Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Period End Date Entity [Domain] Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Legal Entity [Axis] Document Type Award Type [Axis] Amount due currently to related party at end of period Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $3,902 in 2012 and $4,055 in 2011 ACCRUED LIABILITIES Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities, and Other Liabilities Disclosure, Current [Text Block] Accounts payable ACCRUED LIABILITIES [Abstract] Income taxes Accrued liabilities Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Less accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated other comprehensive income Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Amortization of deferred financing costs and intangible assets Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Common stock issuance costs Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Stock Issued, Issuance Costs Share-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Share-based compensation costs incurred Accounts receivable, allowance Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of capital leased assets Total potentially dilutive shares excluded (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Current assets: ASSETS Total current assets Assets, Current Total assets Assets Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Buildings and Improvements [Member] 2014 Capital leased assets, net Capital Leases, Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Net Future minimum payments due Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less accumulated amortization Capital lease obligation for purchases of property, plant and equipment Net minimum lease payments under capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Capital leased assets, gross 2015 2013 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Accrual for property, plant and equipment purchased during year Minimum lease payments under the Company's capital lease obligations [Abstract] Amount payable through the end of lease term 3.09% capital lease obligation payable through March 2016 [Member] Capital Lease Obligations [Member] 2016 Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Property under capital leases included in property, plant and equipment [Abstract] Less current portion of net minimum lease payments Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term portion of minimum lease payments Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Less interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Carrying Value [Member] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Class of Warrant or Right [Table] Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items] Class of Warrant or Right [Domain] Class of Warrant or Right [Axis] Date warrants are exercisable Exercise price of warrants (in dollars per share) Number of shares of common stock covered under warrants (in shares) Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES [Abstract] Commitments and contingencies Common Stock [Member] Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Balance (in shares) Balance (in shares) Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000 shares authorized, 60,213 shares issued and outstanding at October 28, 2012, and 59,651 shares issued and outstanding at October 30, 2011 Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT PLANS [Abstract] Comprehensive income attributable to Photronics, Inc. shareholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Software and Other [Member] CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Change from net income attributable to Photronics' Inc. shareholders and transfer to or from noncontrolling interest Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Change Due to Net Income Attributable to Parent and Effects of Changes, Net Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Repurchase of Shares by Subsidiary Effect of the change in the entity's ownership interest in PSMC [Abstract] Effect of change in the entity's ownership interest in PSMC Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Consolidation Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Variable Interest Entities Construction in progress [Member] Convertible Notes [Member] Convertible senior notes Cost of sales Cost of Goods Sold Depreciation expense (excluding property under capital lease) Cost and expenses: Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Axis] State Foreign Federal Current [Abstract] Customer Lists [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term debt and capital lease obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Frequency of periodic payment Debt Instrument, Frequency of Periodic Payment LONG-TERM BORROWINGS [Abstract] Face amount of debt repurchased Face amount of debt repurchased Conversion price per share (in dollars per share) Value of product shipped for repayment of loan Debt Instrument, Decrease, Repayments Amount of debt Original face amount of debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Maturity date of debt Quarterly lease payments Capital leased assets reductions Debt Instrument, Increase (Decrease), Other, Net Periodic payments Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal Variable interest rate (in hundredths) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Interest rate percentage (in hundredths) Interest rate percentage (in hundredths) Investments Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments Deferred income tax assets [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred [Abstract] Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income taxes liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred income taxes Deferred tax assets net of valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Net deferred income tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred income tax assets [Abstract] Reported as [Abstract] Deferred income taxes Current deferred tax assets Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net operating losses Tax credit carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Reserves not currently deductible Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Reserves Alternative minimum tax credits Deferred income taxes Long-term deferred tax assets Valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred income taxes Long-term deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Property, plant and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred income tax liabilities [Abstract] Accrued liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries Deferred Tax Liabilities, Undistributed Foreign Earnings Maximum percentage of employees' gross pay that Company will match Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee, Percent Maximum percentage of employees' contributions that Company will match Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized related to Derivative Instruments Subsequent measurement of common stock warrants at fair value, net of tax Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value of Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Under ASC 815 DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES [Abstract] Amount of cash flow hedge to be recognized in income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassification from Accumulated OCI to Income, Estimated Net Amount to be Transferred Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Description of Derivative Risk Management Policy RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Effect of dilutive securities [Abstract] Gain related to common stock warrants fair value adjustment SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract] SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION [Abstract] Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Amount owed to MP Mask Due to Related Parties, Current Diluted (in dollars per share) Diluted earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in dollars per share) Basic earnings (loss) per share (in dollars per share) EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings per share: EARNINGS PER SHARE [Abstract] EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE [Abstract] Effects of exchange rate changes on cash U.S. statutory rate (in hundredths) Salaries, wages and related benefits Period for recognition of compensation cost not yet recognized Share-based compensation cost capitalized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Income tax benefits realized from stock option exercises Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested option awards Compensation cost not yet recognized related to unvested restricted stock awards Percent of net sales accounted for by significant customer Entity-Wide Revenue, Major Customer, Percentage Investments in Joint Ventures Net sales Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Noncurrent assets Current liabilities Gross Profit Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Gross Profit (Loss) Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Distributions from Joint Venture Net income Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Equity Component [Domain] Noncurrent liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities Deposit related to facility purchase Escrow Deposit Disbursements Related to Property Acquisition Fair Value [Member] Debt extinguishment loss net of tax Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS [Abstract] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair value financial instruments policy Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair and carrying values of convertible senior notes Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Instruments (Level 1) [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Commission revenue earned under supply agreement Fees and Commissions, Other Financial Instrument [Axis] Estimated useful lives Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Gross Amount Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Accumulated Amortization Intangible assets, net [Abstract] Net Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Fiscal Year Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Foreign currency transaction gain Foreign Currency [Abstract] Foreign Currency Translation Furniture, fixtures and office equipment [Member] Furniture, Fixtures and Office Equipment [Member] Gain on sale of facility Debt extinguishment loss Debt extinguishment loss General Business Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] INTANGIBLE ASSETS [Abstract] Gross Profit Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Income before income tax provision Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Consolidated Statements of Income [Abstract] Income Statement Location [Axis] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] INCOME TAXES [Abstract] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income (Loss) from equity-method investee United States Income tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Dollar effect of income tax holiday U.S. federal income tax at statutory rate Shanghai, China operations closure Income Tax Reconciliation, Disposition of Business Income tax provision reconciliation [Abstract] Changes in valuation allowances Per share effect of income tax holiday (dollars per share) Foreign tax rate differentials Income tax provision [Abstract] Distributions from foreign subsidiaries State income taxes, net of federal benefit Income Taxes Income taxes paid Uncertain tax positions, including reserves, settlements and resolutions Other, net Uncertain Tax Positions Tax credits Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Other Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Changes in assets and liabilities: Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Share-based payment awards (in shares) Convertible notes (in shares) Common stock warrants (in shares) INTANGIBLE ASSETS Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Intangible Assets Intangible assets, net Interest expense Interest and Debt Expense Interest expense on convertible notes, net of related tax effects Interest payments Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Inventories Inventories Inventory, Net Additional investment in joint venture Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, at Fair Value, Period Increase (Decrease) Interest and other income (expense), net [Member] Investment Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Investment in joint venture Investment in joint venture Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Land [Member] Leasehold improvements [Member] OPERATING LEASES [Abstract] Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Total liabilities Current liabilities: Total liabilities Liabilities LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Technology License Agreement [Member] Aggregate commitments of the lenders Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit facility interest rate (in hundredths) Remaining borrowing capacity under credit facility Amount outstanding under credit facility Amount of investment basket Line of Credit Facility, Capacity Available for Specific Purpose Other than for Trade Purchases Current portion of long-term borrowings Less current portion Long-term borrowings Long-term debt and capital lease obligations non current Long-term borrowings [Abstract] LONG-TERM BORROWINGS Long-term Debt [Text Block] Long-term borrowings maturing in 2015 Long-term borrowings maturing in 2014 Long-term borrowings maturing in 2016 Long-term borrowings maturing in 2013 Long-term borrowings maturing in 2017 Machinery and equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Major Customers [Axis] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] SUBSIDIARY SHARE REPURCHASE Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Repurchase of common stock by subsidiary Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Ownership percentage in PSMC (in hundredths) Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interests Movement in Valuation Allowance and Qualifying Accounts [Roll Forward] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Earnings for diluted earnings per share Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Diluted Cash flows from financing activities: Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Cash flows from operating activities: Net income attributable to Photronics, Inc. shareholders Net income (loss) attributable to Photronics, Inc. shareholders Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Recent Accounting Pronouncements RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS [Abstract] Other income (expense): SUBSIDIARY SHARE REPURCHASE [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Non-Controlling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Employee terminations and other [Member] One-time Termination Benefits [Member] Thereafter Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases [Abstract] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating loss carryforwards Rent expense under operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Operating income Operating Income (Loss) 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2013 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years OPERATING LEASES Operating Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Table Text Block] Total future minimum payments due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total other comprehensive income, net of tax Other comprehensive income Other current assets Other Assets, Current Other assets Asset write-downs [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Outstanding commitments for capital expenditure Amortization of cash flow hedge Foreign currency translation adjustments Less: reclassification adjustments Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $0: Unrealized holding gains Interest and other income (expense), net Other liabilities Debt extinguishment loss Other Noncash Expense Other Other liabilities [Member] Share-based Payment Awards [Member] Products and Services [Domain] Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Payments of expenses related to debt offering Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payment to purchase U.S. nanoFab facility Payment to purchase U.S. nonoFab facility Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Investment in joint venture Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments of deferred financing fees Payments of Financing Costs Repurchase of common stock by subsidiary Stock repurchased for retirement by PSMC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Company's contribution to 401(k) Savings and Profit Sharing Plan Pension Expense Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 2,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Proceeds from convertible debt offering Proceeds from long-term borrowings Cash received for refunds of income taxes Proceeds from share-based arrangements Proceeds from sale of facilities Net proceeds from sale of facilities Cash received from options exercises Products and Services [Axis] Net income Net income Net income (loss) Estimated useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net Long-lived assets Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Total unrecorded purchase commitments Purchase Obligation QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED) [Abstract] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties [Roll Forward] Recorded purchase commitments Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Purchases from related party OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party [Domain] Expenses incurred for services provided by related party during the period Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS [Abstract] Related Party [Axis] Repayments of long-term borrowings Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Cash paid for convertible notes acquired Research and development Research and Development Expense Research Tax Credit Carryforward [Member] Research and Development Restricted Stock [Member] CONSOLIDATION, RESTRUCTURING AND RELATED CHARGES (CREDITS) Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Type [Axis] Consolidation, restructuring and related (charges) credits Charges (Credits) Consolidation and restructuring charges (credits) CONSOLIDATION, RESTRUCTURING AND RELATED CHARGES (CREDITS) [Abstract] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Consolidation, restructuring and related charges (credits) Activities related to restructuring reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Charges [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring reserve beginning balance Restructuring reserve ending balance Restructuring Reserve Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Sales Taxes Revenue Recognition Accounting Policy, Gross and Net Revenue Disclosure [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK [Abstract] Percent of market price that participants pay for shares subscribed (in hundredths) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Exercisable at October 28, 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Expected term (in years) Exercisable at October 28, 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding at October 28, 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Net sales Net sales Geographic and significant customer information Income tax provision Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Summary of option activity Income (loss) before income tax provision for domestic and foreign Summary of the status of the Company's outstanding restricted stock awards Weighted-average inputs and risk-free rate of return ranges used to calculate the grant date fair value of options Calculation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share Minimum lease payments under the Company's capital lease obligations Outstanding securities excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings or loss per share Property under capital leases included in property, plant and equipment Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table Text Block] Income tax rate reconciliation Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties Accrued liabilities Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases Quarterly financial data Net deferred income tax assets Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Intangible assets Long-term borrowings Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Activities related to restructuring reserve Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Effect of derivative instruments on entity's condensed consolidated balance sheets Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Effect of derivative instruments on entity's condensed consolidated statements of operations GEOGRAPHIC AND SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION [Abstract] GEOGRAPHIC AND SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Total fair value of awards for which restrictions lapsed Shares Share-based compensation Granted (in dollars per share) Outstanding at October 30, 2011 (in dollars per share) Outstanding at October 28, 2012 (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Award vesting period Risk free rate of return, maximum (in hundredths) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Weighted-Average Fair Value at Grant Date Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Outstanding at October 30, 2011 (in shares) Outstanding at October 28, 2012 (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Granted (in dollar per share) Granted (in shares) Risk free rate of return, minimum (in hundredths) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Exercised (in dollar per share) Cancelled and forfeited (in dollar per share) Expected volatility (in hundredths) Exercisable at October 28, 2012 (in dollar per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Dividend yield (in hundredths) Vested (in dollars per share) Weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted (in dollar per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total intrinsic value of options exercised Stock Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Exercisable at October 28, 2012 (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Shares [Abstract] Maximum number of shares of common stock that may be issued (in shares) Weighted-average inputs and risk-free rate of return ranges used to calculate the grant date fair value of options [Abstract] Cancelled and forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding at October 30, 2011 (in dollar per share) Outstanding at October 28, 2012 (in dollar per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at October 28, 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Date and terms of plan modification Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Description and Terms Restricted stock service period Outstanding at October 30, 2011 (in shares) Outstanding at October 28, 2012 (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Award Type [Domain] Share-based compensation accounting policy Share-Based Compensation SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Warranty and Other Post Shipment Obligations State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Consolidated Statements of Equity [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Geographical [Axis] Stock Options [Member] Sale of common stock through employee stock option and purchase plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Common stock issued to extinguish debt Sale of common stock through employee stock option and purchase plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Share-based payment awards issued after fiscal year 2012 (in shares) Restricted stock awards vestings and expense Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Restricted stock awards vestings and expense (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Equity: Total equity Balance Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Photronics, Inc. shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Member] PSMC [Member] Supplemental disclosure of non-cash information: Tax credit carryfoward amount Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] VAT and other taxes Types of Financial Instruments [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Interest and penalties accrued related to uncertain tax positions. Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Additions based on current year tax positions Balance at beginning of year Balance at end of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Lapses of statutes of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Additions for tax positions in prior years Reductions for tax positions in prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unremitted Earnings in Foreign Investment Estimates and Assumptions Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation allowance increase (decrease) Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Charged to Costs and Expenses Balance at Beginning of Year Balance at End of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Member] Schedule II-Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Maximum exposure to loss from investment in VIE Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Ownership percentage in MP Mask (in hundredths) MP Mask [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Methodology for Determining Whether Entity is Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Warrants on common stock [Member] Common Stock Warrants [Member] Common stock warrants (liability) [Member] COMMON STOCK WARRANTS [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities [Abstract] Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment [Abstract] Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Weighted-average common shares computations [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted-average common shares used for basic earnings per share (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Weighted-average common shares used for diluted earnings per share (in shares) Dilutive potential common shares (in shares) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Write off of deferred financing fees Korea [Member] Korea [Member] Taiwan [Member] Taiwan [Member] United States [Member] United States [Member] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Net of tax amount of the appreciation (loss) for other adjustments. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Adjustments, Net of Tax Other Number of shares issued during the period for the extinguishment of debt. Stock Issued During Period Shares Debt Extinguishment Common stock issued to extinguish debt (in shares) Common stock issued to extinguish debt (in shares) Value of stock issued during the period for the extinguishment of debt. Stock Issued During Period Value Debt Extinguishment Common stock issued to extinguish debt Common stock issued to extinguish debt Number of common shares issued as a result of the exercise of warrants Common stock warrants exercised shares Common stock warrants exercised (in shares) Equity impact of the value of common stock warrants exercised during the period. Common Stock Warrants Exercised Value Common stock warrants exercised The date the Company estimates that the loan will be fully repaid in CCYY-MM-DD format. Estimated Date Of Loan Repayment Estimated date of loan repayment JOINT VENTURE, TECHNOLOGY LICENSE AND OTHER AGREEMENTS WITH MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC. [Abstract] Policy for consolidation: judgments and assumptions made to determine if a variable interest held requires the VIE to be consolidated and/or disclose info on involvement with the VIE; methodology used to determine if it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE; judgments made to determine that the power to direct activities that significantly impact economic performance of the VIE are shared. Includes information on agreements entered with Micron Technologies at the time of formation of the JV. Joint Venture And Other Agreements [Text Block] JOINT VENTURE, TECHNOLOGY LICENSE AND OTHER AGREEMENTS WITH MICRON TECHNOLOGY, INC. The entire disclosure of warrants or rights issued. Warrants and rights outstanding are derivative securities that give the holder the right to purchase securities from the issuer at a specific price within a certain time frame. Disclose the title of issue of securities and the aggregate amount of securities called for by warrants and rights outstanding. Also, the date from which the warrants or rights, and the price at which the warrant or right is exercisable. Common Stock Warrants [Text Block] COMMON STOCK WARRANTS Significant terms of former lease agreement with Micron Technology, Inc. Terms Of Former Lease Agreement With Micron [Domain] Capital Lease Obligations With Micron [Member] A loan from a bank for a specific amount that has a specified repayment schedule and a floating interest rate. Term loans almost always mature between one and 10 years. Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Written promise to pay a note which can be exchanged for a specified quantity of securities (typically common stock), at the option of the issuer or the holder. Convertible senior notes due on April 2016 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Senior Notes [Member] 3.25% convertible senior notes due on April 1, 2016 [Member] The initial costs of the company's investment in the joint venture and other agreements with its technology partner. Investments in joint venture and other agreements Investments in MP Mask and other agreements Amount of expense recorded in cost of sales from transactions with VIE. Cost Of Sales Cost of sales Amount of expense recorded in research and development from transactions with VIE. Research And Development Expenses Research and development expenses and other Amount of the required periodic payments, including both principal and interest payments, as per the fully repaid lease agreement. Reduced capital lease periodic payments Reduced quarterly lease payments Written promise to pay a note which can be exchanged for a specified quantity of securities (typically common stock), at the option of the issuer or the holder. Convertible senior notes due on October 2014 [Member] 5.5% convertible senior notes [Member] 5.50% convertible senior notes due on October 1, 2014 [Member] Represents the financing loan from a customer to purchase manufacturing equipment. Financing loan with customer [Member] 4.75% financing loan with customer [Member] Represents the amended credit facility. Credit facilities provide capital to borrowers without the need to structure a loan for each borrowing. Amended Credit Facility [Member] Describes the operating facilities of the reporting entity by geographical region. Operating Facilities by Geographical Region [Table] Represents one of the geographical areas where an entity's activities take place. Europe [Member] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Operating Facilities by Geographical Region [Line Items] Manufacturing Facilities by Geographical Region [Line Items] This line item represents the number of manufacturing facilities of the entity. Number of manufacturing facilities Number of manufacturing facilities Represents the majority owned subsidiary. PK Ltd [Member] Represents the majority owned subsidiary. Photronics Semiconductor Mask Corporation [Member] Represents the number of majority owned subsidiaries. Number of majority owned subsidiaries Represents the period of warranty. Period of warranty Facility held for productive use including, but not limited to, office, production, storage and distribution facilities and any addition, improvement, or renovation to the structure, for example, but not limited to, interior masonry, interior flooring, electrical, and plumbing Buildings And Building Improvements [Member] Buildings and improvements [Member] Agreement under which, for consideration previously provided, the Company is entitled to receive a commission based on specified sales of a counterparty to the agreement. Supply Agreement [Member] Supply Agreement [Member] Represents the number of years for which forecast is done for intangible assets. Number of years for which forecast is done for intangible assets Number of years for which amortization expense range is forecasted Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the unpaid sum for property, plant and equipment. Accrued liabilities for property plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment The amount of the decrease in operating lease commitments resulting from the purchase of an asset previously held under an operating lease. Reduction of operating lease commitments Reduction of operating lease commitments This line item represents the period of time over which the debt will be repaid. Repayment Period Of Debt Repayment period Period in years over which installment portion of debt will be amortized. Amortization period of debt Amortization period of debt This line item represents the face amount of each note converted or convertible to common stock. Face Amount Of Each Note Converted Or Convertible Face amount of each note converted This line item represents the number of shares issued for each note converted for common stock. Number of shares issued for each note converted Number of shares issued for each note converted (in shares) The number of equity instruments that the holder of the debt instrument would receive if the debt was converted to equity. Debt Instruments, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Number of shares each note is convertible to (in shares) The net proceeds, after financing costs, from a borrowing supported by convertible senior notes. Proceeds from Notes Payable, net Proceeds from notes payable, net Amount of capital lease reduction resulting from lease amendment. Capital lease obligations repaid This line item represents the maximum amount of financed capital assets outstanding as per the amended credit facility. Maximum amount of financed capital assets outstanding Maximum amount of financed capital assets This line item represents the cash paid for each note converted for common stock. Cash paid for each note converted Cash paid for each note converted The amount of amortization on supply agreement during the period between the reporting entity and the Variable Interest Entity (VIE). Variable Interest Entity Activity Between V I E And Entity Amortation of Supply Agreement Amortation of Supply Agreement The forecasted aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Forecasted Amortization of Intangible Assets Intangible asset amortization forecasted range Amount of receivables arising from transactions with supply agreement coparty, related to orders for product manufactured at the Company's VIE. Accounts Receivable From Supply Agreement Coparty For Transactions Under The Supply Agreement Amount receivable from Micron Technology, Inc. The amount of cash paid for debt offering and deferred financing costs paid during the period. Debt Offering And Deferred Financing Costs Paid Deferred financing cost payments Amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with the reduction of deferred tax assets and valuation allowance. Unrecognized tax benefits associated with reduction of deferred tax assets Amount of orders received under the Company's supply agreement during the period. Orders received under supply agreement Orders received under supply agreement Summarized financial information of MP Mask [Abstract] Summarized financial information of MP Mask This line item represents the warrants issued by the entity during the period. Warrants issued Warrants issued (in shares) Amount of commission earned under the supply agreement, less amortization charged to the supply agreement intangible asset. Net Earnings Related To Supply Agreement This line item represents the number of shares for each warrant exercisable by the holders. Number of Shares For Each Warrant Exercisable Number of shares for each warrant exercisable (in shares) This line item represents the percentage of warrants exercisable upon issuance. Percentage of warrants exercisable upon issuance Percentage of warrants exercisable upon issuance (in hundredths) This line item represents the incremental percentage of warrants exercisable after issuance date at different points of time. Incremental percentage of warrants exercisable thereafter Incremental percentage of warrants exercisable thereafter (in hundredths) This line item represents the warrants cancelled by the entity during the period. Warrants cancelled Warrants cancelled (in shares) This line item represents the warrants exercised by the warrant holders during the period. Common Stock Warrants Exercised Share Warrants exercised (in shares) Represents the first warrant agreement in which the entity entered. Warrant Agreement One [Member] Represents the second warrant agreement in which the entity entered. Warrant Agreement Two [Member] Number of warrant agreements the Company has entered into with Intel Capital Corporation. Number Of Warrant Agreements With Intel Capital Corporation Number of warrant agreements Last date on which the warrants can be exercised in CCYY-MM-DD format. Warrant Agreement Expiration Date Warrant agreement expiration date Number of warrants that have been exercised as of the balance sheet date in CCYY-MM-DD format. Number Of Warrants Exercised As Of Balance Sheet Date Number of warrants exercised as of balance sheet date Components Of Income Before Income Tax Provision [Abstract] Components of income before income tax provision [Abstract] The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible losses recorded in the period. Income tax reconciliation, debt extinguishment losses Debt extinguishment losses Amount of cost of goods sold under the Company's supply agreement with its VIE. Cost Of Goods Sold Under Supply Agreement Represents the tax benefit as a result of the write-off of the tax based investment in the Shanghai, China facility. Tax Benefit As A Result Of Shanghai China Operations Closure Tax benefit as a result of Shanghai, China, operations closure Represents the amount of the Shanghai, China, facility's deferred tax asset written off as as result of net operating losses that will not be applied against future earnings due to the closure of the facility. Shanghai China Facility Deferred Tax Asset Write Off Shanghai, China, facility deferred tax asset write-off Represents the cost of equipment purchased during the period, including the amount charges to the investment in the VIE. Cost Of Equipment Purchased From V I E Purchase of Equipment Represents the amount of the equipment purchased during the period that was charged to property, plant and equipment. Amount Of Equipment Purchased From V I E Charged To Property Plant And Equipment Cost of Equipment Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to future lease obligation. Deferred tax assets future lease obligation Future lease obligation Amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions recorded in income taxes payable. Unrecognized Tax Benefits Associated With Uncertain Tax Positions Recorded In Income Taxes Payable Unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions recorded in income taxes payable Represents the amount of the equipment purchases from the VIE that was charged to the investment in the VIE. Amount Of Equipment Purchases Charged To Investment In V I E Equipment purchased recorded as investment in Joint Venture Amount of unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions recorded in other liabilities. Unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions recorded in other liabilities Unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain tax positions recorded in other liabilities The total amount of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries, including the amounts that are not considered to be permanently reinvested outside of the United States, and the amounts which are intended to be permanently reinvested outside of the United States, and that are not subject to U.S. federal income taxes. Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries included in consolidated retained earnings Amount of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are not considered to be permanently reinvested outside of the United States. Earnings of foreign subsidiaries included in consolidated retained earnings which are considered not to be permanently reinvested Amount of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries intended to be permanently reinvested outside of the United States, and that are not currently subject to U.S. income taxes. Remaining undistributed earnings considered to be indefinitely invested This line item represents the amount of the restructuring reserve that has been settled with, or without, cash during the period. Restructuring Reserve Utilized Utilized Represents the Shanghai China Facility for restructurings. Shanghai China Facility [Member] Shanghai, China, Facility [Member] Represents the amount of net gain recorded related to the sale of long-lived assets. Net Gain On Sale Of Assets [Member] Net gain on sale of assets [Member] Represents the Singapore restructurings. Singapore Restructuring [Member] Represents the number of months of service completed to come under retirement plans. Number of months of service completed Number of months of service completed to come under retirement plan Represents the minimum age of employees to come under retirement plan. Minimum age of employees to come under retirement plan Minimum age of employees to come under retirement plan Represents the percentage of salary that can be contributed by the employee. Percentage of salary that can be contributed by the employee Percentage of salary that can be contributed by the employee (in hundredths) Options that are not yet available for exercise under the terms of entity's plan and any agreements. Unvested Options [Member] The period, in years, from date of issuance that an award recipient may exercise a stock option award. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Contractual Term Contractual term Stock options activity [Abstract] The number of exercisable share options expected to vest as of the balance sheet date. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Expected To Vest Exercisable Number Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 (in shares) Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Weighted-Average Exercise Price [Abstract] As of the balance sheet date, the weighted-average exercise price for outstanding stock options that are expected to vest. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Expected To Vest Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 (in dollar per share) Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life [Abstract] Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options expected to vest outstanding, in 'PYnMnDTnnS' format, for example, P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Share based Compensation Arrangement By Share based Payment Award Options Expected To Vest Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 Amount of difference between the fair value of the underlying shares reserved for issuance and exercise prices of options expected to vest outstanding. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Expected To Vest Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 Restricted Stock [Abstract] Represents the number, as of the balance sheet date, of outstanding restricted stock awards that are expected to vest. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Expected to Vest Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 (in shares) Represents the weighted-average fair value at grant date of restricted stock that is expected to vest. Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Expected to Vest, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Expected to vest as of October 28, 2012 (in dollars per share) The cumulative number of shares that have been issued since the inception of the Company's employee stock purchase plan. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Cumulative Shares Issued Total shares issued under ESPP since inception (in shares) Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Represents number of repurchased shares by a subsidiary during the period. Stock Repurchased For Retirement By Psmc In Shares Stock repurchased for retirement by PSMC (in shares) The gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits, plus accrued penalties and interest, pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns as of the balance sheet date. Unrecognized Tax Benefits including interest and penalties Unrecognized tax benefits - gross including interest and penalties Represents one of the products of the entity. Integrated Circuits [Member] IC [Member] Represents one of the products of the entity. Flat Panel Displays [Member] FPD [Member] Represents a major customer of the Company. Major customer 1 [Member] Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. [Member] Information Technology Services Provider. Information Technology Services Provider [Member] Photomask Blank Supplier. Photomask Blank Supplier [Member] Transaction services costs contracted with related party. The services may include training, installation, engineering or consulting. Consulting services often include implementation support, software design or development, or the customization or modification of the licensed software. Related Party Transaction Technology Services Costs Contracted With Related Party Amount of future services contracted for with related party Operating Loss Carryforward [Abstract] Amount of operating loss carryforwards that are not subject to expiration, Operating loss carryforward not subject to expiration Represents one of the geographical area where entity's activities take place. All Other [Member] Income taxes, additional disclosures [Abstract] Tabular disclosure of summarized financial information of investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting, as required under rule 4-08 of Regulation S-X. Summarized Financial Information of Equity Method Investment [Table Text Block] Summarized financial information of equity method investment