SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Mar. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS [Abstract]
Repurchase of Convertible Debt, including accrued interest	$ 3,922	$ 92,059
Debt Instrument, 3.50% Convertible, Interest Expense	$ 67	$ 445

The cash outflow from the repurchase of a long-term debt instrument which can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder, including any accrued interest.

No definition available.

Name:	affx_RepurchaseOfConvertibleDebtIncludingAccruedInterest
Namespace Prefix:	affx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration