Note 4. Equity Incentive Plan and Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) - Total Recorded Stock-based Compensation Expense (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012
Sep. 25, 2011
Sep. 30, 2012
Sep. 25, 2011
Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes $ 8,761 $ 4,624 $ 24,176 $ 14,220
Stock-based compensation expense after income taxes(1) 8,761 [1] 4,624 [1] 24,176 [1] 14,220 [1]
Cost of Sales [Member]
       
Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes 1,713 838 4,747 2,285
Research and Development Expense [Member]
       
Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes 2,350 1,157 6,045 3,131
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
       
Stock-based compensation expense before income taxes $ 4,698 $ 2,629 $ 13,384 $ 8,804
[1] There was no income tax benefit related to stock-based compensation because all of the Company's U.S. deferred tax assets, net of U.S. deferred tax liabilities, continue to be subject to a full valuation allowance.