Converter with inductors coupled in series

A converter for generating a loading current at an output node, the converter comprising:

• a first inductor coupled to the output node and having an inductance value;
• a first power channel comprising the first inductor and a second inductor connected in series with the first inductor, the second inductor having an inductance value;
• and
• a second power channel comprising the first inductor, wherein:
• the second inductor is directly coupled between switching nodes of the first and second power channels,
• the first inductor is coupled between the switching node of the second power channel and the output node, and
• the first power channel is disabled and the second power channel is enabled for a first loading condition that is heavier than a second loading condition when the first power channel is enabled.

A method for a converter configured to generate a loading current at an output node of the converter, the converter comprising first and second power channels, the first power channel comprising first and second inductors, the second power channel comprising the first inductor, the second inductor being directly coupled between switching nodes of the first and second power channels, and the first inductor is coupled between the switching node of the second power channel and the output node, the method comprising:

• measuring a loading condition of the converter;
• determining whether the loading condition is larger than a threshold value;
• and
• operating the first power channel or the second power channel based on the determined loading condition, the first power channel having higher power efficiency than the second power channel, wherein the first power channel is disabled and the second power channel is enabled for a first loading condition that is heavier than a second loading condition when the first power channel is enabled.