Segment Information Sales with respect to operating segments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
SALES	$ 112,971	$ 117,515	$ 115,658	$ 105,787	$ 112,495	$ 128,498	$ 138,154	$ 137,652	$ 451,931	$ 516,799	$ 459,414
Thin Films [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
SALES									235,335	328,614
Solar Energy [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
SALES									$ 216,596	$ 188,185