Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair value of financial assets and liabilities Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Liabilities included in level 3 representing fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments [Abstract] Cash cash equivalents and investments. Summary of cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments [Table Text Block] Summary of cash and cash equivalents Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Summary of short-term investments Schedule of Amortize Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Losses and Fair Value of Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Schedule of amortized cost, gross unrealized gains/losses and fair value of marketable securities. Contractual maturity of marketable debt investments Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Carrying value of non-marketable securities Other Investments Not Readily Marketable [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States [Member] UNITED STATES Other Americas [Member] Other America [Member] Other America. Asia [Member] Asia [Member] EMEA [Member] EMEA [Member] Japan [Member] JAPAN Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Summary of long-lived assets by geography Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets [Abstract] Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries Long-Lived Assets Total long-lived assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Americas: Entity Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas Long Lived Assets Attributed to Entity's Country of Domicile and Other Foreign Countries [Abstract] Entity wide disclosure on geographic areas long lived assets attributed to entity's country of domicile and other foreign countries. Total Americas Entity Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas Long Lived Assets Attributed to Entity's Country of Domicile and Other Foreign Countries Entity wide disclosure on geographic areas long lived assets attributed to entity's country of domicile and other foreign countries. Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Accounts payable and accrued liabilities [Member] Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other long-term liabilities [Member] Other Long Term Liabilities [Member] Other long term liabilities. Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring reserve Restructuring Reserve Equity [Abstract] STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAMS Treasury Stock [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Estimated increase in annual effective tax rate due to expiration of research tax credit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Percent Tax benefit from release of uncertain tax position Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Federal research tax credit research Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Amount Receivables [Abstract] Current and long-term accounts receivable balances Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Income (expense), net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Short-term investments Short-term Investments Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Summary of cash and cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Short-term Investments [Abstract] Classified as cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Cash and interest bearing deposits Cash and Interest Bearing Deposits Cash and interest bearing deposits. Money market funds Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value Bank certificates of deposit Certificates of Deposit, at Carrying Value Total cash and cash equivalents Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Basis of Presentation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Non-Marketable Investments Securities Owned Not Readily Marketable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive income net of tax Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] BASIS OF PRESENTATION Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of debt outstanding Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of key terms of 2015 notes Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Effective interest rate and components of interest expense of 2015 notes Effective Interest Rate Contractual Interest Expense and Amortization of Debt Discount [Table Text Block] Effective interest rate contractual interest expense and amortization of debt discount. Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance and Benefits [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Excess Facilities [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Restructuring, impairment of property, plant and equipment [Member] Restructuring, impairment of property, plant and equipment Beginning balance Restructuring and other charges, net Restructuring Charges Non-cash charges Restructuring Activities Non Cash Charges Adjustments Restructuring activities non cash charges adjustments including accretion. Cash payments Payments for Restructuring Effect of foreign currency translation Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Ending balance Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case Type [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract] Contingencies (Textual) [Abstract] Contingencies. General period of warranty on sales of hardware products General Period of Warranty on Sales of Hardware Products General period of warranty on sales of hardware products. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Convertible Senior Notes Due 2015 [Member] Convertible Senior Notes Due Twenty-Fifteen [Member] Convertible senior notes due 2015. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Convertible Notes (Textual) [Abstract] Convertible Notes (Textual) [Abstract] Convertible notes. Principal amount, issued Debt Instrument, Face Amount Principal amount outstanding Remaining Principal Amount of Liability Component of Convertible Debt Remaining principal amount of the liability component of convertible debt. Stated interest rate of convertible senior notes Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Face value of notes tendered for early conversion Face value of notes tendered for early conversion Face value of convertible notes tendered for early conversion under the conversion feature of the notes. Net current liability of convertible senior notes Convertible Notes Payable, Current Maturity date of convertible senior notes Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Warrants to purchase shares of common stock price per share (in usd per share) Warrants to Purchase Shares of Common Stock Price Per Share Warrants to purchase shares of common stock price per share. Conversion rate of notes Debt Instrument, Convertible, Terms of Conversion Feature Minimum closing price of common stock for specified days for conversion of notes (in usd per share) Minimum Closing Price of Common Stock for Specified Days for Conversion of Notes Minimum closing price of common stock for specified days for conversion of notes. Minimum number of trading days limit for which closing price exceeds fixed price for conversion of notes Minimum Number of Trading Days Limit for which Closing Price Exceeds Fixed Price for Conversion of Notes Minimum number of trading days limit for which closing price exceeds fixed price for conversion of notes. Number of final trading days range within which closing price exceeds the fixed price for conversion of notes Number of Final Trading Days Range with in which Closing Price Exceeds Fixed Price for Conversion of Notes Number of final trading days range with in which closing price exceeds the fixed price for conversion of notes. Total expense if convertible notes are converted Expense if Convertible Notes Converted Total expense if convertible notes are converted. Unamortized debt discount expensed if convertible notes are converted Unamortized Debt Discount Expense if Convertible Notes Converted Unamortized debt discount expensed if convertible notes are converted. Unamortized transaction fees expensed if convertible notes are converted Unamortized Transaction Fees Expense if Convertible Notes Converted Unamortized transaction fees expensed if convertible notes are converted. Event 1 Event One for Conversion of Note on Occurrence of Any Event Event one for conversion of note on occurrence of any event. Event 2 Event Two for Conversion of Note on occurrence of Any Event Event two for conversion of note on occurrence of any event. Event 3 Event Three for Conversion of Note on occurrence of Any Event Event three for conversion of note on occurrence of any event. Conversion rate of convertible senior notes subject to certain conversion rate adjustments (in usd per share) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Condition 1 Fundamental Change Condition One Fundamental change condition one. Minimum closing price of common stock to make whole premium in the form of increase to conversion rate (in usd per share) Minimum Closing Price of Common Stock to Make Whole Premium in form of Increase to Conversion Rate Minimum closing price of common stock to make whole premium in the form of increase to conversion rate. Maximum closing price of common stock to make whole premium in form of increase to conversion rate (in usd per share) Maximum Closing Price of Common Stock to Make Whole Premium in Form of Increase to Conversion Rate Maximum closing price of common stock to make whole premium in form of increase to conversion rate. Conversion rate for convertible senior notes per thousand principal amount of notes Conversion Rate for Convertible Senior Notes Per Thousand Principal Amount of Notes Conversion rate for convertible senior notes per thousand principal amount of notes. Debt instrument principal amount conversion rate for specified shares of common stock Debt Instrument Principal Amount Conversion Rate for Specified Shares of Common Stock Debt instrument principal amount conversion rate for specified shares of common stock. If converted value of convertible senior notes If converted value of convertible senior notes If converted value of 2015 convertible senior notes Total estimated fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of 2015 notes embedded conversion derivative at the time of issuance Fair Value of Notes Embedded Conversion Derivative at Time of Issuance Fair value of notes embedded conversion derivative at the time of issuance. Estimated fair value of 2015 Notes embedded conversion derivative at the balance sheet date Embedded Derivative, Fair Value of Embedded Derivative Liability Cost of 2015 Notes Hedges Cost of Notes Hedges Cost of notes hedges. Estimated fair value of 2015 Notes hedges at the balance sheet date Fair Value of Notes Hedges Fair value of notes hedges. Impact on Income statement related to fair value adjustments of 2015 Notes Embedded Conversion Derivative and 2015 Notes Hedges Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Shares of common stock that can be purchased under warrants (in shares) Shares of Common Stock That can be Purchased Under Warrants Shares of common stock that can be purchased under warrants. Amount received in cash proceeds from the sale of warrants Proceeds from Issuance of Warrants Notes Warrants expiration date description Senior Note Warrants Expiration Date Description Senior note warrants expiration date description. Long-term Line of Credit Line of Credit, Current INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of debt discount and fees Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Gain on investments, net Gain (Loss) on Investments Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other non-cash items Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquired businesses: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Other long-term liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchases of available-for-sale securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Sale of Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from the maturity of available-for-sale securities Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from the sale of long-term investments Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Other Investments Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Cash paid in business combinations and asset acquisitions, net of cash acquired Cash Paid in Business Combinations and Asset Acquisitions Net of Cash Acquired and Acquisitions of Intangibles Cash paid in business combinations and asset acquisitions, net of cash acquired, and acquisitions of intangibles. Net cash used for investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from revolving credit facility Proceeds from Lines of Credit Payment on revolving credit facility Repayments of Lines of Credit Payment of convertible notes Repayments of Convertible Debt Payment of convertible notes embedded conversion derivative liability Payments for Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Proceeds from convertible notes hedges Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Principal payments on receivable financing Principal Payments on Receivable Sale Financing Principal payments on receivable sale financing. Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payment of acquisition-related contingent consideration Payment of Acquisition Related Contingent Consideration, Classified As Financing Activity Payment of Acquisition Related Contingent Consideration, Classified As Financing Activity Tax effect related to employee stock transactions allocated to equity Tax Effect Related to Employee Stock Transactions Allocated to Equity Financing Activities Tax Effect Related to Employee Stock Transactions Allocated to Equity Financing Activities. Proceeds from issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Stock received for payment of employee taxes on vesting of restricted stock Stock Received for Payment of Employee Taxes on Vesting of Restricted Stock Stock received for payment of employee taxes on vesting of restricted stock. Payments for repurchases of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Cash paid for taxes, net Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash investing and financing activities: Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Stock options assumed in acquisitions Stock Options Assumed for Acquisition Stock options assumed for acquisition. Available-for-sale securities received from customer Available for Sale Securities Received from Customer Available for sale securities received from customer. OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE), NET Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Accumulated depreciation on property, plant and equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated amortization on acquired intangibles assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Amortization of acquired intangibles Amortization of Acquired Intangibles [Abstract] Amortization of acquired intangibles. Cost of product and maintenance Amortization of Intangible Assets Cost of Product Amortization of intangible assets cost of product. Amortization of acquired intangibles Amortization of Intangible Assets Total amortization of acquired intangibles Amortization of Acquired Intangibles Amortization of acquired intangibles, including amortization of costs from existing technology included in cost of product, and amortization of costs from acquired maintenance contracts included in cost of maintenance, and amortization of all other acquired intangibles. Principal Principal Principal Amount Oustanding Of Revolving Line of Credit Principal Amount Oustanding Of Revolving Line of Credit Principal Remaining Principal Amount Of Debt Outstanding Remaining Principal Amount Of Debt Outstanding Unamortized debt discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Carrying value Convertible Notes Payable Carrying value Long-term Line of Credit Carrying value Carrying Value Of Debt Outstanding Carrying Value Of Debt Outstanding Convertible Senior Notes Due Twenty-Fifteen [Member] Effective interest rate and components of interest expense of 2015 notes Effective Interest Rate Contractual Interest Expense and Amortization of Debt Discount [Abstract] Effective interest rate contractual interest expense and amortization of debt discount. Effective interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Contractual interest expense Debt Instrument Convertible Contractual Interest Coupon Interest expense related to convertible debt instruments which has been recognized for the period, for the contractual interest coupon. Amortization of debt discount Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Existing technology [Member] Technology-Based Intangible Assets [Member] Agreements and relationships [Member] Agreements and Relationship [Member] Agreements and relationship. Tradenames and trademarks [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Jasper [Member] Jasper [Member] Jasper [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Acquired finite-lived intangibles: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles In-process technology Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill Goodwill, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Deferred revenue Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue Other liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Long-term deferred tax liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Measurements, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Money market funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Corporate debt securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Bank certificates of deposit [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] United States Treasury securities [Member] US Treasury Securities [Member] United States government agency securities [Member] US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member] Commercial paper [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Marketable equity securities [Member] Marketable Equity Securities [Member] Marketable equity securities. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of financial assets and liabilities Fair Value Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Fair value certain financial assets and liabilities. Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Short-term investments: Short-term Investments [Abstract] Available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities Trading securities held in Non - Qualified Deferred Compensation plan, or NQDC, trust Deferred Compensation Plan Assets 2015 Notes Hedges Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Foreign currency exchange contracts Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Total Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Acquisition-related contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability 2015 Notes Embedded Conversion Derivative Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Foreign currency exchange contracts Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure Total Liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares used to calculate basic net income per share (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Convertible notes Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities 2015 Warrants Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Call Options and Warrants Stock-based awards Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted average common shares used to calculate diluted net income per share (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Net income per share - basic (in usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income per share - diluted (in usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted FAIR VALUE Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Other Income (Expense), Net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Investment Income, Interest Gains on marketable debt and equity securities, net Marketable Securities, Realized Gain (Loss) Gains (losses) on non-marketable investments, net Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Gains (losses) on securities in NQDC trust Gains Losses on Trading Securities in Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Trust Gains (losses) on trading securities in the non-qualified deferred compensation trust. Gains (losses) on foreign exchange Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Write-down of non-marketable investments Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments Other income (expense), net Other Income Expense Aggregate of other income (expense) items not separately disclosed. Total other income (expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Contingent Consideration Liability [Member] Liabilities included in level 3 representing fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions Liabilities Included in Level Three Representing Fair Value of Contingent Consideration Associated with Acquisitions [Abstract] Liabilities included in level three representing fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions. Begining Balance Payments Payment of Acquisition Related Contingent Consideration Payment of acquisition-related contingent consideration. Adjustments Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration at Fair Value Adjustments Business acquisition contingent consideration at fair value adjustments. Ending Balance Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Corporate debt securities [Member] United States Treasury securities [Member] United States government agency securities [Member] US Government Corporations and Agencies Securities [Member] Commercial paper [Member] Marketable debt securities [Member] Marketable Debt Securities [Member] Marketable Debt Securities [Member] Marketable equity securities [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items] Marketable investments Schedule of Amortize Cost Gross Unrealized Gains Losses and Fair Value of Marketable Securities [Abstract] Schedule of amortize cost gross unrealized gains losses and fair value of marketable securities. Short-term investments Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss Fair Value Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Interest Payment Option [Axis] Interest Payment Option [Axis] Interest Payment Option [Axis] Interest Payment Option [Domain] Interest Payment Option [Domain] [Domain] for Interest Payment Option [Axis] Credit Facility Interest LIBOR and spread [Member] Line Of Credit Facility Interest LIBOR And Spread [Member] Line Of Credit Facility Interest LIBOR And Spread [Member] Credit facility interest base rate and spread [Member] Base Rate and Spread [Member] Administrative Agent Prime Rate and Spread [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Credit facility, interest rate description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Credit facility, term Term Of Line Of Credit Agreement Term Of Line Of Credit Agreement Credit facility, current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Credit facility additional borrowing capacity available Line Of Credit Facility Additional Borrowing Capacity Available Line Of Credit Facility, Additional Borrowing Capacity Available Credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit facility, interest rate spread Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Credit facility, commitment fee percentage Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Credit facility, covenant description Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Terms Credit facility, covenant compliance Line of Credit Facility, Covenant Compliance Revolving credit facility Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Total cost of repurchased shares Treasury stock repurchase approved Treasury stock repurchase approved Treasury stock repurchase plan approved Market value of shares authorized to be repurchased Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Remaining number of shares authorized to be repurchased Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Approved treasury stock repurchase, term Approved treasury stock repurchase, term Approved treasury stock repurchase, term Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] 2013 Warrants Convertible Senior Notes Warrants Various Expiration Dates Through Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Convertible senior notes warrants various expiration dates through 2014. Options to purchase shares of common stock Employee Stock Option [Member] Non-vested shares of restricted stock Restricted Stock [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Potential shares of Cadence's common stock excluded Potential Shares of Company Common Stock Excluded [Abstract] Potential shares of company common stock excluded. Total potential common shares excluded Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Shares repurchased and the total cost of shares repurchased Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive income Foreign currency translation gain Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Changes in defined benefit plan liabilities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Total accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of acquired intangibles with finite and indefinite lives (excluding goodwill) Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Amortization of acquired intangibles Amortization of Acquired Intangibles [Table Text Block] Amortization of acquired intangibles. Estimated amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] 2014 Restructuring Plan [Member] 2014 Restructuring Plan [Member] 2014 Restructuring Plan [Member] Restructuring charges Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax effects: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Changes in unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, net of reclassification adjustment for realized gains and losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Changes in defined benefit plan liabilities Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax effects Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Asia [Member] Entity Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas Revenue from External Customers Geographic Areas, Revenues from External Customers [Abstract] Geographic Areas, revenue from External Customers Revenues Total revenue Revenue, Net Americas: Entity Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Entity's Country of Domicile and Other Foreign Countries [Abstract] Entity wide disclosure on geographic areas revenue from external customers attributed to entity's country of domicile and other foreign countries. Total Americas Entity Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Country of Domicile and Other Foreign Countries Entity wide disclosure on geographic areas revenue from external customers attributed to country of domicile and other foreign countries. Carrying value of non-marketable investments Securities Owned and Other Investments Not Readily Marketable [Abstract] Cost method Cost Method Investments Equity method Equity Method Investments Total non-marketable investments Securities Owned Not Readily Marketable Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Short-term investments Receivables, net Receivables, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net 2015 notes hedges Hedging Assets, Current Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $546,129 and $568,494, respectively Goodwill Goodwill Acquired intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $137,960 and $139,820, respectively Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Long-term receivables Accounts Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Convertible notes 2015 notes embedded conversion derivative Derivative Liability, Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Current portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-Term Liabilities: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total long-term liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock and capital in excess of par value Common Stocks, Including Additional Paid in Capital Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income Total stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Current and long-term receivables balances Accounts Receivable, Net [Abstract] Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Unbilled accounts receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Gross, Current Long-term receivables Total receivables Accounts receivable and installment contract receivables Accounts receivable and installment contract receivables Less allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Total receivables, net Accounts Receivable Net Current and Noncurrent Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, of current and noncurrent accounts receivable due from other than related parties. Contractual maturity of marketable debt investments Maturity of Marketable Debt Investments [Abstract] Maturity of marketable debt investments. Marketable Investments, Debt Maturities, Within One Year, Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis Marketable Investments, Debt Maturities, Year One Through Three, Amortized Cost Available for Sale Securities Debt Maturities Year Two Through Three Amortized Cost Available for sale securities debt maturities year two through three amortized cost. Marketable investments, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost, Total Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Marketable Investments, Debt Maturities, Within One Year, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Marketable Investments, Debt Maturities, Year One Through Three, Fair Value Available for Sale Securities Debt Maturities Year Two Through Three Fair Value Available for sale securities debt maturities year two through three fair value. Marketable Investments, Debt Maturities, Fair Value, Total Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Senior Notes Due Twenty-Twenty Four [Member] Senior Notes Due Twenty-Twenty Four [Member] Senior Notes Due Twenty-Twenty Four [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Principal amount, issued Stated interest rate Proceeds from debt, net of discount and issuance costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Unamortized debt discount Unamortized debt issuance costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Debt repurchase price due to triggering event, as percentage of principle amount Debt Repurchase Price Due To Triggering Event As Percentage Of Principle Amount Debt issuance redemption discount premium, percentage of principle amount Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Existing Technology [Member] Existing Technology [Member] Existing technology. Agreements and relationships [Member] Distribution rights [Member] Distribution Rights [Member] Tradenames Trademarks And Patents [Member] Tradename Trademark and Patents [Member] Tradenames trademarks and patents. Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Expected completion of in-process technology Expected completion of in-process technology Expected completion of in-process technology In-process Technology Transferred to Existing Technology IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTransferrredToFinite-LivedIntangibleAssets Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Transferrred To Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired intangibles with finite lives, excluding intangibles fully amortized at end of prior fiscal year Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Acquired intangibles, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net In-process technology Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, gross (excluding goodwill) Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net (excluding goodwill) Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue: Revenues [Abstract] Product and maintenance Product and maintenance revenue Product and maintenance revenue Services Technology Services Revenue Total revenue Costs and Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of product and maintenance Cost of Product and Maintenance Cost of Product and Maintenance Cost of services Technology Services Costs Marketing and sales Selling and Marketing Expense Research and development Research and Development Expense, Software (Excluding Acquired in Process Cost) General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Amortization of acquired intangibles Restructuring and other charges Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Income from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense Interest Expense Other income (expense), net Income before provision for income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income taxes Net income Net income per share - basic (in usd per share) Net income per share - diluted (in usd per share) Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic (in shares) Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted (in shares) CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities [Text Block] Accounts Receivable and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts (Textual) [Abstract] Accounts receivable and allowances for doubtful accounts. Percentage of receivables, net attributable to single customer Percentage of Company's Receivables Net and Installment Contract Receivables Net Attributable to Single Customer Percentage of Company's receivables net and installment contract receivables net attributable to single customer. Number of customers with receivables balance greater than ten percent of total balance Number of Customers with Accounts Receivable and Installment Contract Receivable Balance Greater than Ten Percent of Balance Number of customers with accounts receivable and installment contract receivable balance greater than ten percent of total balance. Percentage of receivables, net attributable to the ten customers with largest balance Percentage of Company's Receivables Net and Installment Contract Receivables Net Attributable to Ten Customers with Largest Balance Percentage of company's receivables net and installment contract receivables net attributable to ten customers with largest balance. Number of customers with largest balance of receivables Number of Customer with Largest Balance of Receivable Number of customer with largest balance of receivable. Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration by Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Contingent Consideration Type [Domain] Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Maximum amount obligated to pay by Cadence Business Combination Asset Purchase Contingent Consideration Maximum Potential Cash Payment Business combination asset purchase contingent consideration maximum potential cash payment. Period over which Consideration May be Paid Period over which contingent consideration may be paid Period over which contingent consideration may be paid Portion of amount of contingent consideration potential expense in future periods Business Combination Asset Purchase Contingent Consideration Maximum Potential Expense in Future Period Business combination asset purchase contingent consideration maximum potential expense in future period. DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] NET INCOME PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Summary of revenue by geography Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block] Summary of long-lived assets by geography Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Amount accrued for restructuring plans Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Restructuring plan activities Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] SEGMENT REPORTING Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] SUBSEQUENT EVENT Subsequent Events [Text Block] Deferred Revenue [Member] Deferred Revenue [Member] Deferred Revenue [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Acquired intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Fair Value of Financial Instrument (Textual) [Abstract] Fair Value of Financial Instrument (Textual) [Abstract] Fair value of financial instrument. Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Deferred revenue Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Profit Rate Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Profit Rate Fair Value Inputs, Estimated Profit Rate ACQUISITIONS AND ACQUISITION-RELATED CONTINGENT CONSIDERATION Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] RECEIVABLES, NET Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance as of December 28, 2013 Goodwill resulting from acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Measurement period adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Effect of foreign currency translation Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Balance as of September 27, 2014 Other 2014 Acquisitions [Member] 2014 Acquisitions [Member] 2014 Acquisitions [Member] Cash and cash equivalents acquired Business Acquisition Purchase Current Assets Cash and Cash Equivalents of Acquired Entity Business acquisition purchase current assets cash and cash equivalents of acquired entity. Number of businesses acquired Number of Businesses Acquired Total cash consideration paid, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Cash acquired Cash Acquired from Acquisition Goodwill acquired during period Finite-lived intangibles acquired during period Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, net Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Acquired definite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Goodwill, expected tax deductible amount Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Acquisition Net Consideration Paid to Acquire Business Net of Cash Acquired Business Acquisition Net Consideration Paid to Acquire Business Net of Cash Acquired Business acquisition net consideration paid to acquire business net of cash acquired. Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract] Business Combination, Description [Abstract] Basic and diluted net income per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Potential shares of Cadence's common stock excluded Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] GOODWILL AND ACQUIRED INTANGIBLES Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Estimated amortization expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2014 – remaining period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five