Belden (BDC) 10-Q 2 Nov 20 2020 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - shares	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Oct. 28, 2020
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 27, 2020
Entity File Number	001-12561
Entity Registrant Name	BELDEN INC.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	36-3601505
Entity Address, Address Line One	1 North Brentwood Boulevard
Entity Address, Address Line Two	15th Floor
Entity Address, City or Town	St. Louis
Entity Address, State or Province	MO
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	63105
City Area Code	314
Local Phone Number	854-8000
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity File Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging growth company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Title of 12(b) Security	Common stock, $0.01 par value
Trading Symbol	BDC
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		44,609,972
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Entity Central Index Key	0000913142
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Transition Report	false

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 391,497	$ 407,480
Receivables, net	331,232	334,634
Inventories, net	244,815	231,333
Other current assets	39,211	29,172
Current assets of discontinued operations	0	375,135
Total current assets	1,006,755	1,377,754
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation	347,668	345,918
Operating lease right-of-use assets	57,380	62,251
Goodwill	1,247,432	1,243,669
Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization	294,592	339,505
Deferred income taxes	29,845	25,216
Other long-lived assets	52,410	12,446
Total assets	3,036,082	3,406,759
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	211,269	268,466
Accrued liabilities	246,513	283,799
Current liabilities of discontinued operations	0	170,279
Total current liabilities	457,782	722,544
Long-term debt	1,500,716	1,439,484
Postretirement benefits	130,581	136,227
Deferred income taxes	48,896	48,725
Long-term operating lease liabilities	49,209	55,652
Other long-term liabilities	50,311	38,308
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock	503	503
Additional paid-in capital	818,661	811,955
Retained earnings	446,198	518,004
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(137,458)	(63,418)
Treasury stock	(335,508)	(307,197)
Total Belden stockholders’ equity	792,396	959,847
Noncontrolling interests	6,191	5,972
Total stockholders’ equity	798,587	965,819
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 3,036,082	$ 3,406,759

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Cost of sales	(308,247)	(334,293)	(876,143)	(990,857)
Gross profit	167,592	198,805	488,033	590,733
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(85,037)	(98,245)	(275,129)	(298,654)
Research and development expenses	(30,324)	(23,992)	(81,633)	(72,014)
Amortization of intangibles	(16,104)	(19,026)	(48,306)	(56,258)
Operating income	36,127	57,542	82,965	163,807
Interest expense, net	(15,607)	(14,002)	(43,188)	(41,951)
Non-operating pension benefit	680	544	2,079	1,684
Income from continuing operations before taxes	21,200	44,084	41,856	123,540
Income tax expense	(631)	(6,053)	(3,223)	(16,179)
Income from continuing operations	20,569	38,031	38,633	107,361
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	(6,231)	(335,046)	(103,395)	(336,908)
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax	2,743	0	2,743	0
Net income (loss)	17,081	(297,015)	(62,019)	(229,547)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	85	(6)	79	60
Net income (loss) attributable to Belden	16,996	(297,009)	(62,098)	(229,607)
Less: Preferred stock dividends	0	971	0	18,437
Net income (loss) attributable to Belden common stockholders	$ 16,996	$ (297,980)	$ (62,098)	$ (248,044)
Weighted average number of common shares and equivalents:
Basic (in shares)	44,567	44,444	44,834	41,090
Diluted (in shares)	44,709	44,610	44,968	41,299
Basic income (loss) per share attributable to Belden common stockholders:
Continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 0.46	$ 0.83	$ 0.86	$ 2.16
Discontinued operations attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	(0.14)	(7.54)	(2.31)	(8.20)
Disposal of discontinued operations attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	0.06	0	0.06	0
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	0.38	(6.70)	(1.39)	(6.04)
Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to Belden common stockholders:
Continuing operation attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	0.46	0.83	0.86	2.15
Discontinued operations attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	(0.14)	(7.54)	(2.31)	(8.20)
Disposal of discontinued operations attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	0.06	0	0.06	0
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Belden common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 0.38	$ (6.70)	$ (1.39)	$ (6.04)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Belden	$ (34,921)	$ (263,530)	$ (136,138)	$ (183,811)
Common stock dividends declared per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.05	$ 0.05	$ 0.15	$ 0.15

Condensed Consolidated Cash Flo

Condensed Consolidated Cash Flow Statements (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (62,019)	$ (229,547)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Asset impairment of discontinued operations	113,007	342,146
Depreciation and amortization	80,620	108,328
Share-based compensation	13,650	12,115
Gain on disposal of business	(2,743)	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effects of currency exchange rate changes, acquired businesses and disposals:
Receivables	35,645	6,002
Inventories	(9,327)	32,261
Accounts payable	(69,579)	(78,346)
Accrued liabilities	(11,646)	(70,368)
Income taxes	(30,416)	(19,650)
Other assets	1,860	(9,088)
Other liabilities	(20,363)	(4,336)
Net cash provided by operating activities	38,689	89,517
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(56,809)	(74,068)
Cash from business acquisitions, net of cash acquired	590	(50,951)
Proceeds from disposal of tangible assets	3,090	19
Proceeds from disposal of business, net of cash sold	50,051	0
Net cash used for investing activities	(3,078)	(125,000)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings on revolver	190,000	0
Payments under borrowing arrangements	(190,000)	0
Payments under share repurchase program	(35,000)	(50,000)
Payment of earnout consideration	(29,300)	0
Cash dividends paid	(6,800)	(32,153)
Withholding tax payments for share-based payment awards	(1,331)	(2,063)
Other	(154)	(232)
Net cash used for financing activities	(72,585)	(84,448)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	2,586	(3,937)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(34,388)	(123,868)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	425,885	420,610
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 391,497	$ 296,742

Condensed Consolidated Stockhol

Condensed Consolidated Stockholders' Equity Statements (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment	Preferred Stock	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Retained EarningsCumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018			52	50,335				(10,939)
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 1,387,588		$ 1	$ 503	$ 1,139,395	$ 922,000		$ (599,845)	$ (74,907)	$ 441
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	25,178					25,202				(24)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	29,010								29,009	1
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(38)				(54)			$ 16
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								1
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(1,902)				(2,570)			$ 668
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								58
Share-based compensation	2,216				2,216
Preferred stock dividends	(8,733)					(8,733)
Common stock dividends	(1,990)					(1,990)
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2019			52	50,335				(10,880)
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2019	1,431,329		$ 1	$ 503	1,138,987	936,479		$ (599,161)	(45,898)	418
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018			52	50,335				(10,939)
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2018	1,387,588		$ 1	$ 503	1,139,395	922,000		$ (599,845)	(74,907)	441
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(229,547)
Share repurchase program	$ (50,000)
Share repurchase program (in shares)	(900)
Ending balance (in shares) at Sep. 29, 2019			0	50,335				(4,881)
Ending balance at Sep. 29, 2019	$ 1,144,810		$ 0	$ 503	807,087	667,703		$ (307,482)	(29,111)	6,110
Beginning balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2019			52	50,335				(10,880)
Beginning balance at Mar. 31, 2019	1,431,329		$ 1	$ 503	1,138,987	936,479		$ (599,161)	(45,898)	418
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	42,290					42,200				90
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(16,653)								(16,693)	40
Acquisition of business with noncontrolling interest	4,775									4,775
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(8)				(10)			2
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(54)				(861)			$ 807
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								29
Share repurchase program	(22,815)							$ (22,815)
Share repurchase program (in shares)								(397)
Share-based compensation	5,378				5,378
Preferred stock dividends	(8,733)					(8,733)
Common stock dividends	(1,976)					(1,976)
Ending balance (in shares) at Jun. 30, 2019			52	50,335				(11,248)
Ending balance at Jun. 30, 2019	1,433,533		$ 1	$ 503	1,143,494	967,970		$ (621,167)	(62,591)	5,323
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(297,015)					(297,009)				(6)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	33,853								33,480	373
Acquisition of business with noncontrolling interest	420									420
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(14)				(25)			$ 11
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								1
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(45)				(115)			$ 70
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								2
Share repurchase program	$ (27,185)							$ (27,185)
Share repurchase program (in shares)	(500)							(493)
Share-based compensation	$ 4,521				4,521
Preferred stock conversion (in shares)			(52)					6,857
Preferred stock conversion	0		$ (1)		(340,788)			$ 340,789
Preferred stock dividends	(971)					(971)
Common stock dividends	(2,287)					(2,287)
Ending balance (in shares) at Sep. 29, 2019			0	50,335				(4,881)
Ending balance at Sep. 29, 2019	1,144,810		$ 0	$ 503	807,087	667,703		$ (307,482)	(29,111)	6,110
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019				50,335				(4,877)
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2019	965,819			$ 503	811,955	518,004		$ (307,197)	(63,418)	5,972
Beginning balance (Accounting Standards Update 2016-13) at Dec. 31, 2019		$ (2,916)					$ (2,916)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(11,219)					(11,189)				(30)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	22,173								22,323	(150)
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(172)				(542)			$ 370
Exercise of stock options, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								7
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(831)				(2,631)			$ 1,800
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								29
Share repurchase program	(21,239)							$ (21,239)
Share repurchase program (in shares)								(592)
Share-based compensation	3,708				3,708
Common stock dividends	(2,288)					(2,288)
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 29, 2020				50,335				(5,433)
Ending balance at Mar. 29, 2020	953,035			$ 503	812,490	501,611		$ (326,266)	(41,095)	5,792
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019				50,335				(4,877)
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2019	965,819			$ 503	811,955	518,004		$ (307,197)	(63,418)	5,972
Beginning balance (Accounting Standards Update 2016-13) at Dec. 31, 2019		$ (2,916)					$ (2,916)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(62,019)
Share repurchase program	$ (35,000)
Share repurchase program (in shares)	(1,000)
Ending balance (in shares) at Sep. 27, 2020				50,335				(5,740)
Ending balance at Sep. 27, 2020	$ 798,587			$ 503	818,661	446,198		$ (335,508)	(137,458)	6,191
Beginning balance (in shares) at Mar. 29, 2020				50,335				(5,433)
Beginning balance at Mar. 29, 2020	953,035			$ 503	812,490	501,611		$ (326,266)	(41,095)	5,792
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(67,881)					(67,905)				24
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(44,299)								(44,446)	147
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(55)				(1,598)			$ 1,543
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								27
Share repurchase program	(13,761)							$ (13,761)
Share repurchase program (in shares)								(384)
Share-based compensation	5,090				5,090
Common stock dividends	(2,247)					(2,247)
Ending balance (in shares) at Jun. 28, 2020				50,335				(5,790)
Ending balance at Jun. 28, 2020	829,882			$ 503	815,982	431,459		$ (338,484)	(85,541)	5,963
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	17,081					16,996				85
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(51,774)								(51,917)	143
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions (in shares)								33
Retirement Savings Plan stock contributions	1,076				(747)			$ 1,823
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures	(273)				(1,426)			$ 1,153
Conversion of restricted stock units into common stock, net of tax withholding forfeitures (in shares)								17
Share-based compensation	4,852				4,852
Common stock dividends	(2,257)					(2,257)
Ending balance (in shares) at Sep. 27, 2020				50,335				(5,740)
Ending balance at Sep. 27, 2020	$ 798,587			$ 503	$ 818,661	$ 446,198		$ (335,508)	$ (137,458)	$ 6,191

Condensed Consolidated Stockh_2

Condensed Consolidated Stockholders' Equity Statements (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock dividends declared per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.05	$ 0.05	$ 0.05
Preferred stock dividends declared per share (in usd per share)	$ 18.76	$ 168.75	$ 168.75

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include Belden Inc. and all of its subsidiaries (the Company, us, we, or our). We eliminate all significant affiliate accounts and transactions in consolidation. The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements presented as of any date other than December 31, 2019: • Are prepared from the books and records without audit, and • Are prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete statements, but • Include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements. These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data contained in our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Business Description We are a global supplier of specialty networking solutions built around two global business platforms - Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions. Our comprehensive portfolio of solutions enables customers to transmit and secure data, sound, and video for mission critical applications across complex enterprise and industrial environments. Effective January 1, 2020, we transferred our West Penn Wire business and multi-conductor product lines from the Enterprise Solutions segment to the Industrial Solutions segment as a result of a shift in responsibilities among the segments. We have recast the prior period segment information to conform to the change in the composition of reportable segments. Reporting Periods Our fiscal year and fiscal fourth quarter both end on December 31. Our fiscal first quarter ends on the Sunday falling closest to 91 days after December 31, which was March 29, 2020, the 89th day of our fiscal year 2020. Our fiscal second and third quarters each have 91 days. The nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019 included 271 and 272 days, respectively. Fair Value Measurement Accounting guidance for fair value measurements specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based upon whether the inputs to those valuation techniques reflect assumptions other market participants would use based upon market data obtained from independent sources or reflect our own assumptions of market participant valuation. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of the inputs as follows: • Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets that are unadjusted and accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; • Level 2 – Quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, or financial instruments for which significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly; and • Level 3 – Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. As of and during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, we utilized Level 1 inputs to determine the fair value of cash equivalents, and we utilized Level 2 and Level 3 inputs to determine the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations (see Note 3) and for impairment testing (see Notes 4 and 10). We did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during the nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019. Cash and Cash Equivalents We classify cash on hand and deposits in banks, including commercial paper, money market accounts, and other investments with an original maturity of three months or less, that we hold from time to time, as cash and cash equivalents. We periodically have cash equivalents consisting of short-term money market funds and other investments. As of September 27, 2020, we did not have any such cash equivalents on hand. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve our capital for the purpose of funding operations. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. During the nine months ended September 27, 2020, we paid the sellers of Snell Advanced Media (SAM) the full earnout consideration of $31.4 million in cash in accordance with the purchase agreement. SAM was acquired on February 8, 2018 and is included in the Grass Valley disposal group. Due to the initial uncertainties arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and out of an abundance of caution, we borrowed $190.0 million on our Revolver at the beginning of the second quarter. As a result of improving and sufficient cash flow and liquidity throughout the year, we subsequently repaid the entire $190.0 million during the nine months ended September 27, 2020; $90.0 million of which was during the three months ended September 27, 2020. See Note 12. Contingent Liabilities We have established liabilities for environmental and legal contingencies that are probable of occurrence and reasonably estimable, the amounts of which are currently not material. We accrue environmental remediation costs based on estimates of known environmental remediation exposures developed in consultation with our environmental consultants and legal counsel. We are, from time to time, subject to routine litigation incidental to our business. These lawsuits primarily involve claims for damages arising out of the use of our products, allegations of patent or trademark infringement, and litigation and administrative proceedings involving employment matters and commercial disputes. Based on facts currently available, we believe the disposition of the claims that are pending or asserted will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow. As of September 27, 2020, we were party to standby letters of credit, bank guaranties, and surety bonds totaling $5.9 million, $4.1 million, and $3.3 million, respectively. Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue consistent with the principles as outlined in the following five step model: (1) identify the contract with the customer, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (3) determine the transaction price, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) each performance obligation is satisfied. See Note 2. Subsequent Events We evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date through the financial statement issuance date for appropriate accounting and disclosure. Noncontrolling Interest We have a 51% ownership percentage in a joint venture with Shanghai Hi-Tech Control System Co, Ltd (Hite). The purpose of the joint venture is to develop and provide certain Industrial Solutions products and integrated solutions to customers in China. Belden and Hite are committed to fund $1.53 million and $1.47 million, respectively, to the joint venture in the future. The joint venture is determined to not have sufficient equity at risk; therefore, it is considered a variable interest entity. We have determined that Belden is the primary beneficiary of the joint venture, due to both our ownership percentage and our control over the activities of the joint venture that most significantly impact its economic performance based on the terms of the joint venture agreement with Hite. Because Belden is the primary beneficiary of the joint venture, we have consolidated the joint venture in our financial statements. The results of the joint venture attributable to Hite’s ownership are presented as net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The joint venture is not material to our Condensed Consolidated financial statements as of or for the periods ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019. Furthermore, certain subsidiaries of our Opterna business, which we acquired in April of 2019 include noncontrolling interests. Because we have a controlling financial interest in these subsidiaries, they are consolidated into our financial statements. The results of these subsidiaries were consolidated into our financial statements as of the acquisition date. The results that are attributable to the noncontrolling interest holders are presented as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. An immaterial amount of Opterna's annual revenues are generated from transactions with the noncontrolling interests. The subsidiaries of Opterna that include noncontrolling interests are not material to our Condensed Consolidated financial statements as of or for the periods ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019. Current-Year Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements In June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13 (“ASU 2016-13”), Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

Revenues

Revenues	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenues	Revenues Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers and in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are not included in our revenues. The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by major product category. Broadband & 5G Cyber-security Industrial Automation Smart Buildings Total Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 115,149 $ — $ — $ 113,948 $ 229,097 Industrial Solutions — 27,384 219,358 — 246,742 Total $ 115,149 $ 27,384 $ 219,358 $ 113,948 $ 475,839 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 107,067 $ — $ — $ 140,169 $ 247,236 Industrial Solutions — 29,760 256,102 — 285,862 Total $ 107,067 $ 29,760 $ 256,102 $ 140,169 $ 533,098 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 318,765 $ — $ — $ 325,919 $ 644,684 Industrial Solutions — 78,829 640,663 — 719,492 Total $ 318,765 $ 78,829 $ 640,663 $ 325,919 $ 1,364,176 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 287,338 $ — $ — $ 412,306 $ 699,644 Industrial Solutions — 96,054 785,892 — 881,946 Total $ 287,338 $ 96,054 $ 785,892 $ 412,306 $ 1,581,590 The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by geography, based on the location of the customer purchasing the product. Americas EMEA APAC Total Revenues Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 170,734 $ 30,185 $ 28,178 $ 229,097 Industrial Solutions 148,421 59,180 39,141 246,742 Total $ 319,155 $ 89,365 $ 67,319 $ 475,839 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 183,183 $ 36,065 $ 27,988 $ 247,236 Industrial Solutions 175,869 68,386 41,607 285,862 Total $ 359,052 $ 104,451 $ 69,595 $ 533,098 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 481,007 $ 92,197 $ 71,480 $ 644,684 Industrial Solutions 429,461 182,406 107,625 719,492 Total $ 910,468 $ 274,603 $ 179,105 $ 1,364,176 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 508,616 $ 106,823 $ 84,205 $ 699,644 Industrial Solutions 544,780 219,105 118,061 881,946 Total $ 1,053,396 $ 325,928 $ 202,266 $ 1,581,590 We generate revenues primarily by selling products that provide secure and reliable transmission of data, sound, and video for mission critical applications. We also generate revenues from providing support and professional services. We sell our products to distributors, end-users, installers, and directly to original equipment manufacturers. At times, we enter into arrangements that involve the delivery of multiple performance obligations. For these arrangements, revenue is allocated to each performance obligation based on its relative selling price and recognized when or as each performance obligation is satisfied. Most of our performance obligations related to the sale of products are satisfied at a point in time when control of the product is transferred based on the shipping terms of the arrangement. Generally, we determine relative selling price using the prices charged to customers on a standalone basis. The amount of consideration we receive and revenue we recognize varies due to rebates, returns, and price adjustments. We estimate the expected rebates, returns, and price adjustments based on an analysis of historical experience, anticipated sales demand, and trends in product pricing. We adjust our estimate of revenue at the earlier of when the most likely amount of consideration we expect to receive changes or when the consideration becomes fixed. Adjustments to revenue for performance obligations satisfied in prior periods were not significant during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019. The following table presents estimated and accrued variable consideration: September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (in thousands) Accrued rebates $ 25,085 $ 29,430 Accrued returns 12,001 10,292 Price adjustments recognized against gross accounts receivable 27,234 29,908 Depending on the terms of an arrangement, we may defer the recognition of some or all of the consideration received because we have to satisfy a future obligation. Consideration allocated to support services under a support and maintenance contract is typically paid in advance and recognized ratably over the term of the service. Consideration allocated to professional services is typically recognized when or as the services are performed depending on the terms of the arrangement. As of September 27, 2020, total deferred revenue was $70.2 million, and of this amount, $46.1 million is expected to be recognized within the next twelve months, and the remaining $24.1 million is long-term and is expected to be recognized over a period greater than twelve months. The following table presents deferred revenue activity: 2020 2019 (In thousands) Beginning balance $ 70,070 $ 72,358 New deferrals 23,830 26,033 Revenue recognized (24,415) (32,168) Balance at March 29, 2020 69,485 66,223 New deferrals 21,322 21,892 Revenue recognized (22,200) (24,807) Balance at June 28, 2020 68,607 63,308 New deferrals 22,243 21,937 Revenue recognized (20,649) (25,063) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 70,201 $ 60,182 We expense sales commissions as incurred when the duration of the related revenue arrangement is one year or less. We capitalize sales commissions in other current and long-lived assets on our balance sheet when the original duration of the related revenue arrangement is longer than one year, and we amortize it over the related revenue arrangement period. Total capitalized sales commissions was $4.6 million as of September 27, 2020 and $3.0 million as of September 29, 2019. The following table presents sales commissions that are recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses: Three Months ended Nine Months ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Sales commissions $ 4,240 $ 4,535 $ 12,270 $ 14,079

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions Special Product Company On December 6, 2019, we purchased substantially all the assets, and assumed certain specified liabilities of Special Product Company (SPC) for a preliminary purchase price of $22.5 million. SPC, based in Kansas City, Kansas, is a leading designer, manufacturer, and seller of outdoor cabinet products for optical fiber cable installations. The results of SPC have been included in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements from December 6, 2019, and are reported within the Enterprise Solutions segment. The acquisition of SPC was not material to our financial position or results of operations. Opterna International Corp. We acquired 100% of the shares of Opterna International Corp. (Opterna) on April 15, 2019 for a purchase price, net of cash acquired, of $51.7 million. Of the $51.7 million purchase price, $45.9 million was paid with cash on hand. The acquisition included a potential earnout, which is based upon future Opterna financial targets through April 15, 2021. The maximum earnout consideration is $25.0 million, but based upon a third party valuation specialist using certain assumptions in a discounted cash flow model, the estimated fair value of the earnout included in the purchase price is $5.8 million. Opterna is an international fiber optics solutions business based in Sterling, Virginia, which designs and manufactures a range of complementary fiber connectivity, cabinet, and enclosure products used in optical networks. The results of Opterna have been included in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements from April 15, 2019, and are reported within the Enterprise Solutions segment. Certain subsidiaries of Opterna include noncontrolling interests. Because Opterna has a controlling financial interest in these subsidiaries, they are consolidated into our financial statements. The results that are attributable to the noncontrolling interest holders are presented as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. An immaterial amount of Opterna's annual revenues are generated from transactions with the noncontrolling interests. On October 25, 2019, we purchased the noncontrolling interest of one subsidiary for a purchase price of $0.8 million; of which $0.4 million was paid at closing and the remaining $0.4 million will be paid in 2021. The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of April 15, 2019 (in thousands): Receivables $ 5,308 Inventory 7,359 Prepaid and other current assets 566 Property, plant, and equipment 1,328 Intangible assets 28,000 Goodwill 35,057 Deferred income taxes 80 Operating lease right-to-use assets 2,204 Other long-lived assets 2,070 Total assets acquired $ 81,972 Accounts payable $ 4,847 Accrued liabilities 4,301 Long-term deferred tax liability 6,813 Long-term operating lease liability 1,923 Other long-term liabilities 7,152 Total liabilities assumed $ 25,036 Net assets 56,936 Noncontrolling interests 5,195 Net assets attributable to Belden $ 51,741 We did not record any material measurement-period adjustments in the nine months ended September 27, 2020. A single estimate of fair value results from a complex series of judgments about future events and uncertainties and relies heavily on estimates and assumptions. The judgments we have used in estimating the fair values assigned to each class of acquired assets and assumed liabilities could materially affect the results of our operations. The fair value of acquired receivables is $5.3 million, which is equivalent to its gross contractual amount. For purposes of the above allocation, we based our estimate of the fair values for the acquired inventory, intangible assets, and noncontrolling interests on valuation studies performed by a third party valuation firm. We have estimated a fair value adjustment for inventories based on the estimated selling price of the work-in-process and finished goods acquired at the closing date less the sum of the costs to complete the work-in-process, the costs of disposal, and a reasonable profit allowance for our post acquisition selling efforts. We used various valuation methods including discounted cash flows, lost income, excess earnings, and relief from royalty to estimate the fair value of the identifiable intangible assets (Level 3 valuation). Our estimate of the fair values for the noncontrolling interests were based on the comparable EBITDA multiple valuation technique (Level 3 valuation). Goodwill and other intangible assets reflected above were determined to meet the criteria for recognition apart from tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The goodwill is primarily attributable to expansion of product offerings in the optical fiber market. Our tax basis in the acquired goodwill is zero. The intangible assets related to the acquisition consisted of the following: Fair Value Amortization Period (In thousands) (In years) Intangible assets subject to amortization: Developed technologies $ 3,400 5.0 Customer relationships 22,800 15.0 Sales backlog 1,300 0.5 Trademarks 500 2.0 Total intangible assets subject to amortization $ 28,000 Intangible assets not subject to amortization: Goodwill $ 35,057 n/a Total intangible assets not subject to amortization $ 35,057 Total intangible assets $ 63,057 Weighted average amortization period 12.9 The amortizable intangible assets reflected in the table above were determined by us to have finite lives. The useful life for the developed technology intangible asset was based on the estimated time that the technology provides us with a competitive advantage and thus approximates the period and pattern of consumption of the intangible asset. The useful life for the customer relationship intangible asset was based on our forecasts of estimated sales from recurring customers. The useful life of the backlog intangible asset was based on our estimate of when the ordered items would ship and control of the items transfers. The useful life for the trademarks was based on the period of time we expect to continue to go to market using the trademarks. The following table illustrates the unaudited pro forma effect on operating results as if the Opterna acquisition had been completed as of January 1, 2018. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 September 29, 2019 (In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited) Revenues $ 533,098 $ 1,590,206 Net income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders 39,721 91,459 Diluted income from continuing operations per share attributable to Belden common stockholders $ 0.89 $ 2.21 The above unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and does not purport to represent what our results of operations would have been had we completed the acquisition on the date assumed, nor is it necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in future periods. Pro forma adjustments exclude cost savings from any synergies resulting from the acquisition. FutureLink

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations We classify assets and liabilities as held for sale (disposal group) when management, having the authority to approve the action, commits to a plan to sell the disposal group, the sale is probable within one year, and the disposal group is available for immediate sale in its present condition. We also consider whether an active program to locate a buyer has been initiated, whether the disposal group is marketed actively for sale at a price that is reasonable in relation to its current fair value, and whether actions required to complete the plan indicate that it is unlikely that significant changes to the plan will be made or that the plan will be withdrawn. During the fourth quarter of 2019, we committed to a plan to sell Grass Valley, and at such time, met all of the criteria to classify the assets and liabilities of this business as held for sale. Furthermore, we determined a divestiture of Grass Valley represented a strategic shift that is expected to have a major impact on our operations and financial results. As a result, the Grass Valley disposal group, which was included in our Enterprise Solutions segment, is reported within discontinued operations. The Grass Valley disposal group excludes certain Grass Valley pension liabilities that we retained. We also ceased depreciating and amortizing the assets of the disposal group once they met the held for sale criteria during the fourth quarter of 2019. We wrote down the carrying value of Grass Valley and recognized asset impairments totaling $113.0 million and $342.1 million in the nine months e nded September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, respectively. We determined the estimated fair values of the assets and of the reporting unit by calculating the present values of their estimated future cash flows. We completed the sale of Grass Valley to Black Dragon Capital on July 2, 2020 and recognized a gain of $2.7 million, net of a $2.0 million income tax benefit. The terms of the sale included gross cash consideration of $120.0 million, or approximately $59.5 million net of cash delivered with the business and certain preliminary working capital adjustments. The sale also included deferred consideration consisting of a $175.0 million seller’s note that matures in 2025, up to $88 million in PIK (payment-in-kind) interest on the seller’s note, and $178.0 million in potential earnout payments. Based upon a third party valuation specialist using certain assumptions in a Monte Carlo analysis, the estimated fair value of the seller’s note is $34.9 million, which we recorded in Other Long-Lived Assets. We accounted for the earnout under a loss recovery approach and did not record an asset as of the disposal date. Any subsequent recognition of an earnout will be based on the gain contingency guidance. As part of the transaction, we also invested $3.0 million for a 9% equity interest in Grass Valley with the right to put the equity back to Black Dragon Capital at any time on or before October 31, 2020. On October 23, 2020, we notified Black Dragon Capital that we are exercising our right to put the equity back to them. We expect to finalize the sale of our equity interest during the fourth quarter of 2020. We deconsolidated Grass Valley as of July 2, 2020 and are accounting for our equity interest under the cost method. Our equity interest is recorded in Other Long-Lived Assets. The seller’s note accrues PIK interest at an annual rate of 8.5%. During the three months ended September 27, 2020, the seller’s note accrued interest of $3.6 million, which we reserved for based on our expected loss allowance methodology. We are performing certain services for Grass Valley under a transition services agreement. During the three months ended September 27, 2020, the amount of transition services totaled $1.0 million, which we expect to collect in 2021. The following table summarizes the operating results of the disposal group up to the July 2, 2020 disposal date for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, respectively: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Revenues $ 1,334 $ 87,221 $ 109,195 $ 263,434 Cost of sales (1,008) (50,622) (70,199) (153,012) Gross profit 326 36,599 38,996 110,422 Selling, general and administrative expenses (574) (21,924) (37,435) (66,785) Research and development expenses (610) (7,360) (15,083) (28,526) Amortization of intangibles — (3,218) — (11,695) Asset impairment of discontinued operations — (342,146) (113,007) (342,146) Interest expense, net (12) (198) (432) (611) Non-operating pension benefit (cost) 27 (55) (169) (166) Loss before taxes $ (843) $ (338,302) $ (127,130) $ (339,507) The disposal group had capital expenditures of approximately $0.3 million and $16.7 million during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively; and $8.3 million and $22.8 million during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, respectively. The disposal group recognized credits to stock-based compensation of $0.0 million and $0.9 million during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. The disposal group incurred stock based compensation expense of $0.2 million and $0.8 million during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, respectively. The disposal group did not have any significant non-cash charges for investing activities during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 or September 29, 2019 . The following table provides the major classes of assets and liabilities of the disposal group as of December 31, 2019: December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 18,405 Receivables, net 117,386 Inventories, net 55,002 Other current assets 35,187 Plant, property, and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 61,233 Operating lease right-of-use assets 16,902 Goodwill 26,707 Intangible assets, less accumulated depreciation 143,459 Deferred income taxes 59,560 Other long-lived assets 21,652 Impairment of disposal group (180,358) Total Assets of discontinued operations $ 375,135 Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 52,425 Accrued liabilities 83,349 Postretirement benefits 6,224 Deferred income taxes 2,740 Long-term operating lease liabilities 20,459 Other long-term liabilities 5,082 Total Liabilities of discontinued operations $ 170,279 The disposal group also had $42.3 million of accumulated other comprehensive losses as of December 31, 2019.

Reportable Segments

Reportable Segments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Segments	Reportable Segments We are organized around two global business platforms: Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions. Each of the global business platforms represents a reportable segment. Effective January 1, 2020, we transferred our West Penn Wire business and multi-conductor product lines from the Enterprise Solutions segment to the Industrial Solutions segment as a result of a shift in responsibilities among the segments. We have recast the prior period segment information to conform to the change in the composition of reportable segments. The key measures of segment profit or loss are Segment Revenues and Segment EBITDA. Segment Revenues represent non-affiliate revenues and include revenues that would have otherwise been recorded by acquired businesses as independent entities but were not recognized in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income due to the effects of purchase accounting and the associated write-down of acquired deferred revenue to fair value. Segment EBITDA excludes certain items, including depreciation expense; amortization of intangibles; asset impairment; severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs; purchase accounting effects related to acquisitions, such as the adjustment of acquired inventory and deferred revenue to fair value; and other costs. We allocate corporate expenses to the segments for purposes of measuring Segment EBITDA. Corporate expenses are allocated on the basis of each segment’s relative EBITDA prior to the allocation. Our measure of segment assets does not include cash, goodwill, intangible assets, deferred tax assets, or corporate assets. All goodwill is allocated to reporting units of our segments for purposes of impairment testing. Enterprise Solutions Industrial Solutions Total Segments (In thousands) As of and for the three months ended September 27, 2020 Segment revenues $ 229,097 $ 246,742 $ 475,839 Affiliate revenues 231 10 241 Segment EBITDA 26,250 38,391 64,641 Depreciation expense 5,005 5,450 10,455 Amortization of intangibles 5,408 10,696 16,104 Amortization of software development intangible assets 73 456 529 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 1,337 20 1,357 Segment assets 519,142 486,110 1,005,252 As of and for the three months ended September 29, 2019 Segment revenues $ 247,236 $ 285,862 $ 533,098 Affiliate revenues 753 2 755 Segment EBITDA 35,868 54,849 90,717 Depreciation expense 4,919 5,060 9,979 Amortization of intangibles 6,269 12,757 19,026 Amortization of software development intangible assets 49 36 85 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 3,047 — 3,047 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions (186) — (186) Segment assets 517,448 501,278 1,018,726 As of and for the nine months ended September 27, 2020 Segment revenues $ 644,684 $ 719,492 $ 1,364,176 Affiliate revenues 940 30 970 Segment EBITDA 73,193 100,367 173,560 Depreciation expense 15,208 15,861 31,069 Amortization of intangibles 16,266 32,040 48,306 Amortization of software development intangible assets 184 1,061 1,245 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 6,310 3,138 9,448 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions 125 — 125 Segment assets 519,142 486,110 1,005,252 As of and for the nine months ended September 29, 2019 Segment revenues $ 699,644 $ 881,946 $ 1,581,590 Affiliate revenues 3,190 19 3,209 Segment EBITDA 93,074 165,257 258,331 Depreciation expense 14,576 15,414 29,990 Amortization of intangibles 16,694 39,564 56,258 Amortization of software development intangible assets 120 87 207 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 5,566 — 5,566 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions 532 — 532 Segment assets 517,448 501,278 1,018,726 The following table is a reconciliation of the total of the reportable segments’ Revenues and EBITDA to consolidated revenues and consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes, respectively. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Total Segment and Consolidated Revenues $ 475,839 $ 533,098 $ 1,364,176 $ 1,581,590 Total Segment EBITDA $ 64,641 $ 90,717 $ 173,560 $ 258,331 Amortization of intangibles (16,104) (19,026) (48,306) (56,258) Depreciation expense (10,455) (9,979) (31,069) (29,990) Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs (1) (1,357) (3,047) (9,448) (5,566) Amortization of software development intangible assets (529) (85) (1,245) (207) Purchase accounting effects related to acquisitions (2) — 186 (125) (532) Eliminations (69) (1,224) (402) (1,971) Consolidated operating income 36,127 57,542 82,965 163,807 Interest expense, net (15,607) (14,002) (43,188) (41,951) Total non-operating pension benefit 680 544 2,079 1,684 Consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes $ 21,200 $ 44,084 $ 41,856 $ 123,540 (1) See Note 11, Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities, for details.

Income (loss) per Share

Income (loss) per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income per Share	Income (loss) per Share The following table presents the basis for the income (loss) per share computations: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Numerator: Income from continuing operations $ 20,569 $ 38,031 $ 38,633 $ 107,361 Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest 85 (6) 79 60 Less: Preferred stock dividends — 971 — 18,437 Income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders 20,484 37,066 38,554 88,864 Add: Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (6,231) (335,046) (103,395) (336,908) Add: Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax 2,743 — 2,743 — Net income (loss) attributable to Belden common stockholders $ 16,996 $ (297,980) $ (62,098) $ (248,044) Denominator: Weighted average shares outstanding, basic 44,567 44,444 44,834 41,090 Effect of dilutive common stock equivalents 142 166 134 209 Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted 44,709 44,610 44,968 41,299 For the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, diluted weighted average shares outstanding exclude outstanding equity awards of 1.6 million and 1.5 million, respectively, which are anti-dilutive. In addition, for both the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.4 million because the related performance conditions have not been satisfied. For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, diluted weighted average shares outstanding exclude outstanding equity awards of 1.4 million and 1.2 million, respectively, which are anti-dilutive. In addition, for both the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include outstanding equity awards of 0.3 million because the related performance conditions have not been satisfied. Furthermore, for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, diluted weighted average shares outstanding do not include the impact of preferred shares that were converted into 1.1 million and 4.9 million common shares, because deducting the preferred stock dividends from net income was more dilutive. For purposes of calculating basic earnings per share, unvested restricted stock units are not included in the calculation of basic weighted average shares outstanding until all necessary conditions have been satisfied and issuance of the shares underlying the restricted stock units is no longer contingent. Necessary conditions are not satisfied until the vesting date, at which time holders of our restricted stock units receive shares of our common stock. For purposes of calculating diluted earnings per share, unvested restricted stock units are included to the extent that they are dilutive. In determining whether unvested restricted stock units are dilutive, each issuance of restricted stock units is considered separately. Once a restricted stock unit has vested, it is included in the calculation of both basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding.

Credit Losses

Credit Losses	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Credit Loss [Abstract]
Credit Loss	Credit Losses Effective January 1, 2020, we adopted ASU 2016-13 We are exposed to credit losses primarily through sales of products and services. Our expected loss allowance methodology for accounts receivable is developed using historical collection experience, current and future economic and market conditions and a review of the current status of customers' trade accounts receivables. Due to the short-term nature of such receivables, the estimate of amount of accounts receivable that may not be collected is based on aging of the accounts receivable balances and the financial condition of customers. Additionally, specific allowance amounts are established to record the appropriate provision for customers that have a higher probability of default. Our monitoring activities include timely account reconciliation, dispute resolution, payment confirmation, consideration of customers' financial condition and macroeconomic conditions. Balances are written off when determined to be uncollectible. Estimates are used to determine the allowance, which is based upon an assessment of anticipated payments as well as other historical, current and future information that is reasonably available. The following table presents the activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for our continuing operations for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 (in thousands). Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 2,569 Adoption adjustment 1,011 Current period provision (172) Recoveries collected (9) Fx impact (213) Balance at March 29, 2020 $ 3,186 Current period provision 2,621 Writeoffs (52) Recoveries collected (100) Fx impact 37 Balance at June 28, 2020 $ 5,692 Current period provision (108) Writeoffs (76) Fx impact 29 Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 5,537

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories The major classes of inventories were as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Raw materials $ 112,957 $ 98,530 Work-in-process 34,348 34,717 Finished goods 125,774 119,331 Gross inventories 273,079 252,578 Excess and obsolete reserves (28,264) (21,245) Net inventories $ 244,815 $ 231,333

Leases

Leases	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases We have operating and finance leases for properties, including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and office space; as well as vehicles and certain equipment. We make certain judgments in determining whether a contract contains a lease in accordance with ASU 2016-02. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than 1 year to 16 years; some of which include extension and termination options for an additional 15 years or within 1 year, respectively. We do not assume renewals in our determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably certain as of the commencement date of the lease. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material variable lease payments. We have entered into various short-term operating leases with an initial term of twelve months or less. These leases are not recorded on our balance sheet, and for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, the rent expense for short-term leases was not material. We have certain property and equipment lease contracts that may contain lease and non-lease components, and we have elected to utilize the practical expedient to account for these components together as a single combined lease component. As the rate implicit in most of our leases is not readily determinable, we use the incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of the lease payments, which is unique to each leased asset, and is based upon the term of the lease, commencement date of the lease, local currency of the leased asset, and the credit rating of the legal entity leasing the asset. The components of lease expense were as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Operating lease cost $ 3,571 $ 3,432 $ 10,512 $ 10,872 Finance lease cost Amortization of right-of-use asset $ 35 $ 37 $ 101 $ 104 Interest on lease liabilities 4 6 13 16 Total finance lease cost $ 39 $ 43 $ 114 $ 120 Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 3,891 $ 3,528 $ 11,352 $ 10,770 Operating cash flows from finance leases 4 6 13 20 Financing cash flows from finance leases 43 64 130 210 Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands, except lease term and discount rate) Operating leases: Total operating lease right-of-use assets $ 57,380 $ 62,251 Accrued liabilities $ 14,657 $ 13,900 Long-term operating lease liabilities 49,209 55,652 Total operating lease liabilities $ 63,866 $ 69,552 Finance leases: Other long-lived assets, at cost $ 759 $ 823 Accumulated depreciation (449) (391) Other long-lived assets, net $ 310 $ 432 Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating leases 5 years 6 years Finance leases 2 years 3 years Weighted Average Discount Rate Operating leases 6.6 % 6.9 % Finance leases 6.0 % 6.2 % The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of September 27, 2020 (in thousands): 2020 $ 5,080 2021 19,129 2022 16,220 2023 12,446 2024 9,436 Thereafter 17,433 Total $ 79,744 The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands): 2020 $ 19,086 2021 16,988 2022 14,128 2023 11,598 2024 9,032 Thereafter 16,655 Total $ 87,487
Leases	Leases We have operating and finance leases for properties, including manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and office space; as well as vehicles and certain equipment. We make certain judgments in determining whether a contract contains a lease in accordance with ASU 2016-02. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than 1 year to 16 years; some of which include extension and termination options for an additional 15 years or within 1 year, respectively. We do not assume renewals in our determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably certain as of the commencement date of the lease. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material variable lease payments. We have entered into various short-term operating leases with an initial term of twelve months or less. These leases are not recorded on our balance sheet, and for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, the rent expense for short-term leases was not material. We have certain property and equipment lease contracts that may contain lease and non-lease components, and we have elected to utilize the practical expedient to account for these components together as a single combined lease component. As the rate implicit in most of our leases is not readily determinable, we use the incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of the lease payments, which is unique to each leased asset, and is based upon the term of the lease, commencement date of the lease, local currency of the leased asset, and the credit rating of the legal entity leasing the asset. The components of lease expense were as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Operating lease cost $ 3,571 $ 3,432 $ 10,512 $ 10,872 Finance lease cost Amortization of right-of-use asset $ 35 $ 37 $ 101 $ 104 Interest on lease liabilities 4 6 13 16 Total finance lease cost $ 39 $ 43 $ 114 $ 120 Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 3,891 $ 3,528 $ 11,352 $ 10,770 Operating cash flows from finance leases 4 6 13 20 Financing cash flows from finance leases 43 64 130 210 Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands, except lease term and discount rate) Operating leases: Total operating lease right-of-use assets $ 57,380 $ 62,251 Accrued liabilities $ 14,657 $ 13,900 Long-term operating lease liabilities 49,209 55,652 Total operating lease liabilities $ 63,866 $ 69,552 Finance leases: Other long-lived assets, at cost $ 759 $ 823 Accumulated depreciation (449) (391) Other long-lived assets, net $ 310 $ 432 Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating leases 5 years 6 years Finance leases 2 years 3 years Weighted Average Discount Rate Operating leases 6.6 % 6.9 % Finance leases 6.0 % 6.2 % The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of September 27, 2020 (in thousands): 2020 $ 5,080 2021 19,129 2022 16,220 2023 12,446 2024 9,436 Thereafter 17,433 Total $ 79,744 The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands): 2020 $ 19,086 2021 16,988 2022 14,128 2023 11,598 2024 9,032 Thereafter 16,655 Total $ 87,487

Long-Lived Assets

Long-Lived Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Long-Lived Assets	Long-Lived Assets Depreciation and Amortization Expense We recognized depreciation expense of $10.5 million and $31.1 million in the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. We recognized depreciation expense of $10.0 million and $30.0 million in the three and nine ended September 29, 2019, respectively. We recognized amortization expense related to our intangible assets of $16.6 million and $49.6 million in the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. We recognized amortization expense related to our intangible assets of $19.1 million and $56.5 million in the three and nine ended September 29, 2019, respectively. Interim Impairment Test Due to equity market conditions during the nine months ended September 27, 2020, we conducted an interim impairment test. We determined that the carrying values of our definite-lived assets were recoverable; therefore, we did not record any impairment charges related to these assets. Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, and we conducted a quantitative interim impairment test for one of our reporting units. A reporting unit is an operating segment, or a business unit one level below an operating segment if discrete financial information for that business is prepared and regularly reviewed by segment management. However, components within an operating segment are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have similar economic characteristics. We determined that each of our reportable segments (Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions) represents an operating segment. Within those operating segments, we have identified reporting units based on whether there is discrete financial information prepared that is regularly reviewed by segment management. When we evaluate goodwill for impairment using a quantitative assessment, we compare the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. We determine the fair value using an income approach. Under the income approach, we calculate the fair value of a reporting unit based on the present value of estimated future cash flows using growth rates and discount rates that are consistent with current market conditions in our industry. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets including goodwill assigned to that unit, goodwill is not impaired. If the carrying value of the reporting unit’s net assets including goodwill exceeds the fair value of the reporting unit, then we record an impairment charge based on that difference. In addition to the income approach, we calculate the fair value of our reporting units under a market approach. The market approach measures the fair value of a reporting unit through analysis of financial multiples of comparable businesses. Consideration is given to the financial conditions and operating performance of the reporting unit being valued relative to those publicly-traded companies operating in the same or similar lines of business. Significant judgment is required when applying the market approach as there is a range of financial multiples of comparable businesses. Based on our interim goodwill impairment test, we determined that the fair value of the reporting unit was in excess of its carrying value by approximately 2%; therefore, we did not record any goodwill impairment. The significant assumptions used to estimate fair value included sales growth, profitability, and related cash flows, along with cash flows associated with taxes and capital spending. To estimate the fair value, we used a 10.5% discount rate that reflected the economic conditions in effect at the time of the impairment test. We also considered assumptions that market participants may use. In our quantitative assessment, the 2020 to 2029 compounded annual revenue growth rate was 6.0% and

Severance, Restructuring, and A

Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities	Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities Cost Reduction Program: 2019 During the fourth quarter of 2019, we began a cost reduction program to improve performance and enhance margins by streamlining the organizational structure and investing in technology to drive productivity. We recognized $0.2 million and $3.2 million of severance and other restructuring costs for this program during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. These costs were incurred by both the Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions segments. The cost reduction program is expected to deliver an estimated $60.0 million reduction in selling, general, and administrative expenses on an annual basis, of which $40.0 million is expected to be realized in 2020, with the full benefit materializing in 2021. We expect to incur incremental costs of approximately $9.6 million for this program. SPC, Opterna and FutureLink Integration Program: 2019 In 2019, we began a restructuring program to integrate SPC, Opterna and FutureLink with our existing businesses. The restructuring and integration activities were focused on achieving desired cost savings by consolidating existing and acquired facilities and other support functions. We recognized $0.9 million and $4.0 million of severance and other restructuring costs for this program during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. We recognized $3.1 million and $5.6 million of severance and other restructuring costs for this program during the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019. These costs were incurred by the Enterprise Solutions segment. We expect to incur incremental costs of approximately $0.6 million for this program. The following table summarizes the costs by segment of the programs described above as well as other immaterial programs and acquisition integration activities during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019: Severance Other Total Costs Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 327 $ 1,010 $ 1,337 Industrial Solutions 314 (294) 20 Total $ 641 $ 716 $ 1,357 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 269 $ 2,778 $ 3,047 Industrial Solutions — — — Total $ 269 $ 2,778 $ 3,047 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 1,162 $ 5,148 $ 6,310 Industrial Solutions 1,132 2,006 3,138 Total $ 2,294 $ 7,154 $ 9,448 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 269 $ 5,297 $ 5,566 Industrial Solutions — — — Total $ 269 $ 5,297 $ 5,566 The other restructuring and integration costs primarily consisted of equipment transfer, costs to consolidate operating and support facilities, retention bonuses, relocation, travel, legal, and other costs. The majority of the other restructuring and integration costs related to these actions were paid as incurred or are payable within the next 60 days. The following table summarizes the costs of the various programs described above as well as other immaterial programs and acquisition integration activities by financial statement line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In Thousands) Cost of sales $ 85 $ 792 $ 222 $ 1,092 Selling, general and administrative expenses 1,272 2,255 9,226 4,474 Total $ 1,357 $ 3,047 $ 9,448 $ 5,566 Accrued Severance The table below sets forth severance activity that occurred for the Cost Reduction Program as well as the SPC, Opterna and FutureLink Integration Program described above. The balances below are included in accrued liabilities (in thousands). Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 19,575 New charges 2,529 Cash payments (4,483) Foreign currency translation (89) Other adjustments (4,147) Balance at March 29, 2020 13,385 New charges 4,660 Cash payments (4,795) Foreign currency translation (132) Other adjustments (1,420) Balance at June 28, 2020 11,698 New charges 2,060 Cash payments (3,968) Foreign currency translation (156) Other adjustments (1,541) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 8,093

Long-Term Debt and Other Borrow

Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements	Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements The carrying values of our long-term debt were as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Revolving credit agreement due 2022 $ — $ — Senior subordinated notes: 3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028 408,835 392,910 3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027 525,645 505,170 4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026 233,620 224,520 2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025 350,430 336,780 Total senior subordinated notes 1,518,530 1,459,380 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (17,814) (19,896) Long-term debt $ 1,500,716 $ 1,439,484 Revolving Credit Agreement due 2022 Our Revolving Credit Agreement provides a $400.0 million multi-currency asset-based revolving credit facility (the Revolver). The borrowing base under the Revolver includes eligible accounts receivable; inventory; and property, plant and equipment of certain of our subsidiaries in the U.S., Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands. The maturity date of the Revolver is May 16, 2022. Interest on outstanding borrowings is variable, based upon LIBOR or other similar indices in foreign jurisdictions, plus a spread that ranges from 1.25%-1.75%, depending upon our leverage position. We pay a commitment fee on our available borrowing capacity of 0.25%. In the event we borrow more than 90% of our borrowing base, we are subject to a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant. Due to the initial uncertainties arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and out of an abundance of caution, we borrowed $190.0 million on our Revolver at the beginning of the second quarter. As a result of improving and sufficient cash flow and liquidity throughout the year, we subsequently repaid $100.0 million and the remaining $90.0 million during the second and third quarter, respectively. As of September 27, 2020, our available borrowing capacity was $265.2 million. Senior Subordinated Notes We have outstanding €350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.875% senior subordinated notes due 2028 (the 2028 Notes). The carrying value of the 2028 Notes as of September 27, 2020 is $408.8 million. The 2028 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2028 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2027, 2026, and 2025 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. We have outstanding €450.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.375% senior subordinated notes due 2027 (the 2027 Notes). The carrying value of the 2027 Notes as of September 27, 2020 is $525.6 million. The 2027 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2027 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2028, 2026, and 2025 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on January 15 and July 15 of each year. We have outstanding €200.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.125% senior subordinated notes due 2026 (the 2026 Notes). The carrying value of the 2026 Notes as of September 27, 2020 is $233.6 million. The 2026 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2026 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2028, 2027, and 2025 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on April 15 and October 15 of each year. We have outstanding €300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.875% senior subordinated notes due 2025 (the 2025 Notes). The carrying value of the 2025 Notes as of September 27, 2020 is $350.4 million. The 2025 Notes are guaranteed on a senior subordinated basis by our current and future domestic subsidiaries. The 2025 Notes rank equal in right of payment with our senior subordinated notes due 2028, 2027, and 2026 and with any future subordinated debt, and they are subordinated to all of our senior debt and the senior debt of our subsidiary guarantors, including our Revolver. Interest is payable semiannually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. Fair Value of Long-Term Debt

Net Investment Hedge

Net Investment Hedge	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Net Investment Hedge	Net Investment Hedge All of our euro denominated notes were issued by Belden Inc., a USD functional currency entity. As of September 27, 2020, €767.8 million of our outstanding foreign denominated debt is designated as a net investment hedge on the foreign currency risk of our net investment in our euro foreign operations. The objective of the hedge is to protect the net investment in the foreign operation again st adverse changes in the euro exchange rate. The transaction gain or loss is reported in the translation adjustment section of other comprehensive income. For the nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, the transaction gain/(loss) associated with the net investment hedge reported in other comprehensive income was $(13.1) million and $62.1 million, respectively. During the nine months ended September 27, 2020, we de-designated €532.2 million of our outstanding debt that was previously designated as a net investment hedge. After the de-designation, transaction gains or losses associated with this €532.2 million of debt are reported in income from continuing operations.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes For the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, we recognized income tax expense of $0.6 million and $3.2 million, respectively, representing an effective tax rate of 3.0% and 7.7%, respectively. The effective tax rates were impacted by income tax benefits for certain foreign tax credits of $0.9 million and $2.1 million in the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020, respectively. In March 2020, the Coronavirus Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law in the United States. We are still analyzing the provisions of the CARES Act to determine if there will be any impact to our income tax provision for the year. For the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, we recognized income tax expense of $6.1 million and $16.2 million, respectively, representing an effective tax rate of 13.7% and 13.1%, respectively. The effective tax rates were impacted by an income tax benefit of $5.7 million as a result of changes in our estimated valuation allowance requirement related to foreign tax credits due to the restructuring of certain foreign operations. These effective rates are also reflective of the impact of more favorable statutory tax rates applied to the earnings of these foreign operations due to the restructuring efforts.

Pension and Other Postretiremen

Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations	Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit costs for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans: Pension Obligations Other Postretirement Obligations Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Service cost $ 885 $ 978 $ 8 $ 10 Interest cost 2,493 2,901 202 273 Expected return on plan assets (4,091) (3,841) — — Amortization of prior service cost (credit) 47 (143) — — Actuarial losses (gains) 688 292 (19) (25) Net periodic benefit cost $ 22 $ 187 $ 191 $ 258 Nine Months Ended Service cost $ 2,709 $ 2,952 $ 24 $ 29 Interest cost 7,240 8,779 599 815 Expected return on plan assets (12,035) (11,978) — — Amortization of prior service cost (credit) 136 (117) — — Actuarial losses (gains) 2,038 894 (57) (76) Net periodic benefit cost $ 88 $ 530 $ 566 $ 768

Comprehensive Income and Accumu

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) The following table summarizes total comprehensive income (losses): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Net income (loss) $ 17,081 $ (297,015) $ (62,019) $ (229,547) Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of $0.0 million, $0.2 million, $1.0 million, and $0.6 million tax, respectively (52,910) 33,732 (75,791) 45,619 Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, net of $0.1 million, $0.0 million, $0.3 million, and $0.2 million tax, respectively 1,136 120 1,891 591 Total comprehensive loss (34,693) (263,163) (135,919) (183,337) Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests 228 367 219 474 Comprehensive loss attributable to Belden $ (34,921) $ (263,530) $ (136,138) $ (183,811) The accumulated balances related to each component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, are as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Component Pension and Other Accumulated Other (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (18,225) $ (45,193) $ (63,418) Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications (86,076) — (86,076) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 10,145 1,891 12,036 Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden (75,931) 1,891 (74,040) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ (94,156) $ (43,302) $ (137,458) The following table summarizes the effects of reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 27, 2020: Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Affected Line Item in the (In thousands) Amortization of pension and other postretirement benefit plan items: Actuarial losses $ 1,408 (1) Accumulated losses of Grass Valley disposal group 771 (2) Prior service cost 62 (1) Total before tax 2,241 Tax benefit (350) Total net of tax $ 1,891 (1) The amortization of these accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit costs (see Note 15). The amounts in the table above include both continuing and discontinued operations.

Preferred Stock

Preferred Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Preferred Stock	Preferred StockIn 2016, we issued 5.2 million depositary shares, each of which represented 1/100th interest in a share of 6.75% Series B Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock (the Preferred Stock), for an offering price of $100 per depositary share. We received approximately $501 million of net proceeds from this offering, which were used for general corporate purposes. On July 15, 2019, all outstanding Preferred Stock was automatically converted into shares of Belden common stock at the conversion rate of 132.50, resulting in the issuance of approximately 6.9 million shares of Belden common stock. Upon conversion, the Preferred Stock was automatically extinguished and discharged, is no longer deemed outstanding for all purposes, and delisted from trading on the New York Stock Exchange. During the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019, dividends on the Preferred Stock were $1.0 million and $18.4 million, respectively.

Share Repurchase

Share Repurchase	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Share Repurchase	Share RepurchaseOn November 29, 2018, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program, which allows us to purchase up to $300.0 million of our common stock through open market repurchases, negotiated transactions, or other means, in accordance with applicable securities laws and other restrictions. This program is funded with cash on hand and cash flows from operating activities. During the nine months ended September 27, 2020, we repurchased 1.0 million shares of our common stock under the share repurchase program for an aggregate cost of $35.0 million at an average price per share of $35.83. During the three months ended September 29, 2019, we repurchased 0.5 million shares of our common stock under the share repurchase program for an aggregate cost of $27.2 million and an average price per share of $55.17. During the nine months ended September 29, 2019, we repurchased 0.9 million shares of our common stock under the share repurchase program for an aggregate cost of $50.0 million and an average price per share of $56.19.

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include Belden Inc. and all of its subsidiaries (the Company, us, we, or our). We eliminate all significant affiliate accounts and transactions in consolidation. The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements presented as of any date other than December 31, 2019: • Are prepared from the books and records without audit, and • Are prepared in accordance with the instructions for Form 10-Q and do not include all of the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete statements, but • Include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements.
Business Description	Business Description We are a global supplier of specialty networking solutions built around two global business platforms - Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions. Our comprehensive portfolio of solutions enables customers to transmit and secure data, sound, and video for mission critical applications across complex enterprise and industrial environments.
Reporting Periods	Reporting PeriodsOur fiscal year and fiscal fourth quarter both end on December 31. Our fiscal first quarter ends on the Sunday falling closest to 91 days after December 31, which was March 29, 2020, the 89th day of our fiscal year 2020. Our fiscal second and third quarters each have 91 days. The nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019 included 271 and 272 days, respectively.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement Accounting guidance for fair value measurements specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based upon whether the inputs to those valuation techniques reflect assumptions other market participants would use based upon market data obtained from independent sources or reflect our own assumptions of market participant valuation. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based on the reliability of the inputs as follows: • Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets that are unadjusted and accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; • Level 2 – Quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, or financial instruments for which significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly; and • Level 3 – Prices or valuations that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. As of and during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, we utilized Level 1 inputs to determine the fair value of cash equivalents, and we utilized Level 2 and Level 3 inputs to determine the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations (see Note 3) and for impairment testing (see Notes 4 and 10). We did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements during the nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents We classify cash on hand and deposits in banks, including commercial paper, money market accounts, and other investments with an original maturity of three months or less, that we hold from time to time, as cash and cash equivalents. We periodically have cash equivalents consisting of short-term money market funds and other investments. As of September 27, 2020, we did not have any such cash equivalents on hand. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve our capital for the purpose of funding operations. We do not enter into investments for trading or speculative purposes. During the nine months ended September 27, 2020, we paid the sellers of Snell Advanced Media (SAM) the full earnout consideration of $31.4 million in cash in accordance with the purchase agreement. SAM was acquired on February 8, 2018 and is included in the Grass Valley disposal group. Due to the initial uncertainties arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and out of an abundance of caution, we borrowed $190.0 million on our Revolver at the beginning of the second quarter. As a result of improving and sufficient cash flow and liquidity throughout the year, we subsequently repaid the entire $190.0 million during the nine months ended September 27, 2020; $90.0 million of which was during the three months ended September 27, 2020. See Note 12.
Contingent Liabilities	Contingent Liabilities We have established liabilities for environmental and legal contingencies that are probable of occurrence and reasonably estimable, the amounts of which are currently not material. We accrue environmental remediation costs based on estimates of known environmental remediation exposures developed in consultation with our environmental consultants and legal counsel. We are, from time to time, subject to routine litigation incidental to our business. These lawsuits primarily involve claims for damages arising out of the use of our products, allegations of patent or trademark infringement, and litigation and administrative proceedings involving employment matters and commercial disputes. Based on facts currently available, we believe the disposition of the claims that are pending or asserted will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow. As of September 27, 2020, we were party to standby letters of credit, bank guaranties, and surety bonds totaling $5.9 million, $4.1 million, and $3.3 million, respectively.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue consistent with the principles as outlined in the following five step model: (1) identify the contract with the customer, (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract, (3) determine the transaction price, (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) each performance obligation is satisfied. See Note 2.
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events We evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date through the financial statement issuance date for appropriate accounting and disclosure.
Noncontrolling Interest	Noncontrolling Interest We have a 51% ownership percentage in a joint venture with Shanghai Hi-Tech Control System Co, Ltd (Hite). The purpose of the joint venture is to develop and provide certain Industrial Solutions products and integrated solutions to customers in China. Belden and Hite are committed to fund $1.53 million and $1.47 million, respectively, to the joint venture in the future. The joint venture is determined to not have sufficient equity at risk; therefore, it is considered a variable interest entity. We have determined that Belden is the primary beneficiary of the joint venture, due to both our ownership percentage and our control over the activities of the joint venture that most significantly impact its economic performance based on the terms of the joint venture agreement with Hite. Because Belden is the primary beneficiary of the joint venture, we have consolidated the joint venture in our financial statements. The results of the joint venture attributable to Hite’s ownership are presented as net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The joint venture is not material to our Condensed Consolidated financial statements as of or for the periods ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019.
New Accounting Pronouncements	Current-Year Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements In June 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13 (“ASU 2016-13”), Financial Instruments - Credit Losses

Revenues (Tables)

Revenues (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue	The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by major product category. Broadband & 5G Cyber-security Industrial Automation Smart Buildings Total Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 115,149 $ — $ — $ 113,948 $ 229,097 Industrial Solutions — 27,384 219,358 — 246,742 Total $ 115,149 $ 27,384 $ 219,358 $ 113,948 $ 475,839 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 107,067 $ — $ — $ 140,169 $ 247,236 Industrial Solutions — 29,760 256,102 — 285,862 Total $ 107,067 $ 29,760 $ 256,102 $ 140,169 $ 533,098 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 318,765 $ — $ — $ 325,919 $ 644,684 Industrial Solutions — 78,829 640,663 — 719,492 Total $ 318,765 $ 78,829 $ 640,663 $ 325,919 $ 1,364,176 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 287,338 $ — $ — $ 412,306 $ 699,644 Industrial Solutions — 96,054 785,892 — 881,946 Total $ 287,338 $ 96,054 $ 785,892 $ 412,306 $ 1,581,590 The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by geography, based on the location of the customer purchasing the product. Americas EMEA APAC Total Revenues Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 170,734 $ 30,185 $ 28,178 $ 229,097 Industrial Solutions 148,421 59,180 39,141 246,742 Total $ 319,155 $ 89,365 $ 67,319 $ 475,839 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 183,183 $ 36,065 $ 27,988 $ 247,236 Industrial Solutions 175,869 68,386 41,607 285,862 Total $ 359,052 $ 104,451 $ 69,595 $ 533,098 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 481,007 $ 92,197 $ 71,480 $ 644,684 Industrial Solutions 429,461 182,406 107,625 719,492 Total $ 910,468 $ 274,603 $ 179,105 $ 1,364,176 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 508,616 $ 106,823 $ 84,205 $ 699,644 Industrial Solutions 544,780 219,105 118,061 881,946 Total $ 1,053,396 $ 325,928 $ 202,266 $ 1,581,590
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability	The following table presents estimated and accrued variable consideration: September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (in thousands) Accrued rebates $ 25,085 $ 29,430 Accrued returns 12,001 10,292 Price adjustments recognized against gross accounts receivable 27,234 29,908 The following table presents deferred revenue activity: 2020 2019 (In thousands) Beginning balance $ 70,070 $ 72,358 New deferrals 23,830 26,033 Revenue recognized (24,415) (32,168) Balance at March 29, 2020 69,485 66,223 New deferrals 21,322 21,892 Revenue recognized (22,200) (24,807) Balance at June 28, 2020 68,607 63,308 New deferrals 22,243 21,937 Revenue recognized (20,649) (25,063) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 70,201 $ 60,182
Sales Commissions	The following table presents sales commissions that are recorded within selling, general and administrative expenses: Three Months ended Nine Months ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Sales commissions $ 4,240 $ 4,535 $ 12,270 $ 14,079

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as of April 15, 2019 (in thousands): Receivables $ 5,308 Inventory 7,359 Prepaid and other current assets 566 Property, plant, and equipment 1,328 Intangible assets 28,000 Goodwill 35,057 Deferred income taxes 80 Operating lease right-to-use assets 2,204 Other long-lived assets 2,070 Total assets acquired $ 81,972 Accounts payable $ 4,847 Accrued liabilities 4,301 Long-term deferred tax liability 6,813 Long-term operating lease liability 1,923 Other long-term liabilities 7,152 Total liabilities assumed $ 25,036 Net assets 56,936 Noncontrolling interests 5,195 Net assets attributable to Belden $ 51,741
Schedule of Acquired Intangible Assets	The goodwill is primarily attributable to expansion of product offerings in the optical fiber market. Our tax basis in the acquired goodwill is zero. The intangible assets related to the acquisition consisted of the following: Fair Value Amortization Period (In thousands) (In years) Intangible assets subject to amortization: Developed technologies $ 3,400 5.0 Customer relationships 22,800 15.0 Sales backlog 1,300 0.5 Trademarks 500 2.0 Total intangible assets subject to amortization $ 28,000 Intangible assets not subject to amortization: Goodwill $ 35,057 n/a Total intangible assets not subject to amortization $ 35,057 Total intangible assets $ 63,057 Weighted average amortization period 12.9
Schedule of Pro Forma Information	The following table illustrates the unaudited pro forma effect on operating results as if the Opterna acquisition had been completed as of January 1, 2018. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 September 29, 2019 (In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited) Revenues $ 533,098 $ 1,590,206 Net income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders 39,721 91,459 Diluted income from continuing operations per share attributable to Belden common stockholders $ 0.89 $ 2.21

Discontinued Operations (Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations	The following table summarizes the operating results of the disposal group up to the July 2, 2020 disposal date for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019, respectively: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Revenues $ 1,334 $ 87,221 $ 109,195 $ 263,434 Cost of sales (1,008) (50,622) (70,199) (153,012) Gross profit 326 36,599 38,996 110,422 Selling, general and administrative expenses (574) (21,924) (37,435) (66,785) Research and development expenses (610) (7,360) (15,083) (28,526) Amortization of intangibles — (3,218) — (11,695) Asset impairment of discontinued operations — (342,146) (113,007) (342,146) Interest expense, net (12) (198) (432) (611) Non-operating pension benefit (cost) 27 (55) (169) (166) Loss before taxes $ (843) $ (338,302) $ (127,130) $ (339,507) The following table provides the major classes of assets and liabilities of the disposal group as of December 31, 2019: December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 18,405 Receivables, net 117,386 Inventories, net 55,002 Other current assets 35,187 Plant, property, and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 61,233 Operating lease right-of-use assets 16,902 Goodwill 26,707 Intangible assets, less accumulated depreciation 143,459 Deferred income taxes 59,560 Other long-lived assets 21,652 Impairment of disposal group (180,358) Total Assets of discontinued operations $ 375,135 Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 52,425 Accrued liabilities 83,349 Postretirement benefits 6,224 Deferred income taxes 2,740 Long-term operating lease liabilities 20,459 Other long-term liabilities 5,082 Total Liabilities of discontinued operations $ 170,279

Reportable Segments (Tables)

Reportable Segments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Operating Segment Information	Our measure of segment assets does not include cash, goodwill, intangible assets, deferred tax assets, or corporate assets. All goodwill is allocated to reporting units of our segments for purposes of impairment testing. Enterprise Solutions Industrial Solutions Total Segments (In thousands) As of and for the three months ended September 27, 2020 Segment revenues $ 229,097 $ 246,742 $ 475,839 Affiliate revenues 231 10 241 Segment EBITDA 26,250 38,391 64,641 Depreciation expense 5,005 5,450 10,455 Amortization of intangibles 5,408 10,696 16,104 Amortization of software development intangible assets 73 456 529 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 1,337 20 1,357 Segment assets 519,142 486,110 1,005,252 As of and for the three months ended September 29, 2019 Segment revenues $ 247,236 $ 285,862 $ 533,098 Affiliate revenues 753 2 755 Segment EBITDA 35,868 54,849 90,717 Depreciation expense 4,919 5,060 9,979 Amortization of intangibles 6,269 12,757 19,026 Amortization of software development intangible assets 49 36 85 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 3,047 — 3,047 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions (186) — (186) Segment assets 517,448 501,278 1,018,726 As of and for the nine months ended September 27, 2020 Segment revenues $ 644,684 $ 719,492 $ 1,364,176 Affiliate revenues 940 30 970 Segment EBITDA 73,193 100,367 173,560 Depreciation expense 15,208 15,861 31,069 Amortization of intangibles 16,266 32,040 48,306 Amortization of software development intangible assets 184 1,061 1,245 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 6,310 3,138 9,448 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions 125 — 125 Segment assets 519,142 486,110 1,005,252 As of and for the nine months ended September 29, 2019 Segment revenues $ 699,644 $ 881,946 $ 1,581,590 Affiliate revenues 3,190 19 3,209 Segment EBITDA 93,074 165,257 258,331 Depreciation expense 14,576 15,414 29,990 Amortization of intangibles 16,694 39,564 56,258 Amortization of software development intangible assets 120 87 207 Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs 5,566 — 5,566 Purchase accounting effects of acquisitions 532 — 532 Segment assets 517,448 501,278 1,018,726
Reconciliation of Total Reportable Segments' Revenues and EBITDA to Consolidated Revenues and Consolidated Income Before Taxes	The following table is a reconciliation of the total of the reportable segments’ Revenues and EBITDA to consolidated revenues and consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes, respectively. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Total Segment and Consolidated Revenues $ 475,839 $ 533,098 $ 1,364,176 $ 1,581,590 Total Segment EBITDA $ 64,641 $ 90,717 $ 173,560 $ 258,331 Amortization of intangibles (16,104) (19,026) (48,306) (56,258) Depreciation expense (10,455) (9,979) (31,069) (29,990) Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs (1) (1,357) (3,047) (9,448) (5,566) Amortization of software development intangible assets (529) (85) (1,245) (207) Purchase accounting effects related to acquisitions (2) — 186 (125) (532) Eliminations (69) (1,224) (402) (1,971) Consolidated operating income 36,127 57,542 82,965 163,807 Interest expense, net (15,607) (14,002) (43,188) (41,951) Total non-operating pension benefit 680 544 2,079 1,684 Consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes $ 21,200 $ 44,084 $ 41,856 $ 123,540 (1) See Note 11, Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities, for details.

Income (loss) per Share (Tables

Income (loss) per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basis for Income Per Share Computations	The following table presents the basis for the income (loss) per share computations: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Numerator: Income from continuing operations $ 20,569 $ 38,031 $ 38,633 $ 107,361 Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest 85 (6) 79 60 Less: Preferred stock dividends — 971 — 18,437 Income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders 20,484 37,066 38,554 88,864 Add: Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax (6,231) (335,046) (103,395) (336,908) Add: Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax 2,743 — 2,743 — Net income (loss) attributable to Belden common stockholders $ 16,996 $ (297,980) $ (62,098) $ (248,044) Denominator: Weighted average shares outstanding, basic 44,567 44,444 44,834 41,090 Effect of dilutive common stock equivalents 142 166 134 209 Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted 44,709 44,610 44,968 41,299

Credit Losses (Tables)

Credit Losses (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Credit Loss [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 2,569 Adoption adjustment 1,011 Current period provision (172) Recoveries collected (9) Fx impact (213) Balance at March 29, 2020 $ 3,186 Current period provision 2,621 Writeoffs (52) Recoveries collected (100) Fx impact 37 Balance at June 28, 2020 $ 5,692 Current period provision (108) Writeoffs (76) Fx impact 29 Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 5,537

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Major Classes of Inventories	The major classes of inventories were as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Raw materials $ 112,957 $ 98,530 Work-in-process 34,348 34,717 Finished goods 125,774 119,331 Gross inventories 273,079 252,578 Excess and obsolete reserves (28,264) (21,245) Net inventories $ 244,815 $ 231,333

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Components of Lease Expense	The components of lease expense were as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Operating lease cost $ 3,571 $ 3,432 $ 10,512 $ 10,872 Finance lease cost Amortization of right-of-use asset $ 35 $ 37 $ 101 $ 104 Interest on lease liabilities 4 6 13 16 Total finance lease cost $ 39 $ 43 $ 114 $ 120
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Related To Leases	Supplemental cash flow information related to leases was as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 3,891 $ 3,528 $ 11,352 $ 10,770 Operating cash flows from finance leases 4 6 13 20 Financing cash flows from finance leases 43 64 130 210
Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related To Leases	Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands, except lease term and discount rate) Operating leases: Total operating lease right-of-use assets $ 57,380 $ 62,251 Accrued liabilities $ 14,657 $ 13,900 Long-term operating lease liabilities 49,209 55,652 Total operating lease liabilities $ 63,866 $ 69,552 Finance leases: Other long-lived assets, at cost $ 759 $ 823 Accumulated depreciation (449) (391) Other long-lived assets, net $ 310 $ 432
Supplemental Other Information Related To Leases	Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Operating leases 5 years 6 years Finance leases 2 years 3 years Weighted Average Discount Rate Operating leases 6.6 % 6.9 % Finance leases 6.0 % 6.2 %
Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity	The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of September 27, 2020 (in thousands): 2020 $ 5,080 2021 19,129 2022 16,220 2023 12,446 2024 9,436 Thereafter 17,433 Total $ 79,744 The following table summarizes maturities of lease liabilities as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands): 2020 $ 19,086 2021 16,988 2022 14,128 2023 11,598 2024 9,032 Thereafter 16,655 Total $ 87,487

Severance, Restructuring, and_2

Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Severance, Restructuring and Integration Costs by Segment	The following table summarizes the costs by segment of the programs described above as well as other immaterial programs and acquisition integration activities during the three and nine months ended September 27, 2020 and September 29, 2019: Severance Other Total Costs Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 (In thousands) Enterprise Solutions $ 327 $ 1,010 $ 1,337 Industrial Solutions 314 (294) 20 Total $ 641 $ 716 $ 1,357 Three Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 269 $ 2,778 $ 3,047 Industrial Solutions — — — Total $ 269 $ 2,778 $ 3,047 Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 Enterprise Solutions $ 1,162 $ 5,148 $ 6,310 Industrial Solutions 1,132 2,006 3,138 Total $ 2,294 $ 7,154 $ 9,448 Nine Months Ended September 29, 2019 Enterprise Solutions $ 269 $ 5,297 $ 5,566 Industrial Solutions — — — Total $ 269 $ 5,297 $ 5,566 The following table summarizes the costs of the various programs described above as well as other immaterial programs and acquisition integration activities by financial statement line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In Thousands) Cost of sales $ 85 $ 792 $ 222 $ 1,092 Selling, general and administrative expenses 1,272 2,255 9,226 4,474 Total $ 1,357 $ 3,047 $ 9,448 $ 5,566 The table below sets forth severance activity that occurred for the Cost Reduction Program as well as the SPC, Opterna and FutureLink Integration Program described above. The balances below are included in accrued liabilities (in thousands). Balance at December 31, 2019 $ 19,575 New charges 2,529 Cash payments (4,483) Foreign currency translation (89) Other adjustments (4,147) Balance at March 29, 2020 13,385 New charges 4,660 Cash payments (4,795) Foreign currency translation (132) Other adjustments (1,420) Balance at June 28, 2020 11,698 New charges 2,060 Cash payments (3,968) Foreign currency translation (156) Other adjustments (1,541) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ 8,093

Long-Term Debt and Other Borr_2

Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Carrying Values of Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements	The carrying values of our long-term debt were as follows: September 27, 2020 December 31, 2019 (In thousands) Revolving credit agreement due 2022 $ — $ — Senior subordinated notes: 3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028 408,835 392,910 3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027 525,645 505,170 4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026 233,620 224,520 2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025 350,430 336,780 Total senior subordinated notes 1,518,530 1,459,380 Less unamortized debt issuance costs (17,814) (19,896) Long-term debt $ 1,500,716 $ 1,439,484

Pension and Other Postretirem_2

Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs	The following table provides the components of net periodic benefit costs for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans: Pension Obligations Other Postretirement Obligations Three Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Service cost $ 885 $ 978 $ 8 $ 10 Interest cost 2,493 2,901 202 273 Expected return on plan assets (4,091) (3,841) — — Amortization of prior service cost (credit) 47 (143) — — Actuarial losses (gains) 688 292 (19) (25) Net periodic benefit cost $ 22 $ 187 $ 191 $ 258 Nine Months Ended Service cost $ 2,709 $ 2,952 $ 24 $ 29 Interest cost 7,240 8,779 599 815 Expected return on plan assets (12,035) (11,978) — — Amortization of prior service cost (credit) 136 (117) — — Actuarial losses (gains) 2,038 894 (57) (76) Net periodic benefit cost $ 88 $ 530 $ 566 $ 768

Comprehensive Income and Accu_2

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following table summarizes total comprehensive income (losses): Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 September 27, 2020 September 29, 2019 (In thousands) Net income (loss) $ 17,081 $ (297,015) $ (62,019) $ (229,547) Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of $0.0 million, $0.2 million, $1.0 million, and $0.6 million tax, respectively (52,910) 33,732 (75,791) 45,619 Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, net of $0.1 million, $0.0 million, $0.3 million, and $0.2 million tax, respectively 1,136 120 1,891 591 Total comprehensive loss (34,693) (263,163) (135,919) (183,337) Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests 228 367 219 474 Comprehensive loss attributable to Belden $ (34,921) $ (263,530) $ (136,138) $ (183,811)
Components of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	The accumulated balances related to each component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, are as follows: Foreign Currency Translation Component Pension and Other Accumulated Other (In thousands) Balance at December 31, 2019 $ (18,225) $ (45,193) $ (63,418) Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications (86,076) — (86,076) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 10,145 1,891 12,036 Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden (75,931) 1,891 (74,040) Balance at September 27, 2020 $ (94,156) $ (43,302) $ (137,458)
Summary of Effects of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following table summarizes the effects of reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the nine months ended September 27, 2020: Amount Reclassified from Accumulated Other Affected Line Item in the (In thousands) Amortization of pension and other postretirement benefit plan items: Actuarial losses $ 1,408 (1) Accumulated losses of Grass Valley disposal group 771 (2) Prior service cost 62 (1) Total before tax 2,241 Tax benefit (350) Total net of tax $ 1,891 (1) The amortization of these accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) components are included in the computation of net periodic benefit costs (see Note 15). The amounts in the table above include both continuing and discontinued operations.

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)segment	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)Segment	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 29, 2020USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2020USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2019USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of global business platforms				2	2
Payment for contingent consideration liability			$ 31,400,000
Proceeds from long-term lines of credit		$ 190,000,000
Borrowings on revolver			190,000,000			$ 0
Payments under borrowing arrangements	$ 90,000,000		190,000,000			0
Additional contribution commitments to joint venture			1,530,000
Hite additional contribution commitment to joint venture			1,470,000
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle	798,587,000	829,882,000	798,587,000	$ 798,587,000	$ 798,587,000	1,144,810,000	$ 953,035,000		$ 965,819,000	$ 1,433,533,000	$ 1,431,329,000	$ 1,387,588,000
Revolving credit agreement due 2022
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Payments under borrowing arrangements	90,000,000	100,000,000
Standby Letters of Credit
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, range of possible loss, portion not accrued	5,900,000		5,900,000	5,900,000	5,900,000
Bank Guaranties
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, range of possible loss, portion not accrued	4,100,000		4,100,000	4,100,000	4,100,000
Surety Bonds
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, range of possible loss, portion not accrued	$ 3,300,000		$ 3,300,000	$ 3,300,000	$ 3,300,000
Hite
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent	51.00%		51.00%	51.00%	51.00%
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle									(2,916,000)
Retained Earnings
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle	$ 446,198,000	$ 431,459,000	$ 446,198,000	$ 446,198,000	$ 446,198,000	$ 667,703,000	$ 501,611,000		518,004,000	$ 967,970,000	$ 936,479,000	$ 922,000,000
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle								$ (2,900,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Continuing Operations
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle								(1,000,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Discontinued Operations
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle								(1,900,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle									$ (2,916,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 | Continuing Operations
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle								(1,000,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 | Discontinued Operations
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle								$ (1,900,000)

Revenues - Major Product Catego

Revenues - Major Product Category (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	229,097	247,236	644,684	699,644
Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	246,742	285,862	719,492	881,946
Broadband & 5G
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	115,149	107,067	318,765	287,338
Broadband & 5G | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	115,149	107,067	318,765	287,338
Broadband & 5G | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Cyber-security
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	27,384	29,760	78,829	96,054
Cyber-security | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Cyber-security | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	27,384	29,760	78,829	96,054
Industrial Automation
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	219,358	256,102	640,663	785,892
Industrial Automation | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	0	0	0	0
Industrial Automation | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	219,358	256,102	640,663	785,892
Smart Buildings
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	113,948	140,169	325,919	412,306
Smart Buildings | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	113,948	140,169	325,919	412,306
Smart Buildings | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Revenues - Location of Customer

Revenues - Location of Customer (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	229,097	247,236	644,684	699,644
Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	246,742	285,862	719,492	881,946
Americas
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	319,155	359,052	910,468	1,053,396
Americas | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	170,734	183,183	481,007	508,616
Americas | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	148,421	175,869	429,461	544,780
EMEA
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	89,365	104,451	274,603	325,928
EMEA | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	30,185	36,065	92,197	106,823
EMEA | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	59,180	68,386	182,406	219,105
APAC
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	67,319	69,595	179,105	202,266
APAC | Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	28,178	27,988	71,480	84,205
APAC | Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 39,141	$ 41,607	$ 107,625	$ 118,061

Revenues - Products and Service

Revenues - Products and Services (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Enterprise Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	229,097	247,236	644,684	699,644
Industrial Solutions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 246,742	$ 285,862	$ 719,492	$ 881,946

Revenues Revenues - Estimated a

Revenues Revenues - Estimated and Accrued Variable Concideration (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Accrued rebates	$ 25,085	$ 29,430
Accrued returns	12,001	10,292
Price adjustments recognized against gross accounts receivable	$ 27,234	$ 29,908

Revenues - Narrative (Details)

Revenues - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Contract with customer, deferred revenues	$ 70,201	$ 68,607	$ 69,485	$ 70,070	$ 60,182	$ 63,308	$ 66,223	$ 72,358
Contract with customer, deferred revenues, current	46,100
Contract with customer, deferred revenues, noncurrent	24,100
Deferred sales commission	$ 4,600				$ 3,000

Revenues - Deferred Revenue (De

Revenues - Deferred Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 68,607	$ 69,485	$ 70,070	$ 63,308	$ 66,223	$ 72,358
New deferrals	22,243	21,322	23,830	21,937	21,892	26,033
Revenue recognized	(20,649)	(22,200)	(24,415)	(25,063)	(24,807)	(32,168)
Balance at March 29, 2020	$ 70,201	$ 68,607	$ 69,485	$ 60,182	$ 63,308	$ 66,223

Revenues - Sales Commissions (D

Revenues - Sales Commissions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Sales commissions	$ 4,240	$ 4,535	$ 12,270	$ 14,079

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 06, 2019	Oct. 25, 2019	Apr. 15, 2019	Apr. 05, 2019	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Dec. 31, 2021
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price, net of cash acquired						$ (590,000)	$ 50,951,000
Opterna International Corp.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price, net of cash acquired			$ 51,700,000
Percentage of outstanding shares acquired			100.00%
Acquisition price paid			$ 45,900,000
Maximum earnout consideration			25,000,000
Estimated earnout consideration			5,800,000
Noncontrolling interest, purchase price		$ 800,000
Payments to acquire interest in subsidiaries		$ 400,000
Receivables			5,308,000
Property, plant, and equipment			1,328,000
Tax basis in acquired goodwill			$ 0
Net income attributable to Belden common stockholders					$ 39,721,000		$ 91,459,000
Opterna International Corp. | Forecast
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Payments to acquire interest in subsidiaries								$ 400,000
Special Product Compay
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price, net of cash acquired	$ 22,500,000
Suttle, Inc. Asset Acquisition
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Asset acquisition, consideration transferred				$ 5,000,000

Acquisitions - Schedule of Reco

Acquisitions - Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Apr. 15, 2019
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill	$ 1,247,432	$ 1,243,669
Opterna International Corp.
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets [Abstract]
Receivables			$ 5,308
Inventory			7,359
Prepaid and other current assets			566
Property, plant, and equipment			1,328
Intangible assets			28,000
Goodwill			35,057
Deferred income taxes			80
Operating lease right-to-use assets			2,204
Other long-lived assets			2,070
Total assets acquired			81,972
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities [Abstract]
Accounts payable			4,847
Accrued liabilities			4,301
Long-term deferred tax liability			6,813
Long-term operating lease liability			1,923
Other long-term liabilities			7,152
Total liabilities assumed			25,036
Net assets			56,936
Noncontrolling interests			5,195
Net assets attributable to Belden			$ 51,741

Acquisitions - Schedule of Acqu

Acquisitions - Schedule of Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 15, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 1,247,432	$ 1,243,669
Opterna International Corp.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	$ 28,000
Goodwill	35,057
Total intangible assets	$ 63,057
Amortization Period	12 years 10 months 24 days
Opterna International Corp. | Goodwill
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 35,057
Opterna International Corp. | Developed technologies
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	$ 3,400
Amortization Period	5 years
Opterna International Corp. | Customer relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	$ 22,800
Amortization Period	15 years
Opterna International Corp. | Sales backlog
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	$ 1,300
Amortization Period	6 months
Opterna International Corp. | Trademarks
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total intangible assets subject to amortization	$ 500
Amortization Period	2 years

Acquisitions - Schedule of Pro

Acquisitions - Schedule of Pro Forma Information (Details) - Opterna International Corp. - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 29, 2019
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 533,098	$ 1,590,206
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders	$ 39,721	$ 91,459
Diluted income from continuing operations per share attributable to Belden common stockholders	$ 0.89	$ 2.21

Discontinued Operations (Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 02, 2020	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Proceeds from disposal of business, net of cash sold				$ 50,051,000	$ 0
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Tax effect of discontinued operation	$ 2,000,000
Grass Valley
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Accrued interest		$ 3,600,000
Revenues		1,000,000
Equity interest in divested business	$ 3,000,000
Equity interest in divested business, percentage	9.00%
Grass Valley | Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges		0	$ 342,146,000	113,007,000	342,146,000
Capital expenditure, discontinued operations		300,000	8,300,000	16,700,000	22,800,000
Share-based compensation, discontinued operations		0	200,000	900,000	800,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, discontinued operations						$ 42,300,000
Revenues		$ 1,334,000	$ 87,221,000	$ 109,195,000	$ 263,434,000
Grass Valley | Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Deferred compensation - earnout payments	$ 178,000,000
Proceeds from divestiture of businesses	120,000,000
Proceeds from disposal of business, net of cash sold	59,500,000
Deferred consideration - seller's note	175,000,000
Paid-in-Kind interest	88,000,000
Fair value of note	$ 34,900,000
Payment In Kind, Annual Interest Rate	0.085

Discontinued Operations - Opera

Discontinued Operations - Operating Results of the Disposal Group (Details) - Grass Valley - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 1,000
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Revenues	1,334	$ 87,221	$ 109,195	$ 263,434
Cost of sales	(1,008)	(50,622)	(70,199)	(153,012)
Gross profit	326	36,599	38,996	110,422
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(574)	(21,924)	(37,435)	(66,785)
Research and development expenses	(610)	(7,360)	(15,083)	(28,526)
Amortization of intangibles	0	(3,218)	0	(11,695)
Asset impairment of discontinued operations	0	(342,146)	(113,007)	(342,146)
Interest expense, net	(12)	(198)	(432)	(611)
Non-operating pension benefit (cost)	27	(55)	(169)	(166)
Loss before taxes	$ (843)	$ (338,302)	$ (127,130)	$ (339,507)

Discontinued Operations - Asset

Discontinued Operations - Assets and Liabilities of the Disposal Group (Details) - Grass Valley - Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 18,405
Receivables, net	117,386
Inventories, net	55,002
Other current assets	35,187
Plant, property, and equipment, less accumulated depreciation	61,233
Operating lease right-of-use assets	16,902
Goodwill	26,707
Intangible assets, less accumulated depreciation	143,459
Deferred income taxes	59,560
Other long-lived assets	21,652
Impairment of disposal group	(180,358)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Total	375,135
Liabilities
Accounts payable	52,425
Accrued liabilities	83,349
Postretirement benefits	6,224
Deferred income taxes	2,740
Long-term operating lease liabilities	20,459
Other long-term liabilities	5,082
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Total	$ 170,279

Reportable Segments - Additiona

Reportable Segments - Additional Information (Details) - 9 months ended Sep. 27, 2020	segment	Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of global business platforms	2	2

Reportable Segments - Operating

Reportable Segments - Operating Segment Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Depreciation expense	10,500	10,000	31,100	30,000
Amortization of intangibles	16,104	19,026	48,306	56,258
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	1,357	3,047	9,448	5,566
Segment assets	3,036,082		3,036,082		$ 3,406,759
Enterprise Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	229,097	247,236	644,684	699,644
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	1,337	3,047	6,310	5,566
Industrial Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	246,742	285,862	719,492	881,946
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	20	0	3,138	0
Reportable Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	475,839	533,098	1,364,176	1,581,590
Segment EBITDA	64,641	90,717	173,560	258,331
Depreciation expense	10,455	9,979	31,069	29,990
Amortization of intangibles	16,104	19,026	48,306	56,258
Amortization of software development intangible assets	529	85	1,245	207
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	1,357	3,047	9,448	5,566
Purchase Accounting Effects, Acquisitions	0	(186)	125	532
Segment assets	1,005,252	1,018,726	1,005,252	1,018,726
Reportable Segment | Enterprise Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	229,097	247,236	644,684	699,644
Segment EBITDA	26,250	35,868	73,193	93,074
Depreciation expense	5,005	4,919	15,208	14,576
Amortization of intangibles	5,408	6,269	16,266	16,694
Amortization of software development intangible assets	73	49	184	120
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	1,337	3,047	6,310	5,566
Purchase Accounting Effects, Acquisitions		(186)	125	532
Segment assets	519,142	517,448	519,142	517,448
Reportable Segment | Industrial Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	246,742	285,862	719,492	881,946
Segment EBITDA	38,391	54,849	100,367	165,257
Depreciation expense	5,450	5,060	15,861	15,414
Amortization of intangibles	10,696	12,757	32,040	39,564
Amortization of software development intangible assets	456	36	1,061	87
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	20	0	3,138	0
Purchase Accounting Effects, Acquisitions		0	0	0
Segment assets	486,110	501,278	486,110	501,278
Affiliate revenues | Reportable Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	241	755	970	3,209
Affiliate revenues | Reportable Segment | Enterprise Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	231	753	940	3,190
Affiliate revenues | Reportable Segment | Industrial Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment revenues	$ 10	$ 2	$ 30	$ 19

Reportable Segments - Reconcili

Reportable Segments - Reconciliation of Total Reportable Segments' Revenues and EBITDA to Consolidated Revenues and Consolidated Income Before Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment revenues	$ 475,839	$ 533,098	$ 1,364,176	$ 1,581,590
Amortization of Intangible Assets	(16,104)	(19,026)	(48,306)	(56,258)
Depreciation expense	(10,500)	(10,000)	(31,100)	(30,000)
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	(1,357)	(3,047)	(9,448)	(5,566)
Operating income	36,127	57,542	82,965	163,807
Interest expense, net	(15,607)	(14,002)	(43,188)	(41,951)
Total non-operating pension benefit	680	544	2,079	1,684
Consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes	21,200	44,084	41,856	123,540
Reportable Segment
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment revenues	475,839	533,098	1,364,176	1,581,590
Total Segment EBITDA	64,641	90,717	173,560	258,331
Amortization of Intangible Assets	(16,104)	(19,026)	(48,306)	(56,258)
Depreciation expense	(10,455)	(9,979)	(31,069)	(29,990)
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	(1,357)	(3,047)	(9,448)	(5,566)
Amortization of software development intangible assets	(529)	(85)	(1,245)	(207)
Purchase accounting effects related to acquisitions	0	186	(125)	(532)
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Segment Elimination	$ (69)	$ (1,224)	$ (402)	$ (1,971)

Income (loss) per Share - Basis

Income (loss) per Share - Basis for Income Per Share Computations (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Numerator:
Income from continuing operations	$ 20,569	$ 38,031	$ 38,633	$ 107,361
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(85)	6	(79)	(60)
Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact	0	(971)	0	(18,437)
Income from continuing operations attributable to Belden common stockholders	20,484	37,066	38,554	88,864
Add: Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	(6,231)	(335,046)	(103,395)	(336,908)
Add: Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax	2,743	0	2,743	0
Net income (loss) attributable to Belden common stockholders	$ 16,996	$ (297,980)	$ (62,098)	$ (248,044)
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic (in shares)	44,567	44,444	44,834	41,090
Effect of dilutive common stock equivalents (in shares)	142	166	134	209
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted (in shares)	44,709	44,610	44,968	41,299

Income (loss) per Share - Addit

Income (loss) per Share - Additional Information (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	1,600	1,400	1,500	1,200
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding due to performance conditions not being met (in shares)	400	300	400	300
Convertible Preferred Stock
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)		1,100		4,900

Credit Losses (Details)

Credit Losses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 27, 2020	Jan. 01, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Credit Loss [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle	$ (798,587)	$ (829,882)	$ (953,035)	$ (798,587)		$ (965,819)	$ (1,144,810)	$ (1,433,533)	$ (1,431,329)	$ (1,387,588)
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Accounts receivable, allowance for credit loss, beginning balance	5,692	3,186	2,569	2,569
Current period provision		2,621	(172)
Writeoffs	(108)	(52)
Recoveries collected	(76)	(100)	(9)
Fx impact	29	37	(213)
Accounts receivable, allowance for credit loss, ending balance	5,537	5,692	3,186	$ 5,537
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible List]				us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201613Member
Revision of Prior Period, Accounting Standards Update, Adjustment
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Accounts receivable, allowance for credit loss, beginning balance			1,011	$ 1,011
Retained Earnings
Credit Loss [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle	$ (446,198)	$ (431,459)	$ (501,611)	$ (446,198)		$ (518,004)	$ (667,703)	$ (967,970)	$ (936,479)	$ (922,000)
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Credit Loss [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle					$ 2,900
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Continuing Operations
Credit Loss [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle					1,000
Retained Earnings | Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment | Discontinued Operations
Credit Loss [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle					$ 1,900

Inventories - Major Classes of

Inventories - Major Classes of Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw materials	$ 112,957	$ 98,530
Work-in-process	34,348	34,717
Finished goods	125,774	119,331
Gross inventories	273,079	252,578
Excess and obsolete reserves	(28,264)	(21,245)
Net inventories	$ 244,815	$ 231,333

Leases Additional Information (

Leases Additional Information (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Renewal term	15 years
Minimum
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating and finance lease, term of contract	1 year
Maximum
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating and finance lease, term of contract	16 years

Leases Components of Lease Expe

Leases Components of Lease Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease cost	$ 3,571	$ 3,432	$ 10,512	$ 10,872
Amortization of right-of-use asset	35	37	101	104
Interest on lease liabilities	4	6	13	16
Total finance lease cost	$ 39	$ 43	$ 114	$ 120

Leases Supplemental Cash Flow I

Leases Supplemental Cash Flow Information Related To Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$ 3,891	$ 3,528	$ 11,352	$ 10,770
Operating cash flows from finance leases	4	6	13	20
Financing cash flows from finance leases	$ 43	$ 64	$ 130	$ 210

Leases Supplemental Balance She

Leases Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Related To Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Total operating lease right-of-use assets	$ 57,380	$ 62,251
Accrued liabilities	14,657	13,900
Long-term operating lease liabilities	49,209	55,652
Total operating lease liabilities	63,866	69,552
Other long-lived assets, at cost	759	823
Accumulated depreciation	(449)	(391)
Other long-lived assets, net	$ 310	$ 432
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	us-gaap:AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	us-gaap:OtherAssetsNoncurrent

Leases Supplemental Other Infor

Leases Supplemental Other Information Related To Leases (Details)	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Operating leases	5 years	6 years
Finance leases	2 years	3 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate
Operating leases	6.60%	6.90%
Finance leases	6.00%	6.20%

Leases Maturities of Lease Liab

Leases Maturities of Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Lease liabilities, remainder of fiscal year	$ 5,080
Lease liabilities, year one	19,129	$ 19,086
Lease liabilities, year two	16,220	16,988
Lease liabilities, year three	12,446	14,128
Lease liabilities, year four	9,436	11,598
Lease liabilities, year five		9,032
Lease liabilities, Thereafter	17,433	16,655
Lease liabilities, Total	$ 79,744	$ 87,487

Long-Lived Assets - Additional

Long-Lived Assets - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation expense	$ 10.5	$ 10	$ 31.1	$ 30
Amortization of Intangible Assets Including Amortization of Software Development	$ 16.6	$ 19.1	$ 49.6	$ 56.5
Excess of the FV over CV
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Impairment Assumptions			2.00%
Discount Rates
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Impairment Assumptions			10.50%
Compound Annual Revenue Growth Rates
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Impairment Assumptions			6.00%
Long-term Revenue Growth Rates
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Impairment Assumptions			3.00%

Severance, Restructuring and Ac

Severance, Restructuring and Acquisition Integration Activities - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Dec. 31, 2020
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	$ 1,357			$ 3,047	$ 9,448	$ 5,566
Restructuring and integration cost payable period					60 days
Cost of Sales
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	85			792	$ 222	1,092
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	1,272			2,255	9,226	4,474
Cost Reduction Plan
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	200				3,200
Restructuring and Integration, Incremental costs					9,600
New charges	2,060	$ 4,660	$ 2,529
Cost Reduction Plan | Forecast
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected To Be Realized							$ 40,000
Cost Reduction Plan | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost	60,000				60,000
PPC Broadband and Opterna Integration Program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	$ 900			$ 3,100	4,000	$ 5,600
Restructuring and Integration, Incremental costs					$ 600

Severance, Restructuring and _2

Severance, Restructuring and Acquisition Integration Activities - Severance, Restructuring and Integration Costs by Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance	$ 641	$ 269	$ 2,294	$ 269
Other Restructuring and Integration Costs	716	2,778	7,154	5,297
Total Costs	1,357	3,047	9,448	5,566
Enterprise Solutions
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance	327	269	1,162	269
Other Restructuring and Integration Costs	1,010	2,778	5,148	5,297
Total Costs	1,337	3,047	6,310	5,566
Industrial Solutions
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance	314	0	1,132	0
Other Restructuring and Integration Costs	(294)	0	2,006	0
Total Costs	$ 20	$ 0	$ 3,138	$ 0

Severance, Restructuring, and_3

Severance, Restructuring, and Acquisition Integration Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	$ 1,357	$ 3,047	$ 9,448	$ 5,566
Cost of sales
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	85	792	222	1,092
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance, restructuring, and acquisition integration costs	$ 1,272	$ 2,255	$ 9,226	$ 4,474

Restructuring and Related Activ

Restructuring and Related Activities (Details) - Accrued Severance - Cost Reduction Plan - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 27, 2020
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve, Beginning Balance	$ 11,698	$ 13,385	$ 19,575	$ 19,575
New charges	2,060	4,660	2,529
Cash payments	(3,968)	(4,795)	(4,483)
Foreign currency translation	(156)	(132)	(89)
Other adjustments	(1,541)	(1,420)	(4,147)
Restructuring Reserve, Ending Balance	$ 8,093	$ 11,698	$ 13,385	8,093
Restructuring and Integration, Incremental costs				$ 9,600

Long-Term Debt and Other Borr_3

Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements - Carrying Values of Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 27, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	$ 1,518,530	$ 1,459,380
Less unamortized debt issuance costs	(17,814)	(19,896)
Long-term debt	1,500,716	1,439,484
Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	1,518,500
Revolving credit agreement due 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit agreement due 2022	0	0
3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	$ 408,835	392,910
3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes interest rate	3.875%
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	$ 525,645	505,170
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes interest rate	3.375%
4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	$ 233,620	224,520
4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes interest rate	4.125%
2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total senior subordinated notes	$ 350,430	$ 336,780
2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes interest rate	2.875%

Long-Term Debt and Other Borr_4

Long-Term Debt and Other Borrowing Arrangements - Additional Information (Details)	May 16, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Borrowings on revolver				$ 190,000,000	$ 0
Payments under borrowing arrangements		$ 90,000,000		190,000,000	$ 0
Senior subordinated notes		1,518,530,000		1,518,530,000			$ 1,459,380,000
Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes		1,518,500,000		1,518,500,000
Fair value of senior subordinated notes		1,500,200,000		1,500,200,000
Revolving credit agreement due 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit agreement due 2022, maximum borrowing capacity	$ 400,000,000
Commitment fee percentage	0.25%
Fixed charge coverage, minimum threshold (as a percent)	90.00%
Payments under borrowing arrangements		90,000,000	$ 100,000,000
Revolving credit agreement due 2022, borrowings outstanding		0		0			0
Revolving credit agreement due 2022, available borrowing capacity		265,200,000		265,200,000
Revolving credit agreement due 2022 | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate (as a percent)	1.25%
Revolving credit agreement due 2022 | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate (as a percent)	1.75%
3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes		$ 408,835,000		$ 408,835,000			392,910,000
3.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2028 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior subordinated notes | €						€ 350,000,000
Senior subordinated notes interest rate		3.875%		3.875%		3.875%
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes		$ 525,645,000		$ 525,645,000			505,170,000
3.375% Senior subordinated notes due 2027 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior subordinated notes | €						€ 450,000,000
Senior subordinated notes interest rate		3.375%		3.375%		3.375%
4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes		$ 233,620,000		$ 233,620,000			224,520,000
4.125% Senior subordinated notes due 2026 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior subordinated notes | €						€ 200,000,000
Senior subordinated notes interest rate		4.125%		4.125%		4.125%
2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior subordinated notes		$ 350,430,000		$ 350,430,000			$ 336,780,000
2.875% Senior subordinated notes due 2025 | Senior Subordinated Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate principal amount outstanding of senior subordinated notes | €						€ 300,000,000
Senior subordinated notes interest rate		2.875%		2.875%		2.875%

Net Investment Hedge (Details)

Net Investment Hedge (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020EUR (€)
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Cumulative translation adjustment	$ (52,910)	$ 33,732	$ (75,791)	$ 45,619
Senior Subordinated Debt, Dedesignated			532,200
Senior Subordinated Notes
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Senior Subordinated Debt, Hedged | €					€ 767.8
Cumulative translation adjustment			$ (13,100)	$ 62,100

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax (benefit) expense	$ (631)	$ (6,053)	$ (3,223)	$ (16,179)
Effective tax rate	(3.00%)	13.70%	7.70%	13.10%
Income Tax Credits and Adjustments	$ 900		$ 2,100	$ 5,700

Pension and Other Postretirem_3

Pension and Other Postretirement Obligations - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Pension Obligations
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 885	$ 978	$ 2,709	$ 2,952
Interest cost	2,493	2,901	7,240	8,779
Expected return on plan assets	(4,091)	(3,841)	(12,035)	(11,978)
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	47	(143)	136	(117)
Actuarial losses (gains)	688	292	2,038	894
Net periodic benefit cost	22	187	88	530
Other Postretirement Obligations
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	8	10	24	29
Interest cost	202	273	599	815
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	0	0	0	0
Actuarial losses (gains)	(19)	(25)	(57)	(76)
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 191	$ 258	$ 566	$ 768

Comprehensive Income and Accu_3

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended						9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019
Equity [Abstract]
Net loss	$ 17,081	$ (67,881)	$ (11,219)	$ (297,015)	$ 42,290	$ 25,178	$ (62,019)	$ (229,547)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of $0.0 million, $0.2 million, $1.0 million, and $0.6 million tax, respectively	(52,910)			33,732			(75,791)	45,619
Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, net of $0.1 million, $0.0 million, $0.3 million, and $0.2 million tax, respectively	1,136			120			1,891	591
Total comprehensive loss	(34,693)			(263,163)			(135,919)	(183,337)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	228			367			219	474
Comprehensive loss attributable to Belden	(34,921)			(263,530)			(136,138)	(183,811)
Foreign currency translation, tax income (loss)	0			(200)			(1,000)	(600)
Adjustments to pension and postretirement liability, Tax	$ 100			$ 0			$ 300	$ 200

Comprehensive Income and Accu_4

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Components of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended						9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 829,882	$ 953,035	$ 965,819	$ 1,433,533	$ 1,431,329	$ 1,387,588	$ 965,819
Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications							(86,076)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							12,036
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden	(51,774)	(44,299)	22,173	33,853	(16,653)	29,010
Ending balance	798,587	$ 829,882	953,035	$ 1,144,810	$ 1,433,533	$ 1,431,329	798,587
Accumulated Other  Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			(63,418)				(63,418)
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden							(74,040)
Ending balance	(137,458)						(137,458)
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			(18,225)				(18,225)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications							(86,076)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							10,145
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden							(75,931)
Ending balance	(94,156)						(94,156)
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			$ (45,193)				(45,193)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to Belden before reclassifications							0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)							1,891
Net current period other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to Belden							1,891
Ending balance	$ (43,302)						$ (43,302)

Comprehensive Income and Accu_5

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Summary of Effects of Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total net of tax	$ (12,036)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Actuarial losses
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before tax	1,408
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated losses of Grass Valley disposal group
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before tax	771
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Prior service cost
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before tax	62
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Pension and Other  Postretirement Benefit Plans
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before tax	2,241
Tax benefit	(350)
Total net of tax	1,891
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated foreign currency adjustment, associated with disposal group
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Total before tax	$ 10,100

Preferred Stock Preferred Stock

Preferred Stock Preferred Stock (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jul. 15, 2019shares	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 27, 2020USD ($)	Sep. 29, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock dividends | $		$ 0	$ 971	$ 0	$ 18,437
Depository Shares
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Depository shares issued (in shares)						5,200,000
Interest in preferred stock per depository share						0.01
Six Point Seven Five Percentage Series B Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Percentage of issued shares						6.75%
Proceeds from offering, net | $						$ 501,000
Offering price per share (in usd per share) | $ / shares						$ 100
Preferred stock converted in to common stock (in shares)	132.50
Number of common stock issued upon conversion (in shares)	6,900,000

Share Repurchase (Details)

Share Repurchase (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Jun. 28, 2020	Mar. 29, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019	Sep. 27, 2020	Sep. 29, 2019	Nov. 29, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount							$ 300,000,000
Shares repurchase program (in shares)			0.5		1	0.9
Value of shares repurchased	$ 13,761,000	$ 21,239,000	$ 27,185,000	$ 22,815,000	$ 35,000,000	$ 50,000,000
Treasury stock acquired, average cost per share (in usd per share)			$ 55.17		$ 35.83	$ 56.19