Per share amounts (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2013	Sep. 28, 2012	Sep. 27, 2013	Sep. 28, 2012
Per share amounts [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (7,588)	$ (8,924)	$ (19,938)	$ (19,722)
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest	44	35	39	(259)
Net loss attributable to Pulse Electronics Corporation	$ (7,632)	$ (8,959)	$ (19,977)	$ (19,463)
Basic loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	8,007,000	4,243,000	8,016,000	4,183,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.95)	$ (2.11)	$ (2.49)	$ (4.65)
Diluted loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	8,007,000	4,243,000	8,016,000	4,183,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.95)	$ (2.11)	$ (2.49)	$ (4.65)
Stock options outstanding (in shares)	400,000	100,000	400,000	100,000
Unvested restricted shares outstanding (in shares)	300,000	100,000	300,000	100,000
Unvested warrants to purchase common stock (in dollars per share)		$ 0.10		$ 0.10
Common stock equivalents related to unvested warrants (in shares)		100,000		100,000