Power converter with reduced root mean square input current

A method of converting power with a target conversion ratio, the method comprising

• providing a power converter having a ground port, a first port, and a second port, wherein when the power converter operates as a step-down converter the first port receives an input voltage and the second port provides the output voltage and when the power converter operates as a step-up converter the second port receives an input voltage and the first port provides the output voltage, the power converter further comprising a first flying capacitor coupled to a network of switches, a second flying capacitor coupled to the network of switches, an inductor coupled to the second port, and a driver;
• wherein the network of switches comprises a first switch to couple the second flying capacitor to the first port;
• a ground switch to couple the inductor to ground;
• a first capacitor switch coupled to the first flying capacitor;
• driving the network of switches with a sequence of states during a drive period, the sequence of states comprising a first state and a second state,
• wherein in the first state the ground port is coupled to the second port via a first path comprising the first flying capacitor and the inductor, and wherein the first port is coupled to the second port via a second path comprising the first switch, the second flying capacitor and the inductor,
• wherein in the second state the ground port is coupled to the second port via a third path comprising the ground switch and the inductor, and wherein one ofthe first port or the ground port is coupled to the second port via a fourth path comprising the first flying capacitor while bypassing the inductor.