The LTC3643 is the eleventh in Linear’s backup power family, yet the first for electrolytic capacitors. The device is ideal for safely charging an electrolytic capacitor array in backup power systems. The LTC3643 employs a bidirectional switch mode dual buck and boost architecture with only a single inductor required to boost charge the capacitor(s), or automatically switch over to backup mode to hold up the system voltage by stepping down the voltage from the capacitor array. Key features include programmable charge current of 2A, boost charging and buck backup capability with automatic switchover, low quiescent current, status indicators, and numerous protection features.