Microsemi (MSCC) 10-Q 28 Jan 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

DOCUMENT_AND_ENTITY_INFORMATIO

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014	Jan. 21, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	28-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	MSCC
Entity Registrant Name	MICROSEMI CORP
Entity Central Index Key	310568
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-18
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		95,099,603

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$182,954	$162,182
Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $23,999 at December 28, 2014 and $22,193 at September 28, 2014	187,494	191,168
Inventories	202,775	205,005
Deferred income taxes, net	27,303	27,303
Other current assets	34,193	32,924
Total current assets	634,719	618,582
Property and equipment, net	150,919	148,712
Goodwill	885,606	885,610
Intangible assets, net	328,333	351,893
Deferred income taxes, net	21,024	23,494
Other assets	32,497	32,805
TOTAL ASSETS	2,053,098	2,061,096
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	73,155	75,521
Accrued liabilities	84,343	85,702
Total current liabilities	157,498	161,223
Credit facility	698,026	698,026
Deferred income taxes	39,308	39,339
Other long-term liabilities	46,224	46,878
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; 1,000 authorized; none issued	0	0
Common stock, $0.20 par value; 250,000 authorized, 95,050 issued and outstanding at December 28, 2014 and 95,633 issued and outstanding at September 28, 2014	19,010	19,126
Capital in excess of par value of common stock	776,524	799,210
Retained earnings	318,256	298,565
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,748	-1,271
Total stockholders' equity	1,112,042	1,115,630
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$2,053,098	$2,061,096

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts	$23,999	$22,193
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)	$1	$1
Preferred stock, authorized	1,000,000	1,000,000
Preferred stock, issued	0	0
Common stock, par value (USD per share)	$0.20	$0.20
Common stock, authorized	250,000,000	250,000,000
Common stock, issued	95,050,000	95,633,000
Common stock, outstanding	95,050,000	95,633,000

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$303,574	$255,631
Cost of sales	135,501	117,323
Gross profit	168,073	138,308
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative	60,117	57,407
Research and development costs	47,515	44,125
Amortization of intangible assets	23,560	21,963
Restructuring and severance charges	7,142	7,653
Total operating expenses	138,334	131,148
Operating income	29,739	7,160
Other expenses:
Interest (expense), net	-6,153	-7,582
Other income (expense), net	-469	-314
Total other (expense)	-6,622	-7,896
Income (loss) before income taxes	23,117	-736
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	3,426	-2,115
Net income	19,691	1,379
Earnings per share:
Basic (USD per share)	$0.21	$0.01
Diluted (USD per share)	$0.21	$0.01
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic	93,925	92,102
Diluted	95,115	93,527
Net income (loss)	19,691	1,379
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Translation adjustment	-1,704	276
Unrealized actuarial loss on pension benefits	-44	-44
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-1,748	232
Total comprehensive income	$17,943	$1,611

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$19,691	$1,379
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	32,456	29,525
Change in allowance for doubtful accounts	-85	97
Amortization of deferred financing costs	204	177
Loss on disposition or impairment of assets	1,680	0
Deferred income taxes	2,440	-3,650
Charge for stock based compensation	10,696	10,083
Change in assets and liabilities (net of acquisition):
Accounts receivable	3,759	18,373
Inventories	2,230	-2,150
Other current assets	-1,336	5,258
Other assets	-284	-869
Accounts payable	-2,142	3,677
Accrued liabilities	-2,269	-2,863
Other long-term liabilities	-144	3,496
Net cash provided by operating activities	66,896	62,533
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	-13,098	-12,095
Proceeds from the sale of short term investments	149	39,393
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	0	-279,147
Net cash used in investing activities	-12,949	-251,849
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from credit facility	0	200,000
Repayments of credit facility	0	-50,000
Payments of credit facility issuance costs	0	-1,521
Repurchase of common stock	-25,000	0
Stock settled tax withholdings	-15,868	-38
Net proceeds from stock awards	7,693	2,560
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-33,175	151,001
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	20,772	-38,315
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	162,182	256,433
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$182,954	$218,118

PRESENTATION_OF_FINANCIAL_INFO

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION	Presentation of Financial Information
	The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Microsemi Corporation and its subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	The condensed consolidated financial information furnished herein is unaudited, but in the opinion of our management, it includes all adjustments (all of which are normal or recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair statement of the results of operations for the periods indicated. The results of operations for the most recently reported quarter of the current fiscal year are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
	The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Form 10-Q and Article 10 of the Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-X, and therefore do not include all information and note disclosures necessary for a fair presentation of consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto must be read in their entirety in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2014.
	The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that may materially affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and revenues and expenses during the periods reported. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. Information with respect to our accounting policies that we believe could have the most significant effect on our reported results and require subjective or complex judgments is contained in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 28, 2014. In referencing a year, we are referring to the fiscal year ended on the Sunday closest to September 30.
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share have been computed based upon the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the respective periods. Diluted earnings per share have been computed, when the result is dilutive, using the treasury stock method for stock awards outstanding during the respective periods. Earnings per share were calculated as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share data):
		Quarter Ended
		December 28,		December 29,
		2014		2013
	Basic
	Net income	$	19,691	$	1,379
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding	93,925		92,102
	Basic earnings per share	$	0.21	$	0.01
	Diluted
	Net income	$	19,691	$	1,379
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding for basic	93,925		92,102
	Dilutive effect of stock awards	1,190		1,425
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding on a diluted basis	95,115		93,527
	Diluted earnings per share	$	0.21	$	0.01
	For the quarters ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013, we excluded stock awards totaling 0.9 million and 2.7 million, respectively, in the computation of diluted earnings per share as these stock awards would have been anti-dilutive.
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-04, the objective of which is to provide guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. The guidance in the update requires that these arrangements be recorded as the sum of the amount the reporting entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors and any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. ASU 2013-04 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 which requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward, with certain exceptions. ASU 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08 which changes the threshold for reporting discontinued operations and adds additional disclosures. The guidance in this ASU updates the definition of discontinued operations to include the disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. ASU 2014-08 is effective prospectively for all disposals of components of an entity that occur with annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and interim periods therein. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 which provides guidance on how an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services and on accounting for costs to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer. The ASU also requires expanded disclosure regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. ASU 2014-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016, and can be adopted either retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption, with early application not permitted. We are currently assessing the adoption and impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12 which provides guidance on how to account for shared-based payment awards where the terms of the award provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period. The ASU requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15 which provides guidance on management's responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued when applicable) and to provide related footnote disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01 which eliminates from GAAP the concept of extraordinary items. If an event or transaction meets the criteria for extraordinary classification, it is segregated from the results of ordinary operations and is shown as a separate item in the income statement, net of tax. ASU 2015-01 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted provided that the guidance is applied from the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. We are currently assessing the adoption and impact of this ASU, however, we do not anticipate that adoption of this ASU will impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

INVENTORIES

INVENTORIES	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
INVENTORIES	Inventories
	Inventories are summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):
		December 28,		September 28,
		2014		2014
	Raw materials	$	52,176	$	55,280
	Work in process	96,215		94,044
	Finished goods	54,384		55,681
		$	202,775	$	205,005

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET	Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net
	Goodwill and intangible assets, net consisted of the following components (amounts in thousands):
			December 28,			September 28,
			2014			2014
	Amortizable intangible assets
	Completed technology		$	189,883		$	201,333
	Customer relationships		138,109			149,328
	Backlog, trade name and other		341			1,232
			$	328,333		$	351,893
	Non-amortizable intangible assets
	Goodwill		$	885,606		$	885,610
	Amortization of intangible assets included in operating expenses for each of the quarters ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 is as follows (amounts in thousands):
		December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013
	Completed technology	$	11,450		$	10,461
	Customer relationships	11,216			10,920
	Backlog, trade name and other	894			582
		$	23,560		$	21,963
	Estimated amortization expense in each of the five succeeding years and thereafter is as follows (amounts in thousands):
			Less than 1 Year			1-2 Years		2-3 Years		3-4 Years		4-5 Years		Thereafter
	Amortization expense		$	87,784		$	84,909	$	72,980	$	33,206	$	14,623	$	34,831

INCOME_TAXES

INCOME TAXES	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
INCOME TAXES	Income Taxes
	For the quarter ended December 28, 2014, we recorded an income tax provision of $3.4 million. For the quarter ended December 29, 2013, we recorded an income tax benefit of $2.1 million. The difference in our effective tax rate from the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily reflects the impact of the mix of domestic and international pre-tax income, valuation allowance and credits. Our tax provision for the quarters ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 was the combined calculated tax expenses/benefits for various jurisdictions. For the quarter ended December 29, 2013, the tax benefit we recorded included the release of valuation allowance that resulted from the allocation of consideration from our acquisition of Microsemi – FTD.
	We file U.S., state, and foreign income tax returns in jurisdictions with varying statutes of limitations. The 2007 through 2013 tax years generally remain subject to examination by federal tax authorities, most state tax authorities and in significant foreign jurisdictions. Each quarter, we reassess our uncertain tax positions for additional unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties, and deletions due to statute expirations. Based on federal, state and foreign statute expirations in various jurisdictions, we anticipate a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits of $4.5 million within the next twelve months.
	We establish liabilities for possible assessments by tax authorities resulting from known tax exposures including, but not limited to, international tax issues and certain tax credits. The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") is currently examining our income tax returns for fiscal years 2007 through 2012 and has raised questions primarily related to transfer pricing. Management believes that our position is appropriate and that an adequate provision has been made for any adjustments that may result from tax examinations. However, the outcome of tax audits cannot be predicted with certainty. If any issues addressed in our tax audits are resolved in a manner not consistent with management's expectations, we would be required to adjust our provision for income tax in the period such resolution occurs. While we believe our reported results are accurate, any significant adjustments could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and financial position if not resolved within expectations.

CREDIT_AGREEMENT_AND_RELATED_I

CREDIT AGREEMENT AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
CREDIT AGREEMENT AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS	Credit Agreement and Related Instruments
	Credit Agreement
	We are a party to a senior secured credit facility (the "Credit Agreement") with Royal Bank of Canada ("RBC") which consists of a term loan facility and a $50.0 million revolving credit facility. As of December 28, 2014, we had $698.0 million in term loan borrowings and no revolving borrowings.
	Under our Credit Agreement, we may borrow under a "Base Rate" which approximates the prime rate plus an applicable margin or "Eurodollar Rate" which approximates LIBOR plus an applicable margin. Eurodollar Rate loans are also subject to a Eurodollar Floor. At December 28, 2014, the principal amounts outstanding were Eurodollar Rate loans and interest rate information as of December 28, 2014 were as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Principal Outstanding		Base Rate		Base Rate Margin		Eurodollar Rate Margin		Eurodollar Floor		Applicable Rate
	Revolving and swingline loans	$	—	3.25	%	3.25	%	4.25	%	—	%	—	%
	Term loan	$	646,375	3.25	%	1.5	%	2.5	%	0.75	%	3.25	%
	Incremental term loan	$	51,651	3.25	%	1.75	%	2.75	%	0.75	%	3.5	%
	The fair value of our term loans was approximately $681.0 million at December 28, 2014 and $693.0 million at September 28, 2014. We classify this valuation as a Level 2 fair value measurement.
	Our term loan facility matures in February 2020 and as of December 28, 2014, there are no scheduled principal repayments until the maturity date. The Credit Agreement stipulates an annual principal payment of a percentage of Excess Cash Flow ("ECF"). The first ECF application date will be measured as of the end of fiscal year 2015 and the ECF percentage will be 50% if the Consolidated Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) as of the last day of the fiscal year is equal to or greater than 3.00 to 1.00 and 0% otherwise.
	As of December 28, 2014, our undrawn commitment fee was 0.375% on the unused portion of the revolving facility. If any letters of credit are issued, then we expect to pay a fronting fee equal to 0.25% per annum of the aggregate face amount of each letter of credit and a participation fee on all outstanding letters of credit at a per annum rate equal to the margin then in effect with respect to Eurodollar Rate-based loans on the face amount of such letter of credit. The revolving facility expires on November 2, 2015.
	Our Credit Agreement includes financial covenants requiring a maximum leverage ratio and minimum fixed charge coverage ratio that are applicable only when revolving loans or swingline loans are outstanding at the end of a fiscal quarter and also contains other customary affirmative and negative covenants and events of default. We were in compliance with our covenants as of December 28, 2014.
	Interest Rate Swap Agreements
	In connection with our Credit Agreement in 2011, we entered into interest rate swap agreements for the purpose of minimizing the variability of cash flows in the interest rate payments of our variable rate borrowings. The cash flows received under the interest rate swap agreements are expected to offset the change in cash flows associated with LIBOR rate borrowings between the effective and maturity dates of the swaps. Our outstanding swap agreement had a notional amount of $24.0 million, a fixed rate of 2.21% and expired in January 2015. We classify our interest rate swap balance as a Level 2 fair value measurement. We determined the fair value of our interest rate swap agreements based on mid-market valuations reported to us by the counterparty to the swap agreement.

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_ASSETS

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES	Fair Value of Financial Assets and Liabilities
	Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Accounting Standards Codification 820 establishes a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values and includes the following classifications:
	Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
	Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.
	The following financial assets and liabilities were measured at fair value on a recurring basis using the type of inputs indicated below and are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	September 28, 2014
	Investment in marketable securities	$	4,139	$	4,139	$	—	$	—
	Interest rate swap liabilities	$	77	$	—	$	77	$	—
	28-Dec-14
	Investment in marketable securities	$	3,969	$	3,969	$	—	$	—

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION	Stock-Based Compensation
	Stock Based Compensation
	In February 2014, our stockholders approved an amendment to the Microsemi Corporation 2008 Performance Incentive Plan (the "2008 Plan"). The amendment a) increased the share limit by an additional 4.8 million shares so that the amended aggregate share limit for the 2008 Plan is 33.3 million shares; and b) extended the Company's authority to grant awards under the 2008 Plan intended to qualify as "performance-based awards" within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code through the first annual meeting of stockholders that occurs in 2019. The 2008 Plan's termination date of December 5, 2021 remained unchanged, as did the number of shares counted against the share limit for every one share issued in connection with a full-value award, which remained 2.41.
	Except as described in this paragraph, shares that are subject to or underlie awards which expire or for any reason, are cancelled or terminated, are forfeited, fail to vest, or for any other reason are not paid or delivered under the 2008 Plan will again be available for subsequent awards under the 2008 Plan. Shares that are exchanged by a participant or withheld by the Company as full or partial payment in connection with any award granted under the 2008 Plan that is a full-value award, as well as any shares exchanged by a participant or withheld by the Company or one of its subsidiaries to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to any full-value award granted under the 2008 Plan will be available for subsequent awards under the 2008 Plan. Shares that are exchanged by a participant or withheld by the Company to pay the exercise price of a stock option or stock appreciation right granted under the 2008 Plan, as well as any shares exchanged or withheld to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to any such award, will not be available for subsequent awards under the 2008 Plan.
	Awards authorized by the 2008 Plan include options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, stock bonuses, stock units, performance share awards, and other cash- or share-based awards. The shares issued under the 2008 Plan may be newly issued or shares held by Microsemi as treasury stock. The maximum term of a stock option grant or a stock appreciation right granted under the 2008 Plan is 6 years. For the quarter ended December 28, 2014, stock-based compensation expense was $10.7 million and for the quarter ended December 29, 2013, stock-based compensation expense was $10.1 million.
	The quantity of restricted shares and performance stock units at target levels granted and their weighted-average fair value are as follows (quantities in thousands):
	Quarter Ended	Quantity	Weighted-Average Fair Value per Award
	December 29, 2013
	Restricted shares	339	$	24.72
	Performance stock units	332	$	26.27
	Stock options assumed from acquisition	578	$	7.01
	December 28, 2014
	Restricted shares	168	$	25.59
	Performance stock units	403	$	27.54
	Restricted Shares
	Compensation expense for restricted shares was calculated based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant and the restricted shares are subject to forfeiture if a participant does not meet length of service requirements. Restricted stock awards granted to employees typically vest over a three year period and awards granted to non-employee directors vest in accordance with our director compensation policy.
	Performance Stock Units
	Compensation expense for performance stock units was calculated based upon expected achievement of the performance metrics specified in the grant and the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant, or when a grant contains a market condition, the grant date fair value using a Monte Carlo simulation. Vesting of performance units issued in 2013, 2014 and 2015 contain a market condition and the Monte Carlo simulation incorporates estimates of the potential outcomes of the market condition on the fair value date of each award.
	Performance stock units granted in 2013 are eligible to vest based on our achievement of net sales and earnings per share (subject to certain adjustments) levels for 2013, 2014 and 2015. For these performance stock units, 25% of each performance-based award opportunity will be subject to the net sales metric for the performance period and 75% will be subject to the earnings per share metric for the performance period. The maximum percentage is further adjusted by our total shareholder return relative to a peer group selected by the Compensation Committee, up to a maximum of 125%.
	Performance units granted in 2014 and 2015 are eligible to vest based on our rate of growth for net sales and earnings per share (subject to certain adjustments) relative to the growth rates for that metric over the relevant performance period for a peer group of companies. The performance period for the 2014 grants include our fiscal years 2014, 2015 and 2016 and the performance period for the 2015 grants include our fiscal years 2015, 2016 and 2017. A portion of the performance units may vest based on performance after each fiscal year of the performance period.
	For the 2014 grants, 40% of each performance-based award opportunity will be subject to the net sales metric for the performance period and 60% will be subject to the earnings per share metric for the performance period. The maximum percentage for a particular metric is 200% of the "target" number of units subject to the award related to that metric. For the 2015 grant, 70% of each performance-based award opportunity will be subject to the net sales metric for the performance period and 30% will be subject to the earnings per share metric for the performance period. The maximum percentage for a particular metric is 225% of the "target" number of units subject to the award related to that metric.The maximum percentage is further adjusted by our total shareholder return relative to a peer group selected by the Compensation Committee. For the 2014 grant, the maximum adjustment is 125% and for the 2015 grant, the maximum adjustment is 150%.
	Stock Options
	We assumed unvested stock options related to our acquisition of Microsemi – FTD with a weighted-average exercise price of $20.08 per stock option. We derived a weighted-average fair value per stock option using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

SEGMENT_INFORMATION

SEGMENT INFORMATION	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
SEGMENT INFORMATION	Segment Information
	We manage our business on the basis of one reportable segment, as a manufacturer of semiconductors in different geographic areas, including the United States, Europe and Asia. We derive revenue from sales of our high-performance analog/mixed-signal integrated circuits and power and high-reliability individual component semiconductors. These products include individual components as well as integrated circuit solutions that enhance customer designs by improving performance, reliability and battery optimization, reducing size or protecting circuits. As a percentage of consolidated net sales, customers with a ship-to location in Hong Kong totaled 11% for the quarter ended December 28, 2014 and there were no countries exceeding 10% for the quarter ended December 29, 2013.

STOCK_REPURCHASE_PROGRAM

STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM	Stock Repurchase Program
	On September 9, 2014, Microsemi Corporation's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100.0 million of the company's common stock before September 30, 2016. Repurchases under our stock repurchase program may be made in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions and may also be made under a Rule 10b5-1 plan. The Company has used and plans to continue to use existing cash from available working capital to fund the repurchases. During the quarter ended December 28, 2014, the Company has repurchased 1.0 million shares for $25.0 million at an average price of $24.08 under the program. Repurchased shares were retired and returned to authorized shares.

RESTRUCTURING_AND_SEVERANCE_CH

RESTRUCTURING AND SEVERANCE CHARGES	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
RESTRUCTURING AND SEVERANCE CHARGES	Restructuring and Severance Charges
	The following table reflects the related restructuring activities and the accrued liabilities at the dates below (amounts in thousands):
		Employee Severance			Contract Termination Costs			Other Associated Costs			Total
	Balance at September 28, 2014	$	4,079		$	8,197		$	—		$	12,276
	Provisions	3,709			1,632			1,893			7,234
	Reversal of prior provision	(70		)	(22		)	—			(92		)
	Cash expenditures	(3,263		)	(1,508		)	(299		)	(5,070		)
	Other non-cash settlement	—			(133		)	(1,594		)	(1,727		)
	Balance at December 28, 2014	$	4,455		$	8,166		$	—		$	12,621
	We recorded net provisions for employee severance of $3.6 million for the quarter ended December 28, 2014, which covered approximately 100 individuals in engineering, manufacturing, administration and sales. Employee severance is expected to be paid within the next twelve months.
	We recorded net provisions for contract termination costs of $1.6 million for the quarter ended December 28, 2014, of which $1.2 million was recorded for the fair value at the cease-use date of operating lease liabilities for space we have exited. Facilities consisted of manufacturing sites, as well as sales, engineering and administrative space.
	We recorded provisions for other associated costs for restructuring of $1.9 million for the quarter ended December 28, 2014, which consisted of facility and equipment impairments.

COMMITMENTS_AND_CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	Commitments and Contingencies
	We are generally self-insured for losses and liabilities related to workers’ compensation and employer’s liability insurance. Accrued workers’ compensation liability was $1.8 million and $1.9 million at December 28, 2014 and September 28, 2014, respectively. Our self-insurance accruals are based on estimates and, while we believe that the amounts accrued are adequate, the ultimate claims may be in excess of the amounts provided.
	We are involved in pending litigation, administrative and similar matters arising out of the normal conduct of our business, including litigation relating to acquisitions, employment matters, intellectual property matters, commercial transactions, contracts, environmental matters and matters related to compliance with governmental regulations. The ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters is subject to many uncertainties and is therefore not predictable with assurance. In the opinion of management, the final outcome of these matters, if they are adverse, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. However, there can be no assurance with respect to such result, and monetary liability, financial impact or other sanctions imposed on us from these matters could differ materially from those projected.

PRESENTATION_OF_FINANCIAL_INFO1

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share have been computed based upon the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the respective periods. Diluted earnings per share have been computed, when the result is dilutive, using the treasury stock method for stock awards outstanding during the respective periods.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-04, the objective of which is to provide guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. The guidance in the update requires that these arrangements be recorded as the sum of the amount the reporting entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors and any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. ASU 2013-04 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 which requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward, with certain exceptions. ASU 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08 which changes the threshold for reporting discontinued operations and adds additional disclosures. The guidance in this ASU updates the definition of discontinued operations to include the disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. ASU 2014-08 is effective prospectively for all disposals of components of an entity that occur with annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014, and interim periods therein. The adoption of this ASU did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 which provides guidance on how an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services and on accounting for costs to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer. The ASU also requires expanded disclosure regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. ASU 2014-09 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016, and can be adopted either retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption, with early application not permitted. We are currently assessing the adoption and impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12 which provides guidance on how to account for shared-based payment awards where the terms of the award provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period. The ASU requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015, and early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15 which provides guidance on management's responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued (or within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued when applicable) and to provide related footnote disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual periods and interim periods thereafter. Early application is permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of this ASU on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.
	In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01 which eliminates from GAAP the concept of extraordinary items. If an event or transaction meets the criteria for extraordinary classification, it is segregated from the results of ordinary operations and is shown as a separate item in the income statement, net of tax. ASU 2015-01 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted provided that the guidance is applied from the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption. We are currently assessing the adoption and impact of this ASU, however, we do not anticipate that adoption of this ASU will impact our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

PRESENTATION_OF_FINANCIAL_INFO2

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	Earnings per share were calculated as follows (amounts in thousands, except per share data):
		Quarter Ended
		December 28,		December 29,
		2014		2013
	Basic
	Net income	$	19,691	$	1,379
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding	93,925		92,102
	Basic earnings per share	$	0.21	$	0.01
	Diluted
	Net income	$	19,691	$	1,379
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding for basic	93,925		92,102
	Dilutive effect of stock awards	1,190		1,425
	Weighted-average common shares outstanding on a diluted basis	95,115		93,527
	Diluted earnings per share	$	0.21	$	0.01

INVENTORIES_Tables

INVENTORIES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of inventories	Inventories are summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):
		December 28,		September 28,
		2014		2014
	Raw materials	$	52,176	$	55,280
	Work in process	96,215		94,044
	Finished goods	54,384		55,681
		$	202,775	$	205,005

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS1

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and intangible assets, net consisted of the following components (amounts in thousands):
			December 28,			September 28,
			2014			2014
	Amortizable intangible assets
	Completed technology		$	189,883		$	201,333
	Customer relationships		138,109			149,328
	Backlog, trade name and other		341			1,232
			$	328,333		$	351,893
	Non-amortizable intangible assets
	Goodwill		$	885,606		$	885,610
Amortization of Intangible Assets	Amortization of intangible assets included in operating expenses for each of the quarters ended December 28, 2014 and December 29, 2013 is as follows (amounts in thousands):
		December 28, 2014			December 29, 2013
	Completed technology	$	11,450		$	10,461
	Customer relationships	11,216			10,920
	Backlog, trade name and other	894			582
		$	23,560		$	21,963
Estimated Amortization Expense	Estimated amortization expense in each of the five succeeding years and thereafter is as follows (amounts in thousands):
			Less than 1 Year			1-2 Years		2-3 Years		3-4 Years		4-5 Years		Thereafter
	Amortization expense		$	87,784		$	84,909	$	72,980	$	33,206	$	14,623	$	34,831

CREDIT_AGREEMENT_AND_RELATED_I1

CREDIT AGREEMENT AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt	At December 28, 2014, the principal amounts outstanding were Eurodollar Rate loans and interest rate information as of December 28, 2014 were as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Principal Outstanding		Base Rate		Base Rate Margin		Eurodollar Rate Margin		Eurodollar Floor		Applicable Rate
	Revolving and swingline loans	$	—	3.25	%	3.25	%	4.25	%	—	%	—	%
	Term loan	$	646,375	3.25	%	1.5	%	2.5	%	0.75	%	3.25	%
	Incremental term loan	$	51,651	3.25	%	1.75	%	2.75	%	0.75	%	3.5	%

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_ASSETS1

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following financial assets and liabilities were measured at fair value on a recurring basis using the type of inputs indicated below and are as follows (amounts in thousands):
		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	September 28, 2014
	Investment in marketable securities	$	4,139	$	4,139	$	—	$	—
	Interest rate swap liabilities	$	77	$	—	$	77	$	—
	28-Dec-14
	Investment in marketable securities	$	3,969	$	3,969	$	—	$	—

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Tables

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of restricted shares and performance stock units	The quantity of restricted shares and performance stock units at target levels granted and their weighted-average fair value are as follows (quantities in thousands):
	Quarter Ended	Quantity	Weighted-Average Fair Value per Award
	December 29, 2013
	Restricted shares	339	$	24.72
	Performance stock units	332	$	26.27
	Stock options assumed from acquisition	578	$	7.01
	December 28, 2014
	Restricted shares	168	$	25.59
	Performance stock units	403	$	27.54

RESTRUCTURING_AND_SEVERANCE_CH1

RESTRUCTURING AND SEVERANCE CHARGES (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Reflects the restructuring activities and the accrued liabilities	The following table reflects the related restructuring activities and the accrued liabilities at the dates below (amounts in thousands):
		Employee Severance			Contract Termination Costs			Other Associated Costs			Total
	Balance at September 28, 2014	$	4,079		$	8,197		$	—		$	12,276
	Provisions	3,709			1,632			1,893			7,234
	Reversal of prior provision	(70		)	(22		)	—			(92		)
	Cash expenditures	(3,263		)	(1,508		)	(299		)	(5,070		)
	Other non-cash settlement	—			(133		)	(1,594		)	(1,727		)
	Balance at December 28, 2014	$	4,455		$	8,166		$	—		$	12,621

PRESENTATION_OF_FINANCIAL_INFO3

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION - Earning Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
BASIC
Net income (loss)	$19,691	$1,379
Weighted-average common shares outstanding	93,925	92,102
Basic earnings (loss) per share (USD per share)	$0.21	$0.01
DILUTED
Net income (loss)	$19,691	$1,379
Weighted-average common shares outstanding	93,925	92,102
Dilutive effect of stock awards	1,190	1,425
Weighted-average common shares outstanding on a diluted basis	95,115	93,527
Diluted earnings per share (USD per share)	$0.21	$0.01

PRESENTATION_OF_FINANCIAL_INFO4

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INFORMATION - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Stock awards excluded in computation of diluted EPS	0.9	2.7

INVENTORIES_Details

INVENTORIES (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw materials	$52,176	$55,280
Work in process	96,215	94,044
Finished goods	54,384	55,681
Inventories, net	$202,775	$205,005

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS2

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Sep. 28, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets	$328,333		$351,893
Goodwill	885,606		885,610
Amortization of intangible assets	23,560	21,963
Completed technology
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets	189,883		201,333
Amortization of intangible assets	11,450	10,461
Customer relationships
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets	138,109		149,328
Amortization of intangible assets	11,216	10,920
Others
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortizable intangible assets	341		1,232
Backlog, Trade Name and Other [Member]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$894	$582

GOODWILL_AND_INTANGIBLE_ASSETS3

GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET - Estimated Amortization Expense (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Amortization expense, Less than 1 Year	$87,784
Amortization expense, 1-2 Years	84,909
Amortization expense, 2-3 Years	72,980
Amortization expense, 3-4 Years	33,206
Amortization expense, 4-5 Years	14,623
Amortization expense, Thereafter	$34,831

INCOME_TAXES_Details

INCOME TAXES (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	$3,426,000	($2,115,000)
U.S. statutory rate	35.00%
Unrecognized tax benefit that would impact effective tax rate within next twelve months	$4,500,000
Minimum | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax years by major tax jurisdiction	2007
Maximum | Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Open tax years by major tax jurisdiction	2013

CREDIT_AGREEMENT_AND_RELATED_I2

CREDIT AGREEMENT AND RELATED INSTRUMENTS (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maturity date	19-Feb-20
Undrawn commitment fee percentage	0.38%
Interest Rate Swap | Group 2
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Notional amount	24,000,000
Fixed rate	2.21%
Derivative maturity period	5-Jan-15
Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Excess Cash Flow (ECF) percentage	0.00%
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	1
Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Excess Cash Flow (ECF) percentage	50.00%
Consolidated Leverage Ratio	3
Long-term Debt
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	698,000,000
Fair value outstanding term loan	681,000,000	693,000,000
Revolving and swingline loans
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	0
Base Rate	3.25%
Revolving and swingline loans | Base Rate | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	3.25%
Revolving and swingline loans | Eurodollar
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Eurodollar Floor	0.00%
Revolving and swingline loans | Eurodollar | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	4.25%
Revolving and swingline loans | Current
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable	0.00%
Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	0
Incremental term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	51,651,000
Base Rate	3.25%
Incremental term loan | Base Rate | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	1.75%
Incremental term loan | Eurodollar
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Eurodollar Floor	0.75%
Incremental term loan | Eurodollar | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	2.75%
Incremental term loan | Current
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable	3.50%
Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	646,375,000
Base Rate	3.25%
Term loan | Base Rate | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	1.50%
Term loan | Eurodollar
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Eurodollar Floor	0.75%
Term loan | Eurodollar | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Rate Margins	2.50%
Term loan | Current
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Applicable	3.25%
Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount	50,000,000
Letter of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fronting fee on letters of credit	0.25%

FAIR_VALUE_OF_FINANCIAL_ASSETS2

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring, USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment in marketable securities	$3,969	$4,139
Interest rate swap liabilities		77
Level 1 Inputs
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment in marketable securities	3,969	4,139
Interest rate swap liabilities		0
Level 2 Inputs
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment in marketable securities	0	0
Interest rate swap liabilities		77
Level 3 Inputs
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investment in marketable securities	0	0
Interest rate swap liabilities		$0

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Additi

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 29, 2013
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	10.7	10.1
Restricted shares
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Performance stock units
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Vesting percentage relative to net sales	70.00%	40.00%	25.00%
Vesting percentage relative to earnings per share	30.00%	60.00%	75.00%
Performance based compensation percentage, target based	225.00%	200.00%
Performance based compensation, peer group based	150.00%	125.00%		125.00%
Stock options | Symmetricom
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted average exercise price (USD per stock option)	20.08
Stock Option Plan 2008
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Additional shares to the shares limit in common stock	4.8
Shares limit in common stock	33.3
Plan expiration date	5-Dec-21
Full value award of shares issued for every one share	2.41
Maximum term of a stock option grant or a stock appreciation right grant	6 years
Percentage vested based on current year performance
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Partial vesting for performance stock units, in years	1
Percentage vested based on prior year performance
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Partial vesting for performance stock units, in years	1

STOCKBASED_COMPENSATION_Schedu

STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION - Schedule of Restricted Shares and Performance Stock Units (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 29, 2013	Dec. 28, 2014
Restricted shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Quantity	339	168
Weighted average fair value per award (USD per award)	$24.72	$25.59
Performance stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Quantity	332	403
Weighted average fair value per award (USD per award)	$26.27	$27.54
Symmetricom | Stock options assumed from acquisition
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Quantity options assumed from acquisition	578
Weighted average fair value options assumed from acquisition (USD per option)	$7.01

SEGMENT_INFORMATION_Details

SEGMENT INFORMATION (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2014	Dec. 29, 2013
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of segments	1
Asia [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration risk, percentage	11.00%	10.00%

STOCK_REPURCHASE_PROGRAM_Detai

STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 09, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Amount authorized to be repurchased		$100,000,000
Number of shares repurchased	1
Value of shares repurchased	$25,000,000
Average price per share of stock repurchased	$24.08

RESTRUCTURING_AND_SEVERANCE_CH2

RESTRUCTURING AND SEVERANCE CHARGES - Restructuring Activities and Accrued Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$12,276
Provisions	7,234
Reversal of prior provision	-92
Cash expenditures	-5,070
Other non-cash settlement	-1,727
Ending Balance	12,621
Employee Severance
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	4,079
Provisions	3,709
Reversal of prior provision	-70
Cash expenditures	-3,263
Other non-cash settlement	0
Ending Balance	4,455
Contract Termination Costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	8,197
Provisions	1,632
Reversal of prior provision	-22
Cash expenditures	-1,508
Other non-cash settlement	-133
Ending Balance	8,166
Other Associated Costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0
Provisions	1,893
Reversal of prior provision	0
Cash expenditures	-299
Other non-cash settlement	-1,594
Ending Balance	$0

RESTRUCTURING_AND_SEVERANCE_CH3

RESTRUCTURING AND SEVERANCE CHARGES - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2014
	Person
Employee Severance
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Net provisions for restructuring costs	$3.60
Number of employees	100
Contract Termination Costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Net provisions for restructuring costs	1.6
Contract Termination, Operating Lease
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Net provisions for restructuring costs	1.2
Other Associated Costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Net provisions for restructuring costs	$1.90

COMMITMENTS_AND_CONTINGENCIES_

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2014	Sep. 28, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrued workers' compensation liabilities	$1.80	$1.90