phase management circuit and output logic can be employed to implement phase adding and shedding operations based on input and output current information and based on control signals for a power stage of the converter. In some examples, the design employs an estimate of an average output current based on a current at an input of the converter for phase control. In additional examples, the design employs cycle-by-cycle current limit and maximum duty-cycle signals to enable phase quickly during load transient. In further examples, the design employs low input and output-current sensed signals for efficient phase shedding and power saving. The design herein improves an overall accuracy of phase adding and shedding, load transient response performance, an operational efficiency and thermal performance of multiphase converter.