INVENTORIES, Fair Value Step-Up in Basis (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization of inventory step-up in fair value	$ 0	$ 2,896

The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the costs of fair value step-up in inventory over the expected benefit period of such assets. This element applies only to the fair value step-up in inventory used in the production of goods.

No definition available.

Name:	affx_CostOfGoodsSoldInventoryStep-UpAmortization
Namespace Prefix:	affx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration