Stock-Based Compensation Plans (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Schedule of stock-based compensation expenses
Total continuing operations	$ 2,671	$ 3,650	$ 4,587
Discontinued operations	62	602	1,288
Total stock-based compensation expense	2,733	4,252	5,875
Product costs [Member]
Schedule of stock-based compensation expenses
Total continuing operations	35	79	60
Research and development [Member]
Schedule of stock-based compensation expenses
Total continuing operations	511	1,156	2,466
Selling, general and administrative [Member]
Schedule of stock-based compensation expenses
Total continuing operations	$ 2,125	$ 2,415	$ 2,061