| Document and Entity Information | Jul. 22, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 22, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PCTEL, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001057083 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-27115 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 77-0364943 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 471 Brighton Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bloomingdale |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60108 |
| City Area Code | 630 |
| Local Phone Number | 372-6800 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | PCTI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
