Orbcomm (ORBC) 10-Q 4 May 17 2017 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	May 01, 2017
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	ORBC
Entity Registrant Name	ORBCOMM Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1,361,983
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		71,668,045

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 19,955	$ 25,023
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,021 and $1,057, respectively	38,453	31,937
Inventories	23,401	23,217
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	6,418	8,031
Total current assets	88,227	88,208
Satellite network and other equipment, net	214,059	215,841
Goodwill	114,033	114,033
Intangible assets, net	80,031	82,545
Other assets	10,323	5,447
Deferred income taxes	86	80
Total assets	506,759	506,154
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	12,535	12,481
Accrued liabilities	32,678	30,431
Current portion of deferred revenue	7,293	7,414
Total current liabilities	52,506	50,326
Note payable - related party	1,218	1,195
Note payable, net of unamortized deferred issuance costs	147,685	147,458
Deferred revenue, net of current portion	2,888	2,978
Deferred tax liabilities	18,799	18,645
Other liabilities	3,401	3,684
Total liabilities	226,497	224,286
Commitments and contingencies
ORBCOMM Inc. stockholders' equity
Common stock, par value $0.001; 250,000,000 shares authorized; 71,695,802 and 71,111,863 shares issued at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016	72	71
Additional paid-in capital	388,418	386,920
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(887)	(1,089)
Accumulated deficit	(108,292)	(104,949)
Less treasury stock, at cost; 29,990 shares at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016	(96)	(96)
Total ORBCOMM Inc. stockholders' equity	279,579	281,221
Noncontrolling interest	683	647
Total equity	280,262	281,868
Total liabilities and equity	506,759	506,154
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
ORBCOMM Inc. stockholders' equity
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.001; 1,000,000 shares authorized; 36,466 and 36,466 shares issued and outstanding	$ 364	$ 364

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Allowances for doubtful accounts	$ 1,021	$ 1,057
Common stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	250,000,000	250,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	71,695,802	71,111,863
Treasury stock, shares	29,990	29,990
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock, par value	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred Stock, shares issued	36,466	36,466
Preferred Stock, shares outstanding	36,466	36,466

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Revenues:
Service revenues	$ 29,512	$ 26,914
Product sales	22,409	16,646
Total revenues	51,921	43,560
Cost of revenues, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below:
Cost of services	9,569	9,188
Cost of product sales	17,648	11,450
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative	12,241	11,756
Product development	1,588	1,957
Depreciation and amortization	11,022	8,959
Acquisition - related and integration costs	228	364
Loss from operations	(375)	(114)
Other income (expense):
Interest income	118	88
Other income (expense)	5	(190)
Interest expense	(2,426)	(1,699)
Total other expense	(2,303)	(1,801)
Loss before income taxes	(2,678)	(1,915)
Income taxes	623	162
Net loss	(3,301)	(2,077)
Less: Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	42	19
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	(3,343)	(2,096)
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (3,343)	$ (2,096)
Per share information-basic:
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)
Per share information-diluted:
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	71,424	70,700
Diluted	71,424	70,700

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (3,301)	$ (2,077)
Other comprehensive income (loss) - Foreign currency translation adjustments	196	501
Other comprehensive income	196	501
Comprehensive loss	(3,105)	(1,576)
Less: Comprehensive (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(36)	(6)
Comprehensive loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (3,141)	$ (1,582)

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (3,301)	$ (2,077)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Change in allowance for doubtful accounts	(36)	(303)
Change in the fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration	(495)	100
Amortization of the fair value adjustment related to warranty liabilities acquired through acquisitions		(8)
Amortization of deferred financing fees	229	155
Depreciation and amortization	11,022	8,959
Stock-based compensation	1,524	1,386
Foreign exchange (gain) loss	(26)	351
Deferred income taxes	155	203
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	(6,399)	(1,096)
Inventories	(151)	(864)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	1,768	(969)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(3,461)	(877)
Deferred revenue	(229)	(1,178)
Other liabilities	(98)	(118)
Net cash provided by operating activities	502	3,664
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(5,645)	(9,835)
Net cash (used in) investing activities	(5,645)	(9,835)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	75	252
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(5,068)	(5,919)
Beginning of period	25,023	27,077
End of period	19,955	21,158
Cash paid for
Interest	2,194	2,198
Income taxes		138
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Capital expenditures incurred not yet paid	1,391	3,777
Capital expenditure milestone payable incurred not yet paid		5,070
Stock-based compensation related to capital expenditures	$ 131	$ 66

Condensed Consolidated Stateme7

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Series A Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
Beginning balances at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 299,756	$ 357	$ 71	$ 381,659	$ (1,174)	$ (81,424)	$ (96)	$ 363
Beginning balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2015		35,759	70,613,642				29,990
Vesting of restricted stock units, shares			250,859
Stock-based compensation	1,249			1,249
Conversion of preferred stock to common stock		$ (6)		6
Conversion of preferred stock to common stock, shares		(586)	976
Exercise of SARs, shares			9,740
Net income (loss)	(2,077)					(2,096)		19
Foreign currency translation adjustments	501				514			(13)
Ending balances at Mar. 31, 2016	299,429	$ 351	$ 71	382,914	(660)	(83,520)	$ (96)	369
Ending balances, shares at Mar. 31, 2016		35,173	70,875,217				29,990
Beginning balances at Dec. 31, 2016	281,868	$ 364	$ 71	386,920	(1,089)	(104,949)	$ (96)	647
Beginning balances, shares at Dec. 31, 2016		36,466	71,111,863				29,990
Vesting of restricted stock units	1		$ 1
Vesting of restricted stock units, shares			554,469
Stock-based compensation	1,498			1,498
Exercise of SARs, shares			29,470
Net income (loss)	(3,301)					(3,343)		42
Foreign currency translation adjustments	196				202			(6)
Ending balances at Mar. 31, 2017	$ 280,262	$ 364	$ 72	$ 388,418	$ (887)	$ (108,292)	$ (96)	$ 683
Ending balances, shares at Mar. 31, 2017		36,466	71,695,802				29,990

Organization and Business

Organization and Business	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization and Business	1. Organization and Business ORBCOMM Inc. (“ORBCOMM” or the “Company”), a Delaware corporation, is a global provider of Internet of Things (“IoT”) solutions, including network connectivity, devices, device management and web reporting applications. The Company’s IoT products and services are designed to track, monitor, control and enhance security for a variety of assets, such as trailers, trucks, rail cars, sea containers, generators, fluid tanks, marine vessels, diesel or electric powered generators (“gensets”), oil and gas wells, pipeline monitoring equipment, irrigation control systems and utility meters, in industries for transportation & supply chain, heavy equipment, fixed asset monitoring, maritime and government. Additionally, the Company provides satellite Automatic Identification Service (“AIS”) data services to assist in vessel navigation and to improve maritime safety for government and commercial customers worldwide. using multiple network platforms, including The Company’s satellite-based customer solution offerings use small, low power, mobile satellite subscriber communicators for remote asset connectivity, and the Company’s terrestrial-based solutions utilize cellular data modems with subscriber identity modules (“SIMS”). The Company also resells service using the two-way Inmarsat satellite network to provide higher bandwidth, low-latency satellite products and services, leveraging the Company’s IsatDataPro (“IDP”) technology. The Company’s customer solutions provide access to data gathered over these systems via connections to other public or private networks, including the Internet. The Company provides what it believes is the most versatile, leading-edge IoT solutions in the Company’s markets to enable its customers to run their business more efficiently.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Principles	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Principles	2. Summary of Significant Accounting Principles Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to SEC rules. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The accompanying financial statements are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (including normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. The financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and investments in variable interest entities in which the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The portions of majority-owned subsidiaries that the Company does not own are reflected as noncontrolling interests in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Investments Investments in entities over which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence but does not have a controlling interest are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The Company considers several factors in determining whether it has the ability to exercise significant influence with respect to investments, including, but not limited to, direct and indirect ownership level in the voting securities, active participation on the board of directors, approval of operating and budgeting decisions and other participatory and protective rights. Under the equity method, the Company’s proportionate share of the net income or loss of such investee is reflected in the Company’s condensed consolidated results of operations. When the Company does not exercise significant influence over the investee, the investment is accounted for under the cost method. Although the Company owns interests in companies that it accounts for pursuant to the equity method, the investments in those entities had no carrying value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The Company has no guarantees or other funding obligations to those entities. The Company had no equity in or losses of those investees for the three months March 31, 2017 and 2016. Acquisition-related and Integration Costs Acquisition-related and integration costs are expensed as incurred and are presented separately on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. These costs may include professional services expenses and identifiable integration costs directly relating to acquisitions. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The Company has no financial assets or liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, if certain triggering events occur the Company is required to evaluate its non-financial assets for impairment and any resulting asset impairment would require that a non-financial asset be recorded at the fair value. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurement Disclosure,” prioritizes inputs used in measuring fair value into a hierarchy of three levels: Level 1 – unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets; Level 2 – inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3 – unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions that market participants would use in pricing. The carrying value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximated their fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. As of March 31, 2017, the carrying value of the Secured Credit Facilities, as defined below, approximated its fair value as the debt is at variable interest rates. The fair value of the Note payable-related party is deminimus. Concentration of Credit Risk The Company’s customers are primarily commercial organizations. Accounts receivable are generally unsecured. Accounts receivable are due in accordance with payment terms included in contracts negotiated with customers. Amounts due from customers are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company determines its allowance for doubtful accounts by considering a number of factors, including the length of time accounts are past due, the customer’s current ability to pay its obligations to the Company and the condition of the general economy and the industry as a whole. The Company writes-off accounts receivable when they are deemed uncollectible. There were no customers with revenues greater than 10% of the Company’s consolidated total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. There were no customers who comprised greater than 10% of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable as of March 31, 2017. One customer, Caterpillar, Inc., comprised 10.5% of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable as of December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, the Company did not maintain in-orbit insurance coverage for its ORBCOMM Generation 1 (“OG1”) or ORBCOMM Generation 2 (“OG2”) satellites to address the risk of potential systemic anomalies, failures or catastrophic events affecting its satellite constellation. Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, determined on a first-in, first-out basis. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, inventory consisted primarily of finished goods and purchased parts to be utilized by its contract manufacturer totaling $18,030 and $14,531, respectively, and $5,371 and $8,686, respectively, of raw materials, net of inventory obsolescence. The Company reviews inventory quantities on hand and evaluates the realizability of inventories and adjusts the carrying value as necessary based on forecasted product demand. A provision, recorded in cost of product sales on the Company’s condensed consolidated statement of operations, is made for potential losses on slow moving and obsolete inventories when identified. Valuation of Long-lived Assets Property and equipment and other long-lived assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The Company measures recoverability by comparing the carrying amount to the projected cash flows the assets are expected to generate. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that carrying value exceeds fair value. The Company’s satellite constellation and related assets are evaluated as a single asset group whenever facts or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If indicators of impairment are identified, recoverability of long-lived assets is measured by comparing their carrying amount to the projected cash flows the assets are expected to generate. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including the allocation of cash flows to assets or asset groups and, if required, an estimate of fair value for those assets or asset groups. If a satellite were to fail while in-orbit, the resulting loss would be charged to expense in the period it is determined that the satellite is not recoverable. Warranty Costs The Company accrues for one-year warranty coverage on product sales estimated at the time of sale based on historical costs to repair or replace products for customers compared to historical product revenues. The warranty accrual is included in accrued liabilities on the condensed consolidated balance sheet. Refer to “Note 8 – Accrued Liabilities” for more information. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities by one year. As a result, the new standard is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. Early adoption prior to the original effective date is not permitted. The two permitted transition methods under the new standard are the full retrospective method, in which case the standard would be applied to each prior reporting period presented, or the modified retrospective method, in which case the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized at the date of initial application. The Company will adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018 and apply the modified retrospective method. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02 “Leases (Topic 842)” (“ASU 2016-02”), which is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising from a lease for both financing and operating leases, along with additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is in the process of evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, if any. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04 “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment” (“ASU 2017-04”) and is effective beginning with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020. ASU 2017-04 removes Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation. A goodwill impairment will now be the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The adoption of this standard, which will be applied prospectively, is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	3. Acquisitions Skygistics Ltd. On May 26, 2016, pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement entered into on April 11, 2016 among a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, Skygistics Propriety Limited and Satconnect Propriety Limited (the “Skygistics Sellers”), the Company completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Skygistics (PTY) Ltd. (“Skygistics”) for a purchase price of $3,835 and additional contingent consideration of up to $954, subject to certain operational milestones (the “Skygistics Acquisition”). Contingent Consideration Additional consideration is conditionally due to the Skygistics Sellers upon achievement of certain financial milestones through April 2017. The fair value measurement of the contingent consideration obligation is determined using Level 3 unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity based on the Company’s own assumptions. The estimated fair value of the contingent consideration was determined based on the Company’s preliminary estimates using the probability-weighted discounted cash flow approach. The financial milestone for this additional consideration are not expected to be met, and therefore, the Company recorded a reduction of the contingent liability of $519 in selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses in the condensed consolidated statement of operations in the three months ended March 31, 2017. Euroscan Holding B.V. On March 11, 2014, pursuant to the Share Purchase Agreement entered into by the Company and MWL Management B.V., R.Q. Management B.V., WBB GmbH, ING Corporate Investments Participaties B.V. and Euroscan Holding B.V., as sellers (the “Share Purchase Agreement”), the Company completed the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding equity of Euroscan Holding B.V., including, indirectly, its wholly-owned subsidiaries Euroscan B.V., Euroscan GmbH Vertrieb Technischer Geräte, Euroscan Technology Ltd. and Ameriscan, Inc. (collectively, the “Euroscan Group” or “Euroscan”) for an aggregate consideration of (i) $29,163, inclusive of net working capital adjustments and net cash (on a debt free, cash free basis); (ii) issuance of 291,230 shares of the Company’s common stock, valued at $7.70 per share, which reflected the Company’s closing price on the acquisition date; and (iii) additional contingent considerations of up to $6,547 (the “Euroscan Acquisition”). The Euroscan Acquisition allowed the Company to complement its North American operations in IoT by adding a significant distribution channel in Europe and other key geographies where Euroscan has market share. Contingent Consideration Additional consideration is conditionally due to MWL Management B.V. and R.Q. Management B.V. upon achievement of financial and operational milestones through March 2017. The fair value measurement of the contingent consideration obligation is determined using Level 3 unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity based on our own assumptions. The estimated fair value of the contingent consideration was determined based on the Company’s preliminary estimates using the probability-weighted discounted cash flow approach. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company recorded $680 and $655, respectively, in accrued expenses on the condensed consolidated balance sheet in connection with the contingent consideration. Changes in the fair value of the contingent consideration obligations are recorded in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, an expense of $25 and $88 were recorded in SG&A in the condensed consolidated statement of operations for accretion associated with the contingent consideration.

Stock-based Compensation

Stock-based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation	4. Stock-based Compensation On April 20, 2016, the stockholders of the Company approved the ORBCOMM Inc. 2016 Long-Term Incentives Plan (the “2016 LTIP”). The 2016 LTIP replaces the Company’s 2006 Long-Term Incentives Plan (the “2006 LTIP”). The number of shares authorized for delivery under the 2016 LTIP is 6,949,400 shares, including 1,949,400 shares that remained available under the 2006 LTIP as of February 17, 2016, plus any shares previously subject to awards under the 2006 LTIP that are cancelled, forfeited or lapse unexercised since that date. As of March 31, 2017, there were 7,115,859 shares available for grant under the 2016 LTIP. Total stock-based compensation recorded by the Company for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 was $1,524 and $1,386, respectively. Total capitalized stock-based compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 was $131 and $66, respectively. The following table summarizes the components of stock-based compensation expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Cost of services $ 159 $ 175 Cost of product sales 23 12 Selling, general and administrative 1,272 1,078 Product development 70 121 Total $ 1,524 $ 1,386 As of March 31, 2017, the Company had unrecognized compensation costs for stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) totaling $5,059. Time-Based Stock Appreciation Rights A summary of the Company’s time-based SARs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Remaining Intrinsic Number of Average Contractual Value Shares Exercise Price Term (years) (In thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2017 3,789,394 $ 5.23 Granted 90,000 8.58 Exercised (46,500 ) 4.18 Forfeited or expired — — Outstanding at March 31, 2017 3,832,894 $ 5.25 4.36 $ 18,389 Exercisable at March 31, 2017 3,706,527 $ 5.17 4.12 $ 18,448 Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2017 3,832,894 $ 5.25 4.36 $ 18,389 For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $154 and $94, respectively, relating to these SARs. As of March 31, 2017, $745 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to these SARs is expected to be recognized through August 2018. The intrinsic value of the time-based SARs exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $241. Performance-Based Stock Appreciation Rights A summary of the Company’s performance-based SARs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Remaining Intrinsic Number of Average Contractual Value Shares Exercise Price Term (years) (In thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2017 589,424 $ 6.06 Granted — — Exercised (6,800 ) 3.06 Forfeited or expired (44,611 ) 11.00 Outstanding at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262 Exercisable at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262 Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262 For the three months ended March 31 2016, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $2 relating to these SARs. As of March 31, 2017, there is no unrecognized compensation cost related to these SARs expected to be recognized. The intrinsic value of the performance-based SARs exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2017 was $41. The fair value of each time-based and performance-based SAR award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the assumptions described below. For the periods indicated, the expected volatility was based on the Company’s historical volatility over the expected terms of the SAR awards. Estimated forfeitures were based on voluntary and involuntary termination behavior, as well as analysis of actual forfeitures. The risk-free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve at the time of the grant over the expected term of the SAR grants. The Company did not grant time-based or performance-based SARs during the three months ended March 31, 2016. Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Risk-free interest rate 2.10% Expected life (years) 6.0 Estimated volatility factor 59.85% Expected dividends None Time-based Restricted Stock Units A summary of the Company’s time-based RSUs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance at January 1, 2017 691,952 $ 8.28 Granted 47,370 8.59 Vested (342,084 ) 6.90 Forfeited or expired (1,556 ) 8.03 Balance at March 31, 2017 395,682 $ 9.52 For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $700 and $562, respectively, related to these RSUs. As of March 31, 2017, $2,844 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to these RSUs is expected to be recognized through September 2019. Performance-based Restricted Stock Units A summary of the Company’s performance-based RSUs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance at January 1, 2017 473,608 $ 7.80 Granted — — Vested (214,190 ) 6.78 Forfeited or expired (37,080 ) 6.83 Balance at March 31, 2017 222,338 $ 8.94 For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $440 and $525, respectively, related to these RSUs. As of March 31, 2017, $1,470 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to these RSUs is expected to be recognized through March 2018. The fair values of the time-based and performance-based RSU awards are based upon the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Performance Units The Company grants market performance units (“MPUs”) to its senior executives based on stock price performance over a three-year period measured on December 31 of each year in the performance period. The MPUs will vest at the end of each year in the performance period only if the Company satisfies the stock price performance targets and continued employment by the senior executives through the dates the Compensation Committee has determined that the targets have been achieved. The value of the MPUs that will be earned each year ranges up to 15% of each of the senior executives’ annual base salaries depending on the Company’s stock price performance target for that year. The value of the MPUs can be paid in either cash or common stock or a combination of cash and stock at the Company’s option. The MPUs are classified as a liability and are revalued at the end of each reporting period based on the fair value of the awards over a three-year period. As the MPUs contain both a performance and service condition, the MPUs have been treated as a series of three separate awards, or tranches, for purposes of recognizing stock-based compensation expense. The Company recognizes stock-based compensation expense on a tranche-by-tranche basis over the requisite service period for that specific tranche. The Company estimated the fair value of the MPUs using a Monte Carlo Simulation Model that used the following assumptions: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 0.99% to 1.44% 0.51% to 0.83% Estimated volatility factor 30.0% 35.0% to 37.0% Expected dividends None None For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $184 and $203, respectively, relating to these MPUs. As of March 31, 2017, the Company recorded $352 and $91 in accrued expenses and other non-current liabilities, respectively, in its condensed consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2016, the Company recorded $715 and $260 in accrued expenses and other non-current liabilities, respectively, in its condensed consolidated balance sheet. Employee Stock Purchase Plan The Company’s Board of Directors adopted the ORBCOMM Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) on February 16, 2016 and the Company’s shareholders approved the ESPP on April 20, 2016. Under the terms of the ESPP, 5,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock are available for issuance, and eligible employees may have up to 10% of their gross pay deducted from their payroll up to a maximum of $25 per year to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock at a discount of up to 15% of the common stock’s fair market value, subject to certain conditions and limitations. For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company recorded stock-based compensation expense of $46 relating to the ESPP.

Net Income (Loss) Attributable

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders	5. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders The Company accounts for earnings per share (“EPS”) in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 260, “Earnings Per Share” (“ASC 260”) and related guidance, which requires two calculations of EPS to be disclosed: basic and diluted. The numerator in calculating basic and diluted EPS is an amount equal to the net income (loss) attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders for the periods presented. The denominator in calculating basic EPS is the weighted-average shares outstanding for the respective periods. The denominator in calculating diluted EPS is the weighted-average shares outstanding, plus the dilutive effect of unvested SAR and RSU grants and shares of Series A convertible preferred stock for the respective periods. The following sets forth the basic and diluted calculations of EPS for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 ) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic number of common shares outstanding 71,424 70,700 Dilutive effect of unvested SARs and RSUs and shares of Series A convertible preferred stock — — Diluted number of common shares outstanding 71,424 70,700 Earnings per share: Basic $ (0.05 ) $ (0.03 ) Diluted $ (0.05 ) $ (0.03 ) The computation of net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 is as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 ) Preferred stock dividends on Series A convertible preferred stock — — Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 )

Satellite Network and Other Equ

Satellite Network and Other Equipment	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Satellite Network and Other Equipment	6. Satellite Network and Other Equipment Satellite network and other equipment consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Land $ 381 $ 381 Satellite network 232,228 231,782 Capitalized software 36,056 30,758 Computer hardware 4,767 4,707 Other 7,624 7,522 Assets under construction 11,888 11,284 292,944 286,434 Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (78,885 ) (70,593 ) $ 214,059 $ 215,841 During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company capitalized internal costs attributable to the design, development and enhancements of the Company’s products and services in the amount of $3,097 and $2,188, respectively. Depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 was $8,330 and $5,431, respectively, including amortization of internal-use software of $1,351 and $850, respectively. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, 65% and 67% of depreciation and amortization expense, respectively, relate to cost of services and 8% and 10%, respectively, relate to cost of product sales, as these assets support the Company’s revenue generating activities. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, assets under construction primarily consist of costs associated with acquiring, developing and testing software and hardware for internal and external use that have not yet been placed into service. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, the Company recorded an impairment loss on one of its leased AIS satellites. The impairment loss of $466 was determined based on the net carrying value of the asset at the time of the impairment and was recorded in depreciation and amortization in the condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2016. In addition, the Company decreased satellite network and other equipment, net and the associated accumulated depreciation on the condensed consolidated balance sheet by $2,374 and $1,908, respectively. In August 2016, the Company lost communication with one of its OG2 satellites launched on July 14, 2014. The Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $10,680 to write-off the net book value of the satellite. In addition, the Company decreased satellite network and other equipment by $13,474 and associated accumulated depreciation by $2,794 to remove the asset as of September 30, 2016. In December 2016, the Company lost communication with one of its OG1 Plane D satellites. In the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company removed $137 from satellite network and accumulated depreciation, respectively, representing the fully depreciated value of the satellite.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	7. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of an acquired business over the estimated fair values of the underlying net tangible and intangible assets. Goodwill consisted of the following: Amount Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 114,033 Additions through acquisitions — Other measurement period adjustments — Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 114,033 Goodwill is allocated to the Company’s one reportable segment, which is its only reporting unit. The Company’s intangible assets consisted of the following: March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Useful life Accumulated Accumulated (years) Cost amortization Net Cost amortization Net Customer lists 5-14 $ 91,757 $ (22,214 ) $ 69,543 $ 91,757 $ (20,026 ) $ 71,731 Patents and technology 5-10 16,734 (6,428 ) 10,306 16,556 (5,990 ) 10,566 Trade names and trademarks 1-2 2,885 (2,703 ) 182 2,885 (2,637 ) 248 $ 111,376 $ (31,345 ) $ 80,031 $ 111,198 $ (28,653 ) $ 82,545 The weighted-average amortization period for the intangible assets is 10.1 years. The weighted-average amortization period for customer lists, patents and technology and trade names and trademarks is 10.5, 9.2 and 1.2 years, respectively. Amortization expense was $2,692 and $3,062 for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Estimated annual amortization expense for intangible assets subsequent to March 31, 2017 is as follows: Amount 2017 (remaining) $ 8,071 2018 10,508 2019 10,472 2020 10,189 2021 9,727 2022 9,271 Thereafter 21,793 $ 80,031

Accrued Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	8. Accrued Liabilities The Company’s accrued liabilities consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Accrued compensation and benefits $ 8,920 $ 7,456 Warranty 2,239 1,842 Corporate income tax payable 499 453 Contingent consideration amount 680 1,174 Accrued satellite network and other equipment 708 497 Accrued inventory purchases 919 4,292 OG2 satellite milestone payable 4,609 4,609 Accrued interest expense 1,009 1,031 Accrued financing fees 4,994 — Accrued airtime charges 982 994 Other accrued expenses 7,119 8,083 $ 32,678 $ 30,431 For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, changes in accrued warranty obligations consisted of the following: March 31, 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 1,842 $ 2,322 Amortization of fair value adjustment of warranty liabilities acquired through acquisitions — (8 ) Reduction of warranty liabilities assumed in connection with acquisitions (119 ) (29 ) Warranty expense 530 149 Warranty charges (14 ) (293 ) Ending balance $ 2,239 $ 2,141

Deferred Revenues

Deferred Revenues	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]
Deferred Revenues	9. Deferred Revenues Deferred revenues consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Service activation fees $ 7,326 $ 7,594 Prepaid services 2,839 2,777 Prepaid product revenues — — Extended warranty revenues 16 21 10,181 10,392 Less current portion (7,293 ) (7,414 ) Long-term portion $ 2,888 $ 2,978

Note Payable-Related Party

Note Payable-Related Party	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Note Payable-Related Party	10. Note Payable-Related Party In connection with the acquisition of a majority interest in Satcom International Group plc. in 2005, the Company recorded an indebtedness to OHB Technology A.G. (formerly known as OHB Teledata A.G.), a stockholder of the Company. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the principal balance of the note payable was €1,138 and it had a carrying value of $1,218 and $1,195, respectively. The carrying value was based on the note’s estimated fair value at the time of acquisition. The difference between the carrying value and principal balance was being amortized to interest expense over the estimated life of the note of six years which ended in September 30, 2011. This note does not bear interest and has no fixed repayment term. Repayment will be made from the distribution profits, as defined in the note agreement, of ORBCOMM Europe LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The note has been classified as long-term and the Company does not expect any repayments to be required prior to March 31, 2018.

Note Payable

Note Payable	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Note Payable	11. Note Payable Secured Credit Facilities On September 30, 2014, the Company entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with Macquarie CAF LLC (“Macquarie” or the “Lender”) in order to refinance the Company’s $45,000 9.5% per annum Senior Notes (“Senior Notes”). Pursuant to the Credit Agreement, the Lender provided secured credit facilities (the “Secured Credit Facilities”) in an aggregate amount of $160,000 comprised of (i) a term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $70,000 (the “Initial Term Loan Facility”); (ii) a $10,000 revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”); (iii) a term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $10,000 (the “Term B2 Facility”), the proceeds of which were drawn and used on January 16, 2015 to partially finance the InSync Acquisition; and (iv) a term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $70,000 (the “Term B3 Facility”), the proceeds of which were drawn on December 30, 2014 and used on January 1, 2015 to partially finance the SkyWave Acquisition. Proceeds of the Initial Term Loan Facility and Revolving Credit Facility were funded on October 10, 2014 and were used to repay in full the Company’s Senior Notes and pay certain related fees, expenses and accrued interest, as well as for general corporate purposes. The Secured Credit Facilities mature five years after the initial fund date of the Initial Term Loan Facility (the “Maturity Date”), but are subject to mandatory prepayments in certain circumstances. The Secured Credit Facilities bear interest, at the Company’s election, of a per annum rate equal to either (a) a base rate plus 3.75% or (b) LIBOR plus 4.75%, with a LIBOR floor of 1.00%. The Secured Credit Facilities will be secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ assets. Subject to the terms set forth in the Credit Agreement, the Company may make optional prepayments on the Secured Credit Facilities at any time prior to the Maturity Date. The remaining principal balance is due on the Maturity Date. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations and warranties, conditions to funding, covenants and events of default. The covenants set forth in the Credit Agreement include, among other things, prohibitions on the Company and its subsidiaries against incurring certain indebtedness and investments (other than permitted acquisitions and other exceptions as specified therein), providing certain guarantees and incurring certain liens. In addition, the Credit Agreement includes a leverage ratio and consolidated liquidity covenant, whereby the Company is permitted to have a maximum consolidated leverage ratio as of the last day of any fiscal quarter of up to 5.00 to 1.00 and a minimum consolidated liquidity of $7,500 as of the last day of any fiscal quarter. The Credit Agreement provides for certain events of default, the occurrence of which could result in the acceleration of the Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement. In connection with entering into the Credit Agreement, and the subsequent funding of the Initial Term Loan Facility, Revolving Credit Facility, Term B2 Facility and the Term B3 Facility, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of approximately $4,481. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, amortization of the debt issuance costs was $229 and $227, respectively. The Company recorded charges of $2,426 to interest expense on its statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017, related to interest expense and amortization of debt issuance costs associated with the Initial Term Loan Facility, the Term B2 and the Term B3 Facilities. At March 31, 2017, no amounts were outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility. The net availability under the Revolving Credit Facility was $10,000 as of March 31, 2017. As of March 31, 2017, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants under the Credit Agreement.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	12. Stockholders’ Equity Preferred stock The Company currently has 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock authorized. Series A convertible preferred stock During the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company did not issue dividends of Series A convertible preferred stock to the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock. As of March 31, 2017, dividends in arrears were $8. Common Stock As of March 31, 2017, the Company has reserved 16,846,151 shares of common stock for future issuances related to employee stock compensation plans.

Segment Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	13. Segment Information The Company operates in one reportable segment, IoT services. Other than satellites in orbit, goodwill and intangible assets, long-lived assets outside of the United States are not significant. The Company’s foreign exchange exposure is limited as approximately 84% of the Company’s consolidated revenue is collected in US dollars. The following table summarizes revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region in which the customer is located. Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 United States 65 % 60 % South America 10 % 12 % Japan 3 % 5 % Europe 16 % 20 % Other 6 % 3 % 100 % 100 %

Income taxes

Income taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	14. Income taxes For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Company’s income tax expense was $623, compared to $162 for the prior year period. The change in the income tax provision for the three months ended March 31, 2017 primarily related to a change in the geographical mix of income which increased taxable non-U.S. earnings before income taxes when compared to the prior year period. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company maintained a valuation allowance against its net deferred tax assets primarily attributable to operations in the United States, as the realization of such assets was not considered more likely than not. There were no changes to the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits during the three months ended March 31, 2017. The Company does not expect any significant changes to its unrecognized tax positions during the next twelve months. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. No interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions were recognized during the three months ended March 31, 2017.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	15. Commitments and Contingencies Legal Proceedings ORBCOMM v. CalAmp Corp On April 7, 2016, the Company filed a complaint against defendant CalAmp Corp. (“CalAmp”) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia alleging infringement of five patents, seeking compensatory damages, treble damages, and an injunction. On May 27, 2016, CalAmp filed a motion to dismiss the Company’s claims on the basis, inter alia, that the Company’s patents are directed at ineligible subject matter and are therefore invalid under 35 U.S.C. § 101. On July 22, 2016, the court denied CalAmp’s motion; however, CalAmp filed a motion for reconsideration of its motion to dismiss. On October 19, 2016, the court denied CalAmp’s motion for reconsideration with respect to four of the five patent in suits and granted CalAmp’s motion to invalidate one of the Company’s patents in-suit as an unpatentable abstract idea. On July 18, 2016, CalAmp filed its answer to the Company’s complaint and counterclaim for (1) declaratory judgment of unenforceability of ORBCOMM’s patents in-suit; (2) inequitable conduct related to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office action to correct one of the patents in-suit; and (3) an award of legal fees to CalAmp. On January 25, 2017, the court ruled on the disputed claim construction issues with respect to the remaining patent in-suit, in which it ruled that the claim term “wireless network” is limited to wireless pager networks. While this claim construction resulted in a stipulation of non-infringement, the Company believes this claim construction to be incorrect and, prior to the global settlement described below, was in the process of filing an appeal which would have requested that this claim construction ruling be reviewed on a de novo basis. Each of the Company and CalAmp filed motions for summary judgment with respect to CalAmp’s counterclaim for inequitable conduct related to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office action to correct the one remaining patent-in-suit. CalAmp’s motion requested summary judgment finding inequitable conduct rendering the patent unenforceable and providing a basis to seek an award of its legal fees. The Company’s motion requested summary judgment to dismiss such counterclaim. CalAmp Wireless Networks Corporation v. ORBCOMM Inc On October 26, 2016, a patent infringement lawsuit was filed against the Company by CalAmp Wireless Networks Corporation (“CalAmp Wireless”) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. CalAmp Wireless alleged that certain of the Company’s modems, devices and geofencing systems for tracking and monitoring vehicles, machinery, and other assets infringe on two patents asserted by CalAmp Wireless. CalAmp Wireless did not make a specific damages claim, but sought compensatory damages, treble damages, and equitable relief. On February 9, 2017, the court invalidated the majority of the claims in one of the two patents in-suit brought by CalAmp Wireless. On April 24, 2017, the Company and CalAmp Wireless entered into a Confidential Settlement, General Release, and License Agreement (the “CalAmp Settlement Agreement”). The CalAmp Settlement Agreement resolves both pending litigation matters between the parties and provides that each of the Company and CalAmp Wireless grant the other royalty free licenses and covenants not to sue for the patents-in-suit described above, as well as general releases. Neither party made a settlement payment to the other party. Each of the Company and CalAmp will bear its own costs and fees associated with the prior litigation. In addition to the foregoing matters, from time to time, the Company is involved in various litigation claims or matters involving ordinary and routine claims incidental to its business. While the outcome of any such claims or litigation cannot be predicted with certainty, management currently believes that the outcome of these proceedings, either individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or financial condition. OG2 Satellite Insurance In April 2014, the Company obtained launch and one year from launch in-orbit insurance for the OG2 satellite program. For the first launch of six satellites, the Company obtained (i) a maximum total of $66,000 of launch plus one year in-orbit insurance coverage; and (ii) $22,000 of launch vehicle flight only insurance coverage (“Launch One”). The total premium cost for Launch One was $9,953. For the second launch of 11 satellites, the Company obtained (i) a maximum total of $120,000 of launch plus one year in-orbit insurance coverage; and (ii) $22,000 of launch vehicle flight only insurance coverage (“Launch Two”). The total premium cost for Launch Two was $16,454. In April 2014, the Company paid the total premium for Launch One and 5% of the total premium for Launch Two, with the balance of the premium cost for Launch Two paid in December 2015. The majority of the premium payments are recorded as satellite network and other equipment, net in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. The policy had a three satellite deductible across both missions under the launch plus one-year insurance coverage whereby claims are payable in excess of the first three satellites in the aggregate for both Launch One and Launch Two combined that are total losses or constructive total losses during the one-year policy period. The policy is also subject to specified exclusions and material change limitations customary in the industry. These exclusions include losses resulting from war, anti-satellite devices, insurrection, terrorist acts, government confiscation, radioactive contamination, electromagnetic interference, loss of revenue and third party liability. On July 14, 2015, the Company obtained an additional one year in-orbit insurance for the five Launch One OG2 satellites for a maximum total of $40,000. The additional in-orbit coverage took effect on July 15, 2015, following the end of the coverage period for the initial launch and one year in-orbit insurance for Launch One. This additional policy contains a one satellite deductible across the five in-orbit OG2 satellites whereby claims are payable in excess of the first satellite that is a total loss or constructive total loss. The policy is also subject to a specific exclusion for losses that have resulted from an anomaly with the same signatures as the initial OG2 satellite loss. There are other specified exclusions and material change limitations customary in the industry which include losses resulting from war, antisatellite devices, insurrection, terrorist acts, government confiscation, radioactive contamination, electromagnetic interference, loss of revenue and third party liability. On July 15, 2016, the Company extended the in-orbit insurance policy for the five Launch One OG2 satellites through December 21, 2016, under the same terms, for an additional premium of $179. The Company did not renew this insurance policy after its expiration on December 21, 2016. Airtime credits In 2001, in connection with the organization of ORBCOMM Europe and the reorganization of the ORBCOMM business in Europe, the Company agreed to grant certain country representatives in Europe approximately $3,736 in airtime credits. The Company has not recorded the airtime credits as a liability for the following reasons: (i) the Company has no obligation to pay the unused airtime credits if they are not utilized; and (ii) the airtime credits are earned by the country representatives only when the Company generates revenue from the country representatives. The airtime credits have no expiration date. Accordingly, the Company is recording airtime credits as services are rendered and these airtime credits are recorded net of revenues from the country representatives. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, airtime credits used totaled approximately $7 and $7, respectively. As of March 31, 2017 and 2016, unused credits granted by the Company were approximately $2,002 and $2,031, respectively.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	16. Subsequent Events On April 10, 2017, the Company issued $250,000 aggregate principal amount of 8.0% senior secured notes due 2024 (the “Senior Secured Notes”). The Senior Secured Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of April 10, 2017, among the Company, certain of its domestic subsidiaries party thereto (the “Guarantors”) and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee and collateral agent (the “Indenture”). The Senior Secured Notes are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior secured basis by the Guarantors, and are secured on a first priority basis by (i) pledges of capital stock of certain of the Company’s directly and indirectly owned subsidiaries; and (ii) substantially all of the other property and assets of the Company and the Guarantors, to the extent a first priority security interest is able to be granted or perfected therein, and subject, in all cases, to certain specified exceptions. Interest payments are due on the Senior Secured Notes semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 beginning October 1, 2017. The Company will have the option to redeem some or all of the Senior Secured Notes at any time on or after April 1, 2020, at redemption prices set forth in the Indenture plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. The Company will also have the option to redeem some or all of the Senior Secured Notes at any time before April 1, 2020 at a redemption price of 100% of the principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes to be redeemed, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. In addition, at any time before April 1, 2020, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption, with the proceeds from certain equity issuances. The Indenture contains covenants that, among other things, limit the Company’s and its restricted subsidiaries’ ability to: (i) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; (ii) pay dividends, make other distributions or repurchase or redeem capital stock; (iii) prepay, redeem or repurchase certain indebtedness; (iv) make loans and investments; (v) sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of assets; (vi) incur or permit to exist certain liens; (vii) enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates; (viii) enter into agreements restricting the Company’s subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends; and (ix) consolidate, amalgamate, merge or sell all or substantially all of their assets; subject, in all cases, to certain specified exceptions. Such limitations have various exceptions and baskets as set forth in the Indenture, including the incurrence by the Company and its restricted subsidiaries of indebtedness under potential new credit facilities in the aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed $50,000. Upon certain change of control events, holders of the Senior Secured Notes will have the right to require the Company to make an offer to purchase each holder’s Senior Secured Notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the Senior Secured Notes to be repurchased, plus any accrued and unpaid interest to the repurchase date. Termination of Secured Credit Facilities On April 10, 2017, a portion of the proceeds of the Senior Secured Notes was used to repay in full the Company’s outstanding obligations under, and to terminate the Company’s existing $150,000 outstanding credit facilities incurred pursuant to, the Credit Agreement, resulting in an early termination penalty of $1,500 and an additional expense associated with the remaining unamortized debt issuance cost, all of which will be reflected in the second quarter of 2017.

Summary of Significant Accoun24

Summary of Significant Accounting Principles (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to SEC rules. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The accompanying financial statements are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (including normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows for the periods presented. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. The financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries, and investments in variable interest entities in which the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The portions of majority-owned subsidiaries that the Company does not own are reflected as noncontrolling interests in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
Investments	Investments Investments in entities over which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence but does not have a controlling interest are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The Company considers several factors in determining whether it has the ability to exercise significant influence with respect to investments, including, but not limited to, direct and indirect ownership level in the voting securities, active participation on the board of directors, approval of operating and budgeting decisions and other participatory and protective rights. Under the equity method, the Company’s proportionate share of the net income or loss of such investee is reflected in the Company’s condensed consolidated results of operations. When the Company does not exercise significant influence over the investee, the investment is accounted for under the cost method. Although the Company owns interests in companies that it accounts for pursuant to the equity method, the investments in those entities had no carrying value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. The Company has no guarantees or other funding obligations to those entities. The Company had no equity in or losses of those investees for the three months March 31, 2017 and 2016.
Acquisition-related and Integration Costs	Acquisition-related and Integration Costs Acquisition-related and integration costs are expensed as incurred and are presented separately on the condensed consolidated statement of operations. These costs may include professional services expenses and identifiable integration costs directly relating to acquisitions.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The Company has no financial assets or liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, if certain triggering events occur the Company is required to evaluate its non-financial assets for impairment and any resulting asset impairment would require that a non-financial asset be recorded at the fair value. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 820 “Fair Value Measurement Disclosure,” prioritizes inputs used in measuring fair value into a hierarchy of three levels: Level 1 – unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets; Level 2 – inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3 – unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions that market participants would use in pricing. The carrying value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximated their fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. As of March 31, 2017, the carrying value of the Secured Credit Facilities, as defined below, approximated its fair value as the debt is at variable interest rates. The fair value of the Note payable-related party is deminimus.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk The Company’s customers are primarily commercial organizations. Accounts receivable are generally unsecured. Accounts receivable are due in accordance with payment terms included in contracts negotiated with customers. Amounts due from customers are stated net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company determines its allowance for doubtful accounts by considering a number of factors, including the length of time accounts are past due, the customer’s current ability to pay its obligations to the Company and the condition of the general economy and the industry as a whole. The Company writes-off accounts receivable when they are deemed uncollectible. There were no customers with revenues greater than 10% of the Company’s consolidated total revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. There were no customers who comprised greater than 10% of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable as of March 31, 2017. One customer, Caterpillar, Inc., comprised 10.5% of the Company’s consolidated accounts receivable as of December 31, 2016. As of March 31, 2017, the Company did not maintain in-orbit insurance coverage for its ORBCOMM Generation 1 (“OG1”) or ORBCOMM Generation 2 (“OG2”) satellites to address the risk of potential systemic anomalies, failures or catastrophic events affecting its satellite constellation.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, determined on a first-in, first-out basis. At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, inventory consisted primarily of finished goods and purchased parts to be utilized by its contract manufacturer totaling $18,030 and $14,531, respectively, and $5,371 and $8,686, respectively, of raw materials, net of inventory obsolescence. The Company reviews inventory quantities on hand and evaluates the realizability of inventories and adjusts the carrying value as necessary based on forecasted product demand. A provision, recorded in cost of product sales on the Company’s condensed consolidated statement of operations, is made for potential losses on slow moving and obsolete inventories when identified.
Valuation of Long-lived Assets	Valuation of Long-lived Assets Property and equipment and other long-lived assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. The Company measures recoverability by comparing the carrying amount to the projected cash flows the assets are expected to generate. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that carrying value exceeds fair value. The Company’s satellite constellation and related assets are evaluated as a single asset group whenever facts or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If indicators of impairment are identified, recoverability of long-lived assets is measured by comparing their carrying amount to the projected cash flows the assets are expected to generate. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires the use of significant estimates and assumptions, including the allocation of cash flows to assets or asset groups and, if required, an estimate of fair value for those assets or asset groups. If a satellite were to fail while in-orbit, the resulting loss would be charged to expense in the period it is determined that the satellite is not recoverable.
Warranty Costs	Warranty Costs The Company accrues for one-year warranty coverage on product sales estimated at the time of sale based on historical costs to repair or replace products for customers compared to historical product revenues. The warranty accrual is included in accrued liabilities on the condensed consolidated balance sheet. Refer to “Note 8 – Accrued Liabilities” for more information.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”), which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. ASU 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities by one year. As a result, the new standard is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. Early adoption prior to the original effective date is not permitted. The two permitted transition methods under the new standard are the full retrospective method, in which case the standard would be applied to each prior reporting period presented, or the modified retrospective method, in which case the cumulative effect of applying the standard would be recognized at the date of initial application. The Company will adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018 and apply the modified retrospective method. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02 “Leases (Topic 842)” (“ASU 2016-02”), which is effective for the fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. ASU 2016-02 requires an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising from a lease for both financing and operating leases, along with additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is in the process of evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, if any. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04 “Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment” (“ASU 2017-04”) and is effective beginning with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020. ASU 2017-04 removes Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires a hypothetical purchase price allocation. A goodwill impairment will now be the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The adoption of this standard, which will be applied prospectively, is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Stock-based Compensation (Table

Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Summary Components of Stock-Based Compensation Expense	The following table summarizes the components of stock-based compensation expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Cost of services $ 159 $ 175 Cost of product sales 23 12 Selling, general and administrative 1,272 1,078 Product development 70 121 Total $ 1,524 $ 1,386
Time-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Summary of Stock Appreciation Rights	A summary of the Company’s time-based SARs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Remaining Intrinsic Number of Average Contractual Value Shares Exercise Price Term (years) (In thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2017 3,789,394 $ 5.23 Granted 90,000 8.58 Exercised (46,500 ) 4.18 Forfeited or expired — — Outstanding at March 31, 2017 3,832,894 $ 5.25 4.36 $ 18,389 Exercisable at March 31, 2017 3,706,527 $ 5.17 4.12 $ 18,448 Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2017 3,832,894 $ 5.25 4.36 $ 18,389
Performance-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Summary of Stock Appreciation Rights	A summary of the Company’s performance-based SARs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Weighted- Average Aggregate Weighted- Remaining Intrinsic Number of Average Contractual Value Shares Exercise Price Term (years) (In thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2017 589,424 $ 6.06 Granted — — Exercised (6,800 ) 3.06 Forfeited or expired (44,611 ) 11.00 Outstanding at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262 Exercisable at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262 Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2017 538,013 $ 5.85 4.46 $ 3,262
Fair Value of Stock Appreciation Rights Estimated	The fair value of each time-based and performance-based SAR award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the assumptions described below. For the periods indicated, the expected volatility was based on the Company’s historical volatility over the expected terms of the SAR awards. Estimated forfeitures were based on voluntary and involuntary termination behavior, as well as analysis of actual forfeitures. The risk-free interest rate was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve at the time of the grant over the expected term of the SAR grants. The Company did not grant time-based or performance-based SARs during the three months ended March 31, 2016. Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Risk-free interest rate 2.10% Expected life (years) 6.0 Estimated volatility factor 59.85% Expected dividends None
Time-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Summary of Restricted Stock Units	A summary of the Company’s time-based RSUs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance at January 1, 2017 691,952 $ 8.28 Granted 47,370 8.59 Vested (342,084 ) 6.90 Forfeited or expired (1,556 ) 8.03 Balance at March 31, 2017 395,682 $ 9.52
Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Summary of Restricted Stock Units	A summary of the Company’s performance-based RSUs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 is as follows: Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Balance at January 1, 2017 473,608 $ 7.80 Granted — — Vested (214,190 ) 6.78 Forfeited or expired (37,080 ) 6.83 Balance at March 31, 2017 222,338 $ 8.94
Performance Units [Member]
Fair Value of Stock Appreciation Rights Estimated	As the MPUs contain both a performance and service condition, the MPUs have been treated as a series of three separate awards, or tranches, for purposes of recognizing stock-based compensation expense. The Company recognizes stock-based compensation expense on a tranche-by-tranche basis over the requisite service period for that specific tranche. The Company estimated the fair value of the MPUs using a Monte Carlo Simulation Model that used the following assumptions: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Risk-free interest rate 0.99% to 1.44% 0.51% to 0.83% Estimated volatility factor 30.0% 35.0% to 37.0% Expected dividends None None

Net Income (Loss) Attributabl26

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Summary of Basic and Diluted Calculations of EPS	The following sets forth the basic and diluted calculations of EPS for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 ) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Basic number of common shares outstanding 71,424 70,700 Dilutive effect of unvested SARs and RSUs and shares of Series A convertible preferred stock — — Diluted number of common shares outstanding 71,424 70,700 Earnings per share: Basic $ (0.05 ) $ (0.03 ) Diluted $ (0.05 ) $ (0.03 )
Summary of Net Loss Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders	The computation of net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 is as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 ) Preferred stock dividends on Series A convertible preferred stock — — Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders $ (3,343 ) $ (2,096 )

Satellite Network and Other E27

Satellite Network and Other Equipment (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Summary of Satellite Network and Other Equipment	Satellite network and other equipment consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Land $ 381 $ 381 Satellite network 232,228 231,782 Capitalized software 36,056 30,758 Computer hardware 4,767 4,707 Other 7,624 7,522 Assets under construction 11,888 11,284 292,944 286,434 Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (78,885 ) (70,593 ) $ 214,059 $ 215,841

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Goodwill	Goodwill consisted of the following: Amount Balance at January 1, 2017 $ 114,033 Additions through acquisitions — Other measurement period adjustments — Balance at March 31, 2017 $ 114,033
Components of Intangible Assets	The Company’s intangible assets consisted of the following: March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 Useful life Accumulated Accumulated (years) Cost amortization Net Cost amortization Net Customer lists 5-14 $ 91,757 $ (22,214 ) $ 69,543 $ 91,757 $ (20,026 ) $ 71,731 Patents and technology 5-10 16,734 (6,428 ) 10,306 16,556 (5,990 ) 10,566 Trade names and trademarks 1-2 2,885 (2,703 ) 182 2,885 (2,637 ) 248 $ 111,376 $ (31,345 ) $ 80,031 $ 111,198 $ (28,653 ) $ 82,545
Estimated Annual Amortization Expense for Intangible Assets	Estimated annual amortization expense for intangible assets subsequent to March 31, 2017 is as follows: Amount 2017 (remaining) $ 8,071 2018 10,508 2019 10,472 2020 10,189 2021 9,727 2022 9,271 Thereafter 21,793 $ 80,031

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Components of Accrued Liabilities	The Company’s accrued liabilities consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Accrued compensation and benefits $ 8,920 $ 7,456 Warranty 2,239 1,842 Corporate income tax payable 499 453 Contingent consideration amount 680 1,174 Accrued satellite network and other equipment 708 497 Accrued inventory purchases 919 4,292 OG2 satellite milestone payable 4,609 4,609 Accrued interest expense 1,009 1,031 Accrued financing fees 4,994 — Accrued airtime charges 982 994 Other accrued expenses 7,119 8,083 $ 32,678 $ 30,431
Summary of Accrued Warranty Obligations	For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, changes in accrued warranty obligations consisted of the following: March 31, 2017 2016 Beginning balance $ 1,842 $ 2,322 Amortization of fair value adjustment of warranty liabilities acquired through acquisitions — (8 ) Reduction of warranty liabilities assumed in connection with acquisitions (119 ) (29 ) Warranty expense 530 149 Warranty charges (14 ) (293 ) Ending balance $ 2,239 $ 2,141

Deferred Revenues (Tables)

Deferred Revenues (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Deferred Revenues	Deferred revenues consisted of the following: March 31, December 31, 2017 2016 Service activation fees $ 7,326 $ 7,594 Prepaid services 2,839 2,777 Prepaid product revenues — — Extended warranty revenues 16 21 10,181 10,392 Less current portion (7,293 ) (7,414 ) Long-term portion $ 2,888 $ 2,978

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summary of Revenues on Percentage Basis by Geographic Regions	The following table summarizes revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region in which the customer is located. Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 2016 United States 65 % 60 % South America 10 % 12 % Japan 3 % 5 % Europe 16 % 20 % Other 6 % 3 % 100 % 100 %

Summary of Significant Accoun32

Summary of Significant Accounting Principles - Additional Information (Detail)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)Customer	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)Customer	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Customer
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Equity method investments	$ 0		$ 0
Guarantee or other funding obligations under equity method investment	0
Losses from equity method investment	$ 0	$ 0
Number of customers with revenues greater than 10% | Customer	0	0
Number of customers with accounts receivable greater than 10% | Customer	0
Inventories finished goods and purchased parts	$ 18,030,000		14,531,000
Inventories raw materials	$ 5,371,000		$ 8,686,000
Warranty period	1 year
Caterpillar Inc. [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of customers with accounts receivable greater than 10% | Customer			1
Accounts Receivable | Customer Concentration Risk | Caterpillar Inc. [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Concentration risk percentage			10.50%

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	May 26, 2016	Mar. 11, 2014	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Portion of contingent consideration in accrued expenses			$ 680		$ 1,174
Skygistics Ltd. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition effective date			May 26, 2016
Arrangement Agreement date			Apr. 11, 2016
Cash consideration paid	$ 3,835
Reduction in fair value of earn-outs amounts			$ 519
Skygistics Ltd. [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Contingent consideration payable	$ 954
Euroscan Holding B.V. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition effective date			Mar. 11, 2014
Cash consideration paid		$ 29,163
Outstanding equity percentage		100.00%
Number of common stock shares issued for consideration		291,230
Common stock issued, per share		$ 7.70
Portion of contingent consideration in accrued expenses			$ 680		$ 655
Contingent consideration accretion recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses			$ 25	$ 88
Euroscan Holding B.V. [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Contingent consideration payable		$ 6,547

Stock-based Compensation - Addi

Stock-based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	Apr. 20, 2016	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 17, 2016
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense		$ 1,524,000	$ 1,386,000
Stock-based compensation, capitalized		131,000	66,000
Unrecognized compensation costs for all share-based payment arrangements		5,059,000
Accrued expenses		32,678,000		$ 30,431,000
Other non-current liabilities		3,401,000		3,684,000
Time-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense		154,000	$ 94,000
Unrecognized compensation costs for all share-based payment arrangements		745,000
Intrinsic value of SARs		$ 241,000
Number of shares, granted		90,000	0
Performance-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense			$ 2,000
Unrecognized compensation costs for all share-based payment arrangements		$ 0
Intrinsic value of SARs		41,000
Number of shares, granted			0
Time-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense		700,000	$ 562,000
Unrecognized compensation costs for all share-based payment arrangements		$ 2,844,000
Number of shares, granted		47,370
Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense		$ 440,000	525,000
Unrecognized compensation costs for all share-based payment arrangements		1,470,000
Performance Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense		$ 184,000	$ 203,000
Maximum percentage of MPUs for senior executives		15.00%
Fair value period of MPUs		3 years
Accrued expenses		$ 352,000		715,000
Other non-current liabilities		$ 91,000		$ 260,000
Market Performance Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Term of MPUs		3 years
2016 LTIP [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized under the plan	6,949,400
Number of shares available for grant		7,115,859
2006 LTIP [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized under the plan					1,949,400
ESPP [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized under the plan	5,000,000
Stock-based compensation expense		$ 46,000
Maximum percentage deductible from employees' gross pay	10.00%
Maximum amount deductible from employees gross pay	$ 25,000
ESPP [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum percentage of discount on common stock's fair market value	15.00%

Stock-based Compensation - Summ

Stock-based Compensation - Summary Components of Stock-Based Compensation Expense (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	$ 1,524	$ 1,386
Cost of Services [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	159	175
Cost of Product Sales [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	23	12
Selling, General and Administrative [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	1,272	1,078
Product Development [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	$ 70	$ 121

Stock-based Compensation - Su36

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Stock Appreciation Rights (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Time-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance	3,789,394
Number of Shares, Granted	90,000	0
Number of Shares, Exercised	(46,500)
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance	3,832,894
Number of Shares, Exercisable	3,706,527
Number of Shares, Vested and expected to vest	3,832,894
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Beginning Balance	$ 5.23
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Granted	8.58
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Exercised	4.18
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Ending Balance	5.25
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Exercisable	5.17
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Vested and expected to vest	$ 5.25
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding	4 years 4 months 10 days
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable	4 years 1 month 13 days
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Vested and expected to vest	4 years 4 months 10 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding, Ending balance	$ 18,389
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable	18,448
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Vested and expected to vest	$ 18,389
Performance-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance	589,424
Number of Shares, Granted		0
Number of Shares, Exercised	(6,800)
Number of Shares, Forfeited or expired	(44,611)
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance	538,013
Number of Shares, Exercisable	538,013
Number of Shares, Vested and expected to vest	538,013
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Beginning Balance	$ 6.06
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Exercised	3.06
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Forfeited or expired	11
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Ending Balance	5.85
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Exercisable	5.85
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Vested and expected to vest	$ 5.85
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Outstanding	4 years 5 months 16 days
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Exercisable	4 years 5 months 16 days
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Vested and expected to vest	4 years 5 months 16 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding, Ending balance	$ 3,262
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable	3,262
Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Vested and expected to vest	$ 3,262

Stock-based Compensation - Fair

Stock-based Compensation - Fair Value of Stock Appreciation Rights Estimated, Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model (Detail) - Performance-Based Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate	2.10%
Expected life (years)	6 years
Estimated volatility factor	59.85%
Expected dividends	0.00%

Stock-based Compensation - Su38

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Restricted Stock Units (Detail)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017$ / sharesshares
Time-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance | shares	691,952
Number of Shares, Granted | shares	47,370
Number of Shares, Vested | shares	(342,084)
Number of Shares, Forfeited or expired | shares	(1,556)
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance | shares	395,682
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Beginning Balance | $ / shares	$ 8.28
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted | $ / shares	8.59
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested | $ / shares	6.90
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited or expired | $ / shares	8.03
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Ending Balance | $ / shares	$ 9.52
Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance | shares	473,608
Number of Shares, Vested | shares	(214,190)
Number of Shares, Forfeited or expired | shares	(37,080)
Number of Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance | shares	222,338
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Beginning Balance | $ / shares	$ 7.80
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested | $ / shares	6.78
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited or expired | $ / shares	6.83
Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Outstanding, Ending Balance | $ / shares	$ 8.94

Stock-based Compensation - Fa39

Stock-based Compensation - Fair Value of Market Performance Units Estimated, Monte Carlo Simulation Model (Detail) - Performance Units [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-free interest rate, Minimum	0.99%	0.51%
Risk-free interest rate, Maximum	1.44%	0.83%
Estimated volatility factor, Minimum	30.00%	35.00%
Estimated volatility factor, Maximum	33.00%	37.00%
Expected dividends	0.00%	0.00%

Net Income (Loss) Attributabl40

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders - Summary of Basic and Diluted Calculations of EPS (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (3,343)	$ (2,096)
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic number of common shares outstanding	71,424	70,700
Diluted number of common shares outstanding	71,424	70,700
Earnings per share:
Basic	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)
Diluted	$ (0.05)	$ (0.03)

Net Income (Loss) Attributabl41

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders - Summary of Net Loss Attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. Common Stockholders (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc.	$ (3,343)	$ (2,096)
Net loss attributable to ORBCOMM Inc. common stockholders	$ (3,343)	$ (2,096)

Satellite Network and Other E42

Satellite Network and Other Equipment - Summary of Satellite Network and Other Equipment (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	$ 292,944	$ 286,434
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization	(78,885)	(70,593)
Satellite network and other equipment, net	214,059	215,841
Land [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	381	381
Satellite Network [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	232,228	231,782
Capitalized Software [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	36,056	30,758
Computer Hardware [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	4,767	4,707
Other [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	7,624	7,522
Assets under Construction [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Satellite network and other equipment, gross	$ 11,888	$ 11,284

Satellite Network and Other E43

Satellite Network and Other Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense		$ 11,022	$ 8,959
Products and Services [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Company capitalized internal costs attributable to the design, development and enhancements of the company's products and services		3,097	2,188
Fixed Assets [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expense		$ 8,330	$ 5,431
Depreciation and amortization expense percentage related to cost of services		65.00%	67.00%
Depreciation and amortization expense percentage related to cost of product sales		8.00%	10.00%
Internal-use Software [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Amortization of internal-use software		$ 1,351	$ 850
Satellite Network [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Impairment loss on asset			466
Removal/decrease in satellite network and other equipment, net			2,374		$ 137
Accumulated depreciation on equipment			$ 1,908
OG2 Satellite Impairment [Member]
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Removal/decrease in satellite network and other equipment, net				$ 13,474
Non-cash impairment charge	$ 10,680
Accumulated depreciation on equipment				$ 2,794

Goodwill and Intangible Asset44

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Components of Goodwill (Detail) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 114,033
Ending balance	$ 114,033

Goodwill and Intangible Asset45

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Components of Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets, Cost	$ 111,376	$ 111,198
Finite lived intangible assets, Accumulated amortization	(31,345)	(28,653)
Finite lived intangible assets, Net	80,031	82,545
Customer Lists [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets, Cost	91,757	91,757
Finite lived intangible assets, Accumulated amortization	(22,214)	(20,026)
Finite lived intangible assets, Net	$ 69,543	71,731
Customer Lists [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	5 years
Customer Lists [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	14 years
Patents and Technology [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets, Cost	$ 16,734	16,556
Finite lived intangible assets, Accumulated amortization	(6,428)	(5,990)
Finite lived intangible assets, Net	$ 10,306	10,566
Patents and Technology [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	5 years
Patents and Technology [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	10 years
Trade Names and Trademarks [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite lived intangible assets, Cost	$ 2,885	2,885
Finite lived intangible assets, Accumulated amortization	(2,703)	(2,637)
Finite lived intangible assets, Net	$ 182	$ 248
Trade Names and Trademarks [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	1 year
Trade Names and Trademarks [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life (years)	2 years

Goodwill and Intangible Asset46

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets	10 years 1 month 6 days
Amortization expense	$ 2,692	$ 3,062
Customer Lists [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets	10 years 6 months
Patents and Technology [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets	9 years 2 months 12 days
Trade Names and Trademarks [Member]
Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets	1 year 2 months 12 days

Goodwill and Intangible Asset47

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Estimated Annual Amortization Expense for Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2017 (remaining)	$ 8,071
2,018	10,508
2,019	10,472
2,020	10,189
2,021	9,727
2,022	9,271
Thereafter	21,793
Finite lived intangible assets, Net	$ 80,031	$ 82,545

Accrued Liabilities - Component

Accrued Liabilities - Components of Accrued Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued compensation and benefits	$ 8,920	$ 7,456
Warranty	2,239	1,842
Corporate income tax payable	499	453
Contingent consideration amount	680	1,174
Accrued satellite network and other equipment	708	497
Accrued inventory purchases	919	4,292
OG2 satellite milestone payable	4,609	4,609
Accrued interest expense	1,009	1,031
Accrued financing fees	4,994
Accrued airtime charges	982	994
Other accrued expenses	7,119	8,083
Total accrued liabilities	$ 32,678	$ 30,431

Accrued Liabilities - Summary o

Accrued Liabilities - Summary of Accrued Warranty Obligations (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 1,842	$ 2,322
Amortization of fair value adjustment of warranty liabilities acquired through acquisitions		(8)
Reduction of warranty liabilities assumed in connection with acquisitions	(119)	(29)
Warranty expense	530	149
Warranty charges	(14)	(293)
Ending balance	$ 2,239	$ 2,141

Deferred Revenues - Summary of

Deferred Revenues - Summary of Deferred Revenues (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred Revenue Disclosure [Abstract]
Service activation fees	$ 7,326	$ 7,594
Prepaid services	2,839	2,777
Extended warranty revenues	16	21
Total deferred revenues	10,181	10,392
Less current portion	(7,293)	(7,414)
Long-term portion	$ 2,888	$ 2,978

Note Payable-Related Party - Ad

Note Payable-Related Party - Additional Information (Detail) € in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016EUR (€)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Principal balance of the note payable | €		€ 1,138		€ 1,138
Note payable — related party | $	$ 1,218		$ 1,195
Note payable estimated life	6 years

Note Payable - Additional Infor

Note Payable - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest expense	$ 2,426,000	$ 1,699,000
Secured Credit Facilities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt issuance costs	4,481,000
Amortization of debt issuance costs	229,000	$ 227,000
Interest expense	2,426,000
Amounts outstanding under Revolving Credit Facility	0
Net availability under the Revolving Credit Facility	$ 10,000,000
Secured Credit Facilities [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, Description	Base rate plus 3.75%
Interest rate, Percentage	3.75%
Secured Credit Facilities [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, Description	LIBOR plus 4.75%
Interest rate, Percentage	4.75%
Secured Credit Facilities [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | LIBOR Floor [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, Description	LIBOR floor of 1.00%
Interest rate, Percentage	1.00%
Maximum [Member] | Secured Credit Facilities [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			$ 160,000,000
Consolidated leverage ratio	5
Maximum [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			10,000,000
Minimum [Member] | Secured Credit Facilities [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Consolidated leverage ratio	1
Consolidated liquidation cost	$ 7,500,000
Senior Notes [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			$ 45,000,000
Note bears interest rate			9.50%
Secured credit facilities, maturity period	5 years
Initial Term Loan Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			$ 70,000,000
Term B2 Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			10,000,000
Term B3 Facility [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Issuance of secured credit facility			$ 70,000,000

Stockholders' Equity - Addition

Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock, capital shares reserved for future issuance	16,846,151
Series A Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock dividends issued	0
Dividends in arrears	$ 8
Preferred Stock [Member]
Class Of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	50,000,000

Segment Information - Additiona

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reporting segments	1
Maximum [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of foreign revenue collected in US dollars	84.00%

Segment Information - Summary o

Segment Information - Summary of Revenues on Percentage Basis by Geographic Regions (Detail)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	100.00%	100.00%
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	65.00%	60.00%
South America [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	10.00%	12.00%
Japan [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	3.00%	5.00%
Europe [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	16.00%	20.00%
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues on a percentage basis by geographic regions, based on the region	6.00%	3.00%

Income taxes - Additional Infor

Income taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense	$ 623,000	$ 162,000
Unrecognized tax benefits, period change	0
Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions	$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail)	Oct. 26, 2016USD ($)Patent	Jul. 15, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 14, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)Patent	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2001USD ($)	Feb. 09, 2017Patent	Oct. 19, 2016Patent	Jul. 18, 2016Patent	Apr. 07, 2016Patent
Procurement Agreement [Member] | Europe [Member] | Airtime [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Credits provided							$ 3,736,000
Credits used					$ 7,000	$ 7,000
Unused credits granted					$ 2,002,000	$ 2,031,000
Launch Plus One Year In Orbit Insurance Coverage for First Launch of Six Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Insurance coverage on launch of satellite program				$ 66,000,000
Launch Vehicle Flight Only Insurance Coverage for First Launch of Six Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Insurance coverage on launch of satellite program				22,000,000
First Launch of Six Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Premium cost for launch of satellite				9,953,000
Launch Plus One Year In Orbit Insurance Coverage for Second Launch of Eleven Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Insurance coverage on launch of satellite program				120,000,000
Launch Vehicle Flight Only Insurance Coverage for Second Launch of Eleven Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Insurance coverage on launch of satellite program				22,000,000
Second Launch of Eleven Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Premium cost for launch of satellite				$ 16,454,000
Percentage of premium as to aggregate premium				5.00%
Launch Plus One Year In-orbit Insurance Coverage for Five Satellites [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Insurance coverage on launch of satellite program			$ 40,000,000
Extended insurance premium cost for satellites		$ 179,000
Extended insurance coverage end date		Dec. 21, 2016
Insurance policy expiration date			Dec. 21, 2016
CalAmp Corp [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Number of patent infringement | Patent											5
Number of patent denied for reconsideration | Patent									4
Number of patent in-suit | Patent										1
Number of remaining patent in-suit | Patent					1
Actions taken by court which impacted the lawsuit					Each of the Company and CalAmp filed motions for summary judgment with respect to CalAmp’s counterclaim for inequitable conduct related to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office action to correct the one remaining patent-in-suit. CalAmp’s motion requested summary judgment finding inequitable conduct rendering the patent unenforceable and providing a basis to seek an award of its legal fees. The Company’s motion requested summary judgment to dismiss such counterclaim.
CalAmp Wireless Networks Corporation [Member]
Long Term Purchase Commitment [Line Items]
Number of patent infringement | Patent	2
Accrual for claims	$ 0
Number of invalid patent suit | Patent								1

Subsequent Events - Additional

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	Apr. 10, 2017	Sep. 30, 2014
Credit Agreement [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Secured Credit Facilities [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Issuance of secured secured notes		$ 160,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | 8.0% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Issuance of secured secured notes	$ 250,000,000
Notes bears interest rate	8.00%
Debt instrument, maturity year	2,024
Debt instrument, frequency of periodic payment	semi-annually
Interest payment beginning date	Oct. 1, 2017
Maximum aggregate indebtedness outstanding	$ 50,000,000
Debt instrument, change in control offers to purchase principal amount percentage	101.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | 8.0% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 [Member] | Any Time Before April 1, 2020 [Member] | Redemption Price Plus "Make-Whole" Premium and Accrued and Unpaid Interest [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt redemption price percentage of principal amount	100.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | 8.0% Senior Secured Notes due 2024 [Member] | Any Time Before April 1, 2020 [Member] | Redemption Price Plus Accrued and Unpaid Interest [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt redemption price percentage of principal amount	35.00%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Secured Credit Facilities [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Termination of outstanding credit facilities	$ 150,000,000
Early termination penalty	$ 1,500,000