A single inductor multiple-input multiple-output (SI-MIMO) switching
converter time-multiplexes different input power sources through only one
inductor to provide multiple regulated output voltages, which can be used
to power up different blocks of a portable electronic device (or whatever
else it is used for) and at the same time to charge up a rechargeable
battery. Power multiplexing is achieved by input switches that are also
the switching elements of the switching converter, thus eliminating an
additional power multiplexer.