PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE, NET (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE, NET [Line Items]      
Amortization expenses $ 313 $ 368 $ 397
Depreciation expenses 1,066 1,268 2,108
Capitalized interest expenses 528 347 55
Property under capital lease [Member]      
PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE, NET [Line Items]      
Property under capital lease 1,639 1,639  
Initial term 20 years    
Extended term 15 years    
Amortization expenses 46 12   
Estimated useful life 35 years    
Future minimum lease payments 0    
Construction in progress [Member]      
PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE, NET [Line Items]      
Amount of construction in progress to secure long-term bank loan of Vimicro Tianjin by means of a collateral $ 21,046 $ 19,640