Equity Method Investment - Summary Financial Information for Hirschmann JV (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Net income attributable to Belden after certain adjustments	$ 9,704	$ 13,169	$ 11,940
Hirschmann JV [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	46,042	63,879	45,417
Noncurrent assets	4,107	4,020	3,683
Current liabilities	13,132	26,914	18,048
Noncurrent liabilities	207	205	197
Revenues	56,564	69,431	61,881
Gross profit	29,067	34,100	30,090
Operating income	22,317	27,771	23,775
Net income	19,408	26,338	23,880
Net income attributable to Belden after certain adjustments	$ 9,704	$ 13,169	$ 11,940

The amount of current assets reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of current liabilities reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of gross profit (loss) reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of income (loss) from continuing operations before extraordinary items reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of net income (loss) reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of noncurrent assets reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of noncurrent liabilities reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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The amount of revenue from sale of goods and services reduced by sales returns, allowances, and discounts reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

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