Finisar (FNSR) 10-Q 4 Dec 14 2015 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014	Nov. 28, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'FINISAR CORP	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001094739	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--05-03	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	26-Oct-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2015	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q2	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	103,421,343

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$186,952	$303,101
Short-term investments	290,478	209,922
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $897 at October 26, 2014 and $929 at April 27, 2014	213,721	225,020
Accounts receivable, other	34,573	33,749
Inventories	284,789	259,759
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	38,065	33,022
Total current assets	1,048,578	1,064,573
Property, equipment and improvements, net	306,331	273,328
Purchased intangible assets, net	31,508	34,140
Goodwill	106,735	106,114
Minority investments	2,547	2,117
Other assets	22,528	17,274
Total assets	1,518,227	1,497,546
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	113,235	119,439
Accrued compensation	35,354	38,541
Other accrued liabilities	33,716	31,776
Deferred revenue	12,358	16,659
Current portion of convertible debt	36,665	40,015
Total current liabilities	231,328	246,430
Long-term liabilities:	'	'
Current portion of convertible debt	216,775	212,253
Other non-current liabilities	24,901	22,804
Total liabilities	473,004	481,487
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding at October 26, 2014 and April 28, 2014	0	0
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 750,000,000 shares authorized,99,983,128 shares and 97,281,665 shares issued and outstanding at October 26, 2014 and April 28, 2014, respectively	100	97
Additional paid-in capital	2,485,133	2,456,110
Accumulated other comprehensive income	17,282	20,025
Accumulated deficit	-1,457,292	-1,460,173
Total stockholders' equity	1,045,223	1,016,059
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$1,518,227	$1,497,546

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$897	$929
Preferred stock, par value	$0.00	$0.00
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value	$0.00	$0.00
Common stock, shares authorized	750,000,000	750,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	99,983,128	97,281,665
Common stock, shares outstanding	99,983,128	97,281,665

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$296,981	$290,722	$624,619	$556,790
Cost of revenues	210,626	186,168	438,010	359,270
Amortization of acquired developed technology	1,435	1,181	2,870	2,774
Gross profit	84,920	103,373	183,739	194,746
Operating expenses:	'	'	'	'
Research and development	51,184	44,959	102,191	88,489
Sales and marketing	11,487	12,322	23,452	24,127
General and administrative	28,772	15,388	43,491	23,728
Amortization of purchased intangibles	737	595	1,498	1,190
Total operating expenses	92,180	73,264	170,632	137,534
Income (loss) from operations	-7,260	30,109	13,107	57,212
Interest income	342	282	954	499
Interest expense	-2,867	-367	-6,000	-919
Other income (expense), net	33	495	-1,993	983
Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interest	-9,752	30,519	6,068	57,775
Provision for income taxes	1,610	568	3,187	1,989
Consolidated net income (loss)	-11,362	29,951	2,881	55,786
Adjust for net loss attributable to non-controlling interest	0	14	0	190
Net income (loss) attributable to Finisar Corporation	($11,362)	$29,965	$2,881	$55,976
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Finisar Corporation common stockholders:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in dollars per share)	($0.11)	$0.31	$0.03	$0.59
Diluted (in dollars per share)	($0.11)	$0.29	$0.03	$0.56
Shares used in computing net income (loss) per share:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in shares)	99,621	95,941	98,931	95,275
Diluted (in shares)	99,621	103,696	102,390	102,771

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Consolidated net income	($11,362)	$29,951	$2,881	$55,786
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'
Change in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment	-7,834	4,919	-2,743	-1,209
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-7,834	4,919	-2,743	-1,209
Total consolidated comprehensive income (loss)	-19,196	34,870	138	54,577
Adjust for comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interest, net of tax	0	14	0	190
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Finisar Corporation	($19,196)	$34,884	$138	$54,767

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
Operating activities	'	'
Consolidated net income	$2,881	$55,786
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation	40,563	28,591
Amortization of intangible assets	4,367	4,152
Amortization of debt issuance costs	380	0
Stock-based compensation expense	22,611	19,080
Loss (gain) on sale or retirement of assets and asset disposal group	628	-98
Equity in earnings of equity method investment	-430	-309
Amortization of discount on 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033	4,522	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'
Accounts receivable	11,751	-38,949
Inventories	-26,189	-34,308
Other assets	-12,153	-14,107
Accounts payable	-6,251	21,711
Accrued compensation	-7,026	14,984
Other accrued liabilities	3,627	9,729
Deferred revenue	-4,406	4,067
Net cash provided by operating activities	34,875	70,329
Investing activities	'	'
Additions to property, equipment and improvements	-74,256	-57,649
Net proceeds from sale of property and equipment and asset disposal group	42	426
Purchases of short-term investments	-215,453	0
Maturities of short-term investments	135,000	0
Acquisition, net of cash acquired	-2,728	0
Net cash used in investing activities	-157,395	-57,223
Financing activities	'	'
Repayments of term loans	-166	0
Proceeds from a bank loan	0	4,700
Proceeds from the issuance of shares under equity plans and employee stock purchase plan	6,537	9,606
Net cash provided by financing activities	6,371	14,306
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-116,149	27,412
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	303,101	289,076
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	186,952	316,488
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information	'	'
Cash paid for interest	1,668	1,000
Cash paid for taxes	3,581	1,066
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash transactions	'	'
Issuance of common stock upon conversion of 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	$3,350	$0

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of October 26, 2014 and for the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") for interim financial statements and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and include the accounts of Finisar Corporation and its controlled subsidiaries (collectively, “Finisar” or the “Company”). Non-controlling interest represents the minority shareholders' proportionate share of the net assets and results of operations of the Company's majority-owned subsidiary, Finisar Korea, prior to its sale in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the Company's financial position as of October 26, 2014, its operating results for the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and its cash flows for the six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013. Operating results for the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending May 3, 2015. The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of April 27, 2014 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements as of that date but does not include all the footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2014.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
	Segments
	The Company has one reportable segment consisting of optical subsystems and components.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	For a description of significant accounting policies, see Note 2, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the consolidated financial statements included in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2014. There have been no material changes to the Company's significant accounting policies since the filing of the annual report on Form 10-K.
	Pending Adoption of New Accounting Standards
	From time to time, new accounting pronouncements are issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") or other standards setting bodies that are adopted by the Company as of the specified effective date. The Company believes the impact of recently issued standards that are not yet effective will not have a material impact on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows upon adoption.

Net_Income_Loss_per_Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Net Income per Share	'
	Net Income (Loss) per Share
	Basic net income (loss) per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and dilutive potential common shares from stock options and restricted stock units (under the treasury stock method), 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029 (on an as-if-converted basis), and 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 (under the treasury stock method) outstanding during the period.
	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share:
		Three Months Ended							Six Months Ended
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	October 26, 2014				October 27, 2013			October 26, 2014		October 27, 2013
	Numerator:
	Net income (loss) attributable to Finisar Corporation	$	(11,362	)		$	29,965		$	2,881	$	55,976
	Numerator for basic net income (loss) per share	(11,362		)		29,965			2,881		55,976
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Interest expense on 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	—				539			—		1,079
	Numerator for diluted net income (loss) per share	$	(11,362	)		$	30,504		$	2,881	$	57,055
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income (loss) per share - weighted average shares	99,621				95,941			98,931		95,275
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options and restricted stock units	—				4,007			3,459		3,748
	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	—				3,748			—		3,748
	Dilutive potential common shares	—				7,755			3,459		7,496
	Denominator for diluted net income (loss) per share	99,621				103,696			102,390		102,771
	Net income (loss) per share attributable to Finisar Corporation common stockholders:
	Basic	$	(0.11	)		$	0.31		$	0.03	$	0.59
	Diluted	$	(0.11	)		$	0.29		$	0.03	$	0.56
	The following table presents common shares related to potentially dilutive securities excluded from the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share as their effect would have been anti-dilutive:
		Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014			October 27, 2013			October 26, 2014		October 27, 2013
	Stock options and restricted stock units	5,633			722			1,070		1,060
	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	3,435			—			3,435		—
	0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 (1)	—			—			—		—
		9,068			722			4,505		1,060
	_______________
	(1) 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share under the treasury stock method since the conversion price exceeded the average market price for the Company's common stock.

Inventories

Inventories	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories consist of the following:	As of
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014		April 27, 2014
	Raw materials	$	58,060	$	52,594
	Work-in-process	131,246		126,181
	Finished goods	95,483		80,984
	Total inventories	$	284,789	$	259,759

Investments

Investments	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Investments [Abstract]	'
Investment	'
	Investments
	Fixed Income Securities
	The Company's portfolio of fixed income securities consists of commercial paper notes and term bank certificates of deposit. All of the Company's investments in fixed income securities have original maturity (maturity at the purchase date) of less than 12 months. Investments with original maturities of three months or less are classified as cash equivalents. All of the Company's investments in fixed income securities are classified as held-to-maturity since the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold these investments until maturity. These investments are carried at amortized cost.
	The Company's investments in fixed income securities as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014								April 27, 2014
				Gross Unrealized								Gross Unrealized
	(in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Commercial paper	$	74,936	$	—	$	—	$	74,936	$	89,922	$	—	$	—	$	89,922
	Certificates of deposit	215,542		—		—		215,542		120,000		—		—		120,000
	Total	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922
	Reported as:
	Short-term investments	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922
	Total	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922
	The Company monitors its investment portfolio for impairment on a periodic basis. In order to determine whether a decline in fair value is other-than-temporary, the Company evaluates, among other factors: the duration and extent to which the fair value has been less than the carrying value; the Company's financial condition and business outlook, including key operational and cash flow metrics, current market conditions and future trends in its industry; the Company's relative competitive position within the industry; and the Company's intent and ability to retain the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value. A decline in the fair value of the security below amortized cost that is deemed other-than-temporary is charged to earnings, resulting in the establishment of a new cost basis for the affected securities. During the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, there were no realized gains or losses, and the Company did not recognize any other-than-temporary impairments.
	Minority Investments
	Included in minority investments at both October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 is $884,000 representing the carrying value of the Company's minority investment in one privately held company accounted for under the cost method. Additionally, included in minority investments is $1.7 million and $1.2 million at October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014, respectively, representing the carrying value of the Company's minority investment in one privately held company accounted for under the equity method. At October 26, 2014, the Company had a 19.9% ownership interest in this company. For the three month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 and for the six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, the Company recorded income of $230,000, $130,000, $430,000 and $309,000, respectively, representing its share of the net income of this minority investee, which was included in other income (expense), net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Debt

Debt	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	Debt
	0.50% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033
	In December 2013, the Company issued and sold $258.8 million in aggregate principal amount of 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 (the "2033 Notes") at par. The terms of the notes are governed by an indenture by and between the Company and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Trustee. The notes will mature on December 15, 2033, unless earlier repurchased, redeemed or converted. The notes are senior unsecured and unsubordinated obligations of the Company, and are effectively subordinated to the Company's secured indebtedness and the indebtedness and other liabilities of the Company's subsidiaries. The notes bear interest at a rate of 0.5% per year, payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 each year.
	Holders of the notes may convert their notes at their option prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding June 15, 2033 only under the following circumstances: (1) during any fiscal quarter commencing after the fiscal quarter ending on January 26, 2014 (and only during such fiscal quarter), if the last reported sale price of the Company's common stock for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the immediately preceding fiscal quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the applicable conversion price on each applicable trading day; (2) during the five business day period after any five consecutive trading day period ("measurement period"), in which the trading price per $1,000 principal amount of notes for each trading day of the measurement period was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the Company's common stock and the applicable conversion rate on each such trading day; or (3) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. On or after June 15, 2033 until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, holders may convert their notes at any time, regardless of whether any of the foregoing circumstances have occurred. The conversion rate will initially equal 33.1301 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $30.18 per share of common stock), subject to adjustment. Upon conversion of a note, the Company will pay or deliver, as the case may be, either cash, shares of its common stock or a combination of cash and shares of its common stock, at the Company's election, as provided in the indenture. If holders elect to convert their notes in connection with a "fundamental change" (as defined in the indenture) that occurs on or before December 22, 2018, the Company will, to the extent provided in the indenture, increase the conversion rate applicable to such notes ("make-whole feature").
	Holders will have the option to require the Company to redeem for cash any notes held by them in the event of a fundamental change at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. Holders also have the option to require the Company to redeem for cash any notes held by them on December 15, 2018, December 15, 2023 and December 15, 2028 at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date. The Company may redeem the notes in whole or in part at any time on or after December 22, 2018 at 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the redemption date.
	The Company considered the features embedded in the notes, that is, the conversion feature, the holders' put feature, the Company's call feature, and the make-whole feature, and concluded that they are not required to be bifurcated and accounted for separately from the host debt instrument.
	Because of its option to settle conversion of the notes in cash, the Company separated the liability and equity components of the notes. The carrying amount of the liability component at issuance date of $209.1 million was calculated by estimating the fair value of similar liabilities without a conversion feature. The residual principal amount of the notes of $49.6 million was allocated to the equity component. The resulting debt discount is amortized as interest expense. As of October 26, 2014, the remaining debt discount amortization period was 49 months.
	As of October 26, 2014, the notes consisted of the following (in thousands):
	Liability component:
	Principal	$	258,750
	Unamortized debt discount	(41,975		)
	Net carrying amount of the liability component	$	216,775
	Carrying amount of the equity component	$	49,648
	The Company incurred approximately $3.8 million in transaction costs in connection with the issuance of the notes. These costs were allocated to the liability and equity components in proportion to the allocation of proceeds. Transaction costs of $3.1 million, allocated to the liability component, were recognized as a non-current asset and are amortized. Transaction costs of $725,000, allocated to the equity component, were recognized as a reduction of additional paid-in capital.
	The following table sets forth interest expense information related to the 2033 Notes:
		Three Months Ended			Six Months Ended
	(in thousands, except percentages)	October 26, 2014			October 26, 2014
	Contractual interest expense	$	323		$	646
	Amortization of the debt discount	2,279			4,522
	Amortization of issuance costs	154			308
	Total interest cost	$	2,756		$	5,476
	Effective interest rate on the liability component	4.87		%	4.87		%
	The Company applies the treasury stock method to determine the potential dilutive effect of the 2033 Notes on net income per share as a result of the Company's intent and stated policy to settle the principal amount of the 2033 Notes in cash.
	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029
	In October 2014, the Company notified the holders of its 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029 (the "2029 Notes") of its intent to redeem, in accordance with the original terms of the 2029 Notes, all outstanding 2029 Notes on October 29, 2014. Accordingly, all remaining principal amount of the 2029 Notes outstanding as of October 26, 2014 was classified as a current liability as of that date.
	Prior to October 26, 2014, the holders of the 2029 Notes representing approximately $3.4 million of the principal amount exercised their rights to exchange their 2029 Notes for 313,814 shares of the Company's common stock. Subsequent to October 26, 2014, all remaining holders of the 2029 Notes exercised their rights to exchange their 2029 Notes for 3,434,659 shares of the Company's common stock. All conversions were in accordance with the original terms of the 2029 Notes and no gain or loss was recognized as a result of conversion.

Warranty

Warranty	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Warranty	'
	Warranty
	The Company generally offers a one-year limited warranty for its products. The specific terms and conditions of these warranties vary depending upon the product sold. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its basic limited warranty and records a liability for the amount of such costs at the time revenue is recognized. Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims and cost to repair. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary.
	Changes in the Company's warranty liability during the following period were as follows:
		Six Months Ended
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014
	Beginning balance at April 28, 2014	$	5,744
	Additions during the period based on product sold	2,396
	Change in estimates	(854		)
	Settlements and expirations	(1,794		)
	Ending balance at October 26, 2014	$	5,492

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	The Company's financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014										April 27, 2014
		Carrying		Fair Value								Carrying		Fair Value
	(in thousands)	Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	38	$	38	$	—	$	—	$	38	$	30,169	$	30,169	$	—	$	—	$	30,169
	Commercial paper	74,936		—		74,936		—		74,936		89,922		—		89,922		—		89,922
	Certificates of deposit	215,542		—		215,542		—		215,542		120,000		—		120,000		—		120,000
	Total	$	290,516	$	38	$	290,478	$	—	$	290,516	$	240,091	$	30,169	$	209,922	$	—	$	240,091
	The Company's Level 2 financial instruments in the table above are valued using quoted market prices for similar instruments or non-binding market prices that are corroborated by observable market data.
	The Company has not estimated the fair value of its minority investments in two privately held companies as it is not practicable to estimate the fair value of these investments because of the lack of quoted market prices and the inability to estimate fair value without incurring excessive costs. As of October 26, 2014, the carrying value of the Company's minority investments in these privately held companies was $2.5 million, which management believes is not impaired.
	The Company's financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014										April 27, 2014
		Carrying		Fair Value								Carrying		Fair Value
	(in thousands)	Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	2029 Notes	$	36,665	$	54,993	$	—	$	—	$	54,993	$	40,015	$	104,105	$	—	$	—	$	104,105
	2033 Notes	216,775		235,934		—		—		235,934		212,253		305,307		—		—		305,307
	Total	$	253,440	$	290,927	$	—	$	—	$	290,927	$	252,268	$	409,412	$	—	$	—	$	409,412
	The fair value of the 2029 Notes and 2033 Notes is based on the market price in the open market as of or close to the respective dates. The difference between the carrying value and the fair value is primarily due to the spread between the conversion price and the market value of the shares underlying the conversion.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	Stockholders' Equity
	The number of shares of common stock issued or becoming vested under the Company's stock compensation plans was as follows:
		Three Months Ended		Six Months Ended
		October 26, 2014	October 27, 2013	October 26, 2014	October 27, 2013
	Employee stock purchase plan	—	—	291,589	340,657
	Exercises of stock options	45,704	312,230	146,082	524,744
	Restricted stock units vesting	94,489	113,177	1,949,612	1,605,406

Legal_Matters

Legal Matters	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Legal Matters	'
	Legal Matters
	The Company accrues a liability for legal contingencies when it believes that it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and that it can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss. The Company reviews these accruals and adjusts them to reflect ongoing negotiations, settlements, rulings, advice of legal counsel and other relevant information. To the extent new information is obtained and the Company's views on the probable outcomes of claims, suits, assessments, investigations or legal proceedings change, changes in the Company's accrued liabilities would be recorded in the period in which such determination is made. For the matters referenced below, the amount of liability is not probable or the amount cannot be reasonably estimated; and, therefore, accruals have not been made. In addition, in accordance with the relevant authoritative guidance, for matters which the likelihood of material loss is at least reasonably possible, the Company provides disclosure of the possible loss or range of loss; however, if a reasonable estimate cannot be made, the Company will provide disclosure to that effect.
	Due to the nature of the Company's business, it is subject to claims alleging infringement by various Company products and services. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to the allegations made in its pending cases and intends to vigorously defend these lawsuits; however, it is unable currently to determine the ultimate outcome of these or similar matters. In addition, the Company is a defendant in various litigation matters generally arising out of the normal course of business. Although it is difficult to predict the ultimate outcomes of these cases, the Company believes that it is not reasonably possible that the ultimate outcomes will materially and adversely affect its business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	Class Action and Shareholder Derivative Litigation
	Several securities class action lawsuits related to the Company's March 8, 2011 earnings announcement alleging claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, have been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California on behalf of a purported class of persons who purchased stock between December 1 or 2, 2010 through March 8, 2011. The named defendants are the Company and its Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. To date, no specific amount of damages has been alleged. The cases were consolidated, lead plaintiffs were appointed and a consolidated complaint was filed. The Company filed a motion to dismiss the case. On January 16, 2013, the District Court granted the Company's motion to dismiss and granted the lead plaintiffs leave to amend the consolidated complaint. An amended consolidated complaint was filed on February 6, 2013. Thereafter, the Company filed a renewed motion to dismiss the case. On September 30, 2013, the District Court granted the Company's motion and dismissed the case with prejudice. On October 25, 2013, the lead plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal of the District Court's dismissal ruling, and the appeal is pending.
	In addition, two purported shareholder derivative lawsuits related to the Company's March 8, 2011 earnings announcement have been filed in the California Superior Court for the County of Santa Clara, and a third derivative lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The complaints assert claims for alleged breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, and waste on behalf of the Company. Named as defendants are the members of the Company's board of directors, including the Company's Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, and its Chief Financial Officer. No specific amount of damages has been alleged and, by the derivative nature of the lawsuits, no damages will be alleged, against the Company. The state court cases have been consolidated and a lead plaintiff has been appointed to file a consolidated complaint. The derivative cases were stayed pending a ruling in the federal class action case. Following the September 30 ruling dismissing the class action case, the derivative cases remain stayed, subject to the right of the parties to reinstate them.
	Thomas Swan Litigation
	On February 26, 2013, Thomas Swan & Co. Ltd. filed a complaint for patent infringement in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against the Company. The complaint alleges that Finisar's WSS products, ROADM line cards containing a Finisar WSS, and Waveshaper products infringe four related Thomas Swan patents. The Company's customer, Fujitsu Network Communications, was added as a co-defendant in this lawsuit. The Company performed a review of the asserted patents and believes that the patent claims are not infringed and/or are invalid. In October 2014, the parties reached a confidential agreement to settle this lawsuit. The Company evaluated the transaction as a multiple-element arrangement and allocated the one-time payment of $11.0 million that the Company is obligated to make to the plaintiff in connection with the settlement to each identifiable element using its estimates of relative fair values of these elements. The Company determined that the primary benefits of the arrangement are avoided litigation cost and elimination of use of the Company's management and personnel resources, with no material value attributable to future use or benefit. Accordingly, the Company recorded an $11.0 million settlement charge as general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations for the quarter ended October 26, 2014.
	Mears Technologies Litigation
	On May 6, 2013, Mears Technologies, Inc. filed a complaint for patent infringement in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against the Company. The complaint alleges that Finisar's WSS products, ROADM line cards containing a Finisar WSS, and Waveshaper products infringe U.S. Patent No. 6,141,361. The Company has performed a review of the asserted patent and believes that the patent claims are not infringed and/or are invalid. On June 17, 2014, the district court issued a claim construction order favorable to the Company.  On October 6, 2014, the court denied a motion of the plaintiff to amend its infringement contentions in light of the court’s claim construction ruling.  As a result, the plaintiff has conceded that it is unable to pursue its infringement claims against the Company.  The previously scheduled trial has been removed from the case calendar pending the issuance the court’s ruling on the Company’s motion for summary judgment of non-infringement.  The plaintiff has indicated that it intends to appeal the court’s claim construction ruling and the court’s denial of the plaintiff’s motion to amend its infringement contentions in light of the court’s claim construction ruling. The Company intends to oppose any such appeal vigorously.  However, if the plaintiff’s appeal is wholly or partially successful, the case would be revived in the district court.  If the appeal succeeds and the case resumes, the Company may be liable for substantial damages.  Even if the defense of any resumed case is successful, the Company may incur substantial legal fees and other costs in defending the lawsuit. Further, the lawsuit could divert the efforts and attention of the Company's management and technical personnel, which could harm its business.

Guarantees_and_Indemnification

Guarantees and Indemnifications	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
Guarantees and Indemnifications	'
	Guarantees and Indemnifications
	Upon issuance of a guarantee, the guarantor must recognize a liability for the fair value of the obligations it assumes under that guarantee. As permitted under Delaware law and in accordance with the Company's Bylaws, the Company indemnifies its officers and directors for certain events or occurrences, subject to certain limits, while the officer or director is or was serving at the Company's request in such capacity. The term of the indemnification period is for the officer's or director's lifetime. The Company may terminate the indemnification agreements with its officers and directors upon 90 days written notice, but termination will not affect claims for indemnification relating to events occurring prior to the effective date of termination. The maximum amount of potential future indemnification is unlimited; however, the Company has a director and officer liability insurance policy that may enable it to recover a portion of any future amounts paid.
	The Company enters into indemnification obligations under its agreements with other companies in its ordinary course of business, including agreements with customers, business partners and insurers. Under these provisions the Company generally indemnifies and holds harmless the indemnified party for losses suffered or incurred by the indemnified party as a result of the Company's activities or the use of the Company's products. These indemnification provisions generally survive termination of the underlying agreement. In some cases, the maximum potential amount of future payments the Company could be required to make under these indemnification provisions is unlimited.
	The Company believes the fair value of these indemnification obligations is immaterial. Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any liabilities for these agreements as of October 26, 2014. To date, the Company has not incurred material costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements.

Related_Party_Transaction

Related Party Transaction	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Parties	'
	Related Parties
	During the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014, the Company paid $33,627 and $84,817, respectively, in cash compensation to a company owned by Guy Gertel, the brother of the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, for sales and marketing services. In addition, during the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the Company granted to Mr. Gertel, for no additional consideration, 2,305 restricted stock units with a fair market value of $45,132, which vest as follows: 25% on June 23, 2015 and an additional 25% on each of the next three anniversaries thereafter, to be fully vested on June 23, 2018, subject to Mr. Gertel continuing to provide services to Finisar.
	During the three and six month periods ended October 27, 2013, the Company paid $50,506 and $106,078, respectively, in cash compensation to Mr. Gertel's company. In addition, during the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company granted to Mr. Gertel, for no additional consideration, 4,164 restricted stock units with a fair market value of $66,957, which vest as follows: 25% on June 24, 2014 and an additional 25% on each of the next three anniversaries thereafter, to be fully vested on June 24, 2017, subject to Mr. Gertel continuing to provide services to Finisar.
	Amounts paid to Mr. Gertel represented values considered by management to be fair and reasonable, reflective of an arm's length transaction.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Consolidation, Policy	'
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of October 26, 2014 and for the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013 have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("U.S. GAAP") for interim financial statements and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and include the accounts of Finisar Corporation and its controlled subsidiaries (collectively, “Finisar” or the “Company”). Non-controlling interest represents the minority shareholders' proportionate share of the net assets and results of operations of the Company's majority-owned subsidiary, Finisar Korea, prior to its sale in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014. Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the Company's financial position as of October 26, 2014, its operating results for the three and six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013, and its cash flows for the six month periods ended October 26, 2014 and October 27, 2013.
Use of Estimates, Policy	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Segments, Policy	'
	Segments
	The Company has one reportable segment consisting of optical subsystems and components.
Earnings Per Share, Policy	'
	Basic net income (loss) per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share has been computed using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and dilutive potential common shares from stock options and restricted stock units (under the treasury stock method), 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029 (on an as-if-converted basis), and 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 (under the treasury stock method) outstanding during the period.
Standard Product Warranty, Policy	'
	The Company generally offers a one-year limited warranty for its products. The specific terms and conditions of these warranties vary depending upon the product sold. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its basic limited warranty and records a liability for the amount of such costs at the time revenue is recognized. Factors that affect the Company's warranty liability include the historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims and cost to repair. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary.

Net_Income_Loss_per_Share_Tabl

Net Income (Loss) per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share	'
	The following table presents the calculation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share:
		Three Months Ended							Six Months Ended
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)	October 26, 2014				October 27, 2013			October 26, 2014		October 27, 2013
	Numerator:
	Net income (loss) attributable to Finisar Corporation	$	(11,362	)		$	29,965		$	2,881	$	55,976
	Numerator for basic net income (loss) per share	(11,362		)		29,965			2,881		55,976
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Interest expense on 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	—				539			—		1,079
	Numerator for diluted net income (loss) per share	$	(11,362	)		$	30,504		$	2,881	$	57,055
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income (loss) per share - weighted average shares	99,621				95,941			98,931		95,275
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options and restricted stock units	—				4,007			3,459		3,748
	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	—				3,748			—		3,748
	Dilutive potential common shares	—				7,755			3,459		7,496
	Denominator for diluted net income (loss) per share	99,621				103,696			102,390		102,771
	Net income (loss) per share attributable to Finisar Corporation common stockholders:
	Basic	$	(0.11	)		$	0.31		$	0.03	$	0.59
	Diluted	$	(0.11	)		$	0.29		$	0.03	$	0.56
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	'
	The following table presents common shares related to potentially dilutive securities excluded from the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share as their effect would have been anti-dilutive:
		Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014			October 27, 2013			October 26, 2014		October 27, 2013
	Stock options and restricted stock units	5,633			722			1,070		1,060
	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	3,435			—			3,435		—
	0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 (1)	—			—			—		—
		9,068			722			4,505		1,060
	_______________
	(1) 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share under the treasury stock method since the conversion price exceeded the average market price for the Company's common stock.

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventory, Current	'
	Inventories consist of the following:	As of
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014		April 27, 2014
	Raw materials	$	58,060	$	52,594
	Work-in-process	131,246		126,181
	Finished goods	95,483		80,984
	Total inventories	$	284,789	$	259,759

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Investments [Abstract]	'
Held-To-Maturity Securities	'
	The Company's investments in fixed income securities as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014								April 27, 2014
				Gross Unrealized								Gross Unrealized
	(in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Gains		Losses		Fair Value
	Commercial paper	$	74,936	$	—	$	—	$	74,936	$	89,922	$	—	$	—	$	89,922
	Certificates of deposit	215,542		—		—		215,542		120,000		—		—		120,000
	Total	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922
	Reported as:
	Short-term investments	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922
	Total	$	290,478	$	—	$	—	$	290,478	$	209,922	$	—	$	—	$	209,922

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Convertible Debt	'
	The following table sets forth interest expense information related to the 2033 Notes:
		Three Months Ended			Six Months Ended
	(in thousands, except percentages)	October 26, 2014			October 26, 2014
	Contractual interest expense	$	323		$	646
	Amortization of the debt discount	2,279			4,522
	Amortization of issuance costs	154			308
	Total interest cost	$	2,756		$	5,476
	Effective interest rate on the liability component	4.87		%	4.87		%
	he notes consisted of the following (in thousands):
	Liability component:
	Principal	$	258,750
	Unamortized debt discount	(41,975		)
	Net carrying amount of the liability component	$	216,775
	Carrying amount of the equity component	$	49,648

Warranty_Tables

Warranty (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Product Warranty Liability	'
	Changes in the Company's warranty liability during the following period were as follows:
		Six Months Ended
	(in thousands)	October 26, 2014
	Beginning balance at April 28, 2014	$	5,744
	Additions during the period based on product sold	2,396
	Change in estimates	(854		)
	Settlements and expirations	(1,794		)
	Ending balance at October 26, 2014	$	5,492

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis	'
	The Company's financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014										April 27, 2014
		Carrying		Fair Value								Carrying		Fair Value
	(in thousands)	Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	38	$	38	$	—	$	—	$	38	$	30,169	$	30,169	$	—	$	—	$	30,169
	Commercial paper	74,936		—		74,936		—		74,936		89,922		—		89,922		—		89,922
	Certificates of deposit	215,542		—		215,542		—		215,542		120,000		—		120,000		—		120,000
	Total	$	290,516	$	38	$	290,478	$	—	$	290,516	$	240,091	$	30,169	$	209,922	$	—	$	240,091
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	'
	The Company's financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of October 26, 2014 and April 27, 2014 were as follows:
		October 26, 2014										April 27, 2014
		Carrying		Fair Value								Carrying		Fair Value
	(in thousands)	Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Amount		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	2029 Notes	$	36,665	$	54,993	$	—	$	—	$	54,993	$	40,015	$	104,105	$	—	$	—	$	104,105
	2033 Notes	216,775		235,934		—		—		235,934		212,253		305,307		—		—		305,307
	Total	$	253,440	$	290,927	$	—	$	—	$	290,927	$	252,268	$	409,412	$	—	$	—	$	409,412

Stockholders_Equity_Tables

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Common Stock Issued	'
	The number of shares of common stock issued or becoming vested under the Company's stock compensation plans was as follows:
		Three Months Ended		Six Months Ended
		October 26, 2014	October 27, 2013	October 26, 2014	October 27, 2013
	Employee stock purchase plan	—	—	291,589	340,657
	Exercises of stock options	45,704	312,230	146,082	524,744
	Restricted stock units vesting	94,489	113,177	1,949,612	1,605,406

Basis_of_Presentation_Details

Basis of Presentation (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
	Segments
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Number of reportable segments	1

Net_Income_Loss_per_Share_Sche

Net Income (Loss) per Share - Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
Numerator:	'	'	'	'
Net income (loss) attributable to Finisar Corporation (Numerator for basic net income per share)	($11,362)	$29,965	$2,881	$55,976
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'	'	'
Interest expense on 5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	0	539	0	1,079
Numerator for diluted net income (loss) per share	($11,362)	$30,504	$2,881	$57,055
Denominator:	'	'	'	'
Denominator for basic net income (loss) per share - weighted average shares	99,621	95,941	98,931	95,275
Effect of dilutive securities:	'	'	'	'
Stock options and restricted stock units	0	4,007	3,459	3,748
5.0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2029	0	3,748	0	3,748
Dilutive potential common shares	0	7,755	3,459	7,496
Denominator for diluted net income (loss) per share	99,621	103,696	102,390	102,771
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Finisar Corporation common stockholders:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in dollars per share)	($0.11)	$0.31	$0.03	$0.59
Diluted (in dollars per share)	($0.11)	$0.29	$0.03	$0.56

Net_Income_Loss_per_Share_Sche1

Net Income (Loss) per Share - Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from computation of Earnings Per Share (Details)

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Stock options and restricted stock units

Stock options and restricted stock units

Stock options and restricted stock units

Stock options and restricted stock units

5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029

5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029

5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029

5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

Convertible Debt Securities [Member]

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029

Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.50%

0.50%

5.00%

Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount

9,068

722

4,505

1,060

5,633

722

1,070

1,060

3,435

0

3,435

0

0

[1]

0

[1]

0

0

'

'

'

[1]

Convertible Senior Notes due 2033 were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share under the treasury stock method since the conversion price exceeded the average market price for the Company's common stock.

Inventories_Schedule_of_Invent

Inventories - Schedule of Inventory, Current (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials	$58,060	$52,594
Work-in-process	131,246	126,181
Finished goods	95,483	80,984
Total inventories	$284,789	$259,759

Investments_Details

Investments (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
	companies	companies	Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)	Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)	Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)	Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Investment	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cost Method Investments	$884,000	$884,000	'	'	'	'
Cost Method Investment, Number of Companies	1	1	'	'	'	'
Equity Method Investments	1,700,000	1,200,000	'	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Number of Companies	1	1	'	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	19.90%	'	'	'	'	'
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	'	'	$230,000	$130,000	$430,000	$309,000

Investments_HeldToMaturity_Sec

Investments - Held-To-Maturity Securities (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Apr. 27, 2014
Investment	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	$290,478,000	'	$209,922,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'	0
Fair Value	290,478,000	'	209,922,000
Realized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities, Cost Method Investments, and Other Investments	0	0	'
Short-term Investments	'	'	'
Investment	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	290,478,000	'	209,922,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'	0
Fair Value	290,478,000	'	209,922,000
Commercial Paper	'	'	'
Investment	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	74,936,000	'	89,922,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'	0
Fair Value	74,936,000	'	89,922,000
Certificates of Deposit	'	'	'
Investment	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	215,542,000	'	120,000,000
Gross Unrealized Gains	0	'	0
Gross Unrealized Losses	0	'	0
Fair Value	$215,542,000	'	$120,000,000

Debt_Details

Debt (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended		3 Months Ended				3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 26, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 28, 2014
			5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029	Convertible Debt	Convertible Debt	Other Noncurrent Assets	Additional Paid-in Capital	Subsequent Event [Member]
				0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033	0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033	Convertible Debt	Convertible Debt	5.0% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2029
						0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033	0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033
Debt Instrument	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Principal	'	'	'	'	$258,800,000	'	'	'
Interest Rate	'	'	5.00%	0.50%	0.50%	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price	'	'	'	'	$30.18	'	'	'
Debt Instrument Convertible Carrying Amount Of Liability Component	'	'	'	209,100,000	'	'	'	'
Carrying Amount of Equity Component	'	'	'	49,648,000	'	'	'	'
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Remaining Discount Amortization Period	'	'	'	'49 months	'	'	'	'
Debt Issuance Cost	'	'	'	3,800,000	'	'	'	'
Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net	'	'	'	'	'	3,100,000	'	'
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt	'	'	'	'	'	'	725,000	'
Conversion of Stock, Amount Converted	$3,350,000	$0	$3,400,000	'	'	'	'	'
Conversion of Stock, Shares Issued	'	'	313,814	'	'	'	'	3,434,659

Debt_Liability_and_Equity_Comp

Debt - Liability and Equity Components of 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033 (Details) (Convertible Debt, 0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033, USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Convertible Debt | 0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033	'
Carrying Amount	'
Principal	$258,750
Unamortized debt discount	-41,975
Net Carrying amount of the liability component	216,775
Carrying Amount of Equity Component	$49,648

Debt_Debt_Interest_Expense_for

Debt Debt - Interest Expense for 0.50% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033 (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 26, 2014
			Convertible Debt	Convertible Debt
			0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033	0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033
Debt Instrument	'	'	'	'
Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization	'	'	$323	$646
Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium)	4,522	0	2,279	4,522
Amortization of Financing Costs	'	'	154	308
Interest Expense, Debt	'	'	$2,756	$5,476
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	'	'	4.87%	4.87%

Debt_Phantom_Detail

Debt - Phantom (Detail) (USD $)

6 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 26, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Debt Instrument, Conversion, Option One

Debt Instrument, Conversion, Option Two

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

Convertible Debt

Convertible Debt

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four

Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

0.5% Convertible Senior Notes Due 2033

D

D

Debt Instrument

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization

'

'

'

$323

$646

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Convertible, Threshold Trading Days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20

5

Debt Instrument, Convertible, Threshold Consecutive Trading Days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'30 days

'5 days

Convertible Debt, Conversion Price, Threshold Percentage, Minimum

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

130.00%

98.00%

Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

'

'

Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio

'

'

0.0331301

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium)

4,522

0

'

2,279

4,522

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of Financing Costs

'

'

'

154

308

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Expense, Debt

'

'

'

$2,756

$5,476

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

'

'

'

4.87%

4.87%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warranty_Schedule_of_Product_W

Warranty - Schedule of Product Warranty Liability (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 26, 2014
Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward]	'
Beginning balance at April 28, 2014	$5,744
Additions during the period based on product sold	2,396
Change in estimates	-854
Settlements and expirations	-1,794
Ending balance at October 26, 2014	$5,492

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Assets Measured on a Recurring Basis (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	companies
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Minority Investments, Number of Companies	2	'
Minority investments	$2,547	$2,117
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Carrying Amount	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Total	290,516	240,091
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Carrying Amount | Money Market Funds	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	38	30,169
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Carrying Amount | Commercial Paper	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	74,936	89,922
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Carrying Amount | Certificates of Deposit	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	215,542	120,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Total	290,516	240,091
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value | Money Market Funds	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	38	30,169
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value | Commercial Paper	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	74,936	89,922
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Fair Value | Certificates of Deposit	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	215,542	120,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Fair Value	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Total	38	30,169
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Fair Value | Money Market Funds	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	38	30,169
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Fair Value | Commercial Paper	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1 | Fair Value | Certificates of Deposit	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Fair Value	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Total	290,478	209,922
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Fair Value | Money Market Funds	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Fair Value | Commercial Paper	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	74,936	89,922
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2 | Fair Value | Certificates of Deposit	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	215,542	120,000
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Fair Value	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Total	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Fair Value | Money Market Funds	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Fair Value | Commercial Paper	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3 | Fair Value | Certificates of Deposit	'	'
Financial Assets [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	$0	$0

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru3

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring, USD $)	Oct. 26, 2014	Apr. 27, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Carrying Amount	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Total	$253,440	$252,268
Carrying Amount | 2029 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	36,665	40,015
Carrying Amount | 2033 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	216,775	212,253
Fair Value	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Total	290,927	409,412
Fair Value | 2029 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	54,993	104,105
Fair Value | 2033 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	235,934	305,307
Level 1 | Fair Value	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Total	290,927	409,412
Level 1 | Fair Value | 2029 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	54,993	104,105
Level 1 | Fair Value | 2033 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	235,934	305,307
Level 2 | Fair Value	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Total	0	0
Level 2 | Fair Value | 2029 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	0	0
Level 2 | Fair Value | 2033 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	0	0
Level 3 | Fair Value	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Total	0	0
Level 3 | Fair Value | 2029 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	0	0
Level 3 | Fair Value | 2033 Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument	'	'
Convertible notes	$0	$0

Stockholders_Equity_Schedule_o

Stockholders' Equity - Schedule of Common Stock Issued (Details)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 27, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Employee stock purchase plan	0	0	291,589	340,657
Exercises of stock options	45,704	312,230	146,082	524,744
Restricted stock units vesting	94,489	113,177	1,949,612	1,605,406

Legal_Matters_Details

Legal Matters (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 08, 2011	Feb. 26, 2013	Oct. 26, 2014	Oct. 26, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Earnings Announcements Cases	Thomas Swan Litigation	Thomas Swan Litigation	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
	Pending Litigation	patent		Thomas Swan Litigation
	lawsuit
Loss Contingencies	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number	2	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number	'	4	'	'
Payments for Legal Settlements	'	'	$11	'
Litigation Settlement, Amount	'	'	'	$11

Guarantees_and_Indemnification1

Guarantees and Indemnifications (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Oct. 26, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
Indemnification, Period for Written Notice	'90 days

Related_Party_Transaction_Deta

Related Party Transaction (Details) (Immediate Family Member of Management or Principle Owner, USD $)

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

Oct. 26, 2014

Jul. 27, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Jul. 28, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Jun. 14, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Oct. 26, 2014

Oct. 27, 2013

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four

Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Four

Related Party Transaction

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Related party transaction expense

$33,627

'

$50,506

'

$84,817

$106,078

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from Issuance of Restrcited Stock to Related Party

'

0

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Related Party Transaction Restricted Stock Units Granted to Related Party

'

2,305

'

4,164

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of Restricted Stock Units granted to related party

'

$45,132

'

$66,957

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Related party transaction, vesting rate of Restricted Stock Units

'

'

'

'

'

'

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%

25.00%