Operating Segments and Related Information (Financial Information by Segment) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]    
Revenues $ 14,581 $ 22,110
Operating Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations (8,376) (6,603)
Assets of Continuing Operations 16,069 15,907
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment 139 143
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 509 804
Share-based Compensation 100 202
Spire Solar
   
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]    
Revenues 7,651 15,255
Operating Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations (8,297) (7,280)
Assets of Continuing Operations 6,354 7,757
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment 16 83
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 213 369
Share-based Compensation 21 61
Spire Biomedical
   
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]    
Revenues 6,930 6,855
Operating Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations (79) 677
Assets of Continuing Operations 1,560 1,499
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment 103 8
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 162 208
Share-based Compensation 24 43
Corporate
   
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]    
Revenues 0 0
Operating Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations 0 0
Assets of Continuing Operations 8,155 6,651
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment 20 52
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 134 227
Share-based Compensation $ 55 $ 98