Segment Information (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 01, 2011	Dec. 02, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 2,090	$ 2,252
Operating income (loss)	(82)	390
NSG [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	683	502
Operating income (loss)	94	57
DSG [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	656	903
Operating income (loss)	(139)	225
WSG [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	373	511
Operating income (loss)	(58)	56
ESG [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	262	266
Operating income (loss)	38	78
All Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	116	70
Operating income (loss)	$ (17)	$ (26)