News in brief: GaN market report, TIR Systems, Radiant Imaging

Gallium nitride technology to see continued growthGallium nitride (GaN) material technology continues to be one of the biggest success stories in compound semiconductors, according to Silicon Valley-based market research firm Strategies Unlimited. Although high-brightness LEDs dominate the market currently, GaN-based laser diodes and electronic devices are in the early stages of market growth and will achieve substantial volumes in the next five years.

The total market for all types of GaN devices is forecast to grow from $3.2 billion in 2004 to $7.2 billion in 2009. The Strategies Unlimited report, "Gallium Nitride 2005 – Technology Status, Applications, and Market Forecasts", updates the status of worldwide technology developments and markets for GaN optoelectronic and electronic devices.

TIR appoints sales director
TIR Systems has appointed Alfred Vallaster as Director of Sales, Europe and the Middle East, Commercial/Industrial Markets.

Alfred brings thirty five years of global sales, marketing and business experience to TIR, including over eight years of senior management experience with Zumtobel AG, one of the world's largest lighting manufacturers.

In addition, TIR was recently appointed to the ELDA (European Lighting Designers Association) Circle of Sponsors, along with Philips Lighting. The ELDA is an organization of lighting designers and consultants who are actively promoting the profession of lighting design internationally.

The Circle of Sponsors consists of 19 members including industry leaders like Zumtobel Staff, IGuzzini, Louis Poulsen and Bega. It plays a key supportive and advisory role within ELDA, and as part of its duties it makes recommendations on the implementation of good lighting design worldwide through education and example. Membership will allow TIR to not only play an industry role in Europe, but also to gain access to key members of the lighting design community through participation in ELDA programs.

Radiant Imaging appoints VP of marketing & sales
Photonics industry veteran Kevin Chittim has joined Radiant Imaging in the role of Vice-President of Marketing and Sales. His responsibilities include ongoing management of the company’s sales staff and distributors in the United States, Europe and Asia, as well as strategy formulation and business development to guide the company’s expansion in all key market segments: display, lighting and scatterometry/ surface measurement.

Chittim brings over 20 years of management and business development experience, and has held senior positions at Melles Griot, Newport Corporation, Spectra-Physics and Labsphere.