Segment Information Schedule of income from continuing operations before income taxes by operating segment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	$ 9,938	$ 10,674	$ 21,875	$ 52,349
Operating Expenses	(35,789)	(38,173)	(107,325)	(113,920)
Restructuring charges	3,003	3,119	5,434	3,119
Other income	65	(259)	2,251	496
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	10,003	10,415	24,126	52,845
Thin Films [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	6,065	16,015	18,113	60,881
Solar Energy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	7,410	1,259	10,643	4,092
Thin Films and Solar Energy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	13,475	17,274	28,756	64,973
Corporate [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Expenses	$ (534)	$ (3,481)	$ (1,447)	$ (9,505)