Borrowings (Subsequent payments due on borrowings) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$ 15,549
2016	20
Total debt	$ 15,569	$ 8,014

Short-term and Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months

No definition available.

Name:	mxwl_ShortTermAndLongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths
Namespace Prefix:	mxwl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant