Key Technology (KTEC) 10-K 11 Dec 15 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 04, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	KEY TECHNOLOGY INC
Entity Central Index Key	906,193
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		6,261,983
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 71,727,738

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 7,726	$ 9,741
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $261 and $415, respectively	14,836	12,557
Inventories	31,297	26,673
Deferred income taxes	3,972	3,809
Income tax receivable	65	2,888
Prepaid expenses and other assets	4,043	4,325
Total current assets	61,939	59,993
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, Net	14,799	16,652
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES	2,917	615
INTANGIBLES, Net	6,221	8,656
INVESTMENT IN PRODITEC	1,127	1,127
GOODWILL	10,223	11,222
OTHER ASSETS	320	80
TOTAL	97,546	98,345
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable	10,800	6,073
Accrued payroll liabilities and commissions	5,452	5,893
Customers' deposits	4,712	3,702
Accrued customer support and warranty costs	2,618	2,607
Income tax payable	2	2
Current portion of long-term debt	705	804
Customer purchase plans	1,506	1,523
Other accrued liabilities	1,313	1,186
Total current liabilities	27,108	21,790
LONG-TERM DEBT	5,149	4,733
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES	2,144	3,281
OTHER LONG TERM LIABILITIES	$ 408	$ 373
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock-no par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock-no par value; 45,000,000 shares authorized; 6,381,804 and 6,307,543 issued and outstanding at September 30, 2015 and 2014, respectively	32,676	31,414
Warrants, no par value; 250,000 issued and outstanding at September 30, 2015	665	665
Retained earnings	31,245	36,264
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,849)	(175)
Total shareholders' equity	62,737	68,168
TOTAL	$ 97,546	$ 98,345

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
CURRENT ASSETS:
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current	$ 261	$ 415
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	45,000,000	45,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	0	0
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding	0	0
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	6,381,804	6,307,543
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	6,381,804	6,307,543
Warrants, Issued	250,000	250,000
Warrants, Outstanding	250,000	250,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
NET SALES	$ 102,925	$ 118,258	$ 136,783
COST OF SALES	74,111	83,961	90,739
Gross profit	28,814	34,297	46,044
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Sales and marketing	17,037	18,721	18,976
Research and development	9,560	11,564	9,647
General and administrative	8,104	10,286	10,594
Amortization of intangibles	1,484	1,738	996
Total operating expenses	36,185	42,309	40,213
GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF ASSETS	13	7	42
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS	(7,358)	(8,005)	5,873
Royalty income	66	38	52
Interest income	12	32	27
Interest expense	(273)	(276)	(277)
Reclassification from Other comprehensive income	(4)	0	0
Foreign exchange gain (loss)	(155)	105	(146)
Other, net	(267)	(141)	(116)
Total other income (expense)-net	(621)	(242)	(460)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	(7,979)	(8,247)	5,413
Income tax expense (benefit)	(2,960)	(2,834)	1,402
Net earnings (loss)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Net earnings (loss) per share
EARNINGS PER SHARE - Basic (usd per share)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69
EARNINGS PER SHARE - Diluted (usd per share)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69
SHARES USED IN PER SHARE CALCULATION - Basic	6,295	6,295	5,836
SHARES USED IN PER SHARE CALCULATION - Diluted	6,295	6,295	5,855

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(2,534)	(1,365)	890
Unrealized changes in fair value of derivatives	(7)	44	254
Reclassification adjustment for changes in fair value of derivatives included in net earnings	4	0	0
Income tax (expense) benefit related to items of comprehensive income (loss)	863	449	(389)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$ (6,693)	$ (6,285)	$ 4,766

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common stock	Warrant	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2012		5,312,145
Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	$ 59,430	$ 21,806	$ 0	$ 37,682	$ (58)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	4,011	0		4,011	0
Comprehensive income - foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	587	0		0	587
Unrealized changes in value of derivatives, net of tax benefit	168	0		0	168
Tax benefits from share-based payments	(60)	(60)		0	0
Share based payments	1,298	$ 1,298		0	0
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options (in shares)		10,000
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options	28	$ 28		0	0
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)		6,257
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan	67	$ 67		0	0
Issuance of stock for acquisition (in shares)		600,000
Issuance of stock for acquisition, net of issuance cost of $126	7,201	$ 7,201
Issuance of warrants (250,000) for acquisition, net of issuance costs of $62	665		665
Stock buyback (in shares)		(3,288)
Stock buyback	(30)	$ (14)		(16)	0
Stock Grants Performance Based Shares		178,163
Stock grants - performance-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Stock Grants Employment Based In Shares		103,026
Stock grants - employment-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes (in shares)		(24,187)
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes	(240)	$ (240)		0	0
Stock forfeitures and retirements (in shares)		(13,462)
Stock forfeitures and retirements	0	$ 0		0	0
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2013		6,168,654
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	73,125	$ 30,086	665	41,677	697
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	(5,413)	0		(5,413)	0
Comprehensive income - foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(901)	0		0	(901)
Unrealized changes in value of derivatives, net of tax benefit	29	0		0	29
Tax benefits from share-based payments	(15)	(15)		0	0
Share based payments	1,448	$ 1,448		0	0
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options (in shares)		5,000
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options	56	$ 56		0	0
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)		6,013
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan	68	$ 68		0	0
Stock Grants Performance Based Shares		95,522
Stock grants - performance-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Stock Grants Employment Based In Shares		75,013
Stock grants - employment-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes (in shares)		(16,968)
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes	(229)	$ (229)		0	0
Stock forfeitures and retirements (in shares)		(25,691)
Stock forfeitures and retirements	$ 0	$ 0		0	0
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2014	6,307,543	6,307,543
Balance at Sep. 30, 2014	$ 68,168	$ 31,414	665	36,264	(175)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	(5,019)	0		(5,019)	0
Comprehensive income - foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(1,672)	0		0	(1,672)
Unrealized changes in value of derivatives, net of tax benefit	(5)	0		0	(5)
Reclassification for changes in fair value of derivatives included in net earnings, net of tax expense of $1	3				3
Tax benefits from share-based payments	(4)	(4)		0	0
Share based payments	1,454	$ 1,454		0	0
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options (in shares)		10,000
Issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options	96	$ 96		0	0
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)		5,003
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan	55	$ 55		0	0
Stock Grants Performance Based Shares		65,284
Stock grants - performance-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Stock Grants Employment Based In Shares		84,108
Stock grants - employment-based	0	$ 0		0	0
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes (in shares)		(26,753)
Restricted stock surrendered in payment of taxes	(339)	$ (339)		0	0
Stock forfeitures and retirements (in shares)		(63,381)
Stock forfeitures and retirements	$ 0	$ 0		0	0
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2015	6,381,804	6,381,804
Balance at Sep. 30, 2015	$ 62,737	$ 32,676	$ 665	$ 31,245	$ (1,849)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHA7

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Comprehensive income - foreign currency translation adjustment, tax expense (benefit)	$ (862)	$ (464)	$ 303
Unrealized changes in value of derivatives, tax expense (benefit)	(2)	15	86
Reclassification for changes in fair valule of derivatives, tax	1
Payments of stock issuance costs	$ 0	$ 0	188
Common stock
Payments of stock issuance costs			126
Warrant
Payments of stock issuance costs			$ 62
Warrant
Issuance of Warrants for Acquisition - Number of Warrants			250,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net earnings (loss)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment	4	0	0
Gain on disposition of assets	(13)	(7)	(42)
Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss	155	(105)	146
Depreciation and amortization	5,266	5,346	4,868
Share based payments	1,485	1,445	1,276
Excess tax benefit from share based payments	(16)	(41)	(40)
Deferred income taxes	(2,459)	(33)	(3,421)
Deferred rent	12	14	(5)
Bad debt expense	23	163	2
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Trade accounts receivable	(2,772)	4,701	(5,511)
Inventories	(5,732)	548	3,665
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	470	240	(628)
Income taxes receivable	2,807	(2,802)	241
Patents	0	0	(135)
Accounts payable	4,881	(462)	(123)
Accrued payroll liabilities and commissions	(198)	(3,295)	3,698
Accrued customer support and warranty costs	113	(618)	863
Income taxes payable	(10)	(444)	367
Other accrued liabilities	58	(708)	556
Customers' deposits	1,184	(2,244)	(1,090)
Other	(287)	(1)	71
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(48)	(3,716)	8,769
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from sale of property	12	25	77
Purchases of property, plant, and equipment	(2,067)	(3,107)	(2,468)
Cash paid for the acquisition of Visys, net of cash acquired	0	0	(11,607)
Cash used in investing activities	(2,055)	(3,082)	(13,998)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payments on long-term debt	(4,867)	(871)	(697)
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt	5,300	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	151	124	95
Stock buyback	0	0	(30)
Issuance costs of stock and warrants	0	0	(188)
Excess tax benefits from share based payments	16	41	40
Exchange of shares for statutory withholding	(339)	(229)	(240)
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities	261	(935)	(1,020)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH	(173)	(127)	95
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	(2,015)	(7,860)	(6,154)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR	9,741	17,601	23,755
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR	7,726	9,741	17,601
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for interest	266	287	275
Cash paid (refunded) during the period for income taxes	(3,274)	438	4,179
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Common stock issued for acquisition	0	0	7,325
Warrants issued for acquisition	$ 0	$ 0	$ 727

The Company and Summary of Sign

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	1. THE COMPANY AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Key Technology, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the “Company”) design, manufacture, sell and service process automation systems that integrate electro-optical inspection and sorting systems with process systems that include specialized conveying and product preparation equipment. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Key Technology, Inc. and its subsidiaries, which are all wholly-owned. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Revenue Recognition —The Company recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been provided, the sale price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Additionally, the Company sells its goods on terms that transfer title and risk of loss at a specified location, typically shipping point, port of loading or port of discharge, depending on the final destination of the goods. Accordingly, revenue recognition from product sales occurs when all criteria are met, including transfer of title and risk of loss, which occurs either upon shipment by the Company or upon receipt by customers at the location specified in the terms of sale. Sales of system upgrades are recognized as revenue upon completion of the conversion of the customer’s existing system when this conversion occurs at the customer site. Revenue earned from services (maintenance, installation support, and repairs) is recognized ratably over the contractual period or as the services are performed. If any contract provides for both equipment and services (multiple deliverables), the sales price is allocated to the various elements based on the relative selling price. Each element is then evaluated for revenue recognition based on the previously described criteria. The Company typically has a very limited number of contracts with multiple deliverables and they are not material to the financial statements. The Company’s sales arrangements provide for no other significant post-shipment obligations. If all conditions of revenue recognition are not met, the Company defers revenue recognition. In the event of revenue deferral, the sale value is not recorded as revenue to the Company, accounts receivable are reduced by any related amounts owed by the customer, and the cost of the goods or services deferred is carried in inventory. In addition, the Company periodically evaluates whether an allowance for sales returns is necessary. Historically, the Company has experienced few sales returns. If the Company believes there are potential sales returns, the Company would provide any necessary provision against sales. The Company accounts for cash consideration (such as sales incentives) that are given to customers or resellers as a reduction of revenue rather than as an operating expense unless an identified benefit is received for which fair value can be reasonably estimated. Upon receipt of an order, the Company generally receives a deposit which is recorded as customers’ deposits. The Company makes periodic evaluations of the creditworthiness of its customers and generally does not require collateral. An allowance for credit losses is provided based upon historical experience and anticipated losses. The Company records revenues net of any taxes, such as sales tax, which are passed through to the customer. Cash and Cash Equivalents— The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. Accounts at each institution regularly exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance coverage. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market. Property, Plant and Equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated over estimated useful lives on the straight-line basis, and depreciation commences at the time assets are placed in service. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of useful life or the term of the applicable lease using the straight-line method. The range of useful lives for fixed assets is as follows: Years Buildings and improvements 7 to 40 Manufacturing equipment 3 to 10 Office equipment, furniture and fixtures 3 to 7 Computer equipment and software 3 to 7 Goodwill and Other Intangibles —The Company has only one reporting unit, and the estimated fair value of the Company approximates the market value of the Company. The Company performed its annual assessment on July 31, 2015 and determined that there has been no impairment of goodwill due to the fair value of the reporting unit exceeding its carrying amount. The fair value of the Company was calculated based on the market capitalization of the Company as of July 31, 2015 . Other intangibles are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which are between 3 to 16 years. Management evaluates the recoverability of other intangibles based upon current and anticipated results of operations and undiscounted future cash flows whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Amortization of other intangibles was $1,484,000 , $1,738,000 , and $996,000 for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively (see Note 3). Product Warranties —The Company provides a warranty on its products ranging from 90 days to five years following the date of shipment, the majority of which are for periods of one year or less. Management establishes allowances for warranty costs based upon the types of products shipped and product warranty experience. The provision for warranty costs is charged to cost of sales at the time of sale, and it is periodically assessed for adequacy based on changes in these factors. A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s allowances for warranties is as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Beginning Balance $ 2,151 $ 2,736 Warranty costs incurred (3,604 ) (3,688 ) Warranty expense accrued 3,784 3,153 Translation adjustments (76 ) (50 ) Ending balance $ 2,255 $ 2,151 Research and Development —Expenditures for research and development are expensed when incurred. Foreign Currency Translation —Assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Translation adjustments are shown as part of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Revenues, costs, and expenses are translated using an average rate. Realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the consolidated statement of operations. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets —The Company regularly reviews all of its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, and amortizable intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If the total of future undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying amount of these assets, an impairment loss, if any, based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets, is recorded. There were no events during the period that indicated the carrying value of long-lived assets may be impaired. Estimates— The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Termination Costs— In fiscal 2015, the Company announced certain cost reduction initiatives. As a result, the Company incurred approximately $390,000 in costs related to the reduction in workforce, the majority of which relates to one-time termination benefits. Approximately $143,000 and $247,000 of these costs were expensed as cost of goods sold and operating expenses, respectively, in fiscal 2015. At September 30, 2015, approximately $36,000 remained accrued as liabilities for amounts expensed in fiscal 2015 that were not paid as of September 30, 2015. The Company expects that these amounts will be paid in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. In fiscal 2014, the Company announced certain cost reduction initiatives. As a result, the Company incurred approximately $1.2 million in costs related to the reduction in workforce, the majority of which relates to one-time termination benefits. Approximately $750,000 and $450,000 of these costs were expensed as cost of goods sold and operating expenses, respectively, in fiscal 2014. Financial Instruments —The carrying value of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued payroll liabilities and commissions, accrued customer support and warranty costs, and other accrued liabilities approximates their estimated fair values due to the short maturities of those instruments. Derivative Financial Instruments —The Company recognizes all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The Company enters into such instruments only with financial institutions of good standing, and the total credit exposure related to non-performance by those institutions is not material to the operations of the Company. Earnings Per Share —Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average common stock and common stock equivalent shares outstanding during each period using the treasury stock method for employee stock option plans, warrants and service-based stock awards. The calculation of the basic and diluted EPS from continuing operations is as follows (in thousands except per share data): For the year ended September 30, 2015 Loss Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders $ (5,019 ) 6,295 $ (0.80 ) Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — — Warrants — — Diluted EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ (5,019 ) 6,295 $ (0.80 ) For the year ended September 30, 2014 Loss Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders $ (5,413 ) 6,295 $ (0.86 ) Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — — Warrants — — Diluted EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ (5,413 ) 6,295 $ (0.86 ) For the year ended September 30, 2013 Earnings Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net earnings available to common shareholders $ 4,011 5,836 $ 0.69 Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — 5 Warrants — 14 Diluted EPS: Net earnings available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ 4,011 5,855 $ 0.69 The weighted average number of diluted shares does not include potential common shares which are anti-dilutive. The following potential common shares were not included in the calculation of diluted EPS as they were anti-dilutive: For the year ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Common shares from: Assumed exercise of stock options — 10,000 10,000 Warrants 250,000 250,000 — The restrictions on stock grants may lapse between October 2015 and June 2018 . The warrants expire in March 2016. Comprehensive Income (loss) —In fiscal 2015, the Company reclassified losses of $4,000 for accumulated changes in the fair value of derivatives from Other Comprehensive Income to the results of operations in Other Income (expense). This reclassification was related to the Company entering into a new credit agreement with another domestic lender. As a result, the interest rate swap with the previous lender has been novated. The fair value of the previous interest rate swap will be amortized into earnings from Other Comprehensive Income over the original forecasted settlement period of the swap as it will no longer be designated as a hedge. Share-Based Compensation —The Company measures the cost of share-based payments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. The cost is recognized as expense over the requisite service period required in exchange for the award. No compensation cost is recognized for awards where the requisite service period is not completed. For awards with a performance condition, compensation cost is only recognized if the performance condition is probable of being achieved. Accounting for Income Taxes —Deferred income taxes are provided for the effects of temporary differences arising from differences in the reporting of revenues and expenses for financial statement and for income tax purposes under the asset and liability method using currently enacted tax rates. The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted — In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” (“ASU 2014-09”). ASU 2014-09 supersedes nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance under US GAAP. The standard’s core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. We are evaluating our existing revenue recognition policies to determine whether any contracts in the scope of the guidance will be affected by the new requirements. ASU 2014-09, as amended by ASU 2015-14, is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods therein. In July 2015, FASB issued ASU 2015-11, "Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory" ("ASU 2015-11"). The previous standard required entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost or market, with market defined as net realizable value or replacement cost. ASU 2015-11 requires entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. ASU 2015-11 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods therein. The Company is evaluating the impact of this update, but does not anticipate that it will have a material effect on its financial statements.

Acquisition

Acquisition	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisition	2. ACQUISITION Effective February 28, 2013, the Company acquired all the outstanding stock of Visys N.V., a privately-held Belgian company. Accordingly, the results of operations for Visys N.V. have been included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from that date forward. The acquisition was made for the purpose of acquiring and developing next-generation technologies and expanding the Company's product offerings consistent with its strategic growth initiatives. Fair Value of Consideration - Consideration for the acquisition consisted of the following (at fair value): Amount (in thousands) Cash $ 13,200 Common shares of the Company issued (600,000) 7,327 Warrants issued (250,000) 727 Total $ 21,254 Fair value of the Company's common shares issued was determined on the basis of the closing market price on the date of the closing of the acquisition. The fair value of the warrants was determined with a Black-Scholes valuation model using the current stock price at the acquisition date, time until expiration, a 34% volatility rate and a 0.36% risk-free interest rate. The warrants may be exercised within three years after the date of issue at a price per share of $11.78 as stated in the acquisition agreement. One-half of the warrants may be exercised following the first anniversary of the closing date and the other half following the second anniversary of the closing date. The warrants may be exercised for cash or on a cashless basis. No warrants were exercised as of September 30, 2015. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Amount (in thousands) Cash $ 1,593 Accounts receivable 668 Inventory 8,250 Property and equipment 299 Other assets 848 Intangible assets (identifiable) 11,400 Current liabilities, including current portion of long term debt (5,609 ) Long term debt (1,372 ) Deferred taxes (3,794 ) Total identifiable net assets 12,283 Goodwill 8,971 $ 21,254 Goodwill - Goodwill in the amount of $9.0 million was recognized in the acquisition of Visys N.V. and is attributable to the benefits expected to arise after the acquisition, including additional distribution and market penetration, which can be leveraged from the combined product portfolios. None of the total amount of goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The fair value of accounts receivable acquired was $668,000 . The fair value of the $1.9 million of debt assumed in the acquisition approximated its carrying value. The fair value of inventory acquired included an increase of $1.8 million related to the fair value adjustment of the acquisition date inventory. Identified intangible assets acquired includes: Amount Average Life (in thousands) (Years) Developed technology $ 5,000 8 Patents 3,300 16 Non-compete agreements 1,600 3 Trade name 1,000 8 Customer relationships 500 4 $ 11,400 The identifiable intangible assets of $11.4 million are subject to a weighted-average useful life of approximately 9.4 years . Pro forma Information - The following consolidated pro forma information is based on the assumption that the acquisition occurred on October 1, 2013 (in thousands except per share data). Year Ended September 30, 2013 (unaudited) Net sales $ 141,549 Net earnings $ 4,685 Pro forma net earnings per share $ 0.77 Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding 6,185 Pro forma net earnings was adjusted to exclude $785,000 of acquisition-related costs incurred in the year ended September 30, 2013 and $883,000 of non-recurring expenses related to the fair value adjustment of acquired inventory for the year ended September 30, 2013. Acquisition-Related Costs - In fiscal 2013, costs related to the acquisition, which included legal, accounting and valuation fees, in the amount of $785,000 were charged directly to operations and were included in Operating expenses as General and Administrative expenses in the fiscal 2013 consolidated statement of operations. The Company also recognized $188,000 in costs associated with issuing the common stock and warrants issued as consideration in the acquisition. Those costs were deducted from the recognized proceeds of issuance within shareholders' equity. Litigation - The acquired company was subject to litigation proceedings in Belgium and the Netherlands for alleged patent infringement and unfair competition claims seeking damages for lost profits, procedural costs and other damages. The cumulative amount of claims was in excess of €12.75 million . In fiscal 2014, the Company and Visys N.V. entered into a Settlement Agreement with Tomra Systems ASA and Tomra Sorting N.V. (formerly BEST N.V.) resolving all litigation related to alleged infringement of intellectual property rights owned by Tomra Sorting N.V. and Visys N.V., including all patent claims, trademark claims, counterclaims, invalidity proceedings, patent entitlement proceedings, and unfair competition claims. Under the Settlement Agreement, the parties settled all such disputes and waived all future rights of action related to the subject matter of the pending proceedings, which were withdrawn from the relevant court dockets. The Company recorded an expense related to the settlement of approximately $550,000 before tax in fiscal 2014.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	3. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS As of September 30, 2015 , the Company had the following intangible assets (in thousands): Cost Net Book Value Amortization Life (Years) Patents and developed technologies $ 17,435 $ 5,297 3 to 16 Trademarks and trade names 858 581 8 Customer relationships 429 152 4 Non-compete agreements 1,373 191 3 $ 20,095 $ 6,221 Amortization expense for the next five fiscal years is expected to be approximately: Year Ended September 30, (In thousands) 2016 $ 1,035 2017 827 2018 751 2019 751 2020 751 Thereafter 2,106 Total $ 6,221 As of September 30, 2015 , the Company had $10.2 million of goodwill which is not being amortized. Other than the acquired goodwill in fiscal 2013, there were no changes to goodwill, other than foreign translation adjustments, during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 .

Trade Accounts Receivable

Trade Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Trade Accounts Receivable	4. TRADE ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Trade accounts receivable consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Trade accounts receivable $ 15,097 $ 12,972 Allowance for doubtful accounts (261 ) (415 ) Total trade accounts receivable, net $ 14,836 $ 12,557 Amounts charged to bad debt expense for fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 were $23,000 , $163,000 , and $2,000 , respectively. Actual charges to the allowance for doubtful accounts for fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 were $147,000 , $30,000 , and $26,000 , respectively.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	5. INVENTORIES Inventories consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Purchased components and raw materials $ 14,291 $ 10,321 Work-in-process and sub-assemblies 9,769 9,505 Finished goods 7,237 6,847 Total inventories $ 31,297 $ 26,673 At September 30, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, cumulative inventory adjustments to lower of cost or market totaled $4.2 million and $4.0 million . Amounts charged to cost of goods sold to record inventory at lower of cost or market were $1.0 million for fiscal 2015 , $1.5 million for fiscal 2014 , and $1.7 million for fiscal 2013 . Actual charges to the cumulative inventory adjustments upon disposition or sale of inventory were $0.7 million , $1.0 million , and $0.9 million for fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	6. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Land and land improvements $ 2,596 $ 2,596 Buildings and improvements 8,938 9,205 Manufacturing equipment 13,479 13,108 Computer equipment and software 20,865 18,591 Office equipment, furniture and fixtures 2,514 2,461 Construction in progress 245 1,623 48,637 47,584 Accumulated depreciation (33,838 ) (30,932 ) Total property, plant and equipment, net $ 14,799 $ 16,652 Depreciation expense was $3.8 million , $3.6 million , and $3.9 million for fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively.

Investment in Proditec

Investment in Proditec	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Investment in Proditec	7. INVESTMENT IN PRODITEC The Company has a 15% minority interest in Proditec SAS, a French manufacturer of automated, solid dose pharmaceutical inspection systems for approximately $1.5 million . The Company has certain tag along rights related to any capital changes at Proditec and may sell its shares to any third party subject to Proditec’s by-laws and right of pre-emption by Proditec. This investment is being accounted for under the cost method of accounting. In fiscal 2015 and 2014 , the Company received $0 and $20,000 , respectively, in dividends from Proditec which reduced the cost of the Company's investment. As of September 30, 2015 , the Company's non-controlling interest in Proditec had a carrying value of approximately $1.1 million and the fair value of the Company’s investment in Proditec was not estimated as there were no events or changes in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment, and the Company’s management determined that it was not practicable to estimate the fair value of the investment. Further, there are no quoted market prices for the Company’s investment, and sufficient information is not readily available for the Company to utilize a valuation model to determine its fair value without incurring excessive costs relative to the materiality of the investment. The Company’s cost method investment is evaluated for potential other-than-temporary impairment on at least a quarterly basis, or when an event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment.

Financing Agreements

Financing Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Financing Agreements	8. FINANCING AGREEMENTS The Company's domestic credit facility provides for a maximum borrowing of $20.3 million consisting of a three-year term loan of $5.3 million and revolving loans up to the lesser of $15.0 million or a borrowing base calculated based on the outstanding amount of the Company's eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory. The credit facility also provides for a credit sub-facility of up to $4.0 million for standby letters of credit. The credit facility matures on July 19, 2018 . This credit facility replaces the Company's previous credit facility with another domestic lender. The Company's previous domestic credit facility was terminated and paid off in full. The revolving credit facility bears interest, at the Company's option, at either the lender's base lending rate or LIBOR using a tiered structure depending on the Company's achievement of specified financial ratios. The Company's base lending rate option will be the lender's base lending rate plus 0.75% , 1.00% or 1.25% per annum. The Company's LIBOR option will be LIBOR plus 2.25% , 2.50% or 2.75% . The term loan facility bears interest, at the Company's option, at either the lender's base lending rate plus 1.75% or the one-, two-, or three-month LIBOR rate plus 3.25% . The Company also simultaneously entered into an interest swap agreement with the lender to fix the term loan interest rate at 6.20% . The lending facility is secured by the Company's receivables, equipment and fixtures, inventory, general intangibles, subsidiary stock, securities, investment property, financial assets, real property, and certain other assets. The credit facility contains covenants related to minimum liquidity levels and certain financial covenants that will be applicable only if the Company does not exceed certain calculated total unrestricted cash and credit availability or an event of default occurs. The credit facility permits capital expenditures to a certain level and contains customary default and acceleration provisions. The credit facility also restricts, above certain levels, acquisitions, incurrence of additional indebtedness, payment of dividends and lease expenditures. At September 30, 2015, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the revolving line of credit and $96,000 of outstanding standby letters of credit. The Company's Belgian subsidiary has a credit facility with a commercial bank in Belgium. This credit accommodation totals €2.7 million ( $3.0 million ) and includes an operating line of €800,000 ( $0.9 million ), a bank guarantee facility of €500,000 ( $0.6 million ), and loan agreement provisions of €1.4 million ( $1.6 million ). The operating line and bank guarantee facility are secured by all of the subsidiary's current assets.The Belgian operating line bears interest at the bank's prime rate, plus 1.25% . At September 30, 2015 , the interest rate was 9.75% . At September 30, 2015 , the subsidiary had no borrowings under the operating line. At September 30, 2015 , the subsidiary had various loans outstanding under the loan agreement provision totaling €0.5 million ( $0.6 million ). The fixed interest rates on these loans ranged from 2.91% to 3.98% . The loans mature between November 2016 and November 2017 . The credit accommodation contains a covenant that requires the maintenance of a minimum tangible net worth and debt to EBITDA ratio levels at the subsidiary measured as of September 30 of each fiscal year. At September 30, 2015 , the subsidiary was not in compliance with the bank covenants. The Company does not expect such non-compliance to have any material effect on its operations due to the availability and relative size of other credit facilities. Subsequent to the end of the fiscal year, the Company received a waiver from the bank effective as of fiscal year end which additionally removed all financial covenants from the credit agreement. At September 30, 2015 , the subsidiary had no bank guarantees outstanding under the bank guarantee facility. Additionally, the subsidiary had a subordinated loan with another European lender of €39,000 ( $44,000 ). The loan has a fixed interest rate of 4.99% and matures in March 2016 . Principal payments on long-term debt are as follows: Year Ended September 30, (In thousands) 2015 $ 705 2016 585 2017 4,564 Total $ 5,854 Based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for loans with similar terms and maturities, the fair value of long-term debt at September 30, 2015 approximates its carrying value.

Derivative instruments

Derivative instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative instruments	9. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS The Company uses derivative instruments as risk management tools but does not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Derivatives used for interest rate swap hedging purposes are designated and effective as a cash flow hedge of the identified risk exposure related to the Company’s variable rate mortgage at the inception of the contract. A hedge is deemed effective if changes in the fair value of the derivative contract are highly correlated with changes in the underlying hedged item at inception of the hedge and over the life of the hedge contract. To the extent the interest rate swap is effective, changes in the fair value will be recognized in Other Comprehensive Income over the term of the derivative contract. To the extent the interest rate swap is not effective, changes in the fair value will be recognized in earnings. At September 30, 2015 , the Company had an interest rate swap with a notional amount of $5.2 million that effectively fixes the interest rate on its LIBOR-based variable rate mortgage at 6.20% . At September 30, 2015 , the fair value of the swap agreement recorded as a liability in Other long-term liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet was $249,000 . There were losses of $40,000 recognized as part of net earnings in the Consolidated Statement of Operations related to the swap agreement during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015 , as the interest rate swap was not designated as a hedge due to its ineffectiveness. The interest rate swap matures in July 2018. In fiscal 2015, the Company entered into a new credit agreement with another domestic lender. As a result, an interest rate swap with the previous lender has been novated. The fair value of the previous interest rate swap will be amortized into earnings from Other Comprehensive Income over the original forecasted settlement period of the swap as it will no longer be designated as a hedge. In fiscal 2015, the Company amortized $4,000 of losses from Other Comprehensive Income into net earnings as a result of this change. Changes in the fair value of the previous interest rate swap prior to novation of $(7,000) during fiscal 2015 were recorded as part of Other Comprehensive Income in the Equity section of the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. During fiscal 2015 , the Company recorded $117,000 as interest expense related to the interest rate swaps reflecting actual interest payments and settlements on the interest rate swaps. At September 30, 2015 , the Company had a one-month undesignated forward exchange contract for €2.3 million ( $2.6 million ). Forward exchange contracts are used to manage the Company’s foreign currency exchange risk related to its ongoing operations. Net foreign currency gains of $400,000 were recorded for forward exchange contracts in the year ended September 30, 2015 in Other income (expense) on the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Operations. The gains on the Company’s forward exchange contracts are generally offset by losses recorded on the underlying assets or liabilities held in foreign currencies. At September 30, 2015 , the Company had no assets or liabilities for settlements under these forward contracts on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet. At September 30, 2014 , the Company had liabilities of $46,000 under these forward contracts in Other accrued liabilities on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Fair value measurements

Fair value measurements	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value measurements	10. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair value measurements are classified under the following hierarchy: • Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. • Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets. • Level 3 – Model-derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value-drivers are unobservable. When available, the Company uses quoted market prices to determine fair value and classifies such measurements within Level 1. In some cases where market prices are not available, the Company makes use of observable market-based inputs to calculate fair value, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2. If quoted or observable market processes are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that use, where possible, current market-based parameters such as interest rates, yield curves and currency rates. These measurements are classified within Level 3. Derivative financial instruments Interest rate swap agreements are measured on a recurring basis based on quoted prices for similar financial instruments and other observable inputs which approximate fair value. The fair value of foreign currency forward contracts is based on the differential between contract price and the market-based forward rate. The following table presents the Company’s assets and liabilities that are measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis consistent with the fair value hierarchy provisions. Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2015, Description Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets/Liabilities at Fair Value Derivatives: Interest rate swap — $ (249,000 ) — $ (249,000 ) Forward exchange contracts — — — — At September 30, 2015 , the Company had long-term debt of approximately $5.9 million . The Company’s long-term debt is recorded at historical cost, and the Company has not elected to fair value such financial instruments. The estimated fair value of the debt approximated its carrying value based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for loans with similar terms and maturities. Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Forward exchange contracts had a fair value of zero at the reporting date, as these contracts were entered into as of that date. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect these estimates.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	11. LEASES The Company has a leased sales facility in Washington State. The lease expires in 2020 , with one five year renewal option. The Company has the option to purchase the facility at any time over the rental period for $1.5 million declining to $1.4 million during the remaining lease term. The Company has a leased operating facility in Oregon under a lease that expires in 2022 , with two five -year renewal options. The Company has leased an operating facility in The Netherlands under a lease that expires in 2020 , with a five -year renewal option, and a leased warehouse facility under a lease that expires in 2020 with a five year renewal option. The Company has a leased operating facility in Belgium under a lease that expires in 2016, with a three -year renewal option. The Company also has leased office space for sales and service and other activities in Australia, Mexico, and Belgium, and other leased facilities in Walla Walla. The Company also has leased vehicles, primarily in international locations. Rental expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Rental expense for the Company’s operating leases referred to above was $1.4 million for the year ended September 30, 2015 , $1.6 million for the year ended September 30, 2014 , and $1.3 million for the year ended September 30, 2013 . The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments required under operating leases and future rental expense (in thousands): Year Ending September 30, Rental Payments Rental Expense 2016 $ 1,019 $ 1,027 2017 881 885 2018 786 786 2019 678 674 2020 459 450 Thereafter 428 392 Total $ 4,251 $ 4,214

Contractual guarantees and inde

Contractual guarantees and indemnities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Guarantees [Abstract]
Contractual guarantees and indemnities	12. CONTRACTUAL GUARANTEES AND INDEMNITIES Intellectual property and general contractual indemnities The Company, in the normal course of business, provides specific, limited indemnification to its customers for liability and damages related to intellectual property rights. In addition, the Company may enter into contracts with customers where it has agreed to indemnify the customer for personal injury or property damage caused by the Company’s products and services. Indemnification is typically limited to replacement of the items or the actual price of the products and services. The Company maintains product liability insurance as well as errors and omissions insurance, which may provide a source of recovery in the event of an indemnification claim, but does not maintain insurance coverage for claims related to intellectual property rights. Historically, any amounts payable under these indemnifications have not had a material effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. The Company has not recorded any provision for future obligations under these indemnifications. If the Company determines it is probable that a loss has occurred under these indemnifications, then any such reasonably estimable loss would be recognized. Director and officer indemnities The Company has entered into indemnification agreements with its directors and certain executive officers that require the Company to indemnify such individuals against certain expenses, judgments and fines in third-party and derivative proceedings. The Company may recover, under certain circumstances, some of the expenses and liabilities that arise in connection with such indemnifications under the terms of its directors’ and officers’ insurance policies. The Company has not recorded any provision for future obligations under these indemnification agreements. Bank guarantees and letters of credit At September 30, 2015 , the Company had standby letters of credit totaling $288,000 , which includes secured bank guarantees under the Company's domestic and European credit facilities. If the Company fails to meet its contractual obligations, these bank guarantees and letters of credit may become liabilities of the Company. This amount consists of approximately $96,000 of outstanding performance guarantees secured by bank guarantees under the Company's domestic credit facility, $192,000 of outstanding performance guarantees under the Company's previous domestic credit facility and no outstanding performance guarantees secured by bank guarantees under the Company's Belgian subsidiary's credit facility. Bank guarantees arise when the Company collects customer deposits prior to order fulfillment. The customer deposits received are recorded as current liabilities on the Company's balance sheet. The bank guarantees repayment of the customer deposit in the event an order is not completed. The bank guarantee is canceled upon shipment and transfer of title. These bank guarantees arise in the normal course of the Company's business and are not deemed to expose the Company to any significant risks since they are satisfied as part of the design and manufacturing process.

Income taxes

Income taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income taxes	13. INCOME TAXES The provision (benefit) for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Current: Federal $ (320 ) $ (2,643 ) $ 4,381 Foreign 27 3 14 State — (27 ) 387 (293 ) (2,667 ) 4,782 Deferred: Federal (1,981 ) 563 (2,180 ) Foreign (505 ) (628 ) (1,092 ) State (127 ) (107 ) (110 ) (2,613 ) (172 ) (3,382 ) Valuation reserves: Federal 54 50 137 Foreign (104 ) (46 ) (135 ) State (4 ) 1 — (54 ) 5 2 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ (2,960 ) $ (2,834 ) $ 1,402 Foreign components of net earning (loss) before income taxes are not material. The Company accounts for its deferred tax assets and liabilities, including excess tax benefits of share-based payments, based on the tax ordering of deductions to be used on its tax returns. The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Deferred tax asset: Reserves and accruals $ 4,041 $ 3,891 Tax benefits of share-based payments 686 684 NOL and other carry forwards 2,036 711 Unrealized changes in value of derivatives to equity 70 69 Deferred tax liability: Accumulated depreciation (610 ) (946 ) Intangible assets (2,361 ) (3,287 ) Translation adjustment to equity 883 21 Net deferred tax asset $ 4,745 $ 1,143 Net deferred tax: Current asset $ 3,972 $ 3,809 Long-term asset 2,917 615 Long-term liability (2,144 ) (3,281 ) Net deferred tax asset $ 4,745 $ 1,143 At September 30, 2015, the Company had Federal and State net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $4.4 million , pretax, the majority of which do not expire until the Company's 2035 fiscal year, and tax credit carryforwards of approximately $37,000 . Additionally, the Company has approximately $0.9 million of pre-tax carryforwards in foreign jurisdictions, the majority of which relate to net operating loss carryforwards which do not expire. At September 30, 2015 , the Company had valuation reserves of approximately $131,000 for deferred tax assets for capital loss carry forwards and changes in the carrying value of its investment in Proditec, and offsetting amounts for foreign deferred tax assets and U.S. deferred tax liabilities, primarily related to net operating loss carry forwards in the foreign jurisdictions that the Company believes will not be utilized during the carryforward period. During fiscal 2015 , the Company recorded net reduced valuation reserves of $54,000 due to the expiration of capital loss carryforwards. There were no other valuation allowances at September 30, 2015 due to anticipated utilization of all the deferred tax assets as the Company believes it will have sufficient taxable income to utilize these assets. During fiscal 2014, the Company recorded net additional valuation reserves of $5,000 related to capital loss carryforwards. In addition, the Company reversed offsetting amounts of approximately $46,000 of valuation reserves for foreign deferred tax assets and U.S. deferred tax liabilities related to the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards in Europe in fiscal 2014. As these were offsetting amounts, these changes had no effect on net earnings. During fiscal 2013 , the Company recorded net additional valuation reserves of $2,000 related to capital loss carryforwards and $3,000 as part of the acquisition of Visys related to net operating loss carryforwards. In addition, the Company recorded offsetting amounts of approximately $135,000 of valuation reserves for foreign deferred tax assets and U.S. deferred tax liabilities related to the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards in Europe in fiscal 2013. As these were all offsetting amounts, these changes had no effect on net earnings. Income tax expense is computed at rates different than statutory rates. The reconciliation between effective and statutory rates is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Statutory rates (34.0 )% (34.0 )% 34.0 % Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from: Domestic production deduction — % 1.3 % (6.5 )% Research and development credit (0.1 )% (1.3 )% (6.2 )% Changes in tax law, R&D credit (3.8 )% — % (3.5 )% State income taxes, net of federal benefit (1.1 )% (1.0 )% 3.4 % Rate differential, surtax on taxable income levels — % (0.5 )% 0.8 % Differences in foreign effective tax rates 1.3 % 0.4 % 0.1 % Non-deductible acquisition costs — % — % 2.5 % Valuation reserve-Proditec — % 0.1 % — % Meals and entertainment deduction limitation 0.7 % 0.8 % 1.2 % Other permanent differences (0.1 )% (0.2 )% 0.1 % Income tax combined effective rate (37.1 )% (34.4 )% 25.9 % In fiscal 2015, the existing research and development tax credit was retroactively renewed for a one -year period beginning on January 1, 2014. Due to this change in tax law, the Company recorded approximately $305,000 of additional research and development credits in fiscal 2015 related to research and development expenditures incurred during fiscal 2014. The research and development credit expired December 31, 2014. In fiscal 2013, the existing research and development tax credit was retroactively renewed and extended to December 31, 2013. Due to this change in tax law, the Company recorded approximately $192,000 of additional research and development credits in fiscal 2013 related to research and development expenditures incurred during fiscal 2012. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands): Balance at October 1, 2014 $ 109 Additions based on tax positions related to the current period 5 Reductions for tax positions of prior periods (21 ) Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 93 As of September 30, 2015 , the amount of unrecognized tax benefits, which if recognized would favorably affect the Company’s effective tax rate, is $93,000 . The Company is subject to income taxes in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. Tax regulations within each jurisdiction are subject to the interpretation of the related tax laws and regulations and require significant judgment to apply. The Company is generally no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for the years before 2010. The Company is not currently under examination by any U.S. federal or state jurisdictions, or foreign jurisdictions, and there are no expected material changes in the unrecognized tax benefit liability within the next twelve months. While it is often difficult to predict the final outcome or the timing of resolution of any particular uncertain tax positions, the Company believes its recorded liabilities for income taxes represent the most probable outcome. The Company adjusts these liabilities in light of changing facts and circumstances. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in other income and expense for all periods presented. As of September 30, 2015 and 2014 , the Company had accrued $30,000 and $35,000 , respectively, for possible interest and penalties.

Share-based compensation plans

Share-based compensation plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-based compensation	14. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS At September 30, 2015 , the Company had three share-based compensation plans, which are shareholder-approved, as described below. The Company issues new shares of common stock for exercises and awards under these plans and non-employee awards. Share-based compensation costs charged against income are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Cost of goods sold $ 31 $ 218 $ 200 Operating expenses 1,454 1,227 1,076 Total share-based compensation expense 1,485 1,445 1,276 Income tax benefit 531 516 455 Approximately $17,000 , $25,000 , and $21,000 of share-based compensation expense remained capitalized in inventory as of September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively. As of September 30, 2015 , the total unrecognized compensation cost related to these plans was $1.3 million and was composed of: $1.3 million related to service-based stock awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.94 years and $0 related to performance-based stock awards that are expected to be recognized over the weighted-average period of 1.28 years. Employees’ Stock Incentive Plans —Under the 2010 Equity Incentive Plan and the 2003 Restated Employees’ Stock Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plans”), eligible employees may receive restricted stock, incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options. The restrictions on restricted stock awards lapse based on employment-based or performance-based measures. Options have a contractual term of 10 years and the option exercise price is the fair market value of the underlying stock at the date of grant. At September 30, 2015 , the total number of shares reserved for issuance under the Incentive Plans was 760,757 , of which 289,187 were available for grant. Incentive Stock Options —A summary of option activity under the Incentive Plan as of September 30, 2015 and the year then ended is presented below: Options Number of Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($000) Outstanding at October 1, 2014 10,000 $ 9.64 — — Granted — — — — Exercised (10,000 ) $ 9.64 — — Forfeited or expired — — Outstanding at September 30, 2015 — Exercisable at September 30, 2015 — There were no options granted in fiscal 2015 , 2014 , or 2013 . The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $31,000 , $10,000 , and $66,000 , respectively. No shares vested in fiscal 2015 , 2014 or 2013 . As of September 30, 2015 , there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options granted under the Incentive Plans. Service-Based Stock Awards —Under the Incentive Plans, the Company may award service-based stock grants to selected executives and other key employees, the lapse of the restrictions on which is contingent upon meeting the required service period, generally three years, and in the case of certain executives, in increments over a three -year period, or in the case of members of the board of directors, one year. The fair value of these grants is based on the closing fair market value at the grant date. The restrictions on the grants lapse at the end of the required service period. Stock compensation expense is recognized based on the grant date fair value of the stock over the vesting period. The summary of activity for service-based stock awards as of September 30, 2015 , and changes during the year then ended, is presented below: Service-Based Stock Awards Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014 271,278 $ 12.66 Granted 84,108 $ 12.78 Vested (116,937 ) $ 12.49 Forfeited (5,600 ) $ 12.95 Non-vested and expected to vest balance at September 30, 2015 232,849 $ 12.77 The number of shares granted in fiscal 2015 that vest in one year or less was 27,370 , vest in two years was 11,394 , and vest in three years was 45,344 . The total fair value of shares vested in fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $1.5 million , $0.9 million , and $1.5 million , respectively. As of September 30, 2015 , there was $1.3 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to service-based stock awards that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.94 years. In fiscal 2014 , the Company granted 95,522 shares of service-based awards with a weighted average grant date fair value of $13.67 . In fiscal 2013 , the Company granted 178,163 shares of service-based awards with a weighted average grant date fair value of $11.65 . Employee Performance-Based Stock Awards — In fiscal 2015 , the Company awarded performance-based stock grants to selected executives. The lapse of restrictions on the awards is contingent on achievement of performance-based objectives as determined by the Compensation and Management Development Committee of the Board of Directors over a three -year period ending September 30, 2017 . In fiscal 2014 , the Company awarded performance-based stock grants to selected executives. The lapse of restrictions on some of the awards is contingent on achievement of performance-based objectives as determined by the Compensation and Management Development Committee of the Board of Directors over a three -year period ending September 30, 2016. In fiscal 2013 , the Company awarded performance-based stock grants to selected executives. The lapse of restrictions on some of the awards was contingent on achievement of performance-based objectives as determined by the Compensation and Management Development Committee of the Board of Directors for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015. Compensation expense is recognized over the period the employee performs related services based on the estimated number of shares expected to vest at the grant date fair value and if it is probable that the performance goal will be achieved. If the performance goals are not met or the service period is not fulfilled, no compensation cost is recognized and any recognized compensation cost will be reversed. A summary of the activity for performance-based stock awards as of September 30, 2015 , and changes during the year then ended, is presented below: Performance-Based Stock Awards Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014 231,218 $ 13.57 Granted 65,284 $ 13.02 Vested — $ — Forfeited (57,781 ) $ 11.39 Non-vested balance at September 30, 2015 238,721 $ 13.95 The total fair value of shares that vested in fiscal 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 was $0 , $0 , and $0 , respectively. The Company estimates it is less than probable that the performance based objectives will be achieved on all these awards and, therefore, no compensation cost is expected to be recognized on these awards. As of September 30, 2015 , there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to the performance-based stock awards. In fiscal 2014 , the Company granted 75,013 shares of performance based awards with a grant date fair value of $13.80 . In fiscal 2013 , the Company granted 103,026 shares of performance-based awards with a grant date fair value of $14.67 . Employee Stock Purchase Plan — Most employees are eligible to participate in the Company’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Purchase Plan”). Shares are not available to employees who already own 5% or more of the Company’s stock. Employees can withhold, by payroll deductions, up to 5% of their regular compensation to purchase shares at a purchase price of 85% of the fair market value of the common stock on the purchase date. There were 500,000 shares reserved for purchase under the Purchase Plan of which 346,753 remained available at September 30, 2015 . During the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , the Company issued 5,003 , 6,013 , and 6,257 shares, respectively, under the Purchase Plan and recorded compensation cost based on the 15% discount from market price paid by the employees. Cash received from option exercises and employee stock purchase plan purchases was $151,000 , $124,000 , and $95,000 for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The tax benefit to be realized for the tax deductions from option exercises and restricted shares vesting under the share-based payment arrangements was $450,000 , $412,000 , and $453,000 for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively.

Stock Repurchase Program

Stock Repurchase Program	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Stock Repurchase Program	15. STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM The Company initiated a stock repurchase program effective May 30, 2012 to repurchase up to 500,000 shares of its common stock. The timing of any repurchases and the exact number of shares to be purchased will be determined by the Company and will depend on market conditions and other factors. The Company retires the shares upon repurchase. The program does not incorporate a fixed expiration date. In fiscal 2015 and 2014, the Company did not repurchase any shares under the program. In fiscal 2013, the Company purchased and retired 3,288 shares at an average price of $9.20 per share. The aggregate purchase price of the shares repurchased under the program has been reflected as a reduction in shareholders' equity.

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	16. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS The Company has a 401(k) profit sharing plan which covers substantially all United States employees. The Company matches 50% of employee contributions for a maximum match of 4% of each participating employee’s compensation. The Company contributed $160,000 , $714,000 , and $632,000 in matching funds to the plan for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	17. SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company’s business units serve customers in its primary market—the food processing and agricultural products industry—through common sales and distribution channels. Therefore, the Company reports on one segment. The following table summarizes information about products and services (in thousands). Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Net sales by product category: Automated inspection systems $ 37,529 $ 55,829 $ 59,336 Process systems 37,768 34,580 50,729 Parts and service 27,628 27,849 26,718 Total net sales by product category $ 102,925 $ 118,258 $ 136,783 Net sales for service were less than 10% of total net sales for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively, and is therefore summarized with parts and service. Upgrades of automated inspection systems are included with automated inspection systems. The following table summarizes certain information about geographic areas (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Net sales: Domestic $ 51,954 $ 61,421 $ 75,423 International 50,971 56,837 61,360 Total net sales $ 102,925 $ 118,258 $ 136,783 Long-lived assets: Domestic $ 15,590 $ 17,221 International 16,782 20,438 Total long-lived assets $ 32,372 $ 37,659 There was one customer that accounted for greater than 10% of net sales during fiscal 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . There was one additional customer that individually accounted for 10% of net sales during fiscal 2013. No single country outside the United States accounted for more than 10% of net sales in 2015 , 2014 or 2013 . Location of the customer is the basis for the categorization of net sales.

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	SUPPLEMENTARY DATA QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) The following is a summary of operating results by quarter for the years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands, except per share data): 2015 Quarter Ended December 31 March 31 June 30 September 30 Total Net sales $ 20,091 $ 21,581 $ 30,810 $ 30,443 $ 102,925 Gross profit 5,476 5,705 9,237 8,395 28,814 Net earnings(loss) (1,828 ) (1,947 ) 295 (1,540 ) (5,019 ) Net earnings(loss) per share - basic $ (0.29 ) $ (0.31 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.24 ) $ (0.80 ) Net earnings(loss) per share - diluted $ (0.29 ) $ (0.31 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.24 ) $ (0.80 ) 2014 Quarter Ended December 31 March 31 June 30 September 30 Total Net sales $ 22,725 $ 31,598 $ 31,292 $ 32,643 $ 118,258 Gross profit 6,170 10,264 8,150 9,713 34,297 Net loss (2,606 ) (697 ) (2,023 ) (88 ) (5,413 ) Net loss per share - basic $ (0.42 ) $ (0.11 ) $ (0.32 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.86 ) Net loss per share - diluted $ (0.42 ) $ (0.11 ) $ (0.32 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.86 ) Note: Annual totals may not agree to the summarization of quarterly information due to insignificant rounding and the required calculation conventions. * * * * * *

The Company and Summary of Si27

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The Company And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition —The Company recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been provided, the sale price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Additionally, the Company sells its goods on terms that transfer title and risk of loss at a specified location, typically shipping point, port of loading or port of discharge, depending on the final destination of the goods. Accordingly, revenue recognition from product sales occurs when all criteria are met, including transfer of title and risk of loss, which occurs either upon shipment by the Company or upon receipt by customers at the location specified in the terms of sale. Sales of system upgrades are recognized as revenue upon completion of the conversion of the customer’s existing system when this conversion occurs at the customer site. Revenue earned from services (maintenance, installation support, and repairs) is recognized ratably over the contractual period or as the services are performed. If any contract provides for both equipment and services (multiple deliverables), the sales price is allocated to the various elements based on the relative selling price. Each element is then evaluated for revenue recognition based on the previously described criteria. The Company typically has a very limited number of contracts with multiple deliverables and they are not material to the financial statements. The Company’s sales arrangements provide for no other significant post-shipment obligations. If all conditions of revenue recognition are not met, the Company defers revenue recognition. In the event of revenue deferral, the sale value is not recorded as revenue to the Company, accounts receivable are reduced by any related amounts owed by the customer, and the cost of the goods or services deferred is carried in inventory. In addition, the Company periodically evaluates whether an allowance for sales returns is necessary. Historically, the Company has experienced few sales returns. If the Company believes there are potential sales returns, the Company would provide any necessary provision against sales. The Company accounts for cash consideration (such as sales incentives) that are given to customers or resellers as a reduction of revenue rather than as an operating expense unless an identified benefit is received for which fair value can be reasonably estimated. Upon receipt of an order, the Company generally receives a deposit which is recorded as customers’ deposits. The Company makes periodic evaluations of the creditworthiness of its customers and generally does not require collateral. An allowance for credit losses is provided based upon historical experience and anticipated losses. The Company records revenues net of any taxes, such as sales tax, which are passed through to the customer.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents— The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less at date of acquisition to be cash equivalents. Accounts at each institution regularly exceed Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance coverage. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts.
Inventories	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market.
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated over estimated useful lives on the straight-line basis, and depreciation commences at the time assets are placed in service. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of useful life or the term of the applicable lease using the straight-line method. The range of useful lives for fixed assets is as follows: Years Buildings and improvements 7 to 40 Manufacturing equipment 3 to 10 Office equipment, furniture and fixtures 3 to 7 Computer equipment and software 3 to 7
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	Goodwill and Other Intangibles —The Company has only one reporting unit, and the estimated fair value of the Company approximates the market value of the Company. The Company performed its annual assessment on July 31, 2015 and determined that there has been no impairment of goodwill due to the fair value of the reporting unit exceeding its carrying amount. The fair value of the Company was calculated based on the market capitalization of the Company as of July 31, 2015 . Other intangibles are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which are between 3 to 16 years. Management evaluates the recoverability of other intangibles based upon current and anticipated results of operations and undiscounted future cash flows whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Amortization of other intangibles was $1,484,000 , $1,738,000 , and $996,000 for the years ended September 30, 2015 , 2014 , and 2013 , respectively (see Note 3).
Product Warranties	Product Warranties —The Company provides a warranty on its products ranging from 90 days to five years following the date of shipment, the majority of which are for periods of one year or less. Management establishes allowances for warranty costs based upon the types of products shipped and product warranty experience. The provision for warranty costs is charged to cost of sales at the time of sale, and it is periodically assessed for adequacy based on changes in these factors.
Research and Development	Research and Development —Expenditures for research and development are expensed when incurred.
Foreign Currency Transactions	Foreign Currency Translation —Assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Translation adjustments are shown as part of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Revenues, costs, and expenses are translated using an average rate. Realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the consolidated statement of operations.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets —The Company regularly reviews all of its long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment, and amortizable intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If the total of future undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying amount of these assets, an impairment loss, if any, based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the assets, is recorded.
Estimates	Estimates— The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Termination Costs	Termination Costs— In fiscal 2015, the Company announced certain cost reduction initiatives. As a result, the Company incurred approximately $390,000 in costs related to the reduction in workforce, the majority of which relates to one-time termination benefits. Approximately $143,000 and $247,000 of these costs were expensed as cost of goods sold and operating expenses, respectively, in fiscal 2015. At September 30, 2015, approximately $36,000 remained accrued as liabilities for amounts expensed in fiscal 2015 that were not paid as of September 30, 2015. The Company expects that these amounts will be paid in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. In fiscal 2014, the Company announced certain cost reduction initiatives. As a result, the Company incurred approximately $1.2 million in costs related to the reduction in workforce, the majority of which relates to one-time termination benefits. Approximately $750,000 and $450,000 of these costs were expensed as cost of goods sold and operating expenses, respectively, in fiscal 2014.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments —The carrying value of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued payroll liabilities and commissions, accrued customer support and warranty costs, and other accrued liabilities approximates their estimated fair values due to the short maturities of those instruments.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments —The Company recognizes all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. The Company enters into such instruments only with financial institutions of good standing, and the total credit exposure related to non-performance by those institutions is not material to the operations of the Company.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share —Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted average common stock and common stock equivalent shares outstanding during each period using the treasury stock method for employee stock option plans, warrants and service-based stock awards.
Comprehensive Income (loss)	Comprehensive Income (loss) —In fiscal 2015, the Company reclassified losses of $4,000 for accumulated changes in the fair value of derivatives from Other Comprehensive Income to the results of operations in Other Income (expense). This reclassification was related to the Company entering into a new credit agreement with another domestic lender. As a result, the interest rate swap with the previous lender has been novated. The fair value of the previous interest rate swap will be amortized into earnings from Other Comprehensive Income over the original forecasted settlement period of the swap as it will no longer be designated as a hedge.
Share-based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation —The Company measures the cost of share-based payments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. The cost is recognized as expense over the requisite service period required in exchange for the award. No compensation cost is recognized for awards where the requisite service period is not completed. For awards with a performance condition, compensation cost is only recognized if the performance condition is probable of being achieved.
Accounting for Income Taxes	Accounting for Income Taxes —Deferred income taxes are provided for the effects of temporary differences arising from differences in the reporting of revenues and expenses for financial statement and for income tax purposes under the asset and liability method using currently enacted tax rates. The Company recognizes the financial statement benefit of a tax position only after determining that the relevant tax authority would more likely than not sustain the position following an audit. For tax positions meeting the more-likely-than-not threshold, the amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the relevant tax authority.

The Company and Summary of Si28

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Schedule Of Estimated Useful Life	The range of useful lives for fixed assets is as follows: Years Buildings and improvements 7 to 40 Manufacturing equipment 3 to 10 Office equipment, furniture and fixtures 3 to 7 Computer equipment and software 3 to 7
Reconciliation of changes in Company's allowances for warranties	A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s allowances for warranties is as follows (in thousands): 2015 2014 Beginning Balance $ 2,151 $ 2,736 Warranty costs incurred (3,604 ) (3,688 ) Warranty expense accrued 3,784 3,153 Translation adjustments (76 ) (50 ) Ending balance $ 2,255 $ 2,151
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The calculation of the basic and diluted EPS from continuing operations is as follows (in thousands except per share data): For the year ended September 30, 2015 Loss Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders $ (5,019 ) 6,295 $ (0.80 ) Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — — Warrants — — Diluted EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ (5,019 ) 6,295 $ (0.80 ) For the year ended September 30, 2014 Loss Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders $ (5,413 ) 6,295 $ (0.86 ) Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — — Warrants — — Diluted EPS: Net loss available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ (5,413 ) 6,295 $ (0.86 ) For the year ended September 30, 2013 Earnings Shares Per-Share Amount Basic EPS: Net earnings available to common shareholders $ 4,011 5,836 $ 0.69 Effect of dilutive securities: Common stock options — 5 Warrants — 14 Diluted EPS: Net earnings available to common shareholders plus assumed conversions $ 4,011 5,855 $ 0.69
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	The following potential common shares were not included in the calculation of diluted EPS as they were anti-dilutive: For the year ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Common shares from: Assumed exercise of stock options — 10,000 10,000 Warrants 250,000 250,000 —

Acquisition (Tables)

Acquisition (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Consideration for Acquisition	Consideration for the acquisition consisted of the following (at fair value): Amount (in thousands) Cash $ 13,200 Common shares of the Company issued (600,000) 7,327 Warrants issued (250,000) 727 Total $ 21,254
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. Amount (in thousands) Cash $ 1,593 Accounts receivable 668 Inventory 8,250 Property and equipment 299 Other assets 848 Intangible assets (identifiable) 11,400 Current liabilities, including current portion of long term debt (5,609 ) Long term debt (1,372 ) Deferred taxes (3,794 ) Total identifiable net assets 12,283 Goodwill 8,971 $ 21,254
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination	Identified intangible assets acquired includes: Amount Average Life (in thousands) (Years) Developed technology $ 5,000 8 Patents 3,300 16 Non-compete agreements 1,600 3 Trade name 1,000 8 Customer relationships 500 4 $ 11,400
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information	The following consolidated pro forma information is based on the assumption that the acquisition occurred on October 1, 2013 (in thousands except per share data). Year Ended September 30, 2013 (unaudited) Net sales $ 141,549 Net earnings $ 4,685 Pro forma net earnings per share $ 0.77 Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding 6,185

Goodwill and Other Intangible30

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class	As of September 30, 2015 , the Company had the following intangible assets (in thousands): Cost Net Book Value Amortization Life (Years) Patents and developed technologies $ 17,435 $ 5,297 3 to 16 Trademarks and trade names 858 581 8 Customer relationships 429 152 4 Non-compete agreements 1,373 191 3 $ 20,095 $ 6,221
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	Amortization expense for the next five fiscal years is expected to be approximately: Year Ended September 30, (In thousands) 2016 $ 1,035 2017 827 2018 751 2019 751 2020 751 Thereafter 2,106 Total $ 6,221

Trade Accounts Receivable (Tabl

Trade Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable	Trade accounts receivable consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Trade accounts receivable $ 15,097 $ 12,972 Allowance for doubtful accounts (261 ) (415 ) Total trade accounts receivable, net $ 14,836 $ 12,557

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventory	Inventories consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Purchased components and raw materials $ 14,291 $ 10,321 Work-in-process and sub-assemblies 9,769 9,505 Finished goods 7,237 6,847 Total inventories $ 31,297 $ 26,673

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, plant and equipment consist of the following (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Land and land improvements $ 2,596 $ 2,596 Buildings and improvements 8,938 9,205 Manufacturing equipment 13,479 13,108 Computer equipment and software 20,865 18,591 Office equipment, furniture and fixtures 2,514 2,461 Construction in progress 245 1,623 48,637 47,584 Accumulated depreciation (33,838 ) (30,932 ) Total property, plant and equipment, net $ 14,799 $ 16,652

Financing Agreements (Tables)

Financing Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Principal payments on long-term debt	Principal payments on long-term debt are as follows: Year Ended September 30, (In thousands) 2015 $ 705 2016 585 2017 4,564 Total $ 5,854

Fair value measurements (Tables

Fair value measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Company's assets and liabilities measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis	The following table presents the Company’s assets and liabilities that are measured and recorded at fair value on a recurring basis consistent with the fair value hierarchy provisions. Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2015, Description Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Assets/Liabilities at Fair Value Derivatives: Interest rate swap — $ (249,000 ) — $ (249,000 ) Forward exchange contracts — — — —

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases	The following is a schedule of future minimum rental payments required under operating leases and future rental expense (in thousands): Year Ending September 30, Rental Payments Rental Expense 2016 $ 1,019 $ 1,027 2017 881 885 2018 786 786 2019 678 674 2020 459 450 Thereafter 428 392 Total $ 4,251 $ 4,214

Income taxes (Tables)

Income taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Provision For Income Taxes	The provision (benefit) for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Current: Federal $ (320 ) $ (2,643 ) $ 4,381 Foreign 27 3 14 State — (27 ) 387 (293 ) (2,667 ) 4,782 Deferred: Federal (1,981 ) 563 (2,180 ) Foreign (505 ) (628 ) (1,092 ) State (127 ) (107 ) (110 ) (2,613 ) (172 ) (3,382 ) Valuation reserves: Federal 54 50 137 Foreign (104 ) (46 ) (135 ) State (4 ) 1 — (54 ) 5 2 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ (2,960 ) $ (2,834 ) $ 1,402
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows (in thousands): September 30, 2015 2014 Deferred tax asset: Reserves and accruals $ 4,041 $ 3,891 Tax benefits of share-based payments 686 684 NOL and other carry forwards 2,036 711 Unrealized changes in value of derivatives to equity 70 69 Deferred tax liability: Accumulated depreciation (610 ) (946 ) Intangible assets (2,361 ) (3,287 ) Translation adjustment to equity 883 21 Net deferred tax asset $ 4,745 $ 1,143 Net deferred tax: Current asset $ 3,972 $ 3,809 Long-term asset 2,917 615 Long-term liability (2,144 ) (3,281 ) Net deferred tax asset $ 4,745 $ 1,143
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The reconciliation between effective and statutory rates is as follows: Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Statutory rates (34.0 )% (34.0 )% 34.0 % Increase (reduction) in income taxes resulting from: Domestic production deduction — % 1.3 % (6.5 )% Research and development credit (0.1 )% (1.3 )% (6.2 )% Changes in tax law, R&D credit (3.8 )% — % (3.5 )% State income taxes, net of federal benefit (1.1 )% (1.0 )% 3.4 % Rate differential, surtax on taxable income levels — % (0.5 )% 0.8 % Differences in foreign effective tax rates 1.3 % 0.4 % 0.1 % Non-deductible acquisition costs — % — % 2.5 % Valuation reserve-Proditec — % 0.1 % — % Meals and entertainment deduction limitation 0.7 % 0.8 % 1.2 % Other permanent differences (0.1 )% (0.2 )% 0.1 % Income tax combined effective rate (37.1 )% (34.4 )% 25.9 %
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands): Balance at October 1, 2014 $ 109 Additions based on tax positions related to the current period 5 Reductions for tax positions of prior periods (21 ) Balance at September 30, 2015 $ 93

Share-based compensation plans

Share-based compensation plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Share-based compensation expense included in the Company's results	Share-based compensation costs charged against income are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Cost of goods sold $ 31 $ 218 $ 200 Operating expenses 1,454 1,227 1,076 Total share-based compensation expense 1,485 1,445 1,276 Income tax benefit 531 516 455
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	A summary of option activity under the Incentive Plan as of September 30, 2015 and the year then ended is presented below: Options Number of Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($000) Outstanding at October 1, 2014 10,000 $ 9.64 — — Granted — — — — Exercised (10,000 ) $ 9.64 — — Forfeited or expired — — Outstanding at September 30, 2015 — Exercisable at September 30, 2015 —
Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Service Based Stock Awards Activity	The summary of activity for service-based stock awards as of September 30, 2015 , and changes during the year then ended, is presented below: Service-Based Stock Awards Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014 271,278 $ 12.66 Granted 84,108 $ 12.78 Vested (116,937 ) $ 12.49 Forfeited (5,600 ) $ 12.95 Non-vested and expected to vest balance at September 30, 2015 232,849 $ 12.77
Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Performance Based Stock Awards Activity	A summary of the activity for performance-based stock awards as of September 30, 2015 , and changes during the year then ended, is presented below: Performance-Based Stock Awards Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014 231,218 $ 13.57 Granted 65,284 $ 13.02 Vested — $ — Forfeited (57,781 ) $ 11.39 Non-vested balance at September 30, 2015 238,721 $ 13.95

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services	The following table summarizes information about products and services (in thousands). Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Net sales by product category: Automated inspection systems $ 37,529 $ 55,829 $ 59,336 Process systems 37,768 34,580 50,729 Parts and service 27,628 27,849 26,718 Total net sales by product category $ 102,925 $ 118,258 $ 136,783
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas	The following table summarizes certain information about geographic areas (in thousands): Year Ended September 30, 2015 2014 2013 Net sales: Domestic $ 51,954 $ 61,421 $ 75,423 International 50,971 56,837 61,360 Total net sales $ 102,925 $ 118,258 $ 136,783 Long-lived assets: Domestic $ 15,590 $ 17,221 International 16,782 20,438 Total long-lived assets $ 32,372 $ 37,659

Quarterly Financial Informati40

Quarterly Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	The following is a summary of operating results by quarter for the years ended September 30, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands, except per share data): 2015 Quarter Ended December 31 March 31 June 30 September 30 Total Net sales $ 20,091 $ 21,581 $ 30,810 $ 30,443 $ 102,925 Gross profit 5,476 5,705 9,237 8,395 28,814 Net earnings(loss) (1,828 ) (1,947 ) 295 (1,540 ) (5,019 ) Net earnings(loss) per share - basic $ (0.29 ) $ (0.31 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.24 ) $ (0.80 ) Net earnings(loss) per share - diluted $ (0.29 ) $ (0.31 ) $ 0.05 $ (0.24 ) $ (0.80 ) 2014 Quarter Ended December 31 March 31 June 30 September 30 Total Net sales $ 22,725 $ 31,598 $ 31,292 $ 32,643 $ 118,258 Gross profit 6,170 10,264 8,150 9,713 34,297 Net loss (2,606 ) (697 ) (2,023 ) (88 ) (5,413 ) Net loss per share - basic $ (0.42 ) $ (0.11 ) $ (0.32 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.86 ) Net loss per share - diluted $ (0.42 ) $ (0.11 ) $ (0.32 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.86 )

The Company and Summary of Si41

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015reportable_unit
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of Reportable Segments	1
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	3 years
Product Warranty Accrual, Period of Warranty	90 days
Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	16 years
Product Warranty Accrual, Period of Warranty	5 years
Product Warranty Accrual, Majority Period of Warranty	1 year
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	40 years
Manufacturing equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Manufacturing equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Office equipment, furniture and fixtures | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Office equipment, furniture and fixtures | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years
Computer equipment and software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	3 years
Computer equipment and software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years

The Company and Summary of Si42

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Warranty Allowance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Reconciliation of changes in Company's allowances for warranties [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 2,151	$ 2,736
Warranty costs incurred	(3,604)	(3,688)
Warranty expense accrued	3,784	3,153
Translation adjustments	(76)	(50)
Ending balance	$ 2,255	$ 2,151

THE COMPANY AND SUMMARY OF SI43

THE COMPANY AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES One (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement [Line Items]
Amortization of Intangible Assets									$ 1,484	$ 1,738	$ 996
Reclassification adjustment for foreign currency translation included in net earnings									4	0	0
Basic EPS:
Net earnings (loss)	$ (1,540)	$ 295	$ (1,947)	$ (1,828)	$ (88)	$ (2,023)	$ (697)	$ (2,606)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Shares									6,295	6,295	5,836
Per-Share Amount	$ (0.24)	$ 0.05	$ (0.31)	$ (0.29)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.32)	$ (0.11)	$ (0.42)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69
Effect of dilutive securities:
Loss									$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock options									0	0	5
Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share, Dilutive Convertible Securities									$ 0
Warrants									0	0	14
Diluted EPS:
Net earnings (loss)	$ (1,540)	$ 295	$ (1,947)	$ (1,828)	$ (88)	$ (2,023)	$ (697)	$ (2,606)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Shares									6,295	6,295	5,855
Per-Share Amount	$ (0.24)	$ 0.05	$ (0.31)	$ (0.29)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.32)	$ (0.11)	$ (0.42)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69
Stock options
Statement [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount									0	10,000	10,000
Warrant
Statement [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount									250,000	250,000	0
Cost Reduction Initiatives | One-time Termination Benefits
Statement [Line Items]
Termination cost									$ 390	$ 1,200
Accrued liabilities	$ 36								36
Cost Reduction Initiatives | Operating expenses | One-time Termination Benefits
Statement [Line Items]
Termination cost									247	450
Cost Reduction Initiatives | Cost of goods sold | One-time Termination Benefits
Statement [Line Items]
Termination cost									$ 143	$ 750

Acquisition (Fair Value of Cons

Acquisition (Fair Value of Consideration) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 28, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash	$ 13,200
Common shares of the Company issued (600,000)	7,327
Warrants issued (250,000)	727
Total	$ 21,254
Common stock | Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Issuance of Warrants for Acquisition - Number of Warrants	600,000
Warrant
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Issuance of Warrants for Acquisition - Number of Warrants		250,000
Warrant | Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Issuance of Warrants for Acquisition - Number of Warrants	250,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible45

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	$ 20,095
Net book value	6,221
2,016	1,035
2,017	827
2,018	751
2,019	751
2,020	751
Thereafter	2,106
Goodwill	10,223	$ 11,222
Patents and developed technologies
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	17,435
Net book value	5,297
Trademarks and trade names
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	858
Net book value	$ 581
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	8 years
Customer relationships
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	$ 429
Net book value	$ 152
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	4 years
Non-compete agreements
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost	$ 1,373
Net book value	$ 191
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	3 years
Minimum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	3 years
Minimum | Patents and developed technologies
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	3 years
Maximum
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	16 years
Maximum | Patents and developed technologies
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life	16 years

Acquisition (Fair Value of Asse

Acquisition (Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Feb. 28, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 10,223	$ 11,222
Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash			$ 1,593
Accounts receivable			668
Inventory			8,250
Property and equipment			299
Other assets			848
Intangible assets (identifiable)			11,400
Current liabilities, including current portion of long term debt			(5,609)
Long term debt			(1,372)
Deferred taxes			(3,794)
Total identifiable net assets			12,283
Goodwill			8,971
Total			$ 21,254

Acquisition Identified Intangib

Acquisition Identified Intangible Assets Acquired (Details) - Visys N.V. $ in Thousands	Feb. 28, 2013USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 11,400
Average life	9 years 5 months
Patents and developed technologies
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 5,000
Average life	8 years
Patents
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 3,300
Average life	16 years
Non-compete agreements
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 1,600
Average life	3 years
Trademarks and trade names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 1,000
Average life	8 years
Customer relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 500
Average life	4 years

Acquisition (Pro Forma) (Detail

Acquisition (Pro Forma) (Details) - Visys N.V. $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 141,549
Net earnings	$ 4,685
Pro forma net earnings per share | $ / shares	$ 0.77
Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding | shares	6,185

Acquisition (Textual) (Details)

Acquisition (Textual) (Details) $ / shares in Units, € in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Feb. 28, 2013USD ($)$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 27, 2006EUR (€)
Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Expected volatility rate	34.00%
Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate	0.36%
Exercise period, warrants	3 years
Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights | $ / shares	$ 11.78
Goodwill acquired during period	$ 9,000
Acquired receivables, fair value	668
Debt assumed	1,900
Intangible assets (identifiable)	$ 11,400
Average life	9 years 5 months
Acquisition related costs		$ 785
Non-recurring expenses related to the adjustment of inventory		883
Acquisition costs associated with issuance of common stock and warrants		188
Fair Value Adjustment to Inventory | Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Inventory acquired	$ 1,800
Belgian Electronics Sorting Technologies NV vs Visys | Visys N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cumulative amount of claims in excess | €			€ 12,750
Tomra Systems ASA and Tomra Sorting N.V.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Additional amount of accrual related to settlement		$ 550

Trade Accounts Receivable (Deta

Trade Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable	$ 15,097	$ 12,972
Allowance for doubtful accounts	(261)	(415)
Total trade accounts receivable, net	14,836	12,557
Provision for doubtful accounts	23	163	$ 2
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, charge-offs	$ 147	$ 30	$ 26

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Purchased components and raw materials	$ 14,291	$ 10,321
Work-in-process and sub-assemblies	9,769	9,505
Finished goods	7,237	6,847
Total inventories	31,297	26,673
Cumulative inventory adjustments	4,200	4,000
Inventory write-down	1,000	1,500	$ 1,700
Charges to cumulative inventory adjustments	$ 700	$ 1,000	$ 900

Property, Plant and Equipment52

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 48,637	$ 47,584
Accumulated depreciation	(33,838)	(30,932)
Total property, plant and equipment, net	14,799	16,652
Depreciation	3,800	3,600	$ 3,900
Land and land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	2,596	2,596
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	8,938	9,205
Manufacturing equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	13,479	13,108
Computer equipment and software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	20,865	18,591
Office equipment, furniture and fixtures
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	2,514	2,461
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 245	$ 1,623

Investment in Proditec (Details

Investment in Proditec (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2010
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Cost method investments	$ 1,127	$ 1,127
Proditec SAS
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent			15.00%
Business acquisition, cost of acquired entity, purchase price			$ 1,500
Proceeds from dividends received	0	$ 20
Cost method investments	$ 1,100

Financing Agreements (Details)

Financing Agreements (Details)	Jul. 20, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015EUR (€)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total		$ 5,900,000
Loans Payable | Line of Credit | Interest rate swap
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fixed interest rate (in hundredths)	6.20%
Domestic credit facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
2,014		705,000
2,015		585,000
2,016		4,564,000
Total		5,854,000
Domestic credit facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 20,300,000
Domestic credit facility | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	15,000,000	96,000
Domestic credit facility | Credit sub-facility standby letters of credit | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	4,000,000
Domestic credit facility | Loans Payable | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 5,337,000
Commercial bank in Belgium
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity		3,000,000	€ 2,700,000
Commercial bank in Belgium | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 900,000	€ 800,000
Interest rate (in hundredths)		9.75%	9.75%
Outstanding at the end of the period		$ 600,000	€ 500,000
Commercial bank in Belgium | Outstanding performance guarantees
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity		600,000	500,000
Commercial bank in Belgium | Commercial Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 1,600,000	€ 1,400,000
European Lender
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		4.99%	4.99%
Subordinated Debt		$ 44,000	€ 39,000
Maximum | Commercial bank in Belgium | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		3.98%	3.98%
Minimum | Commercial bank in Belgium | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage		2.91%	2.91%
Prime Rate | Commercial bank in Belgium | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate		1.25%
Base Rate | Loans Payable | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	1.75%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Loans Payable | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	3.25%
Tier One | Base Rate | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	0.75%
Tier One | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	2.25%
Tier Two | Base Rate | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	1.00%
Tier Two | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	2.50%
Tier Three | Base Rate | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	1.25%
Tier Three | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	2.75%

Derivative instruments (Details

Derivative instruments (Details) € in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015EUR (€)
Derivative [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 5,900,000
Interest expense	273,000	$ 276,000	$ 277,000
Interest rate swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 5,200,000
Variable interest rate on the derivative (in hundredths)	6.20%			6.20%
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	$ 40,000
Amortization	4,000
Gain (Loss) on net derivative	(7,000,000)
Interest expense	117,000,000
Forward exchange contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) on net derivative	400,000
Derivative amount	2,600,000			€ 2.3
Fair value of the derivative asset, net	0
Fair value of the derivative liability, net		$ 46,000
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent | Interest rate swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair value of the net derivative liability	$ 249,000,000

Fair value measurements (Detail

Fair value measurements (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 5,900
Interest rate swap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	(249,000)
Forward exchange contracts
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	0
Level 1 | Interest rate swap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	0
Level 1 | Forward exchange contracts
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	0
Level 2 | Interest rate swap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	(249,000)
Level 2 | Forward exchange contracts
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	0
Level 3 | Interest rate swap
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	0
Level 3 | Forward exchange contracts
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Derivatives	$ 0

Leases (Details)

Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)Periods	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating leases, rent expense, net	$ 1,400	$ 1,600	$ 1,300
2,016	1,019
2,017	881
2,018	786
2,019	678
2,020	459
Thereafter	428
Total	4,251
2,016	1,027
2,017	885
2,018	786
2,019	674
2,020	450
Thereafter	392
Total	$ 4,214
Property Lease in Washington
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of renewal period options | Periods	1
Lease renewal period	5 years
Property lease in Oregon
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of renewal period options | Periods	2
Lease renewal period	5 years
Property Lease in The Netherlands
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease renewal period	5 years
Property Lease in Belgium
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease renewal period	3 years
Maximum | Property Lease in Washington
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Option to purchase facility	$ 1,500
Minimum | Property Lease in Washington
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Option to purchase facility	$ 1,400

Contractual guarantees and in58

Contractual guarantees and indemnities (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Financial Standby Letter of Credit
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantees	$ 288,000
Domestic Line of Credit | Outstanding performance guarantees
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantees	96,000
Domestic Line Of Credit, Previous [Member] | Outstanding performance guarantees
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantees	$ 192,000

Income taxes (Provision For Inc

Income taxes (Provision For Income Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Current
Federal	$ (320)	$ (2,643)	$ 4,381
Foreign	27	3	14
State	0	(27)	387
Total	(293)	(2,667)	4,782
Deferred
Federal	(1,981)	563	(2,180)
Foreign	(505)	(628)	(1,092)
State	(127)	(107)	(110)
Total	(2,613)	(172)	(3,382)
Valuation reserves
Federal	54	50	137
Foreign	(104)	(46)	(135)
State	(4)	1	0
Total	(54)	5	2
Total income tax expense (benefit)	$ (2,960)	$ (2,834)	$ 1,402

Income taxes (Components Of Inc

Income taxes (Components Of Income Tax Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Deferred tax asset:
Reserves and accruals	$ 4,041	$ 3,891
Tax benefits of share-based payments	686	684
NOL and other carry forwards	2,036	711
Unrealized changes in value of derivatives to equity	70	69
Deferred tax liability:
Accumulated depreciation	(610)	(946)
Intangible assets	(2,361)	(3,287)
Translation adjustment to equity	883	21
Net deferred tax asset	4,745	1,143
Net deferred tax:
Current asset	3,972	3,809
Long-term asset	2,917	615
Long-term liability	$ (2,144)	$ (3,281)

Income taxes (Reconciliation Of

Income taxes (Reconciliation Of Statutory Income Tax Rate) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory rates	(34.00%)	(34.00%)	34.00%
Domestic production deduction	0.00%	1.30%	(6.50%)
Research and development credit	(0.10%)	(1.30%)	(6.20%)
Changes in tax law, R&D credit	(3.80%)	0.00%	(3.50%)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	(1.10%)	(1.00%)	3.40%
Rate differential, surtax on taxable income levels	0.00%	(0.50%)	0.80%
Differences in foreign effective tax rates	1.30%	0.40%	0.10%
Non-deductible acquisition costs	0.00%	0.00%	2.50%
Valuation reserve-Proditec	0.00%	0.10%	0.00%
Meals and entertainment deduction limitation	0.70%	0.80%	1.20%
Other permanent differences	(0.10%)	(0.20%)	0.10%
Income tax combined effective rate	(37.10%)	(34.40%)	25.90%

Income taxes (Unrecognized Tax

Income taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefit) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at October 1, 2014	$ 109
Additions based on tax positions related to the current period	5
Reductions for tax positions of prior periods	(21)
Balance at September 30, 2015	$ 93

Income taxes (Textual) (Details

Income taxes (Textual) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount	$ 54
Tax credit, retroactive renewal period	1 year
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	$ 93
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued	30	$ 35
Domestic Tax Authority
Net operating loss carryforwards	4,400
Tax credit carryforwards	37
Foreign Tax Authority
Tax credit carryforwards	900
European Tax Asset
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount		46,000	$ (135)
Capital Loss Carryforward
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount		$ (5)	2
Capital Loss Carryforward | Proditec SAS
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance	131
Visys N.V.
Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in amount			3
Tax Year 2014
Research and development, tax credit	$ 305
Tax Year 2012
Research and development, tax credit			$ 192

Share-based compensation plan64

Share-based compensation plans (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)Plans$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Sep. 30, 2013USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Number of plans | Plans	3
Allocated share-based compensation expense	$ 1,485	$ 1,445	$ 1,276
Income tax expense (benefit)	(2,960)	(2,834)	1,402
Share-based compensation expense remaining capitalized in inventory	17	25	21
Total compensation cost not yet recognized	1,300
Cost of goods sold
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Allocated share-based compensation expense	31	218	200
Operating expenses
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Allocated share-based compensation expense	1,454	1,227	1,076
Stock Compensation Plan
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)	531	$ 516	$ 455
Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation cost not yet recognized	$ 1,300
Total compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	11 months 10 days
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	84,108	95,522	178,163
Vested, total fair value	$ 1,500	$ 900	$ 1,500
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share | $ / shares	$ 12.78	$ 13.67	$ 11.65
Performance-Based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total compensation cost not yet recognized	$ 0
Total compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	1 year 3 months 11 days
Award requisite service period	3 years	3 years
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	65,284	75,013	103,026
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share | $ / shares	$ 13.02	$ 13.80	$ 14.67
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Cash received from exercise of stock options	$ 151,000	$ 124	$ 95
Incentive Stock Options
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Options, outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Exercises in period, total intrinsic value	$ 31	10	66
Non Employee Service Based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Tax benefit realized from exercise of stock options	$ 450	$ 412	$ 453
Employees Stock Incentive Plan
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized | shares	760,757
Number of shares available for grant | shares	289,187
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized | shares	500,000
Maximum employee stock ownership	5.00%
Maximum employee subscription rate	5.00%
Purchase price of common stock, percent	85.00%
Outstanding, number (in shares) | shares	346,753
Issuance of stock for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares) | shares	5,003	6,013	6,257
Common stock discount percent	15.00%
Maximum | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Award requisite service period	3 years
Maximum | Employees Stock Incentive Plan | Stock options
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Options, outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	10 years
Executive | Maximum | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Award requisite service period	3 years
Board of Directors Chairman | Maximum | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Award requisite service period	1 year
Shares Vest In One Year | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	27,370
Shares Vest In Two Years | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	11,394
Shares Vest In Three Years | Service-based Stock Awards
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	45,344

Share-based compensation plan65

Share-based compensation plans (Incentive Awards) (Details) - Incentive Stock Options	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at October 1, 2014, Number of Shares | shares	10,000
Granted, Number of Shares | shares	0
Exercised, Number of Shares | shares	(10,000)
Forfeited or expired, Number of Shares | shares
Outstanding at September 30, 2015, Number of Shares | shares	0
Outstanding at October 1, 2014, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 9.64
Granted, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	0
Exercised, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares	$ 9.64
Forfeited or expired, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares
Outstanding at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares
Outstanding at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding at September 30, 2015, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $
Exercisable at September 30, 2015, Number of Shares | shares	0
Exercisable at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Exercise Price | $ / shares
Exercisable at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Exercisable at September 30, 2015, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $

Share-based compensation plan66

Share-based compensation plans (Service-Based Stock Awards) (Details) - Service-based Stock Awards - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014, Number of Shares	271,278
Granted, Number of Shares	84,108	95,522	178,163
Vested, Number of Shares	(116,937)
Forfeited, Number of Shares	(5,600)
Non-vested and expected to vest balance at September 30, 2015, Number of Shares	232,849	271,278
Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 12.66
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	12.78	$ 13.67	$ 11.65
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	12.49
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	12.95
Non-vested balance at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 12.77	$ 12.66

Share-based compensation plan67

Share-based compensation plans (Performance-Based Stock Awards) (Details) - Performance-Based Stock Awards - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014, Number of Shares	231,218
Granted, Number of Shares	65,284	75,013	103,026
Vested, Number of Shares	0
Forfeited, Number of Shares	(57,781)
Non-vested balance at September 30, 2015, Number of Shares	(238,721)	(231,218)
Non-vested balance at October 1, 2014, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 13.57
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	13.02	$ 13.80	$ 14.67
Vested, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	0
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	11.39
Non-vested balance at September 30, 2015, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value per Share	$ 13.95	$ 13.57

Stock Repurchase Program (Detai

Stock Repurchase Program (Details) - Common stock - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	May. 30, 2012
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Stock authorized for repurchase (in shares)		500,000
Stock repurchased and retired (in shares)	3,288
Average price per share (USD per share)	$ 9.20

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Matching percentage for employee contributions	50.00%
Maximum percentage of employee compensation to be matched	4.00%
Cost recognized for contribution plan	$ 160	$ 714	$ 632

Segment Information - Segment

Segment Information - Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 30,443	$ 30,810	$ 21,581	$ 20,091	$ 32,643	$ 31,292	$ 31,598	$ 22,725	$ 102,925	$ 118,258	$ 136,783
Long-lived assets	32,372				37,659				32,372	37,659
Domestic
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									51,954	61,421	$ 75,423
Long-lived assets	15,590				17,221				15,590	17,221
International
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									50,971	56,837	$ 61,360
Long-lived assets	$ 16,782				$ 20,438				16,782	20,438
Automated inspection systems
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									37,529	55,829	$ 59,336
Process systems
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									37,768	34,580	50,729
Parts and service
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 27,628	$ 27,849	$ 26,718

Segment Information - Concentra

Segment Information - Concentration Risk (Details) - Sales revenue, services, net - Customer concentration risk	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015countrycustomer	Sep. 30, 2014countrycustomer	Sep. 30, 2013countrycustomer
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of significant customers	1	1	1
Number of additional significant customers			1
Number of significant countries | country	0	0	0

Quarterly Financial Informati72

Quarterly Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 30,443	$ 30,810	$ 21,581	$ 20,091	$ 32,643	$ 31,292	$ 31,598	$ 22,725	$ 102,925	$ 118,258	$ 136,783
Gross profit	8,395	9,237	5,705	5,476	9,713	8,150	10,264	6,170	28,814	34,297	46,044
Net earnings (loss)	$ (1,540)	$ 295	$ (1,947)	$ (1,828)	$ (88)	$ (2,023)	$ (697)	$ (2,606)	$ (5,019)	$ (5,413)	$ 4,011
Net earnings (loss) per share - basic (usd per share)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.05	$ (0.31)	$ (0.29)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.32)	$ (0.11)	$ (0.42)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69
Net earnings (loss) per share - diluted (usd per share)	$ (0.24)	$ 0.05	$ (0.31)	$ (0.29)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.32)	$ (0.11)	$ (0.42)	$ (0.80)	$ (0.86)	$ 0.69