Segment Data and Related Information (Statement of Operations Data) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	$ (7,128)	$ (7,669)	$ 12,171	$ 2,846	$ (6,293)	$ (8,758)	$ (8,884)	$ (11,690)	$ 220	$ (35,625)	$ (32,527)
Fiber Optics
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)									(8,382)	(26,684)	(30,276)
Photovoltaics
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)									$ 8,602	$ (8,941)	$ (2,251)