LED array protection using LM338T

[jpack]

I have 12 parallel sets of 4 High powered infrared LEDs in series for a total of 48. I want to use a LM338T in each of the 12 parallel circuits to regulate current and voltage. Question: Will the LM338T protect the circuit if one of the LEDs is shorted out or will the current increase to a disastrous level and kill one or more of the remaining 3 LEDs? Normally losing an LED or two would be no big deal but these are enormously expensive.

Thanks for any assistance provided.

 

[ckshivaram]

Re: Led Array Protection

You can use LED driver in your case or make use of schmitt trigger to safeguard your LED circuit.

 

[FvM]

Re: Led Array Protection

Only an individual current regulator could protect the LEDs in this case. Furthermore, the nominal current capacity of the LEDs depends on keeping a maximum enviromental temperature. It may be necessary to supervise it for achieving a full protection.

Is there any indication of a considerable risk of getting shorted LEDs?