Per share amounts (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2012
Per share amounts [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (7,130)	$ (4,303)
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest	(14)	(197)
Net loss attributable to Pulse Electronics Corporation	$ (7,116)	$ (4,106)
Basic loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	79,573,000	41,422,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.1)
Diluted loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	79,573,000	41,422,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.09)	$ (0.1)
Stock options outstanding (in shares)	1,300,000	1,200,000
Unvested restricted shares outstanding (in shares)	800,000	600,000
Common stock equivalents related to unvested warrants (in shares)		2,600,000