Daily News Briefs

All Optical Networks, Inc., a developer of photonic products, today announced the appointment of Ralph A. Bennett as Chief Executive Officer and Dr. Arlen Barksdale as Chief Technology Officer.

"All Optical Networks has great ambitions," comments Dr. John Ryan, principal and chief analyst for RHK, Inc., a leading telecommunications industry consulting firm. "Realizing these ambitions will take strong leadership and a great team. Putting Bennett and Barksdale together adds real muscle to its efforts on improving the optical infrastructure through the commercialization of their technology."

Coherent, Inc., Semiconductor Division has named David Black as North American Sales Manager. Black began his new position August 27, 2001.

In his new position, Black manages the tactical day-to-day activities as well as overall planning, forecasting and direct sales for Coherent's North American diode laser business. His new position was born out of the continued growth of Coherent's diode laser business around the world and especially in North America."