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Share-Based Compensation (Summary Of Restricted Stock Activity) (Details) shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012 $ / shares shares
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Non-vested at January 1, 2012 \| shares	43,527
Shares, Granted \| shares	2,948
Shares, Forfeited \| shares	(1,619)
Shares, Vested \| shares	(5,685)
Non-vested at March 31, 2012 \| shares	39,171
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Non-vested at beginning of period \| $ / shares	$ 32.31
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted \| $ / shares	57.01
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited \| $ / shares	27.39
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested \| $ / shares	24.74
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Non-vested at March 31, 2012 \| $ / shares	$ 39.07

- Definition

The weighted average fair value of nonvested awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an employee who has not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to proceeds from the sale of the award or underlying shares or units.

+ References + Details

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 73,588	$ 64,540
Short-term investments	64,993	64,997
Accounts receivable, net	48,731	57,512
Inventories, net	56,342	49,934
Deferred income taxes, net	5,295	5,297
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	11,426	9,207
Total current assets	260,375	251,487
Property and Equipment:
Machinery and equipment	30,248	29,171
Furniture and fixtures	6,066	5,963
Leasehold improvements	10,343	10,233
Property and equipment at cost	46,657	45,367
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization	(30,677)	(29,134)
Property and equipment, net	15,980	16,233
Goodwill	18,962	18,610
Intangible assets, net	6,790	6,849
Service inventory	18,477	17,316
Deferred income taxes, net	2,349	2,296
Total Assets	322,933	312,791
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Accounts payable	10,745	13,396
Accrued liabilities	16,753	18,076
Income taxes payable	746	2,682
Current portion of unearned service revenues	16,475	15,638
Customer deposits	3,933	4,072
Current portion of obligations under capital leases	57	84
Total current liabilities	48,709	53,948
Unearned service revenues-less current portion	9,575	9,540
Deferred tax liability, net	1,159	1,148
Obligations under capital leases-less current portion	392	257
Total Liabilities	59,835	64,893
Commitments and contingencies - See Note Q
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock - par value $.001, 50,000,000 shares authorized; 17,601,556 and 17,381,110 issued; 16,921,321 and 16,700,875 outstanding, respectively	18	17
Additional paid-in capital	176,897	169,780
Retained earnings	88,110	81,360
Accumulated other comprehensive income	7,148	5,816
Common stock in treasury, at cost - 680,235 shares	(9,075)	(9,075)
Total Shareholders' Equity	263,098	247,898
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$ 322,933	$ 312,791

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 6,750	$ 3,243
Currency translation adjustments	1,334	2,571
Comprehensive income	$ 8,084	$ 5,814

- Definition

The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
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-Number 51
-Paragraph 30
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph A5
-Appendix A

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Section 45
-Paragraph 5
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6920043&loc=d3e557-108580

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Net Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6518256

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Other Comprehensive Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6519514

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6508144

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
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-Subparagraph c(3)
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 87-21
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 130
-Paragraph 10, 15
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Article 5
-Section 03
-Paragraph 19

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 20
-Article 9

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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6518256

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Other Comprehensive Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6519514

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph A7
-Appendix A

+ Details

- Definition

Adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity, net of tax, attributable to the parent entity.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 30
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Principles Of Consolidation	3 Months Ended
Principles Of Consolidation	Mar. 31, 2012
Principles Of Consolidation [Abstract]
Principles Of Consolidation	NOTE B – PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION The consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of FARO Technologies, Inc. and all of the Company's subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The financial statements of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at period-end for assets and liabilities and average exchange rates during each reporting period for results of operations. Adjustments resulting from financial statement translations are reflected as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income.

Short-Term Investments	3 Months Ended
Short-Term Investments	Mar. 31, 2012
Short-Term Investments [Abstract]
Short-Term Investments	NOTE I – SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS Short-term investments at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011 include U.S. Treasury Bills totaling $65.0 million that mature through September 13, 2012. The weighted average interest rate on the U.S. Treasury bills is less than one percent. The investments are classified as held-to-maturity and recorded at cost. The fair value of the U.S. Treasury Bills at March 31, 2012 approximated cost.

Lines Of Credit	3 Months Ended
Lines Of Credit	Mar. 31, 2012
Lines Of Credit [Abstract]
Lines Of Credit	NOTE R – LINES OF CREDIT On July 11, 2006, the Company entered into a loan agreement providing for an available line of credit of $30.0 million, which was most recently amended effective March 15, 2012. Loans under the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, as amended, bear interest at the rate of LIBOR plus a fixed percentage between 1.50% and 2.00% and require the Company to maintain a minimum cash balance and tangible net worth measured at the end of the Company's fiscal quarters. As of March 31, 2012, the Company was in compliance with all of the covenants under the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, as amended. The term of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, as amended, extends to March 31, 2015. The Company has not drawn on this line of credit.

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales to external customers	$ 65,229	$ 52,566
Operating income (loss)	8,433	4,284
Long-lived assets	41,731	42,878
Capital expenditures	998	1,442
Total assets	322,933	275,029	$ 312,791
Americas Region [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales to external customers	25,059	19,327
Operating income (loss)	538	467
Long-lived assets	22,829	22,645
Capital expenditures	562	885
Total assets	171,145	140,772
Europe/Africa Region [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales to external customers	23,046	19,022
Operating income (loss)	2,304	(308)
Long-lived assets	16,851	18,203
Capital expenditures	182	270
Total assets	97,454	87,547
Asia Pacific Region [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales to external customers	17,124	14,217
Operating income (loss)	5,591	4,125
Long-lived assets	2,051	2,030
Capital expenditures	254	287
Total assets	$ 54,334	$ 46,710
Computer-Aided Design [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of product sales to consolidated sales	99.00%

Commitments And Contingencies	3 Months Ended
Commitments And Contingencies	Mar. 31, 2012
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	NOTE Q – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES *Leases—The Company is a party to leases arising in the normal course of business that expire on or before 2019. Total obligations under these leases are approximately $6.3 million for 2012. Purchase Commitments—The Company enters into purchase commitments for products and services in the ordinary course of business. These purchases generally cover production requirements for 60 to 90 days. As of March 31, 2012, the Company does not have any long-term commitments for purchases. Patent Matters*—On July 11, 2008, Metris USA, Inc. and its affiliates, Metris N.V., Metris IPR N.V. and 3-D Scanners Ltd., filed a complaint against the Company for patent infringement in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts (the "Massachusetts Court") concerning U.S. Patent Nos. 6,611,617 and 7,313,264 (hereinafter, the "patents-in-suit"). Following an acquisition by Nikon Corporation in late 2009, Metris USA, Inc. subsequently changed its name to Nikon Metrology, Inc., Metris N.V. changed its name to Nikon Metrology NV, and Metris IPR N.V. was dissolved and merged into Nikon Metrology NV. We refer to each of Nikon Metrology, Inc., Nikon Metrology NV, and 3-D Scanners Ltd. as "Plaintiffs" or "Nikon". The Company responded to the complaint with counterclaims alleging that the patents-in-suit, which are generally directed to laser scanning devices, are invalid, non-infringed, and unenforceable due to fraud during prosecution of the patents in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. On August 31, 2009, the Massachusetts Court granted the Company's motion to add counterclaims and defenses for violation of federal and state antitrust and unfair competition laws based on the alleged knowing assertion of invalid and fraudulent patents. The Company also filed an amended counterclaim to add the Plaintiff's parent company, Nikon Corporation, as a counterclaim defendant. On January 29, 2010, the Company filed a motion for summary judgment that the patents-in-suit are unenforceable due to inequitable conduct during patent prosecution. On July 14, 2010, the Company filed a motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of both patents-in-suit. In addition, during the first quarter of 2010, Nikon served a supplemental interrogatory answer revising its alleged date of conception of the patents-in-suit to an earlier date. The Company filed a motion to strike the supplemental interrogatory answer. On August 31, 2010, Nikon filed a motion for summary judgment against the Company's counterclaims for antitrust violations and unfair trade practices. The Company filed its opposition on October 12, 2010. A mediation hearing held on February 18, 2011 to settle the matter was unsuccessful. On February 22, 2011, the Massachusetts Court denied Nikon's motion for summary judgment on the Company's counterclaims for antitrust violations and unfair trade practices without prejudice. On February 24, 2011, the Massachusetts Court denied the Company's motion for summary judgment of non-infringement without prejudice. On May 4, 2011, the Massachusetts Court found that, with respect to U.S. Patent No. 6,611,617, Nikon's patent is unenforceable due to inequitable conduct. On May 26, 2011, the Company renewed its motion for summary judgment of non-infringement. On June 28, 2011, the Massachusetts Court heard oral arguments on the Company's motion, as well as on Nikon's renewed motion for summary judgment on the Company's counterclaims for anti-trust violations and unfair trade practices. The Massachusetts Court also heard oral arguments regarding an intervening change in the law of inequitable conduct and whether it changes the Massachusetts Court's May 4, 2011 finding that Nikon's U.S. Patent No. 6,611,617 is unenforceable due to inequitable conduct. On September 19, 2011, as a result of these changes in the law of inequitable conduct, the Massachusetts Court vacated its May 4, 2011 decision that U.S. Patent No. 6,611,617 is unenforceable. However, in the same order, the Massachusetts Court ruled that the Company did not infringe U.S. Patent No. 6,611,617. The Massachusetts Court also granted Nikon's motion for summary judgment on the Company's counterclaims for anti-trust violations and unfair trade practices. The Massachusetts Court denied the Company's motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of U.S. Patent No. 7,313,264. The effect of the ruling is to reduce or eliminate the Company's exposure with respect to claims associated with US. Patent No. 6,611,617, while the patent dispute with respect to U.S. Patent No. 7,313,264 remains ongoing. A jury trial on the remaining claims is scheduled to begin in the Massachusetts Court on July 30, 2012. The Company believes it does not infringe U.S. Patent No. 7,313,264 and that the patent is invalid and unenforceable, and the Company will continue to vigorously defend itself against these claims. While it is not possible to predict the outcome of this lawsuit, we believe an adverse determination could have a material impact on the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations. Other than the litigation mentioned above, the Company is not involved in any legal proceedings other than routine litigation arising in the normal course of business, none of which the Company believes will have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or results of operations.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 14
-Paragraph 3
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 5
-Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.25)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6449706&loc=d3e16207-108621

+ Details

Lines Of Credit (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2012 USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Available line of credit	$ 30.0
Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit basis spread	1.50%
Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit basis spread	2.00%

Earnings Per Share

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

NOTE L – EARNINGS PER SHARE

A reconciliation of the number of common shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) is presented below:


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012					April 2, 2011
	Shares		Per-Share Amount			Shares		Per-Share Amount
	Shares		Per-Share Amount			Shares		Per-Share Amount
Basic EPS		16,788,241	$	0.40			16,253,121	$	0.20

Effect of dilutive securities		374,718		(0.01	)		345,676		—

Diluted EPS		17,162,959	$	0.39			16,598,797	$	0.20

The effect of 240,116 and 253,961 securities were not included for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011, respectively, as they were antidilutive.

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

NOTE G – SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

Selected cash payments and non-cash activity were as follows:


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012		April 2, 2011
Cash paid for interest	$	11	$	11
Cash paid for income taxes	$	2,358	$	1,270

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	3 Months Ended
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	Mar. 31, 2012
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	NOTE O – FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The Company's financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable and accounts payable and accruals. The carrying amounts of such financial instruments approximate their fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

Cash And Cash Equivalents	3 Months Ended
Cash And Cash Equivalents	Mar. 31, 2012
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash And Cash Equivalents	NOTE H – CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS The Company considers cash on hand and all short-term, highly liquid investments that have maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for cash and cash equivalent footnotes, which may include the types of deposits and money market instruments, applicable carrying amounts, restricted amounts and compensating balance arrangements. Cash and equivalents include: (1) currency on hand (2) demand deposits with banks or financial institutions (3) other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits (4) short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments maturing within three months from the date of acquisition qualify.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 1
-Article 5

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 7
-Footnote 1
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 8, 9, 10
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 6
-Section H
-Subsection 3

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash Equivalents
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 230
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6367179&loc=d3e4273-108586

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.1)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SAB TOPIC 6.H.3)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13728-122682

+ Details

Inventories (Schedule Of Inventories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Inventories [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 34,001	$ 28,675
Finished goods	8,019	7,251
Sales demonstration inventory	17,352	16,794
Reserve for excess and obsolete	(3,030)	(2,786)
Inventory	56,342	49,934
Service inventory	$ 18,477	$ 17,316

- Definition

The amount of the valuation account as of the balance sheet date which reduces the carrying amount of inventory to net realizable value; takes into consideration such factors as market value, excessive quantities based on expected sales, technological obsolescence, and shrinkage. May also provide for estimated product returns or price concessions pertaining to product cost.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 6
-Subparagraph a
-Article 5

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 3
-Section A
-Paragraph 9
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 4
-Paragraph 14
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 4
-Paragraph 8, 9, 14
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 09
-Article 12

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.6(a))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 330
-SubTopic 10
-Section 35
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6386567&loc=d3e3927-108312

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 330
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SAB TOPIC 5.BB)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6386940&loc=d3e100047-122729

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 4
-Subparagraph (SX 210.12-09)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e24092-122690

+ Details

Share-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Option Activity) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Options Outstanding, Beginning Balance \| shares	865,445
Options, Granted \| shares	240,366
Options, Forfeited \| shares	(10,387)
Options, Exercised \| shares	(215,878)
Options Outstanding, Ending Balance \| shares	879,546
Options exercisable \| shares	412,020
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Beginning Balance \| $ / shares	$ 26.72
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Granted \| $ / shares	57.01
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Forfeited \| $ / shares	31.40
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Exercised \| $ / shares	24.50
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Ending Balance \| $ / shares	35.48
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Options exercisable \| $ / shares	$ 24.42
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term as of March 31, 2012, Outstanding, years	5.2
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term as of March 31, 2012, Exercisable, years	3.9
Aggregate Intrinsic Value as of March 31, 2012, Outstanding \| $	$ 20,096
Aggregate Intrinsic Value as of March 31, 2012, Options exercisable \| $	$ 13,973

Accrued Liabilities (Schedule Of Accrued Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Accrued compensation and benefits	$ 9,022	$ 10,665
Accrued warranties	2,470	2,365
Professional and legal fees	1,236	966
Other accrued liabilities	4,025	4,080
Accrued liabilities, total	$ 16,753	$ 18,076

- Definition

Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and payable for estimated claims under standard and extended warranty protection rights granted to customers. For classified balance sheets, represents the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer).

+ References + Details

Document And Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information - shares	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 25, 2012
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Trading Symbol	FARO
Entity Registrant Name	FARO TECHNOLOGIES INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000917491
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		16,921,321

Segment Reporting (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012		April 2, 2011
Americas Region
Net sales to external customers	$	25,059	$	19,327
Operating income		538		467
Long-lived assets		22,829		22,645
Capital expenditures		562		885
Total assets		171,145		140,772

Europe/Africa Region
Net sales to external customers	$	23,046	$	19,022
Operating income (loss)		2,304		(308	)
Long-lived assets		16,851		18,203
Capital expenditures		182		270
Total assets		97,454		87,547

Asia Pacific Region
Net sales to external customers	$	17,124	$	14,217
Operating income		5,591		4,125
Long-lived assets		2,051		2,030
Capital expenditures		254		287
Total assets		54,334		46,710

Totals
Net sales to external customers	$	65,229	$	52,566
Operating income		8,433		4,284
Long-lived assets		41,731		42,878
Capital expenditures		998		1,442
Total assets		322,933		275,029

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss.

+ References + Details

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
Income Taxes	Mar. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	NOTE N – INCOME TAXES Total deferred tax assets for the Company's foreign subsidiaries relating to net operating loss carryforwards were $14.8 million and $14.9 million at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The related valuation allowance was $11.9 million and $11.8 million at March 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively. The Company's effective tax rate was 22.1% for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and 26.5% for the three months ended April 2, 2011 and included a reduction in the income tax rates of 5.0% and 3.5%, respectively, related to the tax benefit of the exercise of employee stock options. The Company's tax rate continues to be lower than the statutory tax rate in the United States primarily as a result of favorable tax rates in foreign jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining the Company's worldwide provision for income taxes. In the ordinary course of a global business, there are many transactions for which the ultimate tax outcome is uncertain. The Company reviews its tax contingencies on a regular basis and makes appropriate accruals as necessary. The effective income tax rate for 2012 and 2011 includes a reduction in the statutory corporate tax rates for the Company's operations in Switzerland. The favorable tax rate ruling requires the Company to maintain a certain level of manufacturing operations in Switzerland. The aggregate dollar effect of this favorable tax rate was approximately $0.3 million, or $.02 per share, in the three month period ended March 31, 2012, and $0.0 million, or $0.0 per share, in the three month period ended April 2, 2011. In 2005, the Company opened a regional headquarters and began to manufacture its products in Singapore. In the third quarter of 2006, the Company received confirmation of a tax holiday for its operations from the Singapore Economic Development Board for a period of four years commencing January 1, 2006 and an additional six year extension at favorable tax rates subject to certain terms and conditions including employment, spending, and capital investment. The aggregate dollar effect of this favorable tax rate was approximately $0.1 million, or $.01 per share, during the three month period ended March 31, 2012, and $0.1 million, or $0.01 per share, in the three month period ended April 2, 2011.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 136, 172
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32718-109319

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32537-109319

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Topic 740
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-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32559-109319

+ Details

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	17,601,556	17,381,110
Common stock, shares outstanding	16,921,321	16,700,875
Treasury stock, shares	680,235	680,235

Description Of Business	3 Months Ended
Description Of Business	Mar. 31, 2012
Description Of Business [Abstract]
Description Of Business	NOTE A – DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS FARO Technologies, Inc. and subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company" or "FARO") design, develop, manufacture, market and support software-based three-dimensional measurement devices for manufacturing, industrial, building construction and forensic applications. The Company's principal products include the FaroArm, FARO Laser Scan Arm and FARO Gage, all articulated electromechanical measuring devices, and the FARO Laser Tracker ION, FARO Focus 3D and FARO 3D Imager AMP, all laser-based measuring devices. Primary markets for the Company's products include automobile, aerospace, heavy equipment, light manufacturing and machine shops. The Company sells the vast majority of its products through a direct sales force located in many of the world's largest industrialized countries.

Accounts Receivable (Schedule Of Accounts Receivable) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Accounts receivable	$ 53,403	$ 62,097
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(4,672)	(4,585)
Total	$ 48,731	$ 57,512

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Schedule Of Fair Value Of Options Granted


	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012			April 2, 2011
Risk-free interest rate		0.66	%		1.55% and 1.69	%
Expected dividend yield		0	%		0	%
Expected option life		4 years			4 years
Expected volatility		50.7	%		48.7	%
Weighted-average expected volatility		50.7	%		48.7	%

Summary Of Stock Option Activity


	Options			Weighted- Average Exercise Price		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value as of March 31, 2012
Outstanding at January 1, 2012		865,445		$	26.72
Granted		240,366			57.01
Forfeited		(10,387	)		31.40
Exercised		(215,878	)		24.50

Outstanding at March 31, 2012		879,546		$	35.48		5.2	$	20,096

Options exercisable at March 31, 2012		412,020		$	24.42		3.9	$	13,973

Summary Of Restricted Stock Activity


	Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2012		43,527		$	32.31
Granted		2,948			57.01
Forfeited		(1,619	)		27.39
Vested		(5,685	)		24.74

Non-vested at March 31, 2012		39,171		$	39.07

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Fair Value Of Options Granted) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Risk-free interest rate	0.66%
Risk-free interest rate, minimum		1.55%
Risk-free interest rate, maximum		1.69%
Expected dividend yield	0.00%	0.00%
Expected option life, in years	4	4
Expected volatility	50.70%	48.70%
Weighted-average expected volatility	50.70%	48.70%

Inventories

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Inventories [Abstract]

Inventories

NOTE K – INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of the following:


	As of March 31, 2012			As of December 31, 2011
Raw materials	$	34,001		$	28,675
Finished goods		8,019			7,251
Sales demonstration inventory		17,352			16,794
Reserve for excess and obsolete		(3,030	)		(2,786	)

Inventory	$	56,342		$	49,934


Service inventory	$	18,477		$	17,316

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Schedule Of Supplemental Cash Flow Information


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012		April 2, 2011
Cash paid for interest	$	11	$	11
Cash paid for income taxes	$	2,358	$	1,270

Accounts Receivable

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Accounts Receivable [Abstract]

Accounts Receivable

NOTE J – ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Accounts receivable consist of the following:


	As of March 31, 2012			As of December 31, 2011
Accounts receivable	$	53,403		$	62,097
Allowance for doubtful accounts		(4,672	)		(4,585	)


Total	$	48,731		$	57,512

Segment Reporting

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

NOTE P – SEGMENT REPORTING

The Company has three reportable segments based upon geographic regions: Americas, Europe/Africa and Asia Pacific. The Company does not allocate corporate expenses to Europe/Africa or Asia Pacific regions. These corporate expenses are included in the Americas region. The Company does not incur R&D expenses in its Asia Pacific region.

The Company develops, manufactures, markets, supports and sells Computer-Aided Design ("CAD")-based quality assurance products integrated with CAD-based inspection and statistical process control software in each of these regions. These activities represent approximately 99% of consolidated sales. The Company evaluates performance and allocates resources based upon profitable growth and assets deployed.

The following table presents information about the Company's reportable segments:


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012		April 2, 2011
Americas Region
Net sales to external customers	$	25,059	$	19,327
Operating income		538		467
Long-lived assets		22,829		22,645
Capital expenditures		562		885
Total assets		171,145		140,772

Europe/Africa Region
Net sales to external customers	$	23,046	$	19,022
Operating income (loss)		2,304		(308	)
Long-lived assets		16,851		18,203
Capital expenditures		182		270
Total assets		97,454		87,547

Asia Pacific Region
Net sales to external customers	$	17,124	$	14,217
Operating income		5,591		4,125
Long-lived assets		2,051		2,030
Capital expenditures		254		287
Total assets		54,334		46,710

Totals
Net sales to external customers	$	65,229	$	52,566
Operating income		8,433		4,284
Long-lived assets		41,731		42,878
Capital expenditures		998		1,442
Total assets		322,933		275,029

The geographical sales information presented above represents sales to customers located in each respective region, whereas the long-lived assets information represents assets held in the respective regions. There were no customers that individually accounted for 10% or more of total revenue in each of the periods presented above.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 131
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 34
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8981-108599

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8984-108599

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8595-108599

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8933-108599

+ Details

Consolidated Statements Of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
SALES
Product	$ 54,424	$ 42,958
Service	10,805	9,608
Total Sales	65,229	52,566
COST OF SALES
Product	20,506	15,573
Service	7,537	6,721
Total Cost of Sales (exclusive of depreciation and amortization, shown separately below)	28,043	22,294
GROSS PROFIT	37,186	30,272
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Selling	16,038	14,152
General and administrative	6,628	6,590
Depreciation and amortization	1,679	1,614
Research and development	4,408	3,632
Total operating expenses	28,753	25,988
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS	8,433	4,284
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE
Interest income	(101)	(26)
Other (income) expense, net	(140)	(129)
Interest expense	13	29
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE	8,661	4,410
INCOME TAX EXPENSE	1,911	1,167
NET INCOME	$ 6,750	$ 3,243
NET INCOME PER SHARE - BASIC	$ 0.40	$ 0.20
NET INCOME PER SHARE - DILUTED	$ 0.39	$ 0.20
Weighted average shares - Basic	16,788,241	16,253,121
Weighted average shares - Diluted	17,162,959	16,598,797

Accrued Liabilities

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]

Accrued Liabilities

NOTE M – ACCRUED LIABILITIES

Accrued liabilities consist of the following:


	As of March 31, 2012		As of December 31, 2011
Accrued compensation and benefits	$	9,022	$	10,665
Accrued warranties		2,470		2,365
Professional and legal fees		1,236		966
Other accrued liabilities		4,025		4,080

	$	16,753	$	18,076

Activity related to accrued warranties was as follows:


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012			April 2, 2011
Beginning Balance	$	2,365		$	1,857
Provision for warranty expense		805			487
Warranty expired		(700	)		(517	)

Ending Balance	$	2,470		$	1,827

Inventories (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Inventories [Abstract]

Schedule Of Inventories


	As of March 31, 2012			As of December 31, 2011
Raw materials	$	34,001		$	28,675
Finished goods		8,019			7,251
Sales demonstration inventory		17,352			16,794
Reserve for excess and obsolete		(3,030	)		(2,786	)

Inventory	$	56,342		$	49,934


Service inventory	$	18,477		$	17,316

Basis Of Presentation	3 Months Ended
Basis Of Presentation	Mar. 31, 2012
Basis Of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation	NOTE C – BASIS OF PRESENTATION The consolidated financial statements of the Company include all normal recurring accruals and adjustments considered necessary by management for their fair presentation in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"). Preparing financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. The consolidated results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2012 are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2012 or any future period. The information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including the interim consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes, should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011.

Impact Of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	3 Months Ended
Impact Of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Mar. 31, 2012
Impact Of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract]
Impact Of Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	NOTE E – IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Presentation of Comprehensive Income ("ASU 2011-05"). ASU 2011-05 requires companies to present the components of net income and other comprehensive income either as one continuous statement or as two consecutive statements. It eliminates the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the changes in shareholders' equity. The standard does not change the items which must be reported in other comprehensive income, how such items are measured or when they must be reclassified to net income. ASU 2011-05 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU 2011-05 during the quarter ended March 31, 2012 only impacted presentation and has not had any effect on the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements or on its financial condition. In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-12: Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income in Accounting Standards Update No. 2011-05 (ASU 2011-12). ASU 2011-12 defers the specific requirement to present items that are reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to net income separately with their respective components of net income and other comprehensive income. As part of this update, the FASB did not defer the requirement to report comprehensive income either in a single continuous statement or in two separate but consecutive financial statements. ASU 2011-12 was adopted during the quarter ended March 31, 2012, and had no impact. In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-13, Revenue Recognition — Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements ("ASU 2009-13"). The new standard changes the requirements for establishing separate units of accounting in a multiple element arrangement and requires the allocation of arrangement consideration to each deliverable based on the relative selling price. The selling price for each deliverable is based on vendor-specific objective evidence ("VSOE") if available, third-party evidence if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price if neither VSOE or third-party evidence is available. ASU 2009-13 is effective for revenue arrangements entered into in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010. The Company adopted ASU 2009-13 effective January 1, 2011. The adoption of ASU 2009-13 did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Commitments And Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
Commitments And Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2012 USD ($)
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Line Items]
Lease future expiration date, year	2019
Total lease obligations	$ 6.3
Maximum [Member]
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Line Items]
Length of purchase commitments, in days	90 days
Minimum [Member]
Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Line Items]
Length of purchase commitments, in days	60 days

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule Of Earnings Per Share


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012					April 2, 2011
	Shares		Per-Share Amount			Shares		Per-Share Amount
	Shares		Per-Share Amount			Shares		Per-Share Amount
Basic EPS		16,788,241	$	0.40			16,253,121	$	0.20

Effect of dilutive securities		374,718		(0.01	)		345,676		—

Diluted EPS		17,162,959	$	0.39			16,598,797	$	0.20

Accounts Receivable (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Accounts Receivable [Abstract]

Schedule Of Accounts Receivable


	As of March 31, 2012			As of December 31, 2011
Accounts receivable	$	53,403		$	62,097
Allowance for doubtful accounts		(4,672	)		(4,585	)


Total	$	48,731		$	57,512

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$ 6,750	$ 3,243
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	1,679	1,614
Compensation for stock options and restricted stock units	773	642
Provision for bad debts	11	329
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense	(5)	291
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	9,254	5,412
Inventories, net	(6,432)	(7,525)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,979)	(509)
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options	(1,056)	(237)
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(4,290)	(2,447)
Income taxes payable	(774)	(742)
Customer deposits	(258)	762
Unearned service revenues	661	1,389
Net cash provided by operating activities	4,334	2,222
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(703)	(1,183)
Payments for intangible assets	(193)	(294)
Net cash (used in) investing activities	(896)	(1,477)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payments on capital leases	(131)	(22)
Income tax benefit from exercise of stock options	1,056	237
Proceeds from issuance of stock, net	5,288	2,529
Net cash provided by financing activities	6,213	2,744
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	(603)	(929)
INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	9,048	2,560
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD	64,540	50,722
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD	$ 73,588	$ 53,282

Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic EPS, Shares	16,788,241	16,253,121
Basic EPS, Per-Share Amount	$ 0.40	$ 0.20
Effect of dilutive securities, Shares	374,718	345,676
Effect of dilutive securities, Per-Share Amount	$ (0.01)
Diluted EPS, Shares	17,162,959	16,598,797
Diluted EPS, Per-Share Amount	$ 0.39	$ 0.20
Antidilutive securities excluded	240,116	253,961

- Definition

Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 13, 14
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 171
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 40
-Subparagraph c
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (c)
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Diluted Earnings Per Share
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6510752

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Contingent Stock Agreement
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6508534

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Antidilution
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6505113

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 07-4
-Paragraph 4
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Article 5
-Section 03
-Paragraph 20

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Article 7
-Paragraph 18

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 21
-Article 9

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 225
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-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.21)
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Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.19)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 07-4
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 171
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 40
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Weighted-Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6528421

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 07-4
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Share-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012 USD ($) $ / shares	Apr. 02, 2011 USD ($) $ / shares
Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Vesting period, years	3 years
Share-based compensation expense	$ 836	$ 671
Weighted-average grant-date fair value \| $ / shares	$ 22.57	$ 14.15
Total intrinsic value, options exercised	$ 6,100	$ 1,850
Fair value of stock options vested	1,700	$ 1,600
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 9,600
Expected recognition period (years)	2.6

- Definition

Represents the expense recognized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, unit, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees.

+ References + Details

Accrued Liabilities (Schedule Of Product Warranty Liability) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]
Beginning Balance	$ 2,365	$ 1,857
Provision for warranty expense	805	487
Warranty expired	(700)	(517)
Ending Balance	$ 2,470	$ 1,827

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Schedule Of Supplemental Cash Flow Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Apr. 02, 2011
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid for interest	$ 11	$ 11
Cash paid for income taxes	$ 2,358	$ 1,270

Reclassifications	3 Months Ended
Reclassifications	Mar. 31, 2012
Reclassifications [Abstract]
Reclassifications	NOTE D – RECLASSIFICATIONS From time to time the Company may reclassify certain amounts to conform to the current period presentation.

Short-Term Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Short-Term Investments [Abstract]
Short-term investments	$ 64,993	$ 64,997
Weighted average interest rate on U.S. Treasury bills, maximum	1.00%

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Accrued Liabilities [Abstract]

Schedule Of Accrued Liabilities


	As of March 31, 2012		As of December 31, 2011
Accrued compensation and benefits	$	9,022	$	10,665
Accrued warranties		2,470		2,365
Professional and legal fees		1,236		966
Other accrued liabilities		4,025		4,080

	$	16,753	$	18,076

Schedule Of Product Warranty Liability


	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012			April 2, 2011
Beginning Balance	$	2,365		$	1,857
Provision for warranty expense		805			487
Warranty expired		(700	)		(517	)

Ending Balance	$	2,470		$	1,827

Share-Based Compensation

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2012

Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Share-Based Compensation

NOTE F – SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

Share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized over the service period, which is typically the same as the vesting period. The vesting period for the share-based compensation awarded by the Company is generally three years. The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock option grants. The Company uses the closing market price of its common stock on the date of grant to determine the fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock units.

The Company used the following assumptions for the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to determine the fair value of options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011:


	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2012			April 2, 2011
Risk-free interest rate		0.66	%		1.55% and 1.69	%
Expected dividend yield		0	%		0	%
Expected option life		4 years			4 years
Expected volatility		50.7	%		48.7	%
Weighted-average expected volatility		50.7	%		48.7	%

Historical information was the primary basis for the selection of the expected dividend yield, expected volatility and the expected lives of the options. The risk-free interest rate was based on yields of U.S. zero coupon issues and U.S. Treasury issues, with a term equal to the expected life of the option being valued.

The Company recorded total share-based compensation expense of $836 and $671 for the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011, respectively.

A summary of stock option activity and weighted average exercise prices for the three months ended March 31, 2012 follows:


	Options			Weighted- Average Exercise Price		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term		Aggregate Intrinsic Value as of March 31, 2012
Outstanding at January 1, 2012		865,445		$	26.72
Granted		240,366			57.01
Forfeited		(10,387	)		31.40
Exercised		(215,878	)		24.50

Outstanding at March 31, 2012		879,546		$	35.48		5.2	$	20,096

Options exercisable at March 31, 2012		412,020		$	24.42		3.9	$	13,973

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011 was $22.57 and $14.15 per option, respectively. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011 was $6.1 million and $1.85 million, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic values at December 31, 2011 noted in the table above represent the closing price of our common stock traded on NASDAQ, less the weighted average exercise price at period end multiplied by the number of options outstanding and exercisable. The fair value of stock options vested during the three months ended March 31, 2012 and April 2, 2011 was $1.7 million and $1.6 million, respectively.

The following table summarizes the restricted stock and restricted stock unit activity and weighted average grant-date fair values for the three months ended March 31, 2012:


	Shares			Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2012		43,527		$	32.31
Granted		2,948			57.01
Forfeited		(1,619	)		27.39
Vested		(5,685	)		24.74

Non-vested at March 31, 2012		39,171		$	39.07

As of March 31, 2012, there was $9.6 million of total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock-based compensation arrangements. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.6 years.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 123R
-Paragraph 64, 65, A240
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 93-6
-Paragraph 53
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 14

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6418621&loc=d3e17540-113929

+ Details

Income Taxes (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2012 USD ($) yr $ / shares	Apr. 02, 2011 USD ($) $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Deferred income tax assets, net operating loss carryforwards	$ 14.8		$ 14.9
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance	$ 11.9		$ 11.8
Effective tax rate	22.10%	26.50%
Reduction in income tax rate related to exercise of employee stock options	5.00%	3.50%
Switzerland [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income tax holiday, aggregate dollar amount	$ 0.3	$ 0.0
Income tax holiday, income tax benefits per share \| $ / shares	$ 0.02	$ 0.00
Singapore [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Income tax holiday, aggregate dollar amount	$ 0.1	$ 0.1
Income tax holiday, income tax benefits per share \| $ / shares	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Tax holiday granted by Singapore economic development board, duration in years \| yr	4
Tax holiday granted by Singapore economic development board, extension duration in years \| yr	6