Operating Segments and Related Information Sales and Revenue by Segment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales and revenues	$ 3,741	$ 4,154	$ 11,672	$ 10,966
Income (loss) from operations	(881)	(2,211)	(4,513)	(6,581)
Solar
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales and revenues	1,844	2,445	6,242	5,783
Income (loss) from operations	(1,480)	(1,462)	(6,165)	(6,192)
Biomedical
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales and revenues	1,897	1,709	5,430	5,183
Income (loss) from operations	$ 599	$ (749)	$ 1,652	$ (389)