Segment Information Summary of consolidated total assets by segment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 521,653	$ 533,378
Thin Films [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	46,290	59,025
Solar Energy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	75,911	62,605
Unallocated Corporate Propert and Equipment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	4,189	991
Unallocated Corporate Assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	395,263	410,757
Consolidated Assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	521,653	533,378
Inventories and Property and Equipment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 122,201	$ 121,630