Due to its wide VIN range and 250mA output current capability, the LTC3245 is a general purpose charge pump IC. However, as a charge pump it fits in nicely with efficiency comparable to a non-synchronous switching regulator at approximately 80%, plus it offers the simplicity of an LDO with only 3 external components. It is ideal for inductor-phobic designs that require some level of good efficiency (>70%). Its buck-boost topology is ideal for regulated step-down applications with a sweet spot at 12V - 5V for efficiency (81%). Automotive applications desire the small footprint, wide VIN range, ability to buck down from high input voltages, and the ability to boost/ride through low voltage cold crank at approximately ~3V to 5V boost conversion conditions.

