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Business Description And Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2017
BUSINESS DESCRIPTION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES [Abstract]  
Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CyberOptics Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. In these notes to the consolidated financial statements, these companies are collectively referred to as “CyberOptics,” “we,” “us,” or “our.” All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting

We operate in a single reportable segment that includes the design, development and manufacture of high precision sensing technology solutions.
Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents consist of funds maintained in demand deposit accounts, money market accounts, corporate debt instruments and U.S. government backed obligations. Cash and cash equivalent balances, at times, may exceed federally insured limits.
Marketable Securities

Marketable Securities

All marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale and consist of U.S. government and agency backed obligations, certificates of deposit, corporate debt instruments, asset backed securities or equity securities. Marketable securities are classified as short-term or long-term in the consolidated balance sheet based on their maturity date and expectations regarding sales.

Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity until realized. These fair values are primarily determined using quoted market prices. The carrying amounts of securities, for purposes of computing unrealized gains and losses, are determined by specific identification. The cost of securities sold is also determined by specific identification.

We monitor the carrying value of our investments compared to their fair value to determine whether an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred. Factors considered in determining whether a loss is other-than-temporary include the length of time and extent to which fair value has been less than the cost basis, credit quality and our ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value. If a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge related to that specific investment is recorded in current operations.

Cash and marketable securities held by foreign subsidiaries totaled $187,000 at December 31, 2017 and $614,000 at December 31, 2016.
Inventories

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. Appropriate consideration is given to deterioration, obsolescence, and other factors in evaluating net realizable value. Demonstration inventories are stated at cost less accumulated amortization, generally based on a 36 month useful life.
Accounts Receivable and Allowance For Doubtful Accounts

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We extend unsecured credit to our customers in the normal course of business. Allowances for doubtful accounts are maintained for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. In making the determination of the appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts, we consider specific accounts, historical write-offs, changes in customer relationships and credit worthiness and concentrations of credit risk. Specific accounts receivable are written-off once a determination is made that the account is uncollectible.
Equipment and Leasehold Improvements

Equipment and Leasehold Improvements

Equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost. Significant additions or improvements extending asset lives are capitalized, while repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. In-progress costs are capitalized with depreciation beginning when assets are placed in service. Depreciation is recorded using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the equipment, ranging from one to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the asset useful life or the underlying lease term, ranging from one to eight years. Gains or losses on dispositions are included in current operations.
Goodwill

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in a business combination.  We have determined that we have one reporting unit. We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill annually on December 31st and more frequently if management believes indicators of impairment exist. Such indicators could include, but are not limited to (1) a significant adverse change in legal factors or in business climate, (2) unanticipated competition, or (3) an adverse action or assessment by a regulator. We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that our fair value is greater than carrying value (i.e. net book value). If we conclude that it is more likely than not that our fair value is greater than carrying value, no further testing is required. If we conclude that it is more likely than not that our fair value is less than carrying value, we conduct a two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. The first step of the impairment test involves comparing our fair value to carrying value. We estimate our fair value using the income approach. The income approach is a valuation technique under which we estimate future cash flows using financial forecasts. Future estimated cash flows are discounted to their present value to calculate fair value. When considering fair value, we also give consideration to the control premium in excess of our current market capitalization that might be obtained from a third party acquirer. If we determine that our carrying value exceeds fair value, the amount of impairment loss must be measured. The second step of the goodwill impairment test involves comparing the implied fair value of our goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill. The amount, by which the carrying value of the goodwill exceeds its implied value, if any, is recognized as an impairment loss. 


On December 31, 2017 and 2016, we performed a qualitative assessment to determine if there was any indication that our goodwill might be impaired. After considering all available evidence, including our financial performance, financial outlook and current market capitalization, we concluded that it is more likely than not that our fair value is greater than carrying value. As a result, no further testing was deemed necessary, and we determined that our goodwill was not impaired. No amounts were recorded for goodwill impairment in 2017, 2016 or 2015.
Patents

Patents

Patents consist of legal and patent registration costs for protection of our proprietary technology. We amortize patent costs on a straight-line basis, based upon their estimated life.
Long Lived Assets

Long Lived Assets

Intangible assets subject to amortization and other long lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be recognized when future undiscounted cash flows expected to result from use of the asset and eventual disposition are less than the carrying amount.
Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from all customers, including distributors, is recognized when all significant contractual obligations have been satisfied, pricing is fixed and determinable and collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. Generally, product revenues are recognized upon shipment under Ex-works terms, and include shipping and handling costs. Revenue from services is recognized as work is performed. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are excluded from revenue on the net basis of accounting. Estimated returns and warranty costs are recorded at the time of sale. Sales of some inspection system products may require customer acceptance due to performance or other acceptance criteria included in the terms of sale. For these inspection system product sales, revenue is recognized at the time of customer acceptance. Our multiple deliverable arrangements typically include the sale of an inspection system or metrology product, related installation and training and, in some cases, an extended warranty. Revenue from installation and training are recognized as the services are provided. Revenue from extended warranties is recognized ratably over the warranty period.


When a sale involves multiple elements, revenue is allocated to each respective element at inception of an arrangement using the relative selling price method. Selling price is determined based on a selling price hierarchy, consisting of vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE), third party evidence or estimated selling price. Management’s best estimate of the selling price of an inspection system and metrology products is based on the cost of the product and a reasonable margin based on geographic location and competitive market conditions. We use VSOE to establish fair value for extended warranty, installation and training services. If VSOE is not available to establish fair value for extended warranty, installation and training services, we estimate a selling price based on the cost-build-up for the particular service and a reasonable gross margin. Costs related to products delivered are recognized in the period revenue is recognized. Cost of revenues consists primarily of direct labor, manufacturing overhead, materials and components and excludes amortization of intangible assets.
Foreign Currency Translation And Transactions

Foreign Currency Translation

Financial position and results of operations of our international subsidiaries are measured using local currency as their functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these operations are translated at the exchange rates in effect at each fiscal year-end. Statements of operations accounts are translated at the average rates of exchange prevailing during the year. Translation adjustments arising from the use of differing exchange rates from period to period are included as a cumulative translation adjustment in stockholders’ equity.

Foreign Currency Transactions

Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in interest income and other in the statement of operations. We recognized a foreign currency transaction loss of $177,000 in 2017 and a foreign currency transaction gain of $207,000 in 2016 and $103,000 in 2015.
Research and Development

Research and Development

Research and development (R&D) costs, including software development, are expensed when incurred. Software development costs are required to be expensed until the point that technological feasibility and proven marketability of the product are established; costs otherwise capitalizable after such point also are expensed because they are insignificant. All other R&D costs are expensed as incurred. R&D expenses consist primarily of salaries, project materials, contract labor and other costs associated with ongoing product development and enhancement efforts.
Derivatives and Hedging

Derivatives and Hedging

We may enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge against the effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash flows denominated in foreign currencies associated with our subsidiary in Singapore. These transactions are designated as cash flow hedges and are recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet at fair value. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Gains and losses on the derivative representing either hedge ineffectiveness or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness are recognized in current earnings. Cash flows from derivative instruments are classified in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same category as the cash flows from the items subject to designated hedge relationships.
Advertising Costs

Advertising Costs

We expense all advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expense incurred was $400,000 in 2017, $356,000 in 2016 and $410,000 in 2015.
Warranty Costs

Warranty Costs

We provide for the estimated cost of product warranties which cover products for periods ranging from one to three years at the time revenue is recognized.
Income Taxes

Income Taxes

We evaluate uncertain tax positions using the “more likely than not” threshold (i.e., a likelihood of occurrence greater than fifty percent). The recognition threshold is met when an entity concludes that a tax position, based solely on its technical merits, is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the relevant taxing authority. Those tax positions failing to qualify for initial recognition are classified as a gross unrecognized tax benefit until the first interim period in which they meet the more likely than not standard, or are resolved through negotiation or litigation with the taxing authority, or upon expiration of the statute of limitations. De-recognition of a tax position that was previously recognized occurs when an entity subsequently determines that a tax position no longer meets the more likely than not threshold of being sustained.

 

Only the portion of the unrecognized tax benefit that is expected to be paid within one year is classified as a current liability. As a result, liabilities expected to be resolved without the payment of cash (e.g., resolution due to the expiration of the statute of limitations) or are not expected to be paid within one year are not classified as current. It is our policy to record estimated interest and penalties as income tax expense and tax credits as a reduction in income tax expense.

Deferred income taxes are recorded to reflect the tax consequences in future years of differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Income tax expense is the sum of the tax currently payable and the change in the deferred tax assets and liabilities during the period, excluding changes in deferred tax assets recorded to equity and goodwill. Valuation allowances are established when, in the opinion of management, there is uncertainty that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We assess the realizability of our deferred tax assets and the need for a valuation allowance based on all positive and negative evidence.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Basic net income (loss) per basic share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Net income per diluted share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Common equivalent shares consist of common shares to be issued upon exercise of stock options, vesting of restricted stock units, vesting of restricted shares and from purchases of shares under our employee stock purchase plan, as calculated using the treasury stock method. All common equivalent shares are excluded from the calculation of net loss per diluted share due to their anti-dilutive effect.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts of financial instruments such as cash equivalents, accounts receivable, other assets, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities approximate their related fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.
Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation

All equity-based payments to employees, including grants of stock options, are required to be recognized as an expense in our consolidated statements of operations based on the grant date fair value of the award. We utilize the straight-line method of expense recognition over the award’s service period for our graded vesting options. The fair value of stock options has been determined using the Black-Scholes model. We account for the impact of forfeitures related to share-based payment arrangements when the forfeitures occur. We have classified equity based compensation within our consolidated statement of operations in the same manner as our cash based employee compensation costs. We elected to use the alternative transition guidance known as the “short-cut method” to determine our pool of windfall tax benefits at January 1, 2006.
Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions

One of our board members serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Key Tronic Corporation. Our sales to Key Tronic Corporation totaled $133,000 in 2017, $556,000 in 2016 and $82,000 in 2015.
Recent Accounting Developments

Recent Accounting Developments

In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued guidance on simplifying the test for goodwill impairment (Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment). Under the new standard, goodwill impairment would be measured as the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying value of goodwill. The new guidance eliminates the requirement to determine goodwill impairment by calculating the implied fair value of goodwill by hypothetically assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination. The new guidance is to be applied prospectively to impairment tests beginning January 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating when we will adopt this new guidance and do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.


In February 2016, the FASB issued new lease accounting guidance (ASU No. 2016-02, Leases). Under the new guidance, at the commencement date, lessees will be required (a) to recognize a lease liability, which is a lessee's obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis, and (b) to record a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. The new guidance is not applicable for leases with a term of 12 months or less. Lessor accounting is largely unchanged. U.S. public companies are required to apply the amendments in ASU 2016-02 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application is permitted. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. We intend to adopt this guidance on January 1, 2019 and are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. 


In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance on the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers (ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers). Revenue recognition will depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. The guidance permits two methods of adoption: retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date of initial application. We have performed a review of the requirements of the new guidance and have identified which of our revenue streams will be within the scope of ASU 2014-09. We have applied the five-step model of the new standard to a selection of contracts within each of our revenue streams, and have compared the results to our current account practices. We also have performed detailed contract reviews to complete necessary adjustments to our existing accounting policies, and have implemented changes to our processes and internal controls to capture new data and address changes in financial reporting. We will expand our consolidated financial statement disclosures to comply with the requirements of ASU No. 2014-09. We adopted the new standard using the modified retrospective method, with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date of initial application. Our adoption of the new standard on January 1, 2018 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. 

In July 2015, the FASB issued guidance on simplifying the measurement of inventory (ASU No. 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory). The guidance requires an entity to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, which consists of estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable cost of completion, disposal, and transportation. The new guidance eliminated unnecessary complexity that existed under previous "lower of cost or market" guidance. The updated guidance was applied prospectively beginning January 1, 2017. Our implementation of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.


In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities, which revises the accounting related to (1) the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and (2) the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. The ASU also amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. The new guidance requires the fair value measurement of investments in equity securities and other ownership interests in an entity that do not result in consolidation and are not accounted for under the equity method. Entities will need to measure these investments and recognize changes in fair value in net income. Entities will no longer be able to recognize unrealized holding gains and losses on equity securities they classify under current guidance as available-for-sale in other comprehensive income. This standard is effective beginning January 1, 2018 via a cumulative-effect adjustment to beginning retained earnings, except for guidance relative to equity securities without readily determinable fair values which is applied prospectively. Our adoption of the new standard on January 1, 2018 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.