10-Q

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

Form 10-Q

x  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2011

OR

o  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ______ to ______

Commission File Number 0-9587

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Minnesota	41-0943459
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)

6111 Blue Circle Drive
Minnetonka, Minnesota 55343-9108

(Address of principal executive offices)

(952) 930-0100

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 of 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes x  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).   Yes x  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  o	Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   Yes o  No x

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, $0.10 par value, on November 8, 2011 was 3,389,577.

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC.

Form 10-Q

For the Period Ended September 30, 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements (unaudited):
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet – As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010	3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations – For the Three and Nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010	4
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – For the Nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010	5
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	6
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	12
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	15
Item 4. Controls and Procedures	15
Part II – OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings	15
Item 1A. Risk Factors	15
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	15
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities	15
Item 4. [Removed and Reserved]	15
Item 5. Other Information	15
Item 6. Exhibits	15
SIGNATURES	16
EXHIBITS	17

2

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(in thousands except share and per share amounts)

	September 30, 2011 (unaudited)		December 31, 2010
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	5,641	$	583
Treasury bills		0		5,197
Available for sale securities		2,344		2,830
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9		793		577
Inventories		1,204		1,057
Income tax receivable		0		54
Other current assets		98		81
Total current assets		10,080		10,379
Property and equipment, net		1,181		1,174
Total assets	$	11,261	$	11,553
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	$	166	$	75
Accrued expenses		361		195
Deferred revenue		0		70
Accrued income tax		40		0
Total current liabilities		567		340
Deferred income tax liability		917		1,078
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity
Common stock par value $0.10 per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding: 3,389,577 and 3,381,999 shares, respectively		339		338
Additional paid-in capital		1,561		1,541
Retained earnings		6,487		6,565
Accumulated other comprehensive income (unrealized gain on available for sale securities, net of income tax)		1,390		1,691
Total stockholders’ equity		9,777		10,135
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	11,261	$	11,553

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

3

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands except share and per share amounts)
(unaudited)

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011			2010			2011			2010
Net sales	$	1,632		$	1,469		$	4,692		$	4,519
Cost of goods sold		694			605			1,977			1,881
Gross profit		938			864			2,715			2,638
Operating expenses:
Selling and marketing		345			259			1,040			892
General and administrative		242			233			721			785
Research and development		111			142			330			360
Total operating expenses		698			634			2,091			2,037
Operating income		240			230			624			601
Non-operating income (expense):
Gain on disposal of investment securities		0			0			1			0
Interest income		1			0			5			2
Loss on disposal of fixed assets		(18	)		0			(18	)		0
Other income		2			2			5			6
Total non-operating income (expense)		(15	)		2			(7	)		8
Income from continuing operations before income taxes		225			232			617			609
Income taxes		90			92			246			249
Income before discontinued operations		135			140			371			360
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes		(17	)		(7	)		(41	)		(10	)
Net income	$	118		$	133		$	330		$	350
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized value of available for sale securities, net of income tax	$	(863	)	$	162		$	(301	)	$	338
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	(745	)	$	295		$	29		$	688
Net Income (Loss) per Share Data:
Basic
Net income per share continuing operations	$	0.04		$	0.04		$	0.11		$	0.10
Net loss per share discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	0.00		$	(0.01	)	$	0.00
Net income per share	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.10		$	0.10
Weighted average shares		3,389,506			3,381,888			3,387,192			3,381,837
Diluted
Net income per share continuing operations	$	0.04		$	0.04		$	0.11		$	0.10
Net loss per share discontinued operations	$	(0.01	)	$	0.00		$	(0.01	)	$	0.00
Net income per share	$	0.03		$	0.04		$	0.10		$	0.10
Weighted average shares		3,406,486			3,405,484			3,405,738			3,405,433
Dividends paid per share	$	.04		$	.04		$	.12		$	.12

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

4

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
(unaudited)

	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011			2010
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$	330		$	350
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation		42			72
Deferred income taxes		24			(16	)
Interest accrued on investments		(3	)		(2	)
Loss on disposal of fixed assets		18			0
(Increase)/decrease in:
Trade receivables		(251	)		99
Inventories		(164	)		(167	)
Other current assets		(17	)		(3	)
Income tax receivable		54			0
Accounts payable		77			78
Accrued expenses		176			110
Deferred revenue		(12	)		(3	)
Accrued income taxes		40			72
Net cash from operating activities		314			590
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities
Purchase of treasury bills		(4,300	)		(10,246	)
Proceeds from the maturity of treasury bills		9,500			10,030
Purchase of property and equipment		(69	)		(41	)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities		5,131			(257	)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of stock		21			12
Dividends paid		(408	)		(405	)
Net cash used in financing activities		(387	)		(393	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		5,058			(60	)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning		583			746
Cash and cash equivalents, ending	$	5,641		$	686
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities
Net change in unrealized gain on available for sale securities	$	(301	)	$	338
Cash paid for income taxes	$	112		$	187

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

5

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
(unaudited)

Note 1.  Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission to Form 10-Q. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements.

This report should be read together with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, including the audited financial statements and footnotes therein.

It is the opinion of management that the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, necessary to fairly state the financial position and results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011. The results of interim periods may not be indicative of results to be expected for the year.

Nature of Business

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Electro-Sensors, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, ESI Investment Company and Senstar Corporation. Senstar has no operations. Intercompany accounts, transactions and earnings have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated entity is referred to as “the Company”.

Through its Production Monitoring Division, Electro-Sensors, Inc. manufactures and markets a complete line of speed monitoring and motor control systems for industrial machinery. The division utilizes leading-edge technology to continuously improve its products and make them easier to use. The division’s goal is to manufacture the industry-preferred product for every market served. These products are sold through an internal sales staff, manufacturer’s representatives, and distributors to a wide variety of manufacturers, original equipment manufacturers and processors to monitor process machinery operations. The division markets its products to a number of different industries located throughout the United States, Asia, Central America, Canada, and Europe.

In addition, through its subsidiary ESI Investment Company, the Company periodically makes strategic investments in other businesses and companies, primarily when the Company believes that such investments will facilitate development of technology complementary to the Company’s products. Although the Company, through ESI Investment Company, invests in other businesses or companies, the Company does not intend to become an investment company and intends to remain primarily an operating company. The Company’s primary investments are 343,267 shares of Rudolph Technologies, Inc. (“Rudolph”) and 551,759 shares of PPT Vision Inc (“PPT”). The investments are accounted for using the available-for-sale method. See Note 4 for additional information regarding the Company’s investments. The Company’s investments in securities are subject to normal market risks.

Revenue recognition of production monitoring equipment

The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its production monitoring equipment when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered, the fee is fixed and determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. The Company may offer discounts to its distributors or quantity discounts that are recorded at the time of sale. The Company recognizes revenue on products sold to customers and distributors upon shipment because the contracts do not include post-shipment obligations. In addition to exchanges and warranties, customers have refund rights. The Company’s standard products are used in a wide variety of industries, returns are minimal and insignificant to the consolidated financial statements and are recognized when the returned product is received by the Company. In some situations, the Company receives advance payments from its customers. Revenue associated with these advance payments is deferred until the product is shipped or services performed.

6

Available for Sale Securities

ESI Investment Company’s portfolio consists of equity securities, primarily common stocks, government debt securities and money market funds. The estimated fair value of publicly traded equity securities (other than those accounted for based upon the equity method of accounting) is based on quoted market prices, and therefore subject to the inherent risk of market fluctuations. Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the date individual investments are acquired, and evaluates the appropriateness of such classification at each balance sheet date.

Since the Company generally does not make investments in anticipation of short-term fluctuations in market prices, investments in equity securities are classified as available-for-sale (unless accounted for on the equity method of accounting). Available-for-sale securities with readily determinable values are stated at fair value, and unrealized holding gains and losses, net of the related deferred tax effect, are reported as separate component of stockholders’ equity.

Realized gains and losses on securities, including losses from declines in value of specific securities determined by management to be other-than-temporary (unless accounted for on the equity method of accounting), are included in the period realized.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company’s policies incorporate the guidance for accounting for fair value measurements of financial assets and financial liabilities and for fair value measurements of nonfinancial items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis. The Company’s policies also incorporate the guidance for fair value measurement related to nonfinancial items that are recognized and disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a nonrecurring basis. The guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to measurements involving significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Ÿ	Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.
Ÿ	Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
Ÿ	Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The level in the fair value hierarchy within which a fair measurement in its entirety falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

The carrying value of cash and equivalents, treasury bills, investments, trade receivables, accounts payable, and other working capital items approximate fair value at September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 due to the short maturity nature of these instruments.

Income taxes

Deferred income taxes are presented as assets or liabilities based on timing differences between financial reporting and tax reporting methods. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for those differences that have future tax consequences using the currently enacted tax laws and rates that apply to the periods in which they are expected to affect taxable income. Income tax expense is the current tax payable or refundable for the period plus or minus the net change in the deferred tax assets and liabilities, excluding the portion of the deferred liability allocated to other comprehensive income. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent that realization of the related deferred tax asset is not assured.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates, including the underlying assumptions, consist of economic lives of property and equipment, realizability of accounts receivable, valuation of deferred tax assets/liabilities, valuation of inventories, and valuation of investments. It is at least reasonably possible that these estimates may change in the near term.

7

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a new standard covering Presentation of Comprehensive Income.  The standard requires that all nonowner changes in stockholders’ equity be presented either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements.  In either case, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income.  The standard is effective retrospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011.  The Company is assessing the impact of the standard on its comprehensive income presentation.

Reclassifications

Certain items related to discontinued operations in the prior year’s financial statements have been reclassified to conform to 2011 presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on stockholders’ equity, net income or cash flows.

Note 2.  Stock-Based Compensation

The Company records compensation expense for employee stock options based on the estimated fair value of the options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton (“BSM”) model. The Company uses historical data among other factors to estimate the expected price volatility, the expected option life and the expected forfeiture rate. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the estimated life of the option. At September 30, 2011, the Company had one stock-based employee compensation plan. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, two employees exercised options to purchase a total of 4,500 shares of common stock. There were no options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2010. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, there were no stock options granted.

Note 3.  Net Income Per Share

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and common stock equivalents outstanding during the period.

Note 4.  Investments

The cost and estimated fair value of the Company’s investments (other than an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting) are as follows:

	Cost		Gross unrealized gain		Gross unrealized loss			Fair value
September 30, 2011
Money Market Funds	$	5,371,000	$	0	$	0		$	5,371,000
Equity Securities		101,000		2,298,000		(55,000	)		2,344,000
		5,472,000		2,298,000		(55,000	)		7,715,000
Less Cash Equivalents		5,371,000		0		0			5,371,000
Total Available for Sale Securities, September 30, 2011	$	101,000	$	2,298,000	$	(55,000	)	$	2,344,000
December 31, 2010
Treasury Bills	$	5,197,000	$	0	$	0		$	5,197,000
Money Market Funds		170,000		0		0			170,000
Equity Securities		101,000		2,783,000		(54,000	)		2,830,000
		5,468,000		2,783,000		(54,000	)		8,197,000
Less Cash Equivalents		170,000		0		0			170,000
Total Available for Sale Securities, December 31, 2010	$	5,298,000	$	2,783,000	$	(54,000	)	$	8,027,000

8

At September 30, 2011, the Company’s significant investments in equity securities were 343,267 shares of Rudolph Technologies, Inc. (“Rudolph”) and 551,759 shares of PPT Vision, Inc. (“PPT”), both of which are accounted for under the available-for-sale method. At December 31, 2010, the Company’s significant investment in equity securities was 343,267 shares of Rudolph, accounted for under the available-for-sale method. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the aggregate value of the Company’s Rudolph shares as reported on the Nasdaq Stock Market was approximately $2,296,000 and $2,825,000, respectively, with an approximate cost of $45,000. As of September 30, 2011, the aggregate value of the Company’s PPT shares as reported on the Pink Sheets was approximately $44,000, with an adjusted basis of $0.

Investment Reported on Equity Method

At December 31, 2010, the Company owned 551,759 shares of PPT, which is 1.4% of PPT’s outstanding common stock. The fair value of its holdings based on the quoted market price at December 31, 2010 was approximately $99,000 with an approximate cost of $2,434,000.

Because the Company owned approximately 1.4% of PPT’s outstanding stock and the Company’s Secretary owned a controlling interest in PPT, it had been determined that the Company had “significant influence” over the operations of PPT, and as a result its ownership interest should be reported using the equity method of accounting for investments. In the first quarter of 2011, it was determined that the Company no longer has “significant influence” over the operations of PPT and accordingly, the Company is accounting for its investment in PPT as an available-for-sale security. Upon conversion to available-for-sale classification, the Company recorded the stock at its adjusted basis of $0 which reflected its carrying amount at that date.

Note 5.  Fair Value Measurements

The following table provides information on those assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

	Carrying amount in condensed consolidated balance sheet September 30, 2011		Fair Value September 30, 2011
					Fair Value Measurement Using
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Money Market Funds	$	5,371,000	$	5,371,000	$	5,371,000	$	—	$	—
Available-for-sale:
Equity Securities	$	2,344,000	$	2,344,000	$	2,344,000	$	—	$	—
	Carrying amount in condensed consolidated balance sheet December 31, 2010		Fair Value December 31, 2010
					Fair Value Measurement Using
					Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents:
Money Market Funds	$	170,000	$	170,000	$	170,000	$	—	$	—
Treasury Bills	$	5,197,000	$	5,197,000	$	5,197,000
Available-for-sale:
Equity Securities	$	2,830,000	$	2,830,000	$	2,830,000	$	—	$	—

The fair value of the money market funds, treasury bills, and equity securities are based on quoted market prices in an active market. Closing stock prices are readily available from active markets and are used as being representative of fair value. The Company classifies these securities as level 1.

9

Note 6.  Inventories

Inventories used in the determination of cost of goods sold are as follows:

	September 30, 2011		December 31, 2010
Raw Materials	$	749,000	$	714,000
Work In Process		249,000		186,000
Finished Goods		206,000		157,000
Total Inventories	$	1,204,000	$	1,057,000

Note 7.  Discontinued Operations

On September 16, 2011, the Company sold its entire interest in its AutoData Systems Division to Auto Data Inc. (ADI). The purchase price will be paid as an earn-out based on three percent of the software, hardware, and maintenance contracts that ADI sells over the next five years (four percent while ADI continues to occupy our building). As of September 30, 2011, the Company owed ADI approximately $14,000 to pay for deferred revenue and amounts due to employees, less accounts receivable, inventory, and fixed assets related to the sale of the division. This amount was paid in October 2011.

The division, a separate operating segment as described in Note 8, designed and marketed desktop software based systems that read hand printed characters, checkmarks and bar code information from scanned or faxed forms, in addition to collecting and reporting data from web forms.

The financial results of the discontinued operation are as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011			2010			2011			2010
Net sales	$	52,000		$	92,000		$	246,000		$	299,000
Expenses		(80,000	)		(103,000	)		(314,000	)		(315,000	)
Net loss before income taxes		(28,000	)		(11,000	)		(68,000	)		(16,000	)
Income tax benefit		11,000			4,000			27,000			6,000
Net loss of discontinued operations	$	(17,000	)	$	(7,000	)	$	(41,000	)	$	(10,000	)

The effect of the discontinued operation on the financial position of the Company, as of September 30, 2011, is as follows:

Property and equipment	$	2,000
Inventories		17,000
Accounts receivable		35,000
Net assets disposed	$	54,000
Accrued expenses	$	10,000
Deferred revenue		58,000
Net liabilities disposed	$	68,000

10

Note 8.  Segment Information

Prior to September 16, 2011, the Company had three reportable operating segments based on the nature of its product lines: Production Monitoring, AutoData Systems, and Investments. The AutoData Systems segment was sold on September 16, 2011 as described in Note 7. The operations of that segment are presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying financial statements and are excluded from the presentation of segment information from continuing operations in this note. The reclassification of AutoData Systems to discontinued operations had no impact on the results of operations presented for the Production Monitoring or Investments segments.

As of September 30, 2011, the Company has two reportable operating segments: Production Monitoring and Investments. The Production Monitoring Division manufactures and markets a complete line of production monitoring equipment, in particular speed monitoring and motor control systems for industrial machinery. ESI Investment Company holds investments in marketable and non-marketable securities.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. In evaluating segment performance, management focuses on sales and income before taxes. The Company has no inter-segment sales.

The following is financial information relating to the continuing operating segments (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011		2010		2011		2010
External sales
Production monitoring (products)	$	1,632	$	1,469	$	4,692	$	4,519
Investments		0		0		0		0
Total	$	1,632	$	1,469	$	4,692	$	4,519
Net Income before taxes
Production monitoring	$	225	$	231	$	613	$	606
Investments		0		1		4		3
Total	$	225	$	232	$	617	$	609

11

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make decisions based upon estimates, assumptions, and factors it considers relevant to the circumstances. Such decisions include the selection of applicable accounting principles and the use of judgment in their application, the results of which impact reported amounts and disclosures. Changes in economic conditions or other business circumstances may affect the outcomes of management’s estimates and assumptions. An in-depth description of our accounting estimates can be found in the interim financial statements included in this report and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010. No new estimates exist other than those discussed in our Annual Report.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net Sales

Net sales for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 increased $163,000, or 11.1%, when compared to net sales for the same period in 2010. Net sales for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011 increased $173,000, or 3.8%, when compared to net sales for the same period in 2010.

The increase in sales was across a broad range of our sensors and control products, primarily in agricultural applications. We continue to work with system integrators by providing sensors to them in order to supply complete system solutions to customers. We continue to add sales and marketing resources that will increase our ability to meet with customers directly and also through our manufacturer’s representatives.  We continue to focus our sales and marketing efforts on selling sensors to connect to control systems, as compared to selling systems containing programmable logic controllers from other manufacturers, as we did in 2010. In the fourth quarter of 2011 and beyond we anticipate adding additional manufacturer’s representatives. Promotion of the new Electro-Sentry 1 Hazard Monitoring System and the Series 18 Shaft Speed Sensor products began in the third quarter of 2011 and will continue into the fourth quarter and beyond. The Electro-Sentry 1 Hazard Monitoring System provides a unique and complete view of all system sensors, is extremely user-friendly and is targeted at small to medium grain handling facilities or large facilities that are expanding their capability. The Series 18 Shaft Speed Sensors add additional output and housing options to our existing shaft speed monitoring products. The Series 18 Sensors are targeted at a broad range of applications including grain and feed, industrial automation and process control.

Cost of Goods Sold

Our cost of goods sold increased $89,000, or 14.7%, for the three months ended September 30, 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011, the cost of goods sold increased $96,000, or 5.1%, compared to the same period in 2010. These changes were primarily a result of the increase in sales.

Gross Profit

Gross margin for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 was 57.5% versus 58.8% for the same period in 2010. For the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, gross margins were 57.9% and 58.4%, respectively.

Operating Expenses

Total operating expenses increased $64,000, or 10.1%, for the three months ended September 30, 2011 when compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011 when compared to the same period of 2010, operating expenses increased $54,000, or 2.7%.

Selling and marketing costs increased $86,000, or 33.2%, for the three months ended September 30, 2011 when compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, selling and marketing costs increased $148,000, or 16.6%, when compared to the same period in 2010. The increase for the three months ended September 30, 2011 was due to an increase in wages and benefits (due to changes in our compensation package and two new hires) and increased outside sales representative commissions due to increased sales. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the increase was due to wages and benefits (due to changes in our compensation package and two new hires), increased outside sales representative commissions (due to increased sales), and higher travel expenses (due to attendance at additional tradeshows and industry association events and increased international travel), a trend which we expect will continue. While marketing efforts continue to be directed to our core industries, we are also expanding international marketing.

12

General and administrative costs increased $9,000, or 3.9%, for the three months ended September 30, 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, general and administrative costs decreased $64,000, or 8.2%, when compared to the same period in 2010. For the three months ended September 30, 2011, the increase in general and administrative expenses was due to increases in legal and professional fees and expenses relating to repairs and maintenance of our building, offset by decreases in wages and benefits (due to an open position that will not be filled) and depreciation expense on software and related hardware. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the decrease in general and administrative expenses was due to decreases in wages and related benefits and payroll taxes (due to an open position that will not be filled), depreciation expense of software and related hardware, offset by increases in expenses relating to repairs and maintenance of our building and public reporting fees (including XBRL reporting requirements).

Research and development costs for the three months ended September 30, 2011 decreased $31,000, or 21.8%, compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, research and development costs decreased $30,000, or 8.3%, when compared to the same period in 2010. For the three months ended September 30, 2011, the decrease was due to a decrease in prototype expense (in 2010, prototype expenses included expense for the Electro-Sentry 1). For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the decrease was due to the creation of fewer prototypes and less travel for service calls, offset by an increase in salaries and wages due to a part time employee and compensation increases.

Non-Operating Income

Non-operating income decreased by $17,000, or 850.0%, for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 compared to the same period for 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, non-operating income decreased $15,000, or 187.5%, when compared to the same period in 2010. The decrease for the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011 was due to a loss of $18,000 on disposal of property and equipment related to the replacement of carpeting in our building.

Interest income increased $1,000, or 100.0%, when comparing the three months ended September 30, 2011 to the same period in 2010. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, interest income increased $3,000, or 150.0%, when compared to the same period in 2010. The changes in interest income were due to the interest recognized on Treasury Bills when comparing the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2011 to the same periods in 2010.

Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes

Income from continuing operations before income taxes decreased $7,000, or 3.0%, to $225,000 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011 income from continuing operations before income tax increased $8,000, or 1.3%, to an income from continuing operations before tax of $617,000, when compared to the same period in 2010.

The Production Monitoring Division had income before income taxes of $225,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2011 compared to $231,000 for the same period in 2010, a decrease of $6,000, or 2.6%. For the nine months ended September 30, 2011, the Production Monitoring Division had income before income taxes of $613,000 compared to $606,000 for the same period in 2010, an increase of $7,000, or 1.2%. The decrease in income from continuing operations before income taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2011 was mainly due to an increase in operating expenses and a loss of $18,000 on disposal of property and equipment. The increase in net income from continuing operations before income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 was primarily due to an increase in sales.

ESI Investment Company had income before taxes of $0 for the three-month period ended September 30, 2011 compared to $1,000 for the same period in 2010, a decrease of $1,000, or 100.0%. ESI Investment Company had income before taxes of $4,000 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011 compared to income before income taxes of $3,000 for the same period in 2010, an increase of $1,000, or 33.3%. The increase for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011 was due to an increase in interest income from Treasury Bills.

Loss From Discontinued Operations

On September 16, 2011, the Company sold its entire interest in its AutoData Systems Division to Auto Data Inc. (ADI). The purchase price will be paid as an earn-out based on three percent of the software, hardware, and maintenance contracts that ADI sells over the next five years (four percent while ADI continues to occupy our building). The transaction was intended to allow us to focus on our core markets.

For the three-month periods ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, the AutoData Systems Division had an operating loss, net of income taxes, of $17,000 and $7,000, respectively. For the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, the Division had an operating loss, net of income taxes, of $41,000 and $10,000, respectively. The increase in the net losses, net of income taxes, for both periods is primarily due to a decrease in sales, due to uncertainties in the healthcare industry.

13

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash and cash equivalents were $5,641,000 at September 30, 2011, $583,000 at December 31, 2010, and $686,000 at September 30, 2010.

Cash provided by operating activities was $314,000 and $590,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The decrease was primarily a result of the decrease in our net operating income adjusted for changes in accounts receivable, inventories, and accrued expense activity. Cash from operating activities decreased $276,000 for the nine-months ended September 30, 2011 when compared to the same period in 2010 due to a $350,000 decrease in trade receivables offset by an increase of $66,000 in accrued expenses. The net change in trade receivables was due to an increase in the balance of $251,000 at September 30, 2011 compared to the prior year decrease in the balance of $99,000 at September 30, 2010 when compared to the prior year. The net change in accrued expenses was due to an increase in the balance of $176,000 at September 30, 2011 compared to the prior year increase in the balance of $110,000 at September 30, 2010 when compared to the prior year.

Cash from investing activities was $5,131,000 compared to cash used in investing activities of $257,000 for the nine months ended September 30 2011 and 2010, respectively. The significant increase in cash from investing activities was due to the net maturities of Treasury Bills with maturity dates of more than three months, with a net maturity of $5,200,000 in 2011, compared to net purchases of $216,000 during 2010. During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2011, the Company purchased $4,300,000 in Treasury Bills and had $9,500,000 in Treasury Bills mature. During the nine-month period ended September 30, 2010, the Company purchased $10,246,000 in Treasury Bills and had $10,030,000 in Treasury Bills mature.

Cash used for financing activities was $387,000 and $393,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, respectively. During the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, the Company paid aggregate dividends of $408,000 and $405,000, respectively. In 2011, we had two employees exercise stock options in the amount of $11,000. There were no options exercised during 2010. During the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, the Company had $10,000 and $12,000, respectively, in stock purchases under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

Our ongoing cash requirements will be primarily for capital expenditures, possible acquisitions of companies that have related product lines or technologies, research and development in Production Monitoring, and working capital. Management believes that cash on hand and any cash provided by operations will be sufficient to meet our cash requirements through at least the next 12 months.

Our primary investments are 343,267 shares of Rudolph Technologies, Inc. (“Rudolph”), listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market and 551,759 shares of PPT Vision, Inc (PPT), listed on the Pink Sheets. The Rudolph and PPT investments were valued at $2,296,000 and $44,000, respectively, as of September 30, 2011. The investments are accounted for using the available-for-sale method. The investments are subject to fluctuations in market price and could have a negative effect on our liquidity, if the market price declines.

Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

As of September 30, 2011, the Company had no off-balance sheet arrangements or transactions.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements regarding our expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to our marketing efforts or our efforts to accelerate growth; our expectation of continued increased travel; our intention to add additional manufacturer’s representatives; the promotion of new products; management’s intention that we not become an investment company; our expected use of cash on hand; our cash requirements; and the sufficiency of our cash flows. Any statement that is not based solely upon historical facts, including strategies for the future and the outcome of events that have not yet occurred, is considered a forward-looking statement.

All forward-looking statements in this document are based on information available to us as of the date hereof, and we assume no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements, other than as required by law. It is important to note that our actual results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements we make in this Quarterly Report are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause future results to differ materially from our recent results or those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the accuracy of management’s assumptions with respect to industry trends, fluctuations in industry conditions, the impact of any prolonged recessionary conditions or worsening of the global economy, the accuracy of management’s assumptions regarding expenses and our cash needs and those listed under the heading “Cautionary Statements” under “Item 1—Business,” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

14

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Not Applicable.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Based on an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”) were effective as of September 30, 2011.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the third quarter of 2011, which were identified in connection with management’s evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15 under the Exchange Act, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.  Legal Proceedings - None.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors - Not Applicable.

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds - None.

Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities - None.

Item 4.  [Removed and Reserved]

Item 5.  Other Information - None.

Item 6.  Exhibits

(a)      Exhibits - See Exhibit Index following signature page.

15

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

	Electro-Sensors, Inc.
November 10, 2011	/s/ Bradley D. Slye
	Bradley D. Slye
	Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

16

EXHIBIT INDEX

ELECTRO-SENSORS, INC.

FORM 10-Q FOR QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Exhibit	Description
31.1	Certification of CEO and CFO Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1	Certification of CEO and CFO Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101	The following financial information from Electro-Sensors, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2011, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011 and September 30, 2010, and (iv) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.*
*Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files in Exhibit 101 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q shall not be deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that section, and shall not be deemed part of a registration statement, prospectus or other document filed under the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such filings.

17

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES OXLEY-ACT OF 2002

I, Bradley D. Slye, certify that:

1.	I have reviewed this report on Form 10-Q of Electro-Sensors Inc.;
2.	Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.	Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.	I am responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
	(a)	Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under my supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to me by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
	(b)	Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under my supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
	(c)	Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report my conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
	(d)	Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.	I have disclosed, based on my most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
	(a)	All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
	(b)	Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

November 10, 2011	/s/ Bradley D. Slye
	Bradley D. Slye
	Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Electro-Sensors, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2011 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Report”), I, Bradley D. Slye, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)  The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)  The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

November 10, 2011	/s/ Bradley D. Slye
	Bradley D. Slye
	Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Trade receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 9	$ 9
Common stock, par value	$ 0.10	$ 0.10
Common stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	3,389,577	3,381,999
Common stock, shares outstanding	3,389,577	3,381,999

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Operations [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 1,632	$ 1,469	$ 4,692	$ 4,519
Cost of goods sold	694	605	1,977	1,881
Gross profit	938	864	2,715	2,638
Operating expenses:
Selling and marketing	345	259	1,040	892
General and administrative	242	233	721	785
Research and development	111	142	330	360
Total operating expenses	698	634	2,091	2,037
Operating income	240	230	624	601
Non-operating income (expense):
Gain on disposal of investment securities	0	0	1	0
Interest income	1	0	5	2
Loss on disposal of fixed assets	(18)	0	(18)	0
Other income	2	2	5	6
Total non-operating income (expense)	(15)	2	(7)	8
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	225	232	617	609
Income taxes	90	92	246	249
Income before discontinued operations	135	140	371	360
Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes	(17)	(7)	(41)	(10)
Net income	118	133	330	350
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized value of available for sale securities, net of income tax	(863)	162	(301)	338
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$ (745)	$ 295	$ 29	$ 688
Net Income (Loss) per Share Data:
Net income per share continuing operations	$ 0.04	$ 0.04	$ 0.11	$ 0.10
Net loss per share discontinued operations	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00
Net income per share	$ 0.03	$ 0.04	$ 0.10	$ 0.10
Weighted average shares	3,389,506	3,381,888	3,387,192	3,381,837
Diluted
Net income per share continuing operations	$ 0.04	$ 0.04	$ 0.11	$ 0.10
Net loss per share discontinued operations	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00	$ (0.01)	$ 0.00
Net income per share	$ 0.03	$ 0.04	$ 0.10	$ 0.10
Weighted average shares	3,406,486	3,405,484	3,405,738	3,405,433
Dividends paid per share	$ 0.04	$ 0.04	$ 0.12	$ 0.12

XML

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Nov. 08, 2011
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2011
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2011
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Registrant Name	ELECTRO SENSORS INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000351789
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		3,389,577

XML

Discontinued Operations

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Discontinued Operations [Abstract]

Discontinued Operations

Note 7.Discontinued Operations

On September 16, 2011, the Company sold its entire interest in its AutoData Systems Division to Auto Data Inc. (ADI).The purchase price will be paid as an earn-out based on three percent of the software, hardware, and maintenance contracts that ADI sells over the next five years (four percent while ADI continues to occupy our building).As of September 30, 2011, the Company owed ADI approximately $14,000 to pay for deferred revenue and amounts due to employees, less accounts receivable, inventory, and fixed assets related to the sale of the division.This amount was paid in October 2011.

The division, a separate operating segment as described in Note 8, designed and marketed desktop software based systems that read hand printed characters, checkmarks and bar code information from scanned or faxed forms, in addition to collecting and reporting data from web forms.   

The financial results of the discontinued operation are as follows:

	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011			2010			2011			2010
Net sales	$	52,000		$	92,000		$	246,000		$	299,000
Expenses	(80,000		)	(103,000		)	(314,000		)	(315,000		)
Net loss before income taxes	(28,000		)	(11,000		)	(68,000		)	(16,000		)
Income tax benefit	11,000			4,000			27,000			6,000
Net loss of discontinued operations	$(17,000		)	$(7,000		)	$(41,000		)	$(10,000		)

The effect of the discontinued operation on the financial position of the Company, as of September 30, 2011, is as follows:

Property and equipment	$	2,000
Inventories		17,000
Accounts receivable		35,000
Net assets disposed	$	54,000
Accrued expenses	$	10,000
Deferred revenue		58,000
Net liabilities disposed	$	68,000

XML

Net Income Per Share

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Net Income Per Share [Abstract]

Net Income Per Share

Note 3.Net Income Per Share

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and common stock equivalents outstanding during the period.

XML

Segment Information

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Segment Information [Abstract]

Segment Information

Note 8.Segment Information

Prior to September 16, 2011, the Company had three reportable operating segments based on the nature of its product lines: Production Monitoring, AutoData Systems, and Investments. The AutoData Systems segment was sold on September 16, 2011 as described in Note 7. The operations of that segment are presented as discontinued operations in the accompanying financial statements and are excluded from the presentation of segment information from continuing operations in this note. The reclassification of AutoData Systems to discontinued operations had no impact on the results of operations presented for the Production Monitoring or Investments segments.

As of September 30, 2011, the Company has two reportable operating segments: Production Monitoring and Investments. The Production Monitoring Division manufactures and markets a complete line of production monitoring equipment, in particular speed monitoring and motor control systems for industrial machinery. ESI Investment Company holds investments in marketable and non-marketable securities.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. In evaluating segment performance, management focuses on sales and income before taxes. The Company has no inter-segment sales.

The following is financial information relating to the continuing operating segments (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2011		2010		2011		2010
External sales
Production monitoring (products)	$	1,632	$	1,469	$	4,692	$	4,519
Investments	0		0		0		0
Total	$	1,632	$	1,469	$	4,692	$	4,519
Net Income before taxes
Production monitoring	$	225	$	231	$	613	$	606
Investments	0		1		4		3
Total	$	225	$	232	$	617	$	609

XML

Basis Of Presentation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Basis Of Presentation [Abstract]

Basis Of Presentation

Note 1.Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission to Form 10-Q.Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements.

This report should be read together with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, including the audited financial statements and footnotes therein.

It is the opinion of management that the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, necessary to fairly state the financial position and results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011. The results of interim periods may not be indicative of results to be expected for the year.

Nature of Business

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Electro-Sensors, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, ESI Investment Company and Senstar Corporation. Senstar has no operations. Intercompany accounts, transactions and earnings have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated entity is referred to as "the Company".

Through its Production Monitoring Division, Electro-Sensors, Inc. manufactures and markets a complete line of speed monitoring and motor control systems for industrial machinery. The division utilizes leading-edge technology to continuously improve its products and make them easier to use. The division's goal is to manufacture the industry-preferred product for every market served. These products are sold through an internal sales staff, manufacturer's representatives, and distributors to a wide variety of manufacturers, original equipment manufacturers and processors to monitor process machinery operations. The division markets its products to a number of different industries located throughout the United States, Asia, Central America, Canada, and Europe.

In addition, through its subsidiary ESI Investment Company, the Company periodically makes strategic investments in other businesses and companies, primarily when the Company believes that such investments will facilitate development of technology complementary to the Company's products. Although the Company, through ESI Investment Company, invests in other businesses or companies, the Company does not intend to become an investment company and intends to remain primarily an operating company. The Company's primary investments are 343,267 shares of Rudolph Technologies, Inc. ("Rudolph") and 551,759 shares of PPT Vision Inc ("PPT"). The investments are accounted for using the available-for-sale method.    See Note 4 for additional information regarding the Company's investments.  The Company's investments in securities are subject to normal market risks.

Revenue recognition of production monitoring equipment

The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its production monitoring equipment when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered, the fee is fixed and determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.The Company may offer discounts to its distributors or quantity discounts that are recorded at the time of sale.The Company recognizes revenue on products sold to customers and distributors upon shipment because the contracts do not include post-shipment obligations.In addition to exchanges and warranties, customers have refund rights.The Company's standard products are used in a wide variety of industries, returns are minimal and insignificant to the consolidated financial statements and are recognized when the returned product is received by the Company.In some situations, the Company receives advance payments from its customers. Revenue associated with these advance payments is deferred until the product is shipped or services performed.

Available for Sale Securities

ESI Investment Company's portfolio consists of equity securities, primarily common stocks, government debt securities and money market funds.The estimated fair value of publicly traded equity securities (other than those accounted for based upon the equity method of accounting) is based on quoted market prices, and therefore subject to the inherent risk of market fluctuations.Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the date individual investments are acquired, and evaluates the appropriateness of such classification at each balance sheet date.

Since the Company generally does not make investments in anticipation of short-term fluctuations in market prices, investments in equity securities are classified as available-for-sale (unless accounted for on the equity method of accounting).Available-for-sale securities with readily determinable values are stated at fair value, and unrealized holding gains and losses, net of the related deferred tax effect, are reported as separate component of stockholders' equity.

Realized gains and losses on securities, including losses from declines in value of specific securities determined by management to be other-than-temporary (unless accounted for on the equity method of accounting), are included in the period realized.

Fair Value Measurements

The Company's policies incorporate the guidance for accounting for fair value measurements of financial assets and financial liabilities and for fair value measurements of nonfinancial items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis.The Company's policies also incorporate the guidance for fair value measurement related to nonfinancial items that are recognized and disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a nonrecurring basis.The guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to measurements involving significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

• Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.
• Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
• Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

The level in the fair value hierarchy within which a fair measurement in its entirety falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

The carrying value of cash and equivalents, treasury bills, investments, trade receivables, accounts payable, and other working capital items approximate fair value at September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010 due to the short maturity nature of these instruments.

Income taxes

Deferred income taxes are presented as assets or liabilities based on timing differences between financial reporting and tax reporting methods. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for those differences that have future tax consequences using the currently enacted tax laws and rates that apply to the periods in which they are expected to affect taxable income. Income tax expense is the current tax payable or refundable for the period plus or minus the net change in the deferred tax assets and liabilities, excluding the portion of the deferred liability allocated to other comprehensive income. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance to the extent that realization of the related deferred tax asset is not assured.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates, including the underlying assumptions, consist of economic lives of property and equipment, realizability of accounts receivable, valuation of deferred tax assets/liabilities, valuation of inventories, and valuation of investments. It is at least reasonably possible that these estimates may change in the near term.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In June 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a new standard covering Presentation of Comprehensive Income.  The standard requires that all nonowner changes in stockholders' equity be presented either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements.  In either case, an entity is required to present each component of net income along with total net income, each component of other comprehensive income along with a total for other comprehensive income, and a total amount for comprehensive income.  The standard is effective retrospectively for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2011.  The Company is assessing the impact of the standard on its comprehensive income presentation.

Reclassifications

Certain items related to discontinued operations in the prior year's financial statements have been reclassified to conform to 2011 presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on stockholders' equity, net income or cash flows.

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Investments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Investments [Abstract]

Investments

Note 4.   Investments

The cost and estimated fair value of the Company's investments (other than an investment accounted for under the equity method of accounting) are as follows:

	Cost		Gross unrealized gain		Gross unrealized loss		Fair value
September 30, 2011
Money Market Funds	$       5,371,000		$                     0		$                     0		$       5,371,000
Equity Securities	101,000		2,298,000		(55,000)		2,344,000
	5,472,000		2,298,000		(55,000)		7,715,000
Less Cash Equivalents	5,371,000		0		0		5,371,000
Total Available for Sale Securities, September 30, 2011	$	101,000	$	2,298,000	$	(55,000)	$	2,344,000
December 31, 2010
Treasury Bills	$	5,197,000	$	0	$	0	$	5,197,000
Money Market Funds	170,000		0		0		170,000
Equity Securities	101,000		2,783,000		(54,000)		2,830,000
	5,468,000		2,783,000		(54,000)		8,197,000
Less Cash Equivalents	170,000		0		0		170,000
Total Available for Sale Securities, December 31, 2010	$	5,298,000	$	2,783,000	$	(54,000)	$	8,027,000

At September 30, 2011, the Company's significant investments in equity securities were 343,267 shares of Rudolph Technologies, Inc. ("Rudolph") and 551,759 shares of PPT Vision, Inc. ("PPT"), both of which are accounted for under the available-for-sale method. At December 31, 2010, the Company's significant investment in equity securities was 343,267 shares of Rudolph, accounted for under the available-for-sale method. As of September 30, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the aggregate value of the Company's Rudolph shares as reported on the Nasdaq Stock Market was approximately $2,296,000 and $2,825,000, respectively, with an approximate cost of $45,000. As of September 30, 2011, the aggregate value of the Company's PPT shares as reported on the Pink Sheets was approximately $44,000, with an adjusted basis of $0.

Investment Reported on Equity Method

At December 31, 2010, the Company owned 551,759 shares of PPT, which is 1.4% of PPT's outstanding common stock. The fair value of its holdings based on the quoted market price at December 31, 2010 was approximately $99,000 with an approximate cost of $2,434,000.

Because the Company owned approximately 1.4% of PPT's outstanding stock and the Company's Secretary owned a controlling interest in PPT, it had been determined that the Company had "significant influence" over the operations of PPT, and as a result its ownership interest should be reported using the equity method of accounting for investments. In the first quarter of 2011, it was determined that the Company no longer has "significant influence" over the operations of PPT and accordingly, the Company is accounting for its investment in PPT as an available-for-sale security. Upon conversion to available-for-sale classification, the Company recorded the stock at its adjusted basis of $0 which reflected its carrying amount at that date.

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Fair Value Measurements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

Note 5. Fair Value Measurements

The following table provides information on those assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

	Carrying amount
	in condensed
	consolidated
	balance sheet	Fair Value	Fair Value Measurement Using
	September 30, 2011	September 30, 2011	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Money Market Funds	$5,371,000	$5,371,000	$5,371,000	$     -	$     -
Available-for-sale:
Equity Securities	$2,344,000	$2,344,000	$2,344,000	$     -	$     -
	Carrying amount
	in condensed
	consolidated
	balance sheet	Fair Value	Fair Value Measurement Using
	December 31, 2010	December 31, 2010	Level 1	Level 2	Level 3
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents:
Money Market Funds	$170,000	$170,000	$170,000	$     -	$     -
Treasury Bills	$5,197,000	$5,197,000	$5,197,000	$     -	$     -
Available-for-sale:
Equity Securities	$2,830,000	$2,830,000	$2,830,000	$     -	$     -

The fair value of the money market funds, treasury bills, and equity securities are based on quoted market prices in an active market. Closing stock prices are readily available from active markets and are used as being representative of fair value.The Company classifies these securities as level 1.

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Inventories

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Inventories [Abstract]

Inventories

Note 6. Inventories

Inventories used in the determination of cost of goods sold are as follows:

	September 30,	December 31,
	2011	2010
Raw Materials	$             749,000	$	714,000
Work In Process	249,000	186,000
Finished Goods	206,000	157,000
Total Inventories	$         1, 204,000	$	1,057,000

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Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income	$ 330	$ 350
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation	42	72
Deferred income taxes	24	(16)
Interest accrued on investments	(3)	(2)
Loss on disposal of fixed assets	18	0
(Increase)/decrease in:
Trade receivables	(251)	99
Inventories	(164)	(167)
Other current assets	(17)	(3)
Income tax receivable	54	0
Accounts payable	77	78
Accrued expenses	176	110
Deferred revenue	(12)	(3)
Accrued income taxes	40	72
Net cash from operating activities	314	590
Cash flows from (used in) investing activities
Purchase of treasury bills	(4,300)	(10,246)
Proceeds from the maturity of treasury bills	9,500	10,030
Purchase of property and equipment	(69)	(41)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	5,131	(257)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of stock	21	12
Dividends paid	(408)	(405)
Net cash used in financing activities	(387)	(393)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	5,058	(60)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning	583	746
Cash and cash equivalents, ending	5,641	686
Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities
Net change in unrealized gain on available for sale securities	(301)	338
Cash paid for income taxes	$ 112	$ 187

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Stock-Based Compensation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

Note 2. Stock-Based Compensation

The Company records compensation expense for employee stock options based on the estimated fair value of the options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton ("BSM") model.  The Company uses historical data among other factors to estimate the expected price volatility, the expected option life and the expected forfeiture rate. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the estimated life of the option. At September 30, 2011, the Company had one stock-based employee compensation plan. During the nine months ended September 30, 2011, two employees exercised options to purchase a total of 4,500 shares of common stock.  There were no options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2010.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2011 and 2010, there were no stock options granted.

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (USD $) In Thousands	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 5,641	$ 583
Treasury bills	0	5,197
Available for sale securities	2,344	2,830
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9	793	577
Inventories	1,204	1,057
Income tax receivable	0	54
Other current assets	98	81
Total current assets	10,080	10,379
Property and equipment, net	1,181	1,174
Total assets	11,261	11,553
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable	166	75
Accrued expenses	361	195
Deferred revenue	0	70
Accrued income tax	40	0
Total current liabilities	567	340
Deferred income tax liability	917	1,078
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity
Common stock par value $0.10 per share; authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding: 3,389,577 and 3,381,999 shares, respectively	339	338
Additional paid-in capital	1,561	1,541
Retained earnings	6,487	6,565
Accumulated other comprehensive income (unrealized gain on available for sale securities, net of income tax)	1,390	1,691
Total stockholders' equity	9,777	10,135
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 11,261	$ 11,553