Per share amounts (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2013
Per share amounts [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (9,031)	$ (7,130)
Less: Net earnings (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest	14	(14)
Net loss attributable to Pulse Electronics Corporation	$ (9,045)	$ (7,116)
Basic loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	12,650,000	7,957,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.72)	$ (0.89)
Diluted loss per share [Abstract]
Shares (in shares)	12,650,000	7,957,000
Per share amount (in dollars per share)	$ (0.72)	$ (0.89)
Stock options outstanding (in shares)	300,000	100,000
Unvested restricted shares outstanding (in shares)	300,000	100,000