Share-Based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Summary of stock option activity
Shares Underlying Options Outstanding, Beginning Balance (in shares)	3,690	5,002	5,538
Shares Underlying Options Outstanding, Granted (in shares)	0	0	86
Shares Underlying Options Outstanding, Exercised (in shares)	(56)	(411)	(103)
Shares Underlying Options Outstanding, Canceled (in shares)	(427)	(901)	(519)
Shares Underlying Options Outstanding, Ending Balance (in shares)	3,207	3,690	5,002
Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (per share)	$ 30.01	$ 40.96	$ 45.80
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Granted (per share)	$ 0.00	$ 0.00	$ 12.42
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Exercised (per share)	$ 6.72	$ 14.88	$ 5.21
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Canceled (per share)	$ 51.28	$ 97.64	$ 95.00
Weighted Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (per share)	$ 27.58	$ 30.01	$ 40.96