I. Introduction
Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs) tend to have poor light-load efficiency as a result of being optimized for higher current levels. This becomes substantial if the VRM is operating under light-load for a significant portion of time. Poor light -load efficiency can lead to high energy costs or non-compliance with the Energy Star Mark [1]. Therefore various methods for improving light-load efficiency of VRMs have been investigated in the literature, including mode-hopping [2], hybrid control [3], and the ‘baby-buck’ realization [4]. Methods of turning on/off individual phases [5] or switches [6] in a multiphase interleaved buck converter have also been proposed. By recognizing the need for multiple parallel switches in order to carry the high current levels in today's VRMs (e.g. [7]), the means for switching individual inductors of the proposed parallel inductor solution off is provided. In this way, a new method for improving light-load efficiency is presented, which has higher efficiency than switching off switches alone.