Segment and Related Information, Reconciliation of Segment Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Identifiable assets by business segment [Abstract]
Identifiable assets	$ 123,765	$ 112,761
UNITED STATES
Identifiable assets by business segment [Abstract]
Identifiable assets	107,149	100,310
Other Countries [Member]
Identifiable assets by business segment [Abstract]
Identifiable assets	$ 16,616	$ 12,451

Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized, excluding assets of discontinued operations. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events.

No definition available.

Name:	ptc_IdentifiableAssets
Namespace Prefix:	ptc_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant