Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 29, 2012 segments	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable operating segments	2
Net sales	$ 183,202	$ 190,767
Income (loss) from continuing operations	20,498	25,313
Commercial Lasers and Components
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	51,742	55,150
Income (loss) from continuing operations	1,825	4,020
Specialty Laser Systems
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	131,460	135,617
Income (loss) from continuing operations	30,334	31,030
Corporate and other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Income (loss) from continuing operations	$ (11,661)	$ (9,737)