A controller applies a pattern of pulses to switching elements within a multi-level controller to effectuate control of the fundamental voltage magnitude and phase associated with the converter, as well as providing harmonic minimization of the 5.sup.th and 7.sup.th level harmonics. The controller combines a first pattern of pulses with a second pattern of pulses phase shifted by an amount based on the desired fundamental voltage magnitude to create a third pattern of pulses. The controller applies a phase shift to the third pattern of pulses based on the desired fundamental voltage phase. The controller supplies switching control waveforms to active components within the multi-level controller based on the phase shifted third pattern of pulses such that the desired fundamental voltage magnitude and phase is generated and selected harmonics are minimized.