The SC1146 is the latest, high performance, multiphase (PWM) controller designed for high power microprocessors requiring ultra fast transient response. The SC1146 is programmable for the voltage range required by the latest Microprocessors . Utilizing a novel and unique design, the controller distributes the output load across (up to) four converter channels by digitally phase shifting the PWM outputs. This approach greatly reduces the stress and heat on the output stage components while lowering input ripple current by as much as 80%. Accurate current sharing among the four phases is achieved by precision design techniques and trimming of critical elements. The high speed transconductance error amplifier is externally initialized using a soft-start capacitor allowing the controller to "wake-up" without overshoot, thus protecting the low voltage microprocessor loads. The output drive voltage to the power MOSFETs is programmable to minimize switching losses in the drive circuitry.