Equity Method Investment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Summary financial information for the Hirschmann JV
Net income attributable to Belden after certain adjustments	$ 13,169	$ 11,940	$ 6,405
Hirschmann JV [Member]
Summary financial information for the Hirschmann JV
Current assets	63,879	45,417	36,789
Noncurrent assets	4,020	3,683	3,799
Current liabilities	26,914	18,048	18,890
Noncurrent liabilities	205	197	192
Revenues	69,431	61,881	47,919
Gross profit	34,579	30,513	19,931
Operating income	29,042	24,863	15,947
Net income	25,710	23,982	15,318
Net income attributable to Belden after certain adjustments	$ 13,169	$ 11,940	$ 6,405

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