Income Statement [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Stock-based compensation expense [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Research and Development Expense [Member] Research and Development Expense [Member] Selling General And Administrative Member Selling General And Administrative Member Costs related to selling, general and administrative expenses during the reporting period. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Income Statement Net sales Revenue, Net Cost of sales Cost of Revenue Gross profit Gross Profit Operating expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Research and development Research and Development Expense Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Special (income) charges Other Nonrecurring (Income) Expense Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Losses on equity method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other income (expense): Other Income [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense Interest Expense Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends declared per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Basic common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Amount of unearned share-based compensation estimated to be expensed related to unvested share-based payment awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted average period of unearned share-based compensation expected to be recognized (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Total intrinsic value of Restricted Stock Units vested during period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Total Intrinsic Value Of Restricted Stock Units Outstanding Total Intrinsic Value Of Restricted Stock Units Outstanding The intrinsic value of share-based payment equity instruments, excluding stock options, outstanding during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed pricing methodology. Closing price of company's common stock related to calculation of aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock units (in dollars per share) Closing Price Of Companys Common Stock Closing price per share of company's common stock at balance sheet date Weighted average fair value of restricted stock units awarded in period (amount per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury Stock, Shares Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Note - Subsequent Event [Abstract] Note - Subsequent Event [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Acquisition [Member] Acquisition [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] SMSC Acquisition [Member] SMSC Acquisition [Member] SMSC Acquisition Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event, Date Subsequent Event, Date Price Per Share Paid to Acquire Oustanding Shares in Business Acquisition Price Per Share Paid to Acquire Oustanding Shares in Business Acquisition Price Per Share Paid to Acquire Oustanding Shares in Business Acquisition Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid from Borrowings Under Existing Line of Credit Agreement Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid from Borrowings Under Existing Line of Credit Agreement Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid from Borrowings Under Existing Line of Credit Agreement Total cash and investment of acquired company expected at close Total cash and investment of acquired company expected at close Total cash and invesmtment of acquired company that are the acquiree will expect to receive once the acquisition closes. New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Credit Facility [Abstract] Credit Facility [Abstract] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per share [Abstract] Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share Abstract -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Net income Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of stock options and RSUs Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Dilutive effect of convertible debt Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Debt Securities Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average conversion price per share used in calculating dilutive effect of convertible debt (amount per share) Weighted Average Conversion Price Per Share Used In Calculating Dilutive Effect Of Convertible Debt Amount Per Share The weighted average price per share of the conversion feature embedded in the debt instrument. Number of antidilutive option shares (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Equity incentive plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Investments [Abstract] Investments Investments Disclosure Text Block This item represents the entire disclosure related to investments in debt and equity securities and other investments accounted for under the equity or cost methods of accounting. The carrying amount of such investments may be adjusted, for example, distributions in excess of cost (return of capital) or for other-than-temporary impairments. Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss contingencies by nature of contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss contingency [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Indemnification agreement [Member] Indemnification Agreement [Member] Pending or Threatened Litigation [Member] Loss contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss contingencies, estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Subsidiaries [Member] Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Percentage Of Outstanding Stock Of All Subsidiaries Owned Percentage Of Outstanding Stock Of All Subsidiaries Owned The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee. Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair value of junior subordinated convertible debentures based on the trading price of the bonds Convertible Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Adopted And Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policies related to new accounting policies that have been adopted or recently issued. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Share-based compensation expense related to equity incentive plans Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Convertible debt derivatives - revaluation and amortization Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Amortization of convertible debenture issuance costs Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of debt discount on convertible debentures Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Losses on equity method investments Gain on sale of assets Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Unrealized impairment loss on available-for-sale investments Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Sales (purchases) of trading securities, net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments (Gain) loss on trading securities Trading Securities, Realized Gain (Loss) Special income Other Noncash Income Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Changes In Operating Assets And Liabilities -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Increase in accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Decrease (increase) in inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Increase in deferred income on shipments to distributors Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Change in other assets and liabilities Change In Other Assets And Liabilities The net change during the reporting period in other operating assets not otherwise defined in the taxonomy; and The net change during the reporting period in other operating obligations not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchases of available-for-sale investments Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Sales and maturities of available-for-sale investments Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Business acquisitions Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Investment in other assets Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Proceeds from sale of assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Payment of cash dividend Payments of Ordinary Dividends Proceeds from sale of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Summary of available-for-sale securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Summary of available-for-sale securities [Axis] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Summary of available-for-sale securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Government agency bonds [Member] US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] Municipal bonds [Member] US States and Political Subdivisions Debt Securities [Member] Auction rate securities [Member] Auction Rate Securities [Member] Corporate bonds and debt [Member] Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Summary of available-for-sale securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Available-for-sale, adjusted cost Available-for-sale Securities Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale, estimated fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure ARS impairment charges Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Accounts Receivable Schedule Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Fair value, assets measured on recurring basis, unobservable input reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair value, assets measured on recurring basis, unobservable input reconciliation, by asset type [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair value, assets measured on recurring basis, unobservable input reconciliation, asset types [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Corporate Debt [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Total Gains (Losses) [Member] Total Gains Losses Member Total gains and losses on level 3 items included in reconciliation. Fair value, assets measured on recurring basis, unobservable input reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Reconciliation for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, excluding accrued interest components, using significant unobservable inputs [Rollforward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, beginning Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Included in earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income (loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, Sales, Issuances, Settlements Transfer into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, ending Inventory, Net [Abstract] Components of inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Share-based compensation expense Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Option and award activity under stock incentive plans Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Summary of information about stock options outstanding Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Summary of information about stock options outstanding [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Stock Option [Member] Stock Option [Member] Summary of information about stock options outstanding [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Total intrinsic value of options exercised related to stock incentive plans Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding related to stock incentive plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable related to stock incentive plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Closing price of company's common stock related to calculation of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options (in dollars per share) Exercisable number of option shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Number Weighted average exercise price per share of exercisable options (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Stock-based compensation expense [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Stock-based compensation expense [Axis] Inventory [Member] Allocation to Inventory. Research and development [Member] Selling, general and administrative [Member] Pre-tax effect of share based compensation [Member] Pretax Effect Of Share Based Compensation Member Total, before tax effect, of share based compensation expense during the reporting period. Income tax benefit [Member] Income Tax Benefit Member Benefit related to reduction of income tax expense due to share based compensation expense during the reporting period. Stock-based compensation expense [Line Items] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Amount of share-based compensation expense capitalized to inventory Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends [Abstract] Total dividends per share for the period Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Total dividends for the period Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and LIabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Reconciliation for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Revenues and gross profit for each segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Money Market Fund Deposits Fair Value Disclosure Money Market Fund Deposits Fair Value Disclosure Money Market Fund Deposits Fair Value Disclosure Marketable Equity Securities Fair Value Disclosure Marketable Equity Securities Fair Value Disclosure Marketable Equity Securities Fair Value Disclosure Corporate Bonds and Debt Fair Value Disclosure Corporate Bonds and Debt Fair Value Disclosure Corporate Bonds and Debt Fair Value Disclosure Government Agency Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Government Agency Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Government Agency Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Cash Deposit Accounts Fair Value Disclosure Cash Deposit Accounts Fair Value Disclosure Cash Deposit Accounts Fair Value Disclosure Municipal Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Municipal Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Municipal Bonds Fair Value Disclosure Auction Rate Securities Fair Value Disclosure Auction Rate Securities Fair Value Disclosure Auction Rate Securities Fair Value Disclosure Contingent consideration Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities, as Classified on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities, as Classified on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Short-term investments Short-term Investments Long-term investments Long-term Investments Total assets measured at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure DEI Information [Abstract] DEI Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Schedule of segment reporting information, by segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment reporting information, by segment [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Reporting segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Semiconductor products [Member] Semiconductor Products Member Information on the semiconductor products segment. Technology licensing [Member] Technology Licensing Member Information on the technology licensing segment. Segment reporting information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Net sales Gross Profit Convertible Debt [Abstract] Junior subordinated convertible debentures Long-term Debt [Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities, debt maturities [Table] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities [Table] Summarization of information required and determined to be disclosed concerning maturity dates of debt securities from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Schedule of available-for-sale securities, debt maturities [Axis] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities [Axis] Represents information about debt securities, by maturity date, from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Schedule of available-for-sale securities, debt maturities [Domain] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Domain Provides information of debt securities, by maturity date, from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Total maturities [Member] Total Maturities Member The total of available for sale securities with maturities. Due in one year or less [Member] Due In One Year Or Less Member This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature within one year of the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Due after one year and through five years [Member] Due After One Year And Through Five Years Member This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Due after five years and through ten years [Member] Due After Five Years And Through Ten Years Member This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature after five years and through ten years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Due after ten years [Member] Due After Ten Years Member This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature after ten years from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Schedule of available-for-sale securities, debt maturities [Line Items] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities [Line Items] 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. Available-for-sale, estimated fair value Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Order or Production Backlog [Member] Order or Production Backlog [Member] In Process Research And Development Member In Process Research And Development Member An asset acquired in a business combination representing in-process research and development. Roving Networks Acquisition [Member] Roving Networks Acquisition [Member] The acquisition of Roving Networks Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum Net income per common share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Notes to Financial Statements [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Subsequent Events Schedule of Subsequent Events [Table Text Block] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME [Abstract] Change in net unrealized holding (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Change in deferred tax asset Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Contingencies Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Junior subordinated convertible debentures due 2037 [Member] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures Due2037 Member Debt that places a lender in a lien position behind senior debt instrument having a higher priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets which can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Principal amount of junior subordinated convertible debentures Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate of junior subordinated convertible debentures Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Due date of junior subordinated convertible debentures Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Conversion rate, in shares, of junior subordinated convertible debt (in shares per $1,000) Debt Instrument Convertible Initial Conversion Ratio The initial ratio applied to the debt for purposes of determining the number of shares of the equity security into which the debt will be converted. Principal amount of junior subordinated convertible debentures used as conversion unit Debt Instrument Convertible Conversion Ration Amount Of Principal The principal amount of convertible debt instrument that is used as the conversion unit to determine the number of shares the holder of the debt instrument can convert the debt into. Convertible Debt Instrument Initial Conversion Price Per Share Convertible Debt Instrument Initial Conversion Price Per Share The approximate initial (at the debt of date issuance) conversion price per share of the conversion feature embedded in the debt instrument. Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Carrying value of equity component of the debentures that were bifurcated into a liability and equity component Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Estimated fair value of liability component of debentures at issuance date Estimated Fair Value Of Liability Component Of Debentures On Issuance Date This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Fair value of junior subordinated convertible debenture at the balance sheet date. Debt discount of estimated fair value of liability component of debentures Debt Discount Of Estimated Fair Value Of Liability Component Of Debentures At Issuance Date The amount of debt discount from estimated fair value of the liability component of the debentures at the issuance date. Amount of unamortized debt discount of debentures Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Carrying value of debentures Convertible Subordinated Debt, Noncurrent Remaining period, in years, over which unamortized debt discount will be recognized as non-cash interest expense (in years) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Remaining Discount Amortization Period Recognized amount of interest expense related to debentures Debt Instrument, Convertible, Interest Expense Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Deferred Tax Assets, Unrealized Losses on Trading Securities Deferred Tax Assets, Unrealized Losses on Trading Securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive (loss) income Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Deferred income on shipments to distributors Deferred Revenue, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Junior convertible debentures Long-term income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding. Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.001 par value; 450,000,000 shares authorized; 218,789,994 shares issued and 193,682,267 shares outstanding at June 30, 2012; 218,789,994 shares issued and 193,150,532 shares outstanding at March 31, 2012 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Common stock held in treasury: 25,107,727 shares at June 30, 2012; 25,639,462 shares at March 31, 2012 Treasury Stock, Value Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Percentage of company sales denominated in U.S. dollars (in hundredths) Percentage Of Company Sales Denominated In Us Dollars The percentage of the Company's transactions that are denominated in U.S. dollars. Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Components of Other Comprehensive Income and Tax Effects [Table Text Block] Components of Other Comprehensive Income and Tax Effects [Table Text Block] Components of Other Comprehensive Income and Tax Effects [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Effective Income Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option [Axis] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option [Axis] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option [Domain] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option [Domain] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option1 [Member] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option1 [Member] Debt Instrument Additional Rate Basis 1 [Member] Debt Instrument Additional Rate Basis 1 Debt Instrument Additional Rate Basis 2 [Member] Debt Instrument Additional Rate Basis 2 [Member] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option 2 [Member] Debt Instrument Interest Rate Option 2 [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Foreign Currency Sublimit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Foreign Currency Sublimit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Swingline Loan Sublimit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Swingline Loan Sublimit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Letter of Credit Sublimit [Member] Line of Credit Facility Letter of Credit Sublimit [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Credit Agreement Maturity August 12, 2016 [Member] Credit Agreement Maturity August 12, 2016 Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility Increase Option Line of Credit Facility Increase Option Line of Credit Facility Increase Option - An increase option in the credit agreement which provides, subject to certain requirements, the Company to arrange with existing lenders and/or new lenders to provide up to an aggregate of $250 million in additional commitments, whether for revolving loans or term loans. Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Period For Leverage Ratio To Determine Interest Rate Spread Period For Leverage Ratio To Determine Interest Rate Spread Debt Instrument Additional Basis On Variable Rate Base Debt Instrument Additional Basis On Variable Rate Base Debt Instrument Additional Basis On Variable Rate Base Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Principal In Event Of Default Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Principal In Event Of Default Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Principal In Event Of Default Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Amounts In Event Of Default Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Amounts In Event Of Default Debt Instrument Interest Rate Spread On Overdue Amounts In Event Of Default Summary of available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Summary of amortized cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale securities, by maturity Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable Type [Domain] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Other Receivables [Member] Other Receivables Member Amount due from sources not otherwise identified in the taxonomy. Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Receivable amounts Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Less allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accounts receivable, net Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials Work in process Inventory, Work in Process Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods Inventory, Net Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land [Member] Land [Member] Buildings and building improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Machinery and equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Projects in progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant, and equipment costs Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Depreciation expense Depreciation Fair value of investment in privately held companies at acquisition Cost And Equity Method Investments In Private Companies Fair Value This item represents the fair value of privately held companies accounted for by either the cost or equity method of accounting, as appropriate Amount of short-term investments Amount of long-term investments Amount of corporate debt securities with no contractual maturity excluded from estimated fair value of available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, without Single Maturity Date, Fair Value Amount of net realized gains (losses) on sales of available-for-sale marketable equity securities Marketable Securities, Realized Gain (Loss), Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Marketable Securities, Realized Loss, Other than Temporary Impairments, Amount Marketable Securities, Realized Loss, Other than Temporary Impairments, Amount Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value, Option [Text Block] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value by Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value, Liabilities, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value, Liabilities, Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Liability Class [Domain] Contingent consideration [Member] Contingent consideration [Member] Fair value of contingent consideration acquired as part of a business acquisition Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair value, measurements with unobservable inputs reconciliation, beginning Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Additions Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Fair value, measurements with unobservable inputs reconciliation, ending Schedule computation of basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share Table Text Block This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure pertaining to an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share. Dividends [Text Block] Schedule of Dividends Payable [Table Text Block]