Note 3 - Intangible Assets and Goodwill (Detail) - Goodwill Activity by Segment (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010	Oct. 31, 2009
Goodwill				$ 98,069
Accumulated impairments			(22,137)
Balance	83,523	85,392	75,932
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(5,559)	3,734
Acquisition	3,000	4,799
Other	690	927
Utility [Member]
Goodwill				42,560
Balance	43,955	48,818	42,560
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(4,863)	1,459
Acquisition		4,799
Proprietary Table Games [Member]
Goodwill				9,326
Balance	13,943	10,253	9,326
Acquisition	3,000
Other	690	927
Electronic Table Systems [Member]
Goodwill				34,188
Accumulated impairments			(22,137)
Balance	12,843	13,191	12,051
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(348)	1,140
Electronic Gaming Machines [Member]
Goodwill				11,995
Balance	12,782	13,130	11,995
Foreign currency translation adjustment	$ (348)	$ 1,135