AstroNova (ALOT) 10-K 8 Apr 15 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Mar. 27, 2015	Aug. 01, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Jan-15
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	ALOT
Entity Registrant Name	ASTRO MED INC /NEW/
Entity Central Index Key	8146
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-30
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Smaller Reporting Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		7,266,134
Entity Public Float			$68,077,000

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents	$7,958	$8,341
Securities Available for Sale	15,174	18,766
Accounts Receivable, net of reserves of $343 in 2015 and $370 in 2014	14,107	11,366
Inventories	15,582	15,178
Deferred Tax Assets	2,629	1,673
Restricted Cash		1,800
Line of Credit Receivable	173	240
Note Receivable	255	250
Asset Held for Sale	1,900	2,120
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	4,140	1,383
Current Assets of Discontinued Operations		3,917
Total Current Assets	61,918	65,034
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Land and Improvements	904	873
Buildings and Improvements	10,551	10,341
Machinery and Equipment	25,368	23,746
Total Property, Plant and Equipment , gross	36,823	34,960
Less Accumulated Depreciation	-28,444	-27,368
Total Property, Plant and Equipment, net	8,379	7,592
OTHER ASSETS
Note Receivable	256	440
Deferred Tax Assets		313
Identifiable Intangibles	2,698	3,400
Goodwill	991	991
Other	88	194
Total Other Assets	4,033	5,338
TOTAL ASSETS	74,330	77,964
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts Payable	3,155	2,374
Accrued Compensation	3,302	3,130
Other Accrued Expenses	2,343	2,310
Deferred Revenue	621	454
Income Taxes Payable	148	788
Current Liabilities of Discontinued Operations		836
Total Current Liabilities	9,569	9,892
Long Term Obligation	250	250
Deferred Tax Liabilities	83	77
Other Long Term Liabilities	1,167	1,131
TOTAL LIABILITIES	10,819	11,350
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred Stock, $10 Par Value, Authorized 100,000 shares, None Issued
Common Stock, $0.05 Par Value, Authorized 13,000,000 shares; Issued 9,544,864 shares in 2015 and 9,291,225 shares in 2014	477	465
Additional Paid-in Capital	43,589	41,235
Retained Earnings	39,735	37,201
Treasury Stock, at Cost, 2,293,606 shares in 2015 and 1,730,042 shares in 2014	-19,591	-12,463
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss),Net of Tax	-699	176
Total Shareholders' Equity	63,511	66,614
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	$74,330	$77,964

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, Reserves	$343	$370
Preferred Stock, Par Value	$10	$10
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	100,000	100,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Common Stock, Par Value	$0.05	$0.05
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	13,000,000	13,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Issued	9,544,864	9,291,225
Treasury Stock, Shares	2,293,606	1,730,042

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net Sales	$88,347	$68,592
Cost of Sales	51,370	41,609
Gross Profit	36,977	26,983
Costs and Expenses:
Selling and Marketing	18,289	14,774
Research and Development	5,802	5,072
General and Administrative	5,655	5,604
Operating Expenses	29,746	25,450
Operating Income	7,231	1,533
Other Income (Expense):
Investment Income	81	72
Other, Net	-380	-193
Other Income (Expense)	-299	-121
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	6,932	1,412
Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations	2,270	175
Income from Continuing Operations	4,662	1,237
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes of $777 in 2014		1,975
Net Income	$4,662	$3,212
Net Income per Common Share-Basic:
From Continuing Operations	$0.61	$0.17
From Discontinued Operations		$0.26
Net Income Per Common Share-Basic	$0.61	$0.43
Net Income per Common Share-Diluted:
From Continuing Operations	$0.60	$0.16
From Discontinued Operations		$0.26
Net Income Per Common Share-Diluted	$0.60	$0.42
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding-Basic	7,612	7,470
Dilutive Effect of Common Stock Equivalents	222	227
Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Outstanding-Diluted	7,834	7,697
Dividends Declared Per Common Share	$0.28	$0.28

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc1

Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Income tax expense (benefit) of discontinued operations	$777

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Income	$4,662	$3,212
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of taxes and reclassification adjustments:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-866	-14
Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale	-9	17
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	-875	3
Comprehensive Income	$3,787	$3,215

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Beginning Balance at Jan. 31, 2013	$63,837,000	$452,000	$38,786,000	$36,092,000	($11,666,000)	$173,000
Beginning Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2013		9,031,756
Share-based compensation	562,000		562,000
Employee option exercises	1,801,000	11,000	1,790,000
Employee option exercises, Shares		214,779
Tax benefit of employee stock options	158,000		158,000
Restricted stock awards	-59,000	2,000	-61,000
Restricted stock awards, Shares		44,690
Purchases of common stock from employees	-797,000				-797,000
Dividends paid	-2,103,000			-2,103,000
Net Income	3,212,000			3,212,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	3,000					3,000
Ending Balance at Jan. 31, 2014	66,614,000	465,000	41,235,000	37,201,000	-12,463,000	176,000
Ending Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2014		9,291,225
Share-based compensation	511,000		511,000
Employee option exercises	1,887,000	11,000	1,876,000
Employee option exercises, Shares	224,275	227,512
Tax benefit of employee stock options	107,000		107,000
Restricted stock awards	-139,000	1,000	-140,000
Restricted stock awards, Shares		26,127
Purchases of common stock from employees	-878,000				-878,000
Repurchases of common stock	-6,250,000				-6,250,000
Dividends paid	-2,128,000			-2,128,000
Net Income	4,662,000			4,662,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	-875,000					-875,000
Ending Balance at Jan. 31, 2015	$63,511,000	$477,000	$43,589,000	$39,735,000	($19,591,000)	($699,000)
Ending Balance, Shares at Jan. 31, 2015		9,544,864

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Income	$4,662	$3,212
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided (Used) By Operating Activities:
Gain on Disposal of Discontinued Operations		-1,800
Depreciation and Amortization	2,063	1,279
Share-Based Compensation	511	562
Deferred Income Tax Benefit	-636	-636
Excess Tax Benefit From Share-Based Compensation	-107	-158
Write-down of asset held for sale	220	779
Changes in Assets and Liabilities, Net of Impact of Acquisition and Divestiture:
Accounts Receivable	-2,741	-2,588
Inventories	-404	-1,283
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses	810	1,469
Income Taxes Payable	-1,747	-3,515
Other	-1,140	-1,004
Net Cash Provided (Used) by Operating Activities	1,491	-4,462
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Proceeds from Sales/Maturities of Securities Available for Sale	12,885	10,835
Purchases of Securities Available for Sale	-9,306	-21,065
Release of Funds Held in Escrow From Sale of Grass	1,800
Proceeds Received on Disposition of Grass Inventory	2,355
Payments Received on Line of Credit and Note Receivable	258	373
Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment	-2,247	-1,128
Acquisition of Miltope Ruggedized Printer Business		-6,732
Net Cash Provided (Used) by Investing Activities	5,745	-17,717
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Proceeds from Common Shares Issued Under Employee Benefit Plans and Employee Stock Option Plans, Net of Payment of Minimum Tax Withholdings	870	944
Purchase of Treasury Stock	-6,250
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-Based Compensation	107	158
Dividends Paid	-2,128	-2,103
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities	-7,401	-1,001
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents	-218	522
Net Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents	-383	-22,658
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Year	8,341	30,999
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Year	7,958	8,341
Supplemental Information:
Income Taxes, Net of Refunds	$4,566	$5,085

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Basis of Presentation: The accompanying financial data have been prepared by us pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and are presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). Our fiscal year end is January 31. Unless otherwise stated, all years and dates refer to our fiscal year.
	On January 22, 2014, Astro-Med completed the acquisition of the ruggedized printer product line from Miltope Corporation, a company of VT Systems (“Miltope”). Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer product line is part of the Ruggedized product group and is reported as part of the Test & Measurement (T&M) segment. The results of the Miltope’s ruggedized printer product line operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company since the acquisition date. Refer to Note 2, “Acquisition,” for further details.
	On January 31, 2013, we completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of our Grass Technologies Product Group. Consequently, we have classified the results of operations of the Grass Technologies Product Group as discontinued operations for the 2014 period presented. Refer to Note 20, “Discontinued Operations,” for further discussion.
	Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astro-Med, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
	Reclassification: Certain amounts in prior year’s financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.
	Use of Estimates: The presentation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect these financial statements and accompanying notes. Some of the more significant estimates relate to the allowances for doubtful accounts and credits, inventory valuation, valuation and estimated lives of intangible assets, impairment of long-lived assets, asset held for sale and goodwill, income taxes, share-based compensation and warranty reserves. Management’s estimates are based on the facts and circumstances available at the time estimates are made, past historical experience, risk of loss, general economic conditions and trends, and management’s assessments of the probable future outcome of these matters. Consequently, actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents: Highly liquid investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less are considered to be cash equivalents. Similar investments with original maturities beyond three months are classified as securities available for sale. Cash of $2,995,000 and $2,544,000 was held in foreign bank accounts at January 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	Securities Available for Sale: Securities available for sale are carried at fair value based on quoted market prices, where available. The difference between cost and fair value, net of related tax effects, is recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity.
	Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets (land improvements—10 to 20 years; buildings and improvements—10 to 45 years; machinery and equipment—3 to 10 years). Depreciation expense was $1,361,000 for fiscal 2015 and $1,279,000 for 2014.
	Revenue Recognition: Astro-Med’s product sales are recognized when all of the following criteria have been met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; delivery has occurred and legal title and risk of loss have passed to the customer; and collectability is reasonably assured. Returns and customer credits are infrequent and are recorded as a reduction to sales. Rights of return are not included in sales arrangements. Revenue associated with products that contain specific customer acceptance criteria is not recognized before the customer acceptance criteria are satisfied. Discounts from list prices are recorded as a reduction to sales. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling fees are included in sales while related shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales.
	The majority of our equipment contains embedded operating systems and data management software which is included in the purchase price of the equipment. The software is deemed incidental to the systems as a whole as it is not sold separately or marketed separately and its production costs are minor as compared to those of the hardware system. Therefore, the Company’s hardware appliances are considered non-software elements and are not subject to the industry-specific software revenue recognition guidance.
	Our multiple-element arrangements are generally comprised of a combination of equipment, software, installation and/or training services. Hardware and software elements are typically delivered at the same time and revenue is recognized when all the revenue recognition criteria for each unit are met. Delivery of installation and training services will vary based on certain factors such as the complexity of the equipment, staffing availability in a geographic location and customer preferences, and can range from a few days to a few months. Service revenue is deferred and recognized over the contractual period or as services are rendered and accepted by the customer.
	We have evaluated the deliverables in our multiple-element arrangements and concluded that they are separate units of accounting if the delivered item or items have value to the customer on a standalone basis and delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. We allocate revenue to each element in our multiple-element arrangements based upon their relative selling prices. We determine the selling price for each deliverable based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) if available, third-party evidence (“TPE”) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (“ESP”) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. Revenue allocated to each element is then recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria for that element have been met.
	Infrequently, Astro-Med recognizes revenue for non-recurring engineering (NRE) fees for product modification orders upon completion of agreed-upon milestones. Revenue is deferred for any amounts received prior to completion of milestones. Certain of our NRE arrangements include formal customer acceptance provisions. In such cases, we determine whether we have obtained customer acceptance for the specific milestone before recognizing revenue. NRE fees have not been significant in the periods presented herein.
	Infrequently, Astro-Med receives requests from customers to hold product purchased from us for the customer’s convenience. Revenue is recognized for such bill and hold arrangements in accordance with the requirements of SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 104 which requires, among other things, the existence of a valid business purpose for the arrangement; the transfer of ownership of the purchased product; a fixed delivery date that is reasonable and consistent with the buyer’s business purpose; the readiness of the product for shipment; the use of customary payment terms; no continuing performance obligation by us; and segregation of the product from our inventories.
	Research and Development Costs: Astro-Med charges costs to expense in the period incurred, and these expenses are shown on a separate line in the consolidated statement of income. Included in research and development expense are the following: salaries and benefits, external engineering service costs, engineering related information costs and supplies. The Company also complies with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 985-20, “Costs of Computer Software to be Sold, Leased or Marketed” and ASC 350-40, “Internal-Use Software” in accounting for the costs of software either developed or acquired.
	Foreign Currency Translation: The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries and branches are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates with the translation adjustment recorded as a component of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity. Revenues and expenses are translated at the monthly average exchange rates. We do not provide for U.S. income taxes on foreign currency translation adjustments associated with our German subsidiary since its undistributed earnings are considered to be permanently invested. Our net foreign exchange losses were $219,000 and $190,000 for fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	Advertising: Astro-Med expenses advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs including advertising production, trade shows and other activities are designed to enhance demand for our products and amounted to approximately $1,717,000 and $1,236,000 in fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	Health Insurance Reimbursement Reserve: Astro-Med reimbursed a portion of employee health insurance deductibles and co-payments for fiscal 2015 and 2014. The total reimbursement amounted to approximately $129,000 and $201,000 in 2015 and 2014, respectively. We accrued approximately $20,000 and $75,000 at January 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, for estimated outstanding reimbursements due to employees, including a reserve for incurred but not reported amounts.
	Long-Lived Assets: Long-lived assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Determination of recoverability is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If the projected undiscounted cash flows are less these the carrying value, then an impairment charge would be recorded for the excess of the carrying value over the fair value, as determined by the discounting of future cash flows. For both 2015 and 2014, these were no impairment charges for long-lived assets.
	Assets Held for Sale: Assets held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or fair value less cost to sell. Astro-Med’s former Grass facility in Rockland met the held for sale classification criteria as of January 31, 2015 and 2014. This property is being actively marketed and management expects to sell the property during the upcoming fiscal year. Accordingly, the asset held for sale has been classified as a current asset.
	The Company estimated the fair value of the Rockland facility using the market values for similar properties and estimated the fair value less the cost to sell. This property is considered a Level 2 asset as defined in ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements.”
	During the years ended 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges of $220,000 and $779,000, respectively, related to the write-down of the Rockland facility to fair value, less cost to sell. In fiscal 2015, the impairment charge was included in other income (expense), other, net in the consolidated statement of income. For fiscal 2014, the impairment charge was included in the income from discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of income.
	Intangible Assets: Intangible assets include the value of customer relationships and backlog rights acquired in connection with business acquisitions and are recorded at fair value as determined by the Company. These intangible assets have a definite life and are amortized over the assets’ useful lives using a systematic and rational basis which is representative of the assets use. Intangible assets with a definite life are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds the estimated undiscounted cash flows used in determining the fair value of the asset. The amount of the impairment loss recorded is calculated by the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. For both 2015 and 2014, there were no impairment charges for intangible assets.
	Goodwill: Management evaluates the recoverability of goodwill annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances, such as declines in sales, earnings or cash flows, or material adverse changes in the business climate, indicate that the carrying value of an asset might be impaired. Goodwill is first qualitatively assessed to determine whether further impairment testing is necessary. Factors that management considers in this assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, overall financial performance (both current and projected), changes in management and strategy and changes in the composition or carrying amount of net assets. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a two step process is then performed. Step one compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, step two is required to determine if there is an impairment of the goodwill. Step two compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill to the carrying amount of the goodwill. We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using the income approach based upon a discounted cash flow model. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the reporting unit’s expected long–term operating cash flow performance. In addition, the Company uses the market approach, which compares the reporting unit to publicly-traded companies and transactions involving similar business, to support the conclusions based upon the income approach. The income approach requires the use of many assumptions and estimates including future revenue, expenses, capital expenditures, and working capital, as well as discount factors and income tax rates.
	We performed a qualitative assessment for our 2015 analysis of goodwill. Based on this assessment, management does not believe that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of the reporting units exceed their fair values. Accordingly, no further testing was performed as management believes that there are no impairment issues in regards to goodwill at this time.
	Income Taxes: Astro-Med uses the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of the assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. An allowance against deferred tax assets is recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. At January 31, 2015 and 2014, a valuation allowance was provided for deferred tax assets attributable to certain state R&D credit carryforwards.
	Astro-Med accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the guidance provided in ASC 740, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This guidance describes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and requires recognition of tax benefits that satisfy a more-likely-than-not threshold. ASC 740 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods and disclosure.
	Net Income Per Common Share: Basic net income per share is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is based on the basic weighted average number of shares and potential common equivalent shares for stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. In fiscal years 2015 and 2014, there were 156,600 and 126,800 common equivalent shares that were not included in the computation of diluted net income per common share because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: In circumstances where we are aware of a customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, an allowance is established. The majority of accounts are individually evaluated on a regular basis and allowances are established to state such receivables at their net realizable value. The remainder of the allowance is based upon historical write-off experience and current market assessments.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, investment securities, accounts receivable, a note receivable, a line of credit receivable and accounts payable. The carrying amount reflected in the consolidated balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. Investment securities, all of which are available for sale, are carried in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value based on quoted market prices, when available. The note receivable is carried in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value based on the present value of the discounted cash flows over the life of the note.
	The Company measures assets held for sale at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and records impairment charges when the assets are deemed to be impaired.
	Share-Based Compensation: Share-based compensation expense is measured based on the estimated fair value of the share-based award when granted and is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity grant). We have estimated the fair value of each option on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Our estimate of share-based compensation requires a number of complex and subjective assumptions including our stock price volatility, employee exercise patterns (expected life of the options), the risk-free interest rate and the Company’s dividend yield. The stock price volatility assumption is based on the historical weekly price data of our common stock over a period equivalent to the weighted average expected life of our options. Management evaluated whether there were factors during that period which were unusual and would distort the volatility figure if used to estimate future volatility and concluded that there were no such factors. In determining the expected life of the option grants, the Company has observed the actual terms of prior grants with similar characteristics and the actual vesting schedule of the grant and has assessed the expected risk tolerance of different option groups. The risk-free interest rate is based on the actual U.S. Treasury zero coupon rates for bonds matching the expected term of the option as of the option grant date. The dividend assumption is based upon the prior year’s average dividend yield. No compensation expense is recognized for options that are forfeited for which the employee does not render the requisite service. Our accounting for share-based compensation for restricted stock awards (“RSA”) and restricted stock units (“RSU”) is also based on the fair value method. The fair value of the RSUs and RSAs is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date.
	The cash flow from the tax benefits that are a result of tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized for those options (excess tax benefits) are classified as a cash inflow from financing activities and a cash outflow from operating activity. Tax deductions from certain stock option exercises are treated as being realized when they reduce taxes payable in accordance with relevant tax law.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements:
	Discontinued Operations
	In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” ASU 2014-08 limits discontinued operations reporting to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. In addition, this ASU expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. ASU 2014-08 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and is to be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2014-08 and do not expect it to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
	Revenue Recognition
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” ASU 2014-09 completes the joint effort by the FASB and International Accounting Standards Board to improve financial reporting by creating common revenue recognition guidance for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU 2014-09 applies to all companies that enter into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services and is effective for public entities for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is not permitted and entities have the choice to apply ASU 2014-09 either retrospectively to each reporting period presented or by recognizing the cumulative effect of applying ASU 2014-09 at the date of initial application and not adjusting comparative information. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of ASU 2014-09 and has not yet determined its impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	Note 2—Acquisition
	On January 22, 2014, Astro-Med completed the acquisition of the ruggedized printer product line from Miltope Corporation (Miltope), which is engaged in the design, development, manufacture and testing of ruggedized computers and computer peripheral equipment for military, industry and commercial applications. Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer product line is reported as part of the T&M segment. The results of the Miltope’s ruggedized printer product line operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company since the acquisition date.
	The purchase price of the acquisition was $6,732,000 which was funded using existing cash on hand. Of the $6,732,000 purchase price, $500,000 was held in escrow for twelve months following the acquisition date to provide an indemnity to the Company in the event of any breach in the representation, warranties and covenants of Miltope. The assets acquired consist of all of the assets of the Miltope ruggedized printer product line excluding plant and equipment and personnel. Acquisition related costs of approximately $90,000 are included in the general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of income for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method in accordance with the guidance provided by FASB ASC 805, “Business Combinations.”
	As part of the acquisition, Miltope and Astro-Med entered into a manufacturing services agreement under which Miltope provided transition services and continued to manufacture printers for Astro-Med. This agreement concluded in the third quarter of fiscal 2015, as the Company has transitioned all the manufacturing to its West Warwick, Rhode Island facility at that time.
	The purchase price of the acquisition has been allocated on the basis of the estimated fair value as follows:
	(In thousands)
	Accounts Receivable	$	713
	Inventories		2,503
	Identifiable Intangible Assets		3,400
	Goodwill		196
	Warranty Reserve		(80	)
	Total Purchase Price	$	6,732
	Goodwill of $196,000, which is deductible for tax purposes, represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value assigned to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Miltope. The carrying amount of the goodwill was allocated to the T&M segment of the Company.
	The following table reflects the fair value of the acquired identifiable intangible assets and related estimated useful lives:
	(In thousands)	Fair			Useful Life
		Value			(Years)
	Customer Contract Relationships	$	3,100			10
	Backlog		300			1
	Total	$	3,400
	Amortization expense of $702,000 has been included in the statement of income for fiscal 2015 in regards to the above acquired intangibles.
	Estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:
	(In thousands)	2016			2017		2018		2019		2020
	Estimated amortization expenses	$	357		$	349	$	331	$	278	$	278
	The following unaudited pro forma information assumes the acquisition of Miltope occurred on February 1, 2013. This information has been prepared for informational purposes only and does not purport to represent the results of operations that would have happened had the acquisition occurred as of the date indicated, nor of future results of operations.
		Year Ended
		January 31
	(In thousands)	2014
	Net Revenue	$	75,362
	The impact on income from continuing operations, net income and earnings per share would not have been material to the Company for the year ended January 31, 2014.

Securities_Available_for_Sale

Securities Available for Sale	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Securities Available for Sale	Note 3—Securities Available for Sale
	Pursuant to our investment policy, securities available for sale include state and municipal securities with various contractual or anticipated maturity dates ranging from one month to three years. These securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes in shareholders’ equity until realized. Realized gains and losses from the sale of available for sale securities, if any, are determined on a specific identification basis. A decline in the fair value of any available for sale security below cost that is determined to be other than temporary will result in a write-down of its carrying amount to fair value. No such impairment charges were recorded for any period presented. All short-term investment securities have original maturities greater than 90 days.
	The fair value, amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses of the securities are as follows:
		Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	(In thousands)
	January 31, 2015
	State and Municipal Obligations	$	15,150	$	26	$	(2	)	$	15,174
	January 31, 2014
	State and Municipal Obligations	$	18,729	$	37	$	—		$	18,766
	The contractual maturity dates of these securities are as follows:
		January 31
		2015		2014
	(In thousands)
	Less than one year	$	9,470	$	11,439
	One to three years		5,704		7,327
		$	15,174	$	18,766
	Actual maturities may differ from contractual dates as a result of sales or earlier issuer redemptions.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Note 4—Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market and include material, labor and manufacturing overhead. The components of inventories are as follows:
		31-Jan
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Materials and Supplies	$	10,600		$	10,722
	Work-in-Progress		765			852
	Finished Goods		7,372			6,798
			18,737			18,372
	Inventory Reserve		(3,155	)		(3,194	)
	Balance at January 31	$	15,582		$	15,178
	Included within finished goods inventory is $1,030,000 and $767,000 of demonstration equipment at January 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Accrued_Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Note 5—Accrued Expenses
	Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
		January 31
		2015		2014
	(In thousands)
	Warranty	$	375	$	355
	Product Replacement Cost Reserve		353	$	480
	Professional Fees		256		269
	Executive Retirement Package		250		250
	Dealer Commissions		163		55
	Other		946		901
		$	2,343	$	2,310

Line_of_Credit

Line of Credit	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Line of Credit	Note 6—Line of Credit
	On September 5, 2014, Astro-Med entered into a new unsecured revolving line of credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank to replace the previous agreement which expired on May 30, 2014. The terms of the new agreement are for a three-year, $10 million revolving line of credit to be available to the Company to be used as needed for ongoing working capital requirements, business acquisitions or general corporate purposes. Any borrowings made under the new line of credit bear interest at either a fluctuating base rate equal to the highest of (i) the Prime Rate, (ii) 1.50% above the daily one month LIBOR, and (iii) the Federal Funds Rate in effect plus 1.50% or at a fixed rate of LIBOR plus an agreed upon margin of between 0% and 2.25%, based on the Company’s funded debt to EBITDA ratio as defined in the agreement. In addition, the new agreement provided for two financial covenant requirements, namely, Total Funded Debt to Adjusted EBITDA (as defined) of not greater than 3 to 1 and a Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (as defined) of not less than 1.25 to 1, both measured at the end of each quarter on a rolling four quarter basis. As of the January 31, 2015, there have been no borrowings against this line of credit and the Company was in compliance with its financial covenants.

Note_Receivable_and_Revolving_

Note Receivable and Revolving Line of Credit Issued	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Note Receivable and Revolving Line of Credit Issued	Note 7—Note Receivable and Revolving Line of Credit Issued
	On January 30, 2012, we completed the sale of our label manufacturing operations in Asheboro, North Carolina to Label Line Ltd. The net sales price of $1,000,000 was received in the form of a promissory note issued by Label Line Ltd. and is fully secured by a first lien on various collateral, including the Asheboro plant and plant assets. The note bears interest at 3.75% and is payable in sixteen quarterly installments of principal and interest which commenced on January 30, 2013. As of January 31, 2015, $511,000 remains outstanding on this note which approximates its estimated fair value.
	The terms of the Asheboro sale also included an agreement for Astro-Med to provide Label Line Ltd. with additional financing in the form of a revolving line of credit of $600,000, which is fully secured by a first lien on various collateral, including the Asheboro plant and plant assets. This line of credit bears interest at a rate equal to the United States prime rate plus an additional margin of two percent of the outstanding credit balance (5.25% at January 31, 2015). Although the initial term was for a period of one-year from the date of the sale, the agreement had been extended through January 31, 2015. As of January 31, 2015, $173,000 remains outstanding on this revolving line of credit. Subsequent to fiscal 2015 year-end, the agreement was amended to extend the term of the agreement through January 31, 2016.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Note 8—Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	The changes in the balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component are as follows:
	(In thousands)	Foreign Currency			Unrealized Holding Gain			Total
		Translation			on Available for
		Adjustments			Sale Securities
	Balance at January 31, 2013	$	166		$	7		$	173
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(14	)		17			3
	Amounts Reclassified to Net Income		—			—			—
	Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(14	)		17			3
	Balance at January 31, 2014		152			24			176
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(866	)		(9	)		(875	)
	Amounts Reclassified to Net Income		—			—			—
	Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(866	)		(9	)		(875	)
	Balance at January 31, 2015	$	(714	)	$	15		$	(699	)
	The amounts presented above in other comprehensive income (loss) are net of taxes except for translation adjustments associated with our German subsidiary.

Shareholders_Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity	Note 9—Shareholders’ Equity
	On December 5, 2014, the Company repurchased 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock from the Estate of Albert W. Ondis for an aggregate purchase price of $6,250,000. Prior to entering into the Stock Purchase Agreement, the Company obtained an opinion from an independent investment banking firm as to the fairness, from a financial point of view, to the public shareholders of the Company other than the selling shareholders, of the consideration paid by the Company in the transaction. The purchase was funded using existing cash on hand. This transaction did not impact the number of shares authorized for repurchase under the Company’s current repurchase program. During fiscal 2014 the Company did not repurchase any shares of its common stock except as described below in connection with the exercise of employee stock options.
	During fiscal 2015 and 2014, certain of the Company’s employees delivered a total of 62,797 and 66,828 shares respectively, of the Company’s common stock to satisfy the exercise price for stock options exercised and related taxes. The shares delivered were valued at a total of $878,000 and $797,000, respectively, and are included in treasury stock in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at January 31, 2015 and 2014. These transactions did not impact the number of shares authorized for repurchase under the Company’s current repurchase program.
	As of January 31, 2015, the Company’s Board of Directors has authorized the purchase of up to an additional 390,000 shares Company’s common stock on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Note 10—Share-Based Compensation
	Astro-Med maintains the following share-based compensation plans:
	Stock Plans:
	Astro-Med has one equity incentive plan (the “Plan”) under which incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”), restricted stock awards (“RSAs”) and other equity based awards may be granted to directors, officers and certain employees. An aggregate of 1,000,000 shares were authorized for awards under the Plan. At January 31, 2015, 206,339 shares were available for grant under the Plan. Options granted to employees vest over four years. The exercise price of each stock option will be established at the discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors; however, any incentive stock options granted must be at an exercise price of not less than fair market value at the date of grant.
	In fiscal year 2013, a portion of the Company’s executive’s long-term incentive compensation was awarded in the form of RSUs (“2013 RSUs”). The 2013 RSUs were earned based on the Company achieving specific thresholds of net sales and annual operating income as established under the fiscal 2013 Domestic Management Bonus Plan and vested fifty percent on the first anniversary of the grant date and fifty percent on the second anniversary of the grant date provided that the grantee was employed on each vesting date by Astro-Med or an affiliate company. All such 2013 RSUs were earned and vested as of March 2014. In April 2013, the Company granted options and RSUs to officers (“2014 RSUs”). Each 2014 RSU will be earned and vest as follows: twenty-five percent vests on the third anniversary of the grant date, fifty percent vests upon the Company achieving its cumulative budgeted net sales target for fiscal years 2014 through 2016 (the “Measurement Period”), and twenty-five percent vests upon the Company’s achieving a target average annual ORONA (operating income return on net assets as calculated under the Domestic Management Bonus Plan) for the Measurement Period. The grantee may not sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of more than fifty percent of the common stock issued upon vesting of the RSU until the first anniversary of the vesting date. No 2014 RSUs whose vesting is dependent upon the achievement of financial performance goals as set forth herein, have vested as of January 31, 2015.
	The Plan provides for an automatic annual grant of ten-year options to purchase 5,000 shares of stock to each non-employee director upon the adjournment of each annual shareholders’ meeting. Each such option is exercisable at the fair market value as of the grant date and vests immediately prior to the next succeeding shareholders’ meeting. In addition to the automatic option grant under Plan, the Company has a Non-Employee Director Annual Compensation Program (the “Program”) which provides that each non-employee director is entitled to an annual cash retainer of $7,000 (the “Annual Cash Retainer”), plus $500 for each Board and committee meeting attended. In addition, effective August 1, 2014, the Chairman of the Board also receives an annual retainer of $6,000 and the Chair of the Audit Committee and Compensation Committee each receive an annual retainer of $4,000 each (“Chair Retainer”). The non-employee director may elect for any fiscal year to receive all or a portion of the Annual Cash Retainer and/or Chair Retainer (collectively the “Cash Retainer”) in the form of common stock of the Company, which will be issued under the Plan. If a non-employee director elects to receive all or a portion of the Cash Retainer in the form of common stock, such shares shall be issued in four quarterly installments on the first day of each fiscal quarter, and the number of shares of common stock to be issued shall be based on the fair market value of such common stock on the date such installment is payable. The common stock received in lieu of such Cash Retainer will be fully vested. However, a non-employee director who receives common stock in lieu of all or a portion of the Cash Retainer may not sell, transfer, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber the common stock prior to the first anniversary of the date on which such shares were issuable. In the event of the death or disability of a non-employee director, or a change in control of the Company, any shares of common stock issued in lieu of such Cash Retainer, shall no longer be subject to such restrictions on transfer.
	In addition, under the Program, each non-employee director receives RSAs with a value equal to $20,000 (the “Equity Retainer”) upon adjournment of each annual shareholders’ meeting. If a non-employee director is first appointed or elected to the Board of Directors effective on a date other than at the annual shareholders’ meeting, on the date of such appointment or election, the director shall receive a pro rata award of restricted common stock having a value based on the number of days remaining until the next annual meeting. The Equity Retainer will vest on the earlier of 12 months after the grant date or the date immediately prior to the next annual meeting of the shareholders following the meeting at which such RSAs were granted. However, a non-employee director may not sell, transfer, assign, pledge or otherwise encumber the vested common stock prior to the second anniversary of the vesting date. In the event of the death or disability of a non-employee director, or a change in control of the Company, the RSAs shall immediately vest and shall no longer be subject to such restrictions on transfer.
	Stock Options:
	Aggregated information regarding stock options granted under the Plan is summarized below:
		Number			Option Price			Weighted Average
		of Shares			Per Share			Option Price Per
								Share
	Options Outstanding, January 31, 2014		736,647		$	5.78-11.90		$	8.63
	Options Granted		158,600		$	13.46-14.20		$	13.99
	Options Exercised		(224,275	)	$	6.22-11.90		$	8.29
	Options Expired		(14,961	)	$	7.95-14.20		$	9.49
	Options Outstanding, January 31, 2015		656,011		$	5.78-14.20		$	10.01
	Options Exercisable, January 31, 2015		413,612		$	5.78-13.46		$	8.78
	Set forth below is a summary of options outstanding at January 31, 2015:
	Outstanding									Exercisable
	Range of	Options			Weighted Average			Remaining		Options		Weighted Average
	Exercise prices				Exercise Price			Contractual Life				Exercise Price
	$5.78-8.73		314,365		$	7.64			5.1		254,516	$	7.54
	$8.95-13.46		190,046		$	10.79			4.3		159,096	$	10.76
	$13.80-14.20		151,600		$	14			9.2		—	$	—
			656,011								413,612
	The fair value of each stock option granted was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
		Years Ended January 31
		2015		2014
	Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.5%-1.62%		0.81%-0.84%
	Expected Life (years)	5		5
	Expected Volatility	21.47%-26.75%		38.07%-38.46%
	Expected Dividend Yield	1.98%		2.63%
	The weighted average fair value of options granted during fiscal 2015 and 2014 was $2.85 and $2.79, respectively. As of January 31, 2015, there was $455,000 of unrecognized compensation expense related to the unvested stock options granted under the plans. The expense is to be recognized over a weighted average of two years.
	As of January 31, 2015, the aggregate intrinsic value (the aggregate difference between the closing stock price of the Company’s common stock on January 31, 2015, and the exercise price of the outstanding options) that would have been received by the option holders if all options had been exercised was $2,554,000 for all exercisable options and $3,225,000 for all options outstanding. The weighted average remaining contractual terms for these options are 4.2 years. The total aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal 2015 and 2014 was $1,149,000 and $706,000, respectively.
	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Restricted Stock Awards (RSAs):
	Aggregated information regarding RSUs and RSAs granted under the Plan is summarized below:
		RSAs & RSUs			Weighted Average
					Grant Date Fair Value
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014		106,496		$	9.12
	Granted		7,245			13.8
	Vested		(35,662	)		8.75
	Expired or canceled		(5,834	)		10.07
	Outstanding at January 31, 2015		72,245		$	9.7
	As of January 31, 2015, there was $278,000 of unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs and RSAs.
	Share-based compensation expense has been recognized as follows:
		Years Ended January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Stock Options	$	241		$	192
	Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units		270			370
	Total	$	511		$	562
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP):
	Astro-Med’s ESPP allows eligible employees to purchase shares of common stock at a 15% discount from fair market value on the date of purchase. A total of 247,500 shares were initially reserved for issuance under this plan. Summarized plan activity is as follows:
		Years Ended January 31
		2015			2014
	Shares Reserved, Beginning		60,242			64,231
	Shares Purchased		(3,237	)		(3,989	)
	Shares Reserved, Ending		57,005			60,242

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 11—Income Taxes
	The components of income from continuing operations before income taxes are as follows:
		Years Ended
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Domestic	$	5,401		$	537
	Foreign		1,531			875
		$	6,932		$	1,412
	The components of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations are as follows:
		Years Ended
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Current:
	Federal	$	1,666		$	930
	State		466			179
	Foreign		535			297
			2,667			1,406
	Deferred:
	Federal		(290	)		(1,044	)
	State		(107	)		(174	)
	Foreign		—			(13	)
			(397	)		(1,231	)
		$	2,270		$	175
	The provision for income taxes for continuing operations differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 34% in fiscal 2015 and 2014 to income before income taxes due to the following:
		Years Ended
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Income Tax Provision at Statutory Rate	$	2,357		$	480
	State Taxes, Net of Federal Tax Effect		233			(47	)
	Change in Reserves Related to ASC 740 Liability		23			(59	)
	Meals and Entertainment		41			38
	Domestic Production Deduction		(164	)		(30	)
	Share-Based Compensation		(25	)		36
	Tax-exempt Income		(24	)		(22	)
	R&D Credits		(135	)		(114	)
	Foreign Rate Differential		(56	)		(26	)
	Other Permanent Differences and Miscellaneous, Net		20			(81	)
		$	2,270		$	175
	The components of deferred income tax expense arise from various temporary differences and relate to items included in the statement of income. The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Deferred Tax Assets:
	Inventory	$	1,666		$	1,792
	Share-Based Compensation		572			535
	State R&D Credits		371			258
	Compensation Accrual		417			493
	ASC 740 Liability Federal Benefit		304			290
	Deferred Service Contract Revenue		235			181
	Warranty Reserve		140			137
	Reserve for Doubtful Accounts		116			127
	Foreign Tax Credit		356			213
	Other		298			119
			4,475			4,145
	Deferred Tax Liabilities:
	Accumulated Tax Depreciation in Excess of Book Depreciation		766			830
	Deferred Gain on Asset Held for Sale		785			897
	Currency Translation Adjustment		36			173
	Other		87			78
			1,674			1,978
	Subtotal		2,801			2,167
Valuation Allowance		(255	)		(258	)
Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	2,546		$	1,909
The valuation allowance at January 31, 2015 relates to certain state research and development tax credit carryforwards which are expected to expire unused. The change in the valuation allowance in 2015 was a decrease of approximately $3,000 and represented a decrease in the reserve due to the utilization of research and development credits during the current year, net of federal benefit. The change in the valuation allowance in 2014 was an increase of approximately $27,000 and represented an increase in the reserve due to the generation of research and development credits during the current year, net of federal benefit.
The Company reasonably believes that it is possible that some unrecognized tax benefits, accrued interest and penalties could decrease income tax expense in the next year due to either the review of previously filed tax returns or the expiration of certain statutes of limitation. The changes in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties are as follows:
	2015			2014
(In thousands)
Balance at February 1	$	715		$	941
Increases in prior period tax positions		—			31
Increases in current period tax positions		87			42
Reductions related to lapse of statute of limitations		(95	)		(299	)
Balance at January 31	$	707		$	715
If the $707,000 is recognized, $493,000 would decrease the effective tax rate in the period in which each of the benefits is recognized and the remainder would be offset by a reversal of deferred tax assets.
During fiscal 2015 and 2014 the Company recognized an expense of $43,000 and $68,000, respectively, related to interest and penalties, which are included as a component of income tax expense in the accompanying statements of income. At January 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company had accrued potential interest and penalties of $460,000 and $416,000, respectively.
The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in U.S. federal jurisdictions, various state jurisdictions, and various foreign jurisdictions. The Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal tax examinations prior to 2010.
On September 13, 2013, the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service released final regulations that provided guidance on the application of IRC Section 263(a) for amounts paid to acquire, produce, or improve tangible property, as well as the rules for materials and supplies and proposed regulations addressing dispositions and general asset accounts. The final regulations are generally effective for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2014. We are currently evaluating the impact of these new regulations and do not expect them to have a material impact to our financial statements.
At January 31, 2015, the Company has indefinitely reinvested $3,909,000 of the cumulative undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiary in Germany, all of which would be subject to U.S. taxes if repatriated to the U.S. Through January 31, 2015, the Company has not provided deferred income taxes on the undistributed earnings of this subsidiary because such earnings are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. Non-U.S. income taxes are, however, provided on these undistributed earnings.

Contractual_Obligations

Contractual Obligations	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contractual Obligations	Note 12—Contractual Obligations
	The following table summarizes our contractual obligations:
			Total		2016		2017		2018		2019		2020
													and
													Thereafter
	(In thousands)
	Purchase Commitments*		$	15,117	$	14,907	$	210	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Operating Lease Obligations			688		255		225		136		72		—
			$	15,805	$	15,162	$	435	$	136	$	72	$	—
	*	Purchase commitments consists primarily of inventory and equipment purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business.
	The Company incurred rent and lease expenses in the amount of $614,000 and $599,000 for the fiscal years 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information	Note 13—Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information
	The Company’s operations consist of the design, development, manufacture and sale of specialty printers and data acquisition and analysis systems, including both hardware & software and related consumable supplies. The Company organizes and manages its business as a portfolio of products and services designed around a common theme of data acquisition and information output. The Company has two reporting segments consistent with its sales product groups: QuickLabel Systems (QuickLabel) and Test & Measurement (T&M).
	QuickLabel produces an array of high-technology digital color and monochrome label printers, labeling software and consumables for a variety of commercial industries worldwide. T&M produces data recording equipment used worldwide for a variety of recording, monitoring and troubleshooting applications for many industries including aerospace, automotive, defense, rail, energy, industrial and general manufacturing.
	Business is conducted in the United States and through foreign affiliates in Canada, Europe, Southeast Asia and Mexico. Manufacturing activities are primarily conducted in the United States. Sales and service activities outside the United States are conducted through wholly-owned entities and, to a lesser extent, through authorized distributors and agents. Transfer prices are intended to produce gross profit margins as would be associated with an arms-length transaction.
	On January 22, 2014, Astro-Med completed the acquisition of the ruggedized printer product line from Miltope. Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer product line is part of the Ruggedized product group and is reported as part of the T&M segment. The results of the Miltope’s ruggedized printer product line operations have been included from the date of acquisitions for all periods presented below. Refer to Note 2, “Acquisition,” for further details.
	On January 31, 2013, the Company completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of its Grass Technologies Product Group (Grass) in order to focus on its core businesses. Consequently, the Company has classified the results of operations of Grass as discontinued operations for the fiscal 2014 period presented. Refer to Note 20 “Discontinued Operations,” for further details.
	The accounting policies of the reporting segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies herein. The Company evaluates segment performance based on the segment profit before corporate and financial administration expenses.
	Summarized below are the Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit (both in dollars and as a percentage of Net Sales) for each reporting segment:
	($ in thousands)		Net Sales				Segment Operating Profit				Segment Operating Profit %
											of Net Sales
			2015		2014		2015		2014		2015			2014
	QuickLabel		$	59,779	$	49,065	$	7,259	$	5,154		12.1	%		10.5	%
	T&M			28,568		19,527		5,627		2,655		19.7	%		13.6	%
	Total		$	88,347	$	68,592		12,886		7,809		14.6	%		11.4	%
	Product Replacement Costs							—		672
	Corporate Expenses							5,655		5,604
	Operating Income							7,231		1,533
	Other Expense							299		121
	Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes							6,932		1,412
	Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations							2,270		175
								4,662		1,237
	Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes							—		1,975
	Net Income						$	4,662	$	3,212
	No customer accounted for greater than 10% of net sales in fiscal 2015 and 2014.
	Other information by segment is presented below:
	(In thousands)		Assets
			2015		2014
	QuickLabel		$	24,874	$	25,306
	T&M			22,323		17,049
	Discontinued Operations			—		3,917
	Corporate*			27,133		31,692
	Total		$	74,330	$	77,964
	*	Corporate assets consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, securities available for sale, and building held for sale.
	(In thousands)		Depreciation and				Capital Expenditures
			Amortization
			2015		2014		2015		2014
	QuickLabel		$	678	$	639	$	1,408	$	543
	T&M			1,385		640		839		585
	Total		$	2,063	$	1,279	$	2,247	$	1,128
	Geographical Data
	Presented below is selected financial information by geographic area:
	(In thousands)		Net Sales				Long-Lived Assets
			2015		2014		2015		2014
	United States		$	61,494	$	48,679	$	10,422	$	10,115
	Europe			18,181		14,909		383		538
	Canada			3,934		2,569		272		339
	Asia			1,408		1,167		—		—
	Central and South America			1,919		908		—		—
	Other			1,411		360		—		—
	Total		$	88,347	$	68,592	$	11,077	$	10,992
	Long-lived assets excludes goodwill assigned to the T&M segment of $1.0 million at January 31, 2015 and 2014.

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Note 14—Employee Benefit Plans
	Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP):
	Astro-Med has an ESOP providing retirement benefits to all eligible employees. Annual contributions in amounts determined by the Company’s Board of Directors are invested by the ESOP’s Trustees in shares of common stock of Astro-Med. Contributions may be in cash or stock. Astro-Med’s contributions (paid or accrued) amounted to $100,000 in both fiscal 2015 and 2014 and were recorded as compensation expense. All shares owned by the ESOP have been allocated to participants.
	Profit-Sharing Plan:
	Astro-Med sponsors a Profit-Sharing Plan (the “Plan”) which provides retirement benefits to all eligible domestic employees. The Plan allows participants to defer a portion of their cash compensation and contribute such deferral to the Plan through payroll deductions. The Company makes matching contributions up to specified levels. The deferrals are made within the limits prescribed by Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
	All contributions are deposited into trust funds. It is the policy of the Company to fund any contributions accrued. The Company’s annual contribution amounts are determined by the Board of Directors. Contributions paid or accrued amounted to $294,000 and $251,000 in fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Product_Warranty_Liability

Product Warranty Liability	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Guarantees [Abstract]
Product Warranty Liability	Note 15—Product Warranty Liability
	Astro-Med offers a manufacturer’s warranty for the majority of its hardware products. The specific terms and conditions of warranty vary depending upon the product sold and country in which the Company does business. For products sold in the United States, the Company provides a basic limited warranty, including parts and labor. The Company estimates the warranty costs based on historical claims experience and records a liability in the amount of such estimates at the time product revenue is recognized. The Company regularly assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. Activity in the product warranty liability is as follows:
		January 31,
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the year	$	355		$	350
	Warranties issued		546			447
	Settlements made		(526	)		(442	)
	Balance, end of the year	$	375		$	355

Product_Replacement_Costs

Product Replacement Costs	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Product Replacement Costs	Note 16—Product Replacement Costs
	In April 2013, tests conducted by the Company revealed that one of its suppliers had been using a non-conforming material in certain models of Astro-Med’s Test & Measurement printers. No malfunctions have been reported by customers as a result of the non-conforming material.
	Upon identifying this issue, Astro-Med immediately suspended production of the printers, notified all customers and contacted the supplier who confirmed the problem. Astro-Med is continuing to work with its customers to replace the non-conforming material on existing printers with conforming material. The estimated costs associated with the replacement program were $672,000, which was based upon the number of printers shipped during the period the non-conforming material was used. Those costs were recognized and recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and are included in cost of sales in the accompanying consolidated statement of income for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014. As of January 31, 2015, the Company had expended $319,000 in replacement costs which have been charged against this reserve. The remaining reserve amount of $353,000 is included in other accrued expenses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of January 31, 2015.
	Astro-Med is currently receiving power supplies with compliant materials and has resumed printer production and shipments to customers.
	Since the supplier deviated from the agreed upon specifications for the power supply while providing certificates of conformance to the original specifications, Astro-Med received a non-refundable $450,000 settlement from the supplier in January 2014 for recovery of the costs and expense associated with this issue. This settlement was recorded in cost of sales in the accompanying consolidated statement of income for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014. In addition to this cash settlement, the Company will receive lower product prices from the supplier through fiscal 2017.

Concentration_of_Risk

Concentration of Risk	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Concentration of Risk	Note 17—Concentration of Risk
	Credit is generally extended on an uncollateralized basis to almost all customers after review of credit worthiness. Concentration of credit and geographic risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited due to the large number and general dispersion of accounts which constitute the Company’s customer base. The Company periodically performs on-going credit evaluations of its customers. The Company has not historically experienced significant credit losses on collection of its accounts receivable.
	Excess cash is invested principally in investment grade government and state municipal securities. The Company has established guidelines relative to diversification and maturities that maintain safety of principal, liquidity and yield. These guidelines are periodically reviewed and modified to reflect changes in market conditions. The Company has not historically experienced any significant losses on its cash equivalents or investments.
	During the years ended January 31, 2015 and 2014, one vendor accounted for 21.9% and 14.3% of purchases, and 55.1% and 23.6% of accounts payable, respectively.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Note 18—Commitments and Contingencies
	Astro-Med is subject to contingencies, including legal proceedings and claims arising in the normal course of business that cover a wide range of matters including, among others, contract and employment claims, workers compensation claims, product liability, warranty and modification, adjustment or replacement of component parts of units sold.
	Direct costs associated with the estimated resolution of contingencies are accrued at the earliest date at which it is deemed probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of such liability can be reasonably estimated. While it is impossible to ascertain the ultimate legal and financial liability with respect to contingent liabilities, including lawsuits, the Company believes that the aggregate amount of such liabilities, if any, in excess of amounts provided or covered by insurance, will not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position or results of operations. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular future period could be materially affected by changes in our assumptions or strategies related to these contingencies or changes out of the Company’s control.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Note 19—Fair Value Measurements
	We measure our financial assets at fair value on a recurring basis in accordance with the guidance provided in ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures,” which defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. In addition, ASC 820 establishes a three-tiered hierarchy for inputs used in management’s determination of fair value of financial instruments that emphasizes the use of observable inputs over the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs that reflect management’s belief about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a financial instrument based on the best information available in the circumstances.
	The fair value hierarchy is summarized as follows:
		•		Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
		•		Level 2—Inputs other than Level 1 that are observable, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and
		•		Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities
	Cash and cash equivalents; accounts receivables; line of credit receivable; accounts payable, note receivable, accrued compensation and other expenses; and income tax payable are reflected in the consolidated balance sheet at carrying value, which approximates fair value due to the short term nature of the these instruments.
	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
	January 31, 2015		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(In thousands)
	Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)		$	3,028	$	—	$	—	$	3,028
	State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)			—		15,174		—		15,174
	Total		$	3,028	$	15,174	$	—	$	18,202
	January 31, 2014		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(In thousands)
	Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)		$	4,734	$	—	$	—	$	4,734
	State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)			—		18,766		—		18,766
	Total		$	4,734	$	18,766	$	—	$	23,500
	For our money market funds and state and municipal obligations, we utilize the market approach to measure fair value. The market approach is based on using quoted market prices for identical assets.
	Non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis are summarized below:
	January 31, 2015		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
	Asset Held for Sale		$	—	$	1,900	$	—
	January 31, 2014		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
	Asset Held for Sale		$	—	$	2,120	$	—
	Asset held for sale consists of Astro-Med’s former Grass facility in Rockland, Massachusetts which is being actively marketed for sale. In accordance with ASC 360, “Property, Plant and Equipment,” assets held for sale are written down to fair value less cost to sell and as such, the Company has recorded impairment charges of $220,000 and $779,000, in fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively. In fiscal 2015, the impairment charge was included in other income (expense), other, net in the consolidated statement of income. In fiscal 2014, the impairment charge was included in the income from discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of income, as the Rockland facility was part of the Grass operations at that time. The Company estimated the fair value of the Rockland facility using the market values for similar properties less the cost to sell.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Note 20—Discontinued Operations
	On January 31, 2013, the Company completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of its Grass Technologies Product Group (Grass) which manufactured polysomnography and electroencephalography systems and related accessories and propriety electrodes for use in both research and clinical settings. The assets sold consisted primarily of working capital (exclusive of inventory and accounts payable related to manufacturing), the engineering, sales and support workforce, intellectual property and certain other related assets. The proceeds from the sale consisted of $18.6 million in cash, of which $1.8 million was held in escrow following the closing date of the transaction and was received by Astro-Med in the first quarter of fiscal 2015.
	As part of this transaction, a Transition Service Agreement (TSA) was entered into with the purchaser pursuant to which Astro-Med agreed to provide transition services and continue to manufacture Grass products for the purchaser for a period not to exceed twelve months following the sale closing date. The Company determined that cash flows from this activity were not significant and therefore Grass has been classified as a discontinued operation for the fiscal 2014 period presented. The TSA expired on January 31, 2014 and the Company is no longer reporting discontinued operations in fiscal 2015.
	In accordance with the terms of the TSA, the purchaser was obligated to acquire the remaining Grass inventory upon expiration of the TSA and as such, the Company received $2,355,000 in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 from the purchaser of Grass related to the disposition of this inventory.
	Any future services related to Grass since fiscal 2014 have not been, and are not expected to be material.
	Results for discontinued operations are as follows:
		2014
	(In thousands)
	Net Sales	$	8,401
	Cost of Sales	$	7,353
	Gross Profit	$	1,048
	Operating Expenses	$	96
	Income from Discontinued Operations	$	952
	Gain on Sale of Assets of Discontinued Operations	$	1,800
	Income Tax Expense	$	777
	Income from Discontinued Operations	$	1,975

Valuation_and_Qualifying_Accou

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves	SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
	Description		Balance at		Provision		Deductions(2)			Balance
			Beginning		Charged to					at End
			of Year		Operations					of Year
	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts(1):
	(In thousands)
	Year Ended January 31,
	2015		$	370	$	60	$	(87	)	$	343
	2014		$	345	$	119	$	(94	)	$	370
	-1	The allowance for doubtful accounts has been netted against accounts receivable as of the respective balance sheet dates.
	-2	Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries, also includes foreign exchange adjustment.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation: The accompanying financial data have been prepared by us pursuant to the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and are presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”). Our fiscal year end is January 31. Unless otherwise stated, all years and dates refer to our fiscal year.
	On January 22, 2014, Astro-Med completed the acquisition of the ruggedized printer product line from Miltope Corporation, a company of VT Systems (“Miltope”). Astro-Med’s ruggedized printer product line is part of the Ruggedized product group and is reported as part of the Test & Measurement (T&M) segment. The results of the Miltope’s ruggedized printer product line operations have been included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company since the acquisition date. Refer to Note 2, “Acquisition,” for further details.
	On January 31, 2013, we completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of our Grass Technologies Product Group. Consequently, we have classified the results of operations of the Grass Technologies Product Group as discontinued operations for the 2014 period presented. Refer to Note 20, “Discontinued Operations,” for further discussion.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astro-Med, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
Reclassification	Reclassification: Certain amounts in prior year’s financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates: The presentation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect these financial statements and accompanying notes. Some of the more significant estimates relate to the allowances for doubtful accounts and credits, inventory valuation, valuation and estimated lives of intangible assets, impairment of long-lived assets, asset held for sale and goodwill, income taxes, share-based compensation and warranty reserves. Management’s estimates are based on the facts and circumstances available at the time estimates are made, past historical experience, risk of loss, general economic conditions and trends, and management’s assessments of the probable future outcome of these matters. Consequently, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents: Highly liquid investments with an original maturity of 90 days or less are considered to be cash equivalents. Similar investments with original maturities beyond three months are classified as securities available for sale. Cash of $2,995,000 and $2,544,000 was held in foreign bank accounts at January 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Securities Available for Sale	Securities Available for Sale: Securities available for sale are carried at fair value based on quoted market prices, where available. The difference between cost and fair value, net of related tax effects, is recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in shareholders’ equity.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment: Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets (land improvements—10 to 20 years; buildings and improvements—10 to 45 years; machinery and equipment—3 to 10 years). Depreciation expense was $1,361,000 for fiscal 2015 and $1,279,000 for 2014.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition: Astro-Med’s product sales are recognized when all of the following criteria have been met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; price to the buyer is fixed or determinable; delivery has occurred and legal title and risk of loss have passed to the customer; and collectability is reasonably assured. Returns and customer credits are infrequent and are recorded as a reduction to sales. Rights of return are not included in sales arrangements. Revenue associated with products that contain specific customer acceptance criteria is not recognized before the customer acceptance criteria are satisfied. Discounts from list prices are recorded as a reduction to sales. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling fees are included in sales while related shipping and handling costs are included in cost of sales.
	The majority of our equipment contains embedded operating systems and data management software which is included in the purchase price of the equipment. The software is deemed incidental to the systems as a whole as it is not sold separately or marketed separately and its production costs are minor as compared to those of the hardware system. Therefore, the Company’s hardware appliances are considered non-software elements and are not subject to the industry-specific software revenue recognition guidance.
	Our multiple-element arrangements are generally comprised of a combination of equipment, software, installation and/or training services. Hardware and software elements are typically delivered at the same time and revenue is recognized when all the revenue recognition criteria for each unit are met. Delivery of installation and training services will vary based on certain factors such as the complexity of the equipment, staffing availability in a geographic location and customer preferences, and can range from a few days to a few months. Service revenue is deferred and recognized over the contractual period or as services are rendered and accepted by the customer.
	We have evaluated the deliverables in our multiple-element arrangements and concluded that they are separate units of accounting if the delivered item or items have value to the customer on a standalone basis and delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. We allocate revenue to each element in our multiple-element arrangements based upon their relative selling prices. We determine the selling price for each deliverable based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) if available, third-party evidence (“TPE”) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (“ESP”) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. Revenue allocated to each element is then recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria for that element have been met.
	Infrequently, Astro-Med recognizes revenue for non-recurring engineering (NRE) fees for product modification orders upon completion of agreed-upon milestones. Revenue is deferred for any amounts received prior to completion of milestones. Certain of our NRE arrangements include formal customer acceptance provisions. In such cases, we determine whether we have obtained customer acceptance for the specific milestone before recognizing revenue. NRE fees have not been significant in the periods presented herein.
	Infrequently, Astro-Med receives requests from customers to hold product purchased from us for the customer’s convenience. Revenue is recognized for such bill and hold arrangements in accordance with the requirements of SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 104 which requires, among other things, the existence of a valid business purpose for the arrangement; the transfer of ownership of the purchased product; a fixed delivery date that is reasonable and consistent with the buyer’s business purpose; the readiness of the product for shipment; the use of customary payment terms; no continuing performance obligation by us; and segregation of the product from our inventories.
Research and Development Costs	Research and Development Costs: Astro-Med charges costs to expense in the period incurred, and these expenses are shown on a separate line in the consolidated statement of income. Included in research and development expense are the following: salaries and benefits, external engineering service costs, engineering related information costs and supplies. The Company also complies with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 985-20, “Costs of Computer Software to be Sold, Leased or Marketed” and ASC 350-40, “Internal-Use Software” in accounting for the costs of software either developed or acquired.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation: The financial statements of foreign subsidiaries and branches are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates with the translation adjustment recorded as a component of accumulated comprehensive income (loss) in shareholders’ equity. Revenues and expenses are translated at the monthly average exchange rates. We do not provide for U.S. income taxes on foreign currency translation adjustments associated with our German subsidiary since its undistributed earnings are considered to be permanently invested. Our net foreign exchange losses were $219,000 and $190,000 for fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Advertising	Advertising: Astro-Med expenses advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs including advertising production, trade shows and other activities are designed to enhance demand for our products and amounted to approximately $1,717,000 and $1,236,000 in fiscal 2015, and 2014, respectively.
Health Insurance Reimbursement Reserve	Health Insurance Reimbursement Reserve: Astro-Med reimbursed a portion of employee health insurance deductibles and co-payments for fiscal 2015 and 2014. The total reimbursement amounted to approximately $129,000 and $201,000 in 2015 and 2014, respectively. We accrued approximately $20,000 and $75,000 at January 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, for estimated outstanding reimbursements due to employees, including a reserve for incurred but not reported amounts.
Long-Lived Assets and Assets Held for Sale	Long-Lived Assets: Long-lived assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Determination of recoverability is based on an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If the projected undiscounted cash flows are less these the carrying value, then an impairment charge would be recorded for the excess of the carrying value over the fair value, as determined by the discounting of future cash flows. For both 2015 and 2014, these were no impairment charges for long-lived assets.
	Assets Held for Sale: Assets held for sale are reported at the lower of cost or fair value less cost to sell. Astro-Med’s former Grass facility in Rockland met the held for sale classification criteria as of January 31, 2015 and 2014. This property is being actively marketed and management expects to sell the property during the upcoming fiscal year. Accordingly, the asset held for sale has been classified as a current asset.
	The Company estimated the fair value of the Rockland facility using the market values for similar properties and estimated the fair value less the cost to sell. This property is considered a Level 2 asset as defined in ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements.”
	During the years ended 2015 and 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges of $220,000 and $779,000, respectively, related to the write-down of the Rockland facility to fair value, less cost to sell. In fiscal 2015, the impairment charge was included in other income (expense), other, net in the consolidated statement of income. For fiscal 2014, the impairment charge was included in the income from discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of income.
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets: Intangible assets include the value of customer relationships and backlog rights acquired in connection with business acquisitions and are recorded at fair value as determined by the Company. These intangible assets have a definite life and are amortized over the assets’ useful lives using a systematic and rational basis which is representative of the assets use. Intangible assets with a definite life are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of an asset exceeds the estimated undiscounted cash flows used in determining the fair value of the asset. The amount of the impairment loss recorded is calculated by the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted cash flow analysis. For both 2015 and 2014, there were no impairment charges for intangible assets.
Goodwill	Goodwill: Management evaluates the recoverability of goodwill annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances, such as declines in sales, earnings or cash flows, or material adverse changes in the business climate, indicate that the carrying value of an asset might be impaired. Goodwill is first qualitatively assessed to determine whether further impairment testing is necessary. Factors that management considers in this assessment include macroeconomic conditions, industry and market considerations, overall financial performance (both current and projected), changes in management and strategy and changes in the composition or carrying amount of net assets. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a two step process is then performed. Step one compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying value, including goodwill. If the carrying amount exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, step two is required to determine if there is an impairment of the goodwill. Step two compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill to the carrying amount of the goodwill. We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using the income approach based upon a discounted cash flow model. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the reporting unit’s expected long–term operating cash flow performance. In addition, the Company uses the market approach, which compares the reporting unit to publicly-traded companies and transactions involving similar business, to support the conclusions based upon the income approach. The income approach requires the use of many assumptions and estimates including future revenue, expenses, capital expenditures, and working capital, as well as discount factors and income tax rates.
	We performed a qualitative assessment for our 2015 analysis of goodwill. Based on this assessment, management does not believe that it is more likely than not that the carrying value of the reporting units exceed their fair values. Accordingly, no further testing was performed as management believes that there are no impairment issues in regards to goodwill at this time.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes: Astro-Med uses the liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of the assets and liabilities and are measured using enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. An allowance against deferred tax assets is recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. At January 31, 2015 and 2014, a valuation allowance was provided for deferred tax assets attributable to certain state R&D credit carryforwards.
	Astro-Med accounts for uncertain tax positions in accordance with the guidance provided in ASC 740, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This guidance describes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and requires recognition of tax benefits that satisfy a more-likely-than-not threshold. ASC 740 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition.
Net Income Per Common Share	Net Income Per Common Share: Basic net income per share is based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is based on the basic weighted average number of shares and potential common equivalent shares for stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. In fiscal years 2015 and 2014, there were 156,600 and 126,800 common equivalent shares that were not included in the computation of diluted net income per common share because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: In circumstances where we are aware of a customer’s inability to meet its financial obligations, an allowance is established. The majority of accounts are individually evaluated on a regular basis and allowances are established to state such receivables at their net realizable value. The remainder of the allowance is based upon historical write-off experience and current market assessments.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments: Our financial instruments consist of cash and cash equivalents, investment securities, accounts receivable, a note receivable, a line of credit receivable and accounts payable. The carrying amount reflected in the consolidated balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. Investment securities, all of which are available for sale, are carried in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value based on quoted market prices, when available. The note receivable is carried in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value based on the present value of the discounted cash flows over the life of the note.
	The Company measures assets held for sale at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and records impairment charges when the assets are deemed to be impaired.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation: Share-based compensation expense is measured based on the estimated fair value of the share-based award when granted and is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity grant). We have estimated the fair value of each option on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Our estimate of share-based compensation requires a number of complex and subjective assumptions including our stock price volatility, employee exercise patterns (expected life of the options), the risk-free interest rate and the Company’s dividend yield. The stock price volatility assumption is based on the historical weekly price data of our common stock over a period equivalent to the weighted average expected life of our options. Management evaluated whether there were factors during that period which were unusual and would distort the volatility figure if used to estimate future volatility and concluded that there were no such factors. In determining the expected life of the option grants, the Company has observed the actual terms of prior grants with similar characteristics and the actual vesting schedule of the grant and has assessed the expected risk tolerance of different option groups. The risk-free interest rate is based on the actual U.S. Treasury zero coupon rates for bonds matching the expected term of the option as of the option grant date. The dividend assumption is based upon the prior year’s average dividend yield. No compensation expense is recognized for options that are forfeited for which the employee does not render the requisite service. Our accounting for share-based compensation for restricted stock awards (“RSA”) and restricted stock units (“RSU”) is also based on the fair value method. The fair value of the RSUs and RSAs is based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date.
	The cash flow from the tax benefits that are a result of tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost recognized for those options (excess tax benefits) are classified as a cash inflow from financing activities and a cash outflow from operating activity. Tax deductions from certain stock option exercises are treated as being realized when they reduce taxes payable in accordance with relevant tax law.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements:
	Discontinued Operations
	In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” ASU 2014-08 limits discontinued operations reporting to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. In addition, this ASU expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of a discontinued operation. ASU 2014-08 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after December 15, 2014 and is to be applied prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2014-08 and do not expect it to have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
	Revenue Recognition
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606).” ASU 2014-09 completes the joint effort by the FASB and International Accounting Standards Board to improve financial reporting by creating common revenue recognition guidance for U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU 2014-09 applies to all companies that enter into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services and is effective for public entities for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early application is not permitted and entities have the choice to apply ASU 2014-09 either retrospectively to each reporting period presented or by recognizing the cumulative effect of applying ASU 2014-09 at the date of initial application and not adjusting comparative information. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of ASU 2014-09 and has not yet determined its impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Acquisition_Tables

Acquisition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Unaudited Pro Forma Information	This information has been prepared for informational purposes only and does not purport to represent the results of operations that would have happened had the acquisition occurred as of the date indicated, nor of future results of operations.
		Year Ended
		January 31
	(In thousands)	2014
	Net Revenue	$	75,362
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Purchase Price of Acquisition Allocated on Basis of Estimated Fair Value	The purchase price of the acquisition has been allocated on the basis of the estimated fair value as follows:
	(In thousands)
	Accounts Receivable	$	713
	Inventories		2,503
	Identifiable Intangible Assets		3,400
	Goodwill		196
	Warranty Reserve		(80	)
	Total Purchase Price	$	6,732
Fair Value of the Acquired Identifiable Intangible Assets and Related Estimated Useful Lives	The following table reflects the fair value of the acquired identifiable intangible assets and related estimated useful lives:
	(In thousands)	Fair			Useful Life
		Value			(Years)
	Customer Contract Relationships	$	3,100			10
	Backlog		300			1
	Total	$	3,400
Summary of Estimated Amortization Expense for Next Five Years	Estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:
	(In thousands)	2016			2017		2018		2019		2020
	Estimated amortization expenses	$	357		$	349	$	331	$	278	$	278

Securities_Available_for_Sale_

Securities Available for Sale (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Fair Value, Amortized Cost and Gross Unrealized Gains and Losses of the Securities	The fair value, amortized cost and gross unrealized gains and losses of the securities are as follows:
		Amortized		Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost		Unrealized		Unrealized
				Gains		Losses
	(In thousands)
	January 31, 2015
	State and Municipal Obligations	$	15,150	$	26	$	(2	)	$	15,174
	January 31, 2014
	State and Municipal Obligations	$	18,729	$	37	$	—		$	18,766
Contractual Maturity Dates of Securities	The contractual maturity dates of these securities are as follows:
		January 31
		2015		2014
	(In thousands)
	Less than one year	$	9,470	$	11,439
	One to three years		5,704		7,327
		$	15,174	$	18,766

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Inventories	The components of inventories are as follows:
		31-Jan
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Materials and Supplies	$	10,600		$	10,722
	Work-in-Progress		765			852
	Finished Goods		7,372			6,798
			18,737			18,372
	Inventory Reserve		(3,155	)		(3,194	)
	Balance at January 31	$	15,582		$	15,178

Accrued_Expenses_Tables

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Summary of Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consisted of the following:
		January 31
		2015		2014
	(In thousands)
	Warranty	$	375	$	355
	Product Replacement Cost Reserve		353	$	480
	Professional Fees		256		269
	Executive Retirement Package		250		250
	Dealer Commissions		163		55
	Other		946		901
		$	2,343	$	2,310

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Changes in the Balance of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The changes in the balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component are as follows:
	(In thousands)	Foreign Currency			Unrealized Holding Gain			Total
		Translation			on Available for
		Adjustments			Sale Securities
	Balance at January 31, 2013	$	166		$	7		$	173
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(14	)		17			3
	Amounts Reclassified to Net Income		—			—			—
	Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(14	)		17			3
	Balance at January 31, 2014		152			24			176
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(866	)		(9	)		(875	)
	Amounts Reclassified to Net Income		—			—			—
	Net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		(866	)		(9	)		(875	)
	Balance at January 31, 2015	$	(714	)	$	15		$	(699	)

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Aggregated Information Regarding Stock Options Granted	Aggregated information regarding stock options granted under the Plan is summarized below:
		Number			Option Price			Weighted Average
		of Shares			Per Share			Option Price Per
								Share
	Options Outstanding, January 31, 2014		736,647		$	5.78-11.90		$	8.63
	Options Granted		158,600		$	13.46-14.20		$	13.99
	Options Exercised		(224,275	)	$	6.22-11.90		$	8.29
	Options Expired		(14,961	)	$	7.95-14.20		$	9.49
	Options Outstanding, January 31, 2015		656,011		$	5.78-14.20		$	10.01
	Options Exercisable, January 31, 2015		413,612		$	5.78-13.46		$	8.78
Summary of Options Outstanding	Set forth below is a summary of options outstanding at January 31, 2015:
	Outstanding									Exercisable
	Range of	Options			Weighted Average			Remaining		Options		Weighted Average
	Exercise prices				Exercise Price			Contractual Life				Exercise Price
	$5.78-8.73		314,365		$	7.64			5.1		254,516	$	7.54
	$8.95-13.46		190,046		$	10.79			4.3		159,096	$	10.76
	$13.80-14.20		151,600		$	14			9.2		—	$	—
			656,011								413,612
Fair Value of Stock Options Granted	The fair value of each stock option granted was estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
		Years Ended January 31
		2015		2014
	Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.5%-1.62%		0.81%-0.84%
	Expected Life (years)	5		5
	Expected Volatility	21.47%-26.75%		38.07%-38.46%
	Expected Dividend Yield	1.98%		2.63%
Aggregated Information Regarding RSUs and RSAs Granted	Aggregated information regarding RSUs and RSAs granted under the Plan is summarized below:
		RSAs & RSUs			Weighted Average
					Grant Date Fair Value
	Outstanding at January 31, 2014		106,496		$	9.12
	Granted		7,245			13.8
	Vested		(35,662	)		8.75
	Expired or canceled		(5,834	)		10.07
	Outstanding at January 31, 2015		72,245		$	9.7
Share-Based Compensation Expense	Share-based compensation expense has been recognized as follows:
		Years Ended January 31,
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Stock Options	$	241		$	192
	Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units		270			370
	Total	$	511		$	562
Summarized Plan Activity	Summarized plan activity is as follows:
		Years Ended January 31
		2015			2014
	Shares Reserved, Beginning		60,242			64,231
	Shares Purchased		(3,237	)		(3,989	)
	Shares Reserved, Ending		57,005			60,242

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	The components of income from continuing operations before income taxes are as follows:
		Years Ended
		January 31,
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Domestic	$	5,401		$	537
	Foreign		1,531			875
		$	6,932		$	1,412
Components of Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations	The components of the provision for income taxes from continuing operations are as follows:
		Years Ended
		January 31,
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Current:
	Federal	$	1,666		$	930
	State		466			179
	Foreign		535			297
			2,667			1,406
	Deferred:
	Federal		(290	)		(1,044	)
	State		(107	)		(174	)
	Foreign		—			(13	)
			(397	)		(1,231	)
		$	2,270		$	175
Components of Difference Between Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations and Amount Computed by Applying Statutory Federal Income Tax Rate	The provision for income taxes for continuing operations differs from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate of 34% in fiscal 2015 and 2014 to income before income taxes due to the following:
		Years Ended
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Income Tax Provision at Statutory Rate	$	2,357		$	480
	State Taxes, Net of Federal Tax Effect		233			(47	)
	Change in Reserves Related to ASC 740 Liability		23			(59	)
	Meals and Entertainment		41			38
	Domestic Production Deduction		(164	)		(30	)
	Share-Based Compensation		(25	)		36
	Tax-exempt Income		(24	)		(22	)
	R&D Credits		(135	)		(114	)
	Foreign Rate Differential		(56	)		(26	)
	Other Permanent Differences and Miscellaneous, Net		20			(81	)
		$	2,270		$	175
Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that gave Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
		January 31
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Deferred Tax Assets:
	Inventory	$	1,666		$	1,792
	Share-Based Compensation		572			535
	State R&D Credits		371			258
	Compensation Accrual		417			493
	ASC 740 Liability Federal Benefit		304			290
	Deferred Service Contract Revenue		235			181
	Warranty Reserve		140			137
	Reserve for Doubtful Accounts		116			127
	Foreign Tax Credit		356			213
	Other		298			119
			4,475			4,145
	Deferred Tax Liabilities:
	Accumulated Tax Depreciation in Excess of Book Depreciation		766			830
	Deferred Gain on Asset Held for Sale		785			897
	Currency Translation Adjustment		36			173
	Other		87			78
			1,674			1,978
	Subtotal		2,801			2,167
	Valuation Allowance		(255	)		(258	)
	Net Deferred Tax Assets	$	2,546		$	1,909
Changes in Balance of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Interest and Penalties	A reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties follows:
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Balance at February 1	$	715		$	941
	Increases in prior period tax positions		—			31
	Increases in current period tax positions		87			42
	Reductions related to lapse of statute of limitations		(95	)		(299	)
	Balance at January 31	$	707		$	715

Contractual_Obligations_Tables

Contractual Obligations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Contractual Obligations	The following table summarizes our contractual obligations:
			Total		2016		2017		2018		2019		2020
													and
													Thereafter
	(In thousands)
	Purchase Commitments*		$	15,117	$	14,907	$	210	$	—	$	—	$	—
	Operating Lease Obligations			688		255		225		136		72		—
			$	15,805	$	15,162	$	435	$	136	$	72	$	—
	*	Purchase commitments consists primarily of inventory and equipment purchase orders made in the ordinary course of business.

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R1

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit for Each Reporting Segment	Summarized below are the Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit (both in dollars and as a percentage of Net Sales) for each reporting segment:
	($ in thousands)		Net Sales				Segment Operating Profit				Segment Operating Profit %
											of Net Sales
			2015		2014		2015		2014		2015			2014
	QuickLabel		$	59,779	$	49,065	$	7,259	$	5,154		12.1	%		10.5	%
	T&M			28,568		19,527		5,627		2,655		19.7	%		13.6	%
	Total		$	88,347	$	68,592		12,886		7,809		14.6	%		11.4	%
	Product Replacement Costs							—		672
	Corporate Expenses							5,655		5,604
	Operating Income							7,231		1,533
	Other Expense							299		121
	Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes							6,932		1,412
	Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations							2,270		175
								4,662		1,237
	Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes							—		1,975
	Net Income						$	4,662	$	3,212
Summary of Other Information by Segment	Other information by segment is presented below:
	(In thousands)		Assets
			2015		2014
	QuickLabel		$	24,874	$	25,306
	T&M			22,323		17,049
	Discontinued Operations			—		3,917
	Corporate*			27,133		31,692
	Total		$	74,330	$	77,964
	*	Corporate assets consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, securities available for sale, and building held for sale.
	(In thousands)		Depreciation and				Capital Expenditures
			Amortization
			2015		2014		2015		2014
	QuickLabel		$	678	$	639	$	1,408	$	543
	T&M			1,385		640		839		585
	Total		$	2,063	$	1,279	$	2,247	$	1,128
Summary of Selected Financial Information by Geographic Area	Presented below is selected financial information by geographic area:
	(In thousands)		Net Sales				Long-Lived Assets
			2015		2014		2015		2014
	United States		$	61,494	$	48,679	$	10,422	$	10,115
	Europe			18,181		14,909		383		538
	Canada			3,934		2,569		272		339
	Asia			1,408		1,167		—		—
	Central and South America			1,919		908		—		—
	Other			1,411		360		—		—
	Total		$	88,347	$	68,592	$	11,077	$	10,992

Product_Warranty_Liability_Tab

Product Warranty Liability (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Guarantees [Abstract]
Activity in Product Warranty Liability	The Company regularly assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. Activity in the product warranty liability is as follows:
		January 31,
		2015			2014
	(In thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the year	$	355		$	350
	Warranties issued		546			447
	Settlements made		(526	)		(442	)
	Balance, end of the year	$	375		$	355

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
	January 31, 2015	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(In thousands)
	Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)	$	3,028	$	—	$	—	$	3,028
	State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)		—		15,174		—		15,174
	Total	$	3,028	$	15,174	$	—	$	18,202
	January 31, 2014	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	(In thousands)
	Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)	$	4,734	$	—	$	—	$	4,734
	State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)		—		18,766		—		18,766
	Total	$	4,734	$	18,766	$	—	$	23,500
Fair Value Measurements of Assets on Non-Recurring Basis	Non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis are summarized below:
	January 31, 2015	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
	Asset Held for Sale	$	—	$	1,900	$	—
	January 31, 2014	Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
	Asset Held for Sale	$	—	$	2,120	$	—

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Summary of Discontinued Operations	Results for discontinued operations are as follows:
		2014
	(In thousands)
	Net Sales	$	8,401
	Cost of Sales	$	7,353
	Gross Profit	$	1,048
	Operating Expenses	$	96
	Income from Discontinued Operations	$	952
	Gain on Sale of Assets of Discontinued Operations	$	1,800
	Income Tax Expense	$	777
	Income from Discontinued Operations	$	1,975

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Highly liquid investments with an original maturity	90 days or less
Cash of held in foreign bank accounts	$2,995,000	$2,544,000
Depreciation expense	1,361,000	1,279,000
Net foreign exchange losses	219,000	190,000
Advertising expense	1,717,000	1,236,000
Total reimbursement	129,000	201,000
Estimated outstanding reimbursements	20,000	75,000
Impairment charges for long-lived assets	0	0
Write-down of asset held for sale	220,000	779,000
Impairment charges for intangible assets	0	0
Number of common equivalent shares	156,600	126,800
Compensation expenses is recognized for option forfeited	$0
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Completion date of acquisition	22-Jan-14
Land Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	20 years
Land Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	10 years
Building and Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	45 years
Building and Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	10 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	10 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets	3 years

Acquisition_Additional_Informa

Acquisition - Additional Information (Detail) (Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Completion date of acquisition	22-Jan-14
Purchase price of the acquisition		$6,732,000
Amount held in escrow related to business acquisition		500,000
Duration of escrow deposits		12 months
General and administrative expenses		90,000
Goodwill	196,000
Amortization expense	$702,000

Acquisition_Purchase_Price_of_

Acquisition - Purchase Price of Acquisition Allocated on Basis of Estimated Fair Value (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 22, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$991	$991
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable			713
Inventories			2,503
Identifiable Intangible Assets	3,400		3,400
Goodwill			196
Warranty Reserve			-80
Total Purchase Price			$6,732

Acquisition_Fair_Value_of_the_

Acquisition - Fair Value of the Acquired Identifiable Intangible Assets and Related Estimated Useful Lives (Detail) (Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 22, 2014
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value	$3,400	$3,400
Customer Contract Relationships [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value	3,100
Useful Life	10 years
Backlog [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Fair Value	$300
Useful Life	1 year

Acquisition_Summary_of_Estimat

Acquisition - Summary of Estimated Amortization Expense for Next Five Years (Detail) (Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member], USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated amortization expenses, 2016	$357
Estimated amortization expenses, 2017	349
Estimated amortization expenses, 2018	331
Estimated amortization expenses, 2019	278
Estimated amortization expenses, 2020	$278

Acquisition_Unaudited_ProForma

Acquisition - Unaudited Pro-Forma Information (Detail) (Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014
Miltope's Ruggedized Printer Product Line Operation [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net Revenue	$75,362

Securities_Available_for_Sale_1

Securities Available for Sale - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Impairment charges on available for sale security	$0
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Original maturity of short-term investments	90 days
Anticipated maturity period	1 month
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Anticipated maturity period	3 years

Securities_Available_for_Sale_2

Securities Available for Sale - Fair Value, Amortized Cost and Gross Unrealized Gains and Losses of the Securities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fair Value	$15,174	$18,766
State and Municipal Obligations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	15,150	18,729
Gross Unrealized Gains	26	37
Gross Unrealized Losses	-2
Fair Value	$15,174	$18,766

Securities_Available_for_Sale_3

Securities Available for Sale - Contractual Maturity Dates of Securities (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Amortized Cost and Fair Value Debt Securities [Abstract]
Less than one year	$9,470	$11,439
One to three years	5,704	7,327
Fair Value	$15,174	$18,766

Inventories_Components_of_Inve

Inventories - Components of Inventories (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Materials and Supplies	$10,600	$10,722
Work-in-Progress	765	852
Finished Goods	7,372	6,798
Inventory, Gross	18,737	18,372
Inventory Reserve	-3,155	-3,194
Balance at January 31	$15,582	$15,178

Inventories_Additional_Informa

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventory demonstration equipment	$1,030,000	$767,000

Accrued_Expenses_Summary_of_Ac

Accrued Expenses - Summary of Accrued Expenses (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Warranty	$375	$355
Product Replacement Cost Reserve	353	480
Professional Fees	256	269
Executive Retirement Package	250	250
Dealer Commissions	163	55
Other	946	901
Total	$2,343	$2,310

Line_of_Credit_Additional_Info

Line of Credit - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Agreement expiration date	31-Jan-15
Agreement term	1 year
Wells Fargo Bank [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Agreement expiration date	30-May-14
Revolving line of credit	10,000,000
Agreement term	3 years
Line of credit, interest rate description	Any borrowings made under the new line of credit bear interest at either a fluctuating base rate equal to the highest of (i) the Prime Rate, (ii) 1.50% above the daily one month LIBOR, and (iii) the Federal Funds Rate in effect plus 1.50% or at a fixed rate of LIBOR plus an agreed upon margin of between 0% and 2.25%, based on the Company's funded debt to EBITDA ratio as defined in the agreement.
Borrowings against new line of credit	0
Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio	3
Funded debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio	1.25
Wells Fargo Bank [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage above rate	1.50%
Wells Fargo Bank [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage above rate	0.00%
Wells Fargo Bank [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage above rate	2.25%
Wells Fargo Bank [Member] | Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage above rate	1.50%

Note_Receivable_and_Revolving_1

Note Receivable and Revolving Line of Credit Issued - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 30, 2012	Jan. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2015
		Installment
Note Receivable And Line Of Credit Issued [Line Items]
Net sale price	$1,000,000
Promissory note interest rate	3.75%
Interest commencement date		30-Jan-13
Interest installments		16
Promissory note outstanding		511,000
Revolving line of credit		600,000
Interest rate on outstanding credit balance		2.00%
Line of credit facility maturity date		31-Jan-15
Extended revolving line of credit		$173,000
Line of credit issued initial term		1 year
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Note Receivable And Line Of Credit Issued [Line Items]
Promissory note interest rate		5.25%
Subsequent Event [Member]
Note Receivable And Line Of Credit Issued [Line Items]
Line of credit facility maturity date			31-Jan-16

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Changes in the Balance of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$176	$173
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-875	3
Amounts Reclassified to Net Income	0	0
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	-875	3
Ending Balance	-699	176
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	152	166
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-866	-14
Amounts Reclassified to Net Income	0	0
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	-866	-14
Ending Balance	-714	152
Unrealized Holding Gain on Available for Sale Securities [Member]
Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	24	7
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-9	17
Amounts Reclassified to Net Income	0	0
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	-9	17
Ending Balance	$15	$24

Shareholders_Equity_Additional

Shareholders' Equity - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 05, 2014	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Common stock repurchased, shares	500,000
Common stock shares repurchased, value	$6,250,000	$6,250,000
Company shares given to employees, shares		62,797	66,828
Company shares given to employees, value		$878,000	$797,000
Common stock shares additional authorized		390,000

ShareBased_Compensation_Additi

Share-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014	Aug. 01, 2014
	Equity_Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of equity incentive plan	1
Maximum disposal restricted percentage of RSU	50.00%
Stock options grant to each non-employee director	158,600
Non-employee director is entitled to an annual cash retainer	$7,000
Non-employee director received restricted stock award value	20,000
Options granted weighted average fair value per share	$2.85	$2.79
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised	1,149,000	706,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee Stock Purchase Plan discount rate	15.00%
Reservation of shares under Stock Purchase Plan	247,500
Non-Employee Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Non-employee director is entitled to an annual cash retainer additional	500
Chairman of Board [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amount of Chair Retainer payable			6,000
Chair of Audit Committee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amount of Chair Retainer payable			4,000
Chair of Compensation Committee [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Amount of Chair Retainer payable			4,000
2013 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | First Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit vested percentage	50.00%
2013 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Second Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit vested percentage	50.00%
2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested RSUs and RSAs	278,000
2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Officer [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Cumulative budgeted net sales target measurement period	2014 through 2016
2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Officer [Member] | Net Sales Target [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit vested percentage	50.00%
2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Officer [Member] | ORONA Target [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit vested percentage	25.00%
2014 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | Officer [Member] | Third Anniversary [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock unit vested percentage	25.00%
Equity Incentive Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Aggregate shares authorized for awards under the Plan	1,000,000
Shares available for grant under the Plan	206,339
Equity Incentive Plan [Member] | Non-Employee Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option expiration period	10 years
Stock options grant to each non-employee director	5,000
Restricted Stock [Member] | Non-Employee Director [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	12 months
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period	4 years
Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested options	455,000
Weighted average period for the recognition of unrecognized compensation expense	2 years
Aggregate intrinsic value of option exercised	2,554,000
Aggregate intrinsic value of the options outstanding	$3,225,000
Weighted average remaining contractual terms for these options that are exercisable	4 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted average remaining contractual terms for these options outstanding	4 years 2 months 12 days

ShareBased_Compensation_Aggreg

Share-Based Compensation - Aggregated Information Regarding Stock Options Granted (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Beginning balance, Number of Shares	736,647
Options Granted, Number of Shares	158,600
Options Exercised, Number of Shares	-224,275
Options Expired, Number of Shares	-14,961
Ending balance, Number of Shares	656,011
Options Exercisable, Number of Shares	413,612
Beginning balance, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$8.63
Options Granted, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$13.99
Options Exercised, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$8.29
Options Expired, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$9.49
Ending balance, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$10.01
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Option Price Per Share	$8.78
Range One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Outstanding, Option Price Per Share, Lower range, Ending balance	$5.78
Options Outstanding, Option Price Per Share, Upper range, Ending balance	$11.90
Range Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Granted, Option Price Per Share, Lower range	$13.46
Options Granted, Option Price Per Share, Upper range	$14.20
Range Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Exercised, Option Price Per Share, Lower range	$6.22
Options Exercised, Option Price Per Share, Upper range	$11.90
Range Four [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Expired, Option Price Per Share, Lower range	$7.95
Options Expired, Option Price Per Share, Upper range	$14.20
Range Five [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Outstanding, Option Price Per Share, Lower range, Ending balance	$5.78
Options Outstanding, Option Price Per Share, Upper range, Ending balance	$14.20
Range Six [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options Exercisable, Option Price Per Share, Lower range	$5.78
Options Exercisable, Option Price Per Share, Upper range	$13.46

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar

Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Options Outstanding (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option outstanding, total	656,011	736,647
Options exercisable , total	413,612
Range One [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Lower Limit	$5.78
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Upper Limit	$8.73
Outstanding, Options	314,365
Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.64
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$7.54
Outstanding Remaining Contractual Life	5 years 1 month 6 days
Exercisable, Options	254,516
Range Two [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Lower Limit	$8.95
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Upper Limit	$13.46
Outstanding, Options	190,046
Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$10.79
Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$10.76
Outstanding Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 3 months 18 days
Exercisable, Options	159,096
Range Three [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Lower Limit	$13.80
Outstanding Range of Exercise prices, Upper Limit	$14.20
Outstanding, Options	151,600
Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$14
Outstanding Remaining Contractual Life	9 years 2 months 12 days

ShareBased_Compensation_Fair_V

Share-Based Compensation - Fair Value of Stock Options Granted (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected Life (years)	5 years	5 years
Expected Dividend Yield	1.98%	2.63%
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.50%	0.81%
Expected Volatility	21.47%	38.07%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Risk-Free Interest Rate	1.62%	0.84%
Expected Volatility	26.75%	38.46%

ShareBased_Compensation_Aggreg1

Share-Based Compensation - Aggregated Information Regarding RSUs and RSAs Granted (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Beginning balance, Outstanding Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards	106,496
Granted, Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards	7,245
Vested, Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards	-35,662
Expired or canceled, Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards	-5,834
Ending balance, Outstanding Restricted Stock Units and Restricted Stock Awards	72,245
Beginning balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$9.12
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$13.80
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$8.75
Expired or cancelled , Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$10.07
Ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$9.70

ShareBased_Compensation_ShareB

Share-Based Compensation - Share-Based Compensation Expense (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation, Total	$511	$562
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation, Total	241	192
Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation, Total	$270	$370

ShareBased_Compensation_Summar1

Share-Based Compensation - Summarized Plan Activity (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Shares Reserved, Beginning Balance	60,242	64,231
Shares Purchased	-3,237	-3,989
Shares Reserved, Ending Balance	57,005	60,242

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes - Components of Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Domestic	$5,401	$537
Foreign	1,531	875
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	$6,932	$1,412

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Pro

Income Taxes - Components of Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Current:
Federal	$1,666	$930
State	466	179
Foreign	535	297
Current Income Tax Expense	2,667	1,406
Deferred:
Federal	-290	-1,044
State	-107	-174
Foreign		-13
Deferred Income Tax Expense Total	-397	-1,231
Total	$2,270	$175

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory federal income tax rate	34.00%	34.00%
Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance	($3,000)	$27,000
Recognized tax benefits excluding interest and penalties	707,000	715,000	941,000
Impact on effective tax rate, decrease	493,000
Recognized expense related to interest and penalties	43,000	68,000
Accrued potential interest and penalties	460,000	416,000
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	$3,909,000

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Dif

Income Taxes - Components of Difference Between Provision for Income Taxes from Continuing Operations and Amount Computed by Applying Statutory Federal Income Tax Rate (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Provision at Statutory Rate	$2,357	$480
State Taxes, Net of Federal Tax Effect	233	-47
Change in Reserves Related to ASC 740 Liability	23	-59
Meals and Entertainment	41	38
Domestic Production Deduction	-164	-30
Share-Based Compensation	-25	36
Tax-exempt Income	-24	-22
R&D Credits	-135	-114
Foreign Rate Differential	-56	-26
Other Permanent Differences and Miscellaneous, Net	20	-81
Total	$2,270	$175

Income_Taxes_Tax_Effects_of_Te

Income Taxes - Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that gave Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Tax Assets:
Inventory	$1,666	$1,792
Share-Based Compensation	572	535
State R&D Credits	371	258
Compensation Accrual	417	493
ASC 740 Liability Federal Benefit	304	290
Deferred Service Contract Revenue	235	181
Warranty Reserve	140	137
Reserve for Doubtful Accounts	116	127
Foreign Tax Credit	356	213
Other	298	119
Deferred Tax Assets, Total	4,475	4,145
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
Accumulated Tax Depreciation in Excess of Book Depreciation	766	830
Deferred Gain on Asset Held for Sale	785	897
Currency Translation Adjustment	36	173
Other	87	78
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Total	1,674	1,978
Subtotal	2,801	2,167
Valuation Allowance	-255	-258
Net Deferred Tax Assets	$2,546	$1,909

Income_Taxes_Change_in_Balance

Income Taxes - Change in Balance of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Interest and Penalties (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance at February 1	$715,000	$941,000
Increases in prior period tax positions		31,000
Increases in current period tax positions	87,000	42,000
Reductions related to lapse of statute of limitations	-95,000	-299,000
Balance at January 31	$707,000	$715,000

Contractual_Obligations_Summar

Contractual Obligations - Summary of Contractual Obligations (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Purchase Commitments, Total	$15,117
Purchase Commitments, 2016	14,907
Purchase Commitments, 2017	210
Purchase Commitments, 2018	0
Purchase Commitments, 2019	0
Purchase Commitments, 2020 and Thereafter	0
Operating Lease Obligations, Total	688
Operating Lease Obligations, 2016	255
Operating Lease Obligations, 2017	225
Operating Lease Obligations, 2018	136
Operating Lease Obligations, 2019	72
Operating Lease Obligations, 2020 and Thereafter	0
Contractual Obligation, Total	15,805
Contractual Obligation, 2016	15,162
Contractual Obligation, 2017	435
Contractual Obligation, 2018	136
Contractual Obligation, 2019	72
Contractual Obligation, 2020 and Thereafter	$0

Contractual_Obligations_Additi

Contractual Obligations - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Rent and lease expenses	$614,000	$599,000

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R2

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
	Segment	Customer
	Customer
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reporting segments	2
Customer accounted for greater than 10% of net sales	0	0
Goodwill assigned	$991	$991
T&M [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill assigned	$1,000	$1,000

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R3

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information - Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit for Each Reporting Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	$88,347	$68,592
Corporate Expenses	29,746	25,450
Operating Income	7,231	1,533
Other Expense	299	121
Segment Operating Profit % of Net Sales	14.60%	11.40%
Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes	6,932	1,412
Income Tax Provision for Continuing Operations	2,270	175
Income from Continuing Operations	4,662	1,237
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes		1,975
Net Income	4,662	3,212
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating Income	12,886	7,809
Operating Segments [Member] | QuickLabel [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	59,779	49,065
Operating Income	7,259	5,154
Segment Operating Profit % of Net Sales	12.10%	10.50%
Operating Segments [Member] | T&M [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net Sales	28,568	19,527
Operating Income	5,627	2,655
Segment Operating Profit % of Net Sales	19.70%	13.60%
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Product Replacement Costs		672
Corporate Expenses	$5,655	$5,604

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R4

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information - Summary of Other Information by Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$74,330	$77,964
Depreciation and Amortization	2,063	1,279
Capital Expenditures	2,247	1,128
Operating Segments [Member] | QuickLabel [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	24,874	25,306
Depreciation and Amortization	678	639
Capital Expenditures	1,408	543
Operating Segments [Member] | T&M [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	22,323	17,049
Depreciation and Amortization	1,385	640
Capital Expenditures	839	585
Operating Segments [Member] | Discontinued Operations [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets		3,917
Corporate Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$27,133	$31,692

Nature_of_Operations_Segment_R5

Nature of Operations, Segment Reporting and Geographical Information - Summary of Selected Financial Information by Geographic Area (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	$88,347	$68,592
Long-Lived Assets	11,077	10,992
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	61,494	48,679
Long-Lived Assets	10,422	10,115
Europe [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	18,181	14,909
Long-Lived Assets	383	538
Canada [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	3,934	2,569
Long-Lived Assets	272	339
Asia [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	1,408	1,167
Central and South America [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	1,919	908
Other [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net Sales	$1,411	$360

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Additio

Employee Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Compensation expense	$100,000	$100,000
Contributions paid or accrued amounted	$294,000	$251,000

Product_Warranty_Liability_Act

Product Warranty Liability - Activity in Product Warranty Liability (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of the year	$355	$350
Warranties issued	546	447
Settlements made	-526	-442
Balance, end of the year	$375	$355

Product_Replacement_Costs_Addi

Product Replacement Costs - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Estimated replacement cost	$672,000
Replacement cost charged against reserve	319,000
Other accrued expenses	353,000
Amount received from supplier for recovery	$450,000
Lower product prices period	Through fiscal 2017

Concentration_of_Risk_Addition

Concentration of Risk - Additional Information (Detail) (Vendor [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Purchases [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	21.90%	14.30%
Accounts Payable [Member]
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Concentration Risk, Percentage	55.10%	23.60%

Fair_Value_Measurements_Assets

Fair Value Measurements - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Detail) (USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)	$3,028	$4,734
State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)	15,174	18,766
Total	18,202	23,500
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Money market funds (included in cash and cash equivalents)	3,028	4,734
Total	3,028	4,734
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
State and municipal obligations (included in securities available for sale)	15,174	18,766
Total	$15,174	$18,766

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements - Fair Value Measurements of Assets on Non-Recurring Basis (Detail) (Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member], Level 2 [Member], USD $)	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Measured On Non Recurring Basis [Line Items]
Asset Held for Sale	$1,900	$2,120

Fair_Value_Measurements_Additi

Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Write-down of Asset Held for Sale	$220	$779

Discontinued_Operations_Additi

Discontinued Operations - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	0 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2013	3-May-14	Jan. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Proceeds from sale	$1,800,000	$18,600,000
Period of transition services and manufacturing, Maximum				12 months
Transition Service Agreement expiration date				31-Jan-14
Amount received from disposition of inventory			$2,355,000	($2,355,000)

Discontinued_Operations_Summar

Discontinued Operations - Summary of Discontinued Operations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Net Sales	$8,401
Cost of Sales	7,353
Gross Profit	1,048
Operating Expenses	96
Income from Discontinued Operations	952
Gain on Sale of Assets of Discontinued Operations	1,800
Income Tax Expense	777
Income from Discontinued Operations	$1,975

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves (Detail) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2015	Jan. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at Beginning of Year	$370	$345
Provision Charged to Operations	60	119
Deductions	-87	-94
Balance at End of Year	$343	$370