Business Combinations and Investments, Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
Apr. 03, 2011
Unaudited pro forma financial information
Net sales	$ 492.2
Net income from continuing operations	23.9
Net income attributable to Teledyne	$ 23.4
Basic earnings per common share - continuing operations	$ 0.65
Basic earnings per common share - attributable to Teledyne	$ 0.64
Diluted earnings per common share - continuing operations	$ 0.64
Diluted earnings per common share - attributable to Teledyne	$ 0.63

The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

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