Constant-on-time power converter with single-phase and multi-phase operation

A power converter, comprising:

• a means for generating an output current that has an output voltage, based on an input current that has an input voltage, wherein the means for generating the output current comprises a plurality of power stages;
• and
• a means for controlling the means for generating the output current, wherein:
• the means for controlling the means for generating the output current comprises a plurality of constant-on-time loops for the plurality of power stages;
• the power converter is configured to operate in a single-phase mode or a multiphase mode;
• and
• a first power stage of the plurality of power stages supports a continuous conduction mode and a discontinuous conduction mode when the power converter operates in the single-phase mode.

A method, comprising:

• determining whether to operate a power converter in a single-phase mode or a multiphase mode, wherein:
• the power converter comprises a plurality of power stages configured to generate an output current based on an input current and a control circuit coupled to the plurality of power stages;
• the control circuit is configured to control operation of the plurality of power stages;
• and
• the control circuit comprises a plurality of constant-on-time loops for the plurality of power stages;
• and
• in response to determining that the power converter should operate in the single-phase mode, generating the output current using a first stage of the plurality of power stages, wherein the first stage supports a continuous conduction mode and a discontinuous conduction mode when the power converter operates in the single-phase mode.