Document And Entity Information
v5.17.1.24
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Mar. 01, 2016
Jun. 30, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2015    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2015    
Entity Registrant Name COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS INC    
Entity Central Index Key 0000022701    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   8,761,000dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Public Float     $ 72,920,000dei_EntityPublicFloat

Consolidated Balance Sheets
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
CURRENT ASSETS:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,812,737us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue $ 13,736,857us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
Investments 5,228,668us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments 4,602,717us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $123,000 and $22,000, respectively 17,849,207us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent 13,839,662us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent
Inventories 24,985,560us-gaap_InventoryNet 31,109,653us-gaap_InventoryNet
Prepaid income taxes 2,972,271us-gaap_PrepaidTaxes 2,317,688us-gaap_PrepaidTaxes
Other current assets 1,041,303us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent 1,050,000us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent
Deferred income taxes   3,249,164us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 61,889,746us-gaap_AssetsCurrent 69,905,741us-gaap_AssetsCurrent
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, net 17,468,420us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet 18,153,152us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
OTHER ASSETS:    
Investments 6,293,505us-gaap_LongTermInvestments 11,540,261us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
Goodwill 1,462,503us-gaap_Goodwill   
Funded pension assets   172,405us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssetsForPlanBenefitsNoncurrent
Other assets 802,056us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousNoncurrent 514,676us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousNoncurrent
TOTAL OTHER ASSETS 8,558,064us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent 12,227,342us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent
TOTAL ASSETS 87,916,230us-gaap_Assets 100,286,235us-gaap_Assets
CURRENT LIABILITIES:    
Current portion of long-term debt 103,603us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent 524,220us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent
Accounts payable 8,373,292us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent 5,180,631us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent
Accrued compensation and benefits 3,050,822us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent 3,696,930us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent
Accrued consideration 442,234jcs_AccruedConsideration  
Other accrued liabilities 1,996,609us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent 2,146,582us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent
Dividends payable 1,474,892us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrent 1,446,498us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrent
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 15,441,452us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent 12,994,861us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent
LONG TERM LIABILITIES:    
Uncertain tax positions 102,633us-gaap_LiabilityForUncertainTaxPositionsNoncurrent 77,279us-gaap_LiabilityForUncertainTaxPositionsNoncurrent
Deferred income taxes 61,453us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent 1,089,994us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
Pension liabilities 126,001us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementDefinedBenefitPlansLiabilitiesNoncurrent  
Long term debt - mortgage payable   103,603us-gaap_SecuredLongTermDebt
TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 290,087us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrent 1,270,876us-gaap_LiabilitiesNoncurrent
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Footnote 8)      
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY    
Preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share; 3,000,000 shares authorized; none issued      
Common stock, par value $.05 per share; 30,000,000 shares authorized; 8,754,550 and 8,654,756 shares issued and outstanding, respectively 437,727us-gaap_CommonStockValue 432,738us-gaap_CommonStockValue
Additional paid-in capital 40,129,285us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital 38,593,230us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital
Retained earnings 32,284,061us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit 47,689,688us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (666,382)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax (695,158)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 72,184,691us-gaap_StockholdersEquity 86,020,498us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 87,916,230us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity $ 100,286,235us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]    
Trade accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts $ 123,000us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent $ 22,000us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent
Preferred stock, par value $ 1.00us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare $ 1.00us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare
Preferred stock, shares authorized 3,000,000us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized 3,000,000us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized
Preferred stock, shares issued 0us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued 0us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued
Common stock, par value $ 0.05us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare $ 0.05us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare
Common stock, shares authorized 30,000,000us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized 30,000,000us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized
Common stock, shares issued 8,754,550us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued 8,654,756us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued
Common stock, shares outstanding 8,754,550us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding 8,654,756us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding

Consolidated Statements Of (Loss) Income And Comprehensive (Loss) Income
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Statements Of (Loss) Income And Comprehensive (Loss) Income (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Consolidated Statements Of (Loss) Income And Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Abstract]      
Sales $ 107,669,524us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 119,071,439us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 131,319,510us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
Costs and expenses:      
Cost of sales 76,123,362us-gaap_CostOfRevenue 76,912,881us-gaap_CostOfRevenue 86,420,982us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
Selling, general and administrative expenses 40,829,755us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense 38,627,801us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense 36,742,869us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
Pension settlement costs 1,222,276us-gaap_OtherNonrecurringExpense    
Impairment loss     5,849,853us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
Restructuring expense 0us-gaap_RestructuringCharges 237,838us-gaap_RestructuringCharges 1,149,439us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
Total costs and expenses 118,175,393us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 115,778,520us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 130,163,143us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses
Operating (loss) income (10,505,869)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 3,292,919us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 1,156,367us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Other income and (expenses):      
Investment and other income 216,491us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend 80,392us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend 125,985us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend
Gain (loss) on sale of assets 8,090us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets (112,242)us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets (73,126)us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets
Interest and other expense (120,435)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense (79,841)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense (106,101)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense
Other income (expense), net 104,146us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense (111,691)us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense (53,242)us-gaap_NonoperatingIncomeExpense
(Loss) income from operations before income taxes (10,401,723)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest 3,181,228us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest 1,103,125us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest
Income tax (benefit) expense (753,415)us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 1,219,355us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 2,061,013us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Net (loss) income (9,648,308)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss 1,961,873us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (957,888)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:      
Additional minimum pension liability adjustments 2,197,000us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTax 155,000us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTax 37,000us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTax
Unrealized gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities 28,161us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax (42,666)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax (21,964)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax
Foreign currency translation adjustment (2,196,385)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax (567,480)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax 333,000us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax
Total other comprehensive income (loss) 28,776us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent (455,146)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent 348,036us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
Comprehensive (loss) income $ (9,619,532)us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax $ 1,506,727us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax $ (609,852)us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax
Basic net (loss) income per share: $ (1.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ 0.23us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic
Diluted net (loss) income per share: $ (1.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ 0.23us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted
Weighted Average Basic Shares Outstanding 8,720,225us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic 8,622,032us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic 8,531,073us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic
Weighted Average Dilutive Shares Outstanding 8,720,225us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding 8,640,416us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding 8,531,073us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (USD $)
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Total
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2012 $ 423,745us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
$ 36,404,518us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
$ 57,755,178us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
$ (588,048)us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
$ 93,995,393us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
BALANCE, Shares at Dec. 31, 2012 8,474,896us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Net (loss) income     (957,888)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (957,888)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 849us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
172,354us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    173,203us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Shares 16,977us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan 2,230us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
461,589us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    463,819us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Shares 44,598us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Option Plan 750us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
109,500us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    110,250us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueOther
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Option Plan, Shares 15,000us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesOther
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan 92us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
27,312us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    27,404us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan, Shares 1,849us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Tax benefit from non-qualified stock options   16,284us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    16,284us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
Share-based compensation   (80,886)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    (80,886)us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
Shareholder dividends     (5,473,572)us-gaap_Dividends
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (5,473,572)us-gaap_Dividends
Other comprehensive income (loss)       348,036us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
348,036us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2013 427,666us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
37,110,671us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
51,323,718us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
(240,012)us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
88,622,043us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
BALANCE, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013 8,553,320us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Net (loss) income     1,961,873us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  1,961,873us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 705us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
166,637us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    167,342us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Shares 14,104us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan 1,626us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
360,647us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    362,273us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Shares 32,520us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
      32,520us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
Issuance of common stock under Non-Employee Stock Option Plan 600us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
98,760us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    99,360us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
Issuance of common stock under Non-Employee Stock Option Plan, Shares 12,000us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan 2,239us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    2,239us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan, Shares 44,769us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Tax benefit from non-qualified stock options   80,402us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    80,402us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
Share-based compensation   784,785us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    784,785us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
Purchase of common stock (98)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
(8,672)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(14,052)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (22,822)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue
Purchase of common stock, Shares (1,957)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Shareholder dividends     (5,581,851)us-gaap_Dividends
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (5,581,851)us-gaap_Dividends
Other comprehensive income (loss)       (455,146)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
(455,146)us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2014 432,738us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
38,593,230us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
47,689,688us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
(695,158)us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
86,020,498us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
BALANCE, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014 8,654,756us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Net (loss) income     (9,648,308)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (9,648,308)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 1,012us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
201,552us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    202,564us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan
Issuance of common stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Shares 20,243us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan 1,882us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
393,338us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    395,220us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
Issuance of common stock to Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Shares 37,640us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
      37,640us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
Issuance of common stock under Non-Employee Stock Option Plan 600us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
121,920us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    122,520us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueIssuedForServices
Issuance of common stock under Non-Employee Stock Option Plan, Shares 12,000us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesIssuedForServices
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan 2,313us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
0us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    2,313us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation
Issuance of common stock under Executive Stock Plan, Shares 46,254us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Tax benefit from non-qualified stock options   (5,712)us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    (5,712)us-gaap_AdjustmentToAdditionalPaidInCapitalIncomeTaxEffectFromShareBasedCompensationNet
Share-based compensation   898,760us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
    898,760us-gaap_AdjustmentsToAdditionalPaidInCapitalSharebasedCompensationRequisiteServicePeriodRecognitionValue
Other share retirements, Shares (16,343)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodShares
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       
Other share retirements (818)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
(73,803)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
(107,260)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (181,881)us-gaap_StockRepurchasedAndRetiredDuringPeriodValue
Shareholder dividends     (5,650,059)us-gaap_Dividends
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
  (5,650,059)us-gaap_Dividends
Other comprehensive income (loss)       28,776us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
28,776us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxPortionAttributableToParent
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2015 $ 437,727us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
$ 40,129,285us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember
$ 32,284,061us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
$ (666,382)us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember
$ 72,184,691us-gaap_StockholdersEquity
BALANCE, Shares at Dec. 31, 2015 8,754,550us-gaap_SharesOutstanding
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_CommonStockMember
       

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical)
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (Retained Earnings [Member], USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Retained Earnings [Member]
     
Shareholder dividends per share $ 0.64us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
$ 0.64us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember
$ 0.64us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows
v5.17.1.24
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:      
Net (loss) income $ (9,648,308)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss $ 1,961,873us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss $ (957,888)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization 3,312,587us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization 2,482,300us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization 2,184,830us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
Share based compensation 898,760us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation 784,785us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation (80,886)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation
Deferred taxes 2,220,623us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 790,402us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit (317,727)us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Impairment loss     5,849,853us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
Change in fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration (20,636)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationArrangementsChangeInAmountOfContingentConsiderationLiability1   (43,898)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationArrangementsChangeInAmountOfContingentConsiderationLiability1
(Gain)/loss on sale of assets (8,090)us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets 112,242us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets 73,126us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets
Excess tax benefit from share-based payments 5,712us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities (80,402)us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities (16,284)us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Trade receivables (3,979,435)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable 9,057,078us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable (8,207,253)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable
Inventories 6,097,476us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories (2,039,599)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories 4,647,916us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories
Prepaid income taxes (654,583)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidTaxes (936,186)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidTaxes 732,618us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInPrepaidTaxes
Other assets (393,105)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets (282,456)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets 89,533us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets
Accounts payable 2,941,322us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable 105,602us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable (4,342,626)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable
Accrued compensation and benefits (246,464)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities 139,698us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities 994,012us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInEmployeeRelatedLiabilities
Other accrued liabilities (191,676)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities 405,424us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities 71,293us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherAccruedLiabilities
Income taxes payable 19,642us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable (243,165)us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable 96,704us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedIncomeTaxesPayable
Other 486,467us-gaap_OtherOperatingActivitiesCashFlowStatement (85,519)us-gaap_OtherOperatingActivitiesCashFlowStatement  
Net cash provided by operating activities 840,292us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperations 12,172,077us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperations 773,323us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesContinuingOperations
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:      
Capital expenditures (2,394,261)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets (5,577,039)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets (2,699,347)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets
Purchases of investments   (12,682,351)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments (4,401,321)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments
Acquisition of business (917,363)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired    
Proceeds from the sale of fixed assets 57,924us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets 51,073us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets 82,078us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets
Proceeds from the sale of investments 4,648,965us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleMaturityAndCollectionsOfInvestments 6,160,000us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleMaturityAndCollectionsOfInvestments 12,794,000us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleMaturityAndCollectionsOfInvestments
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 1,395,265us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperations (12,048,317)us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperations 5,775,410us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesContinuingOperations
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:      
Borrowings against line of credit 3,900,000us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit   (4,099,087)us-gaap_ProceedsFromRepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit
Payments against line of credit (3,900,000)us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit    
Cash dividends paid (5,621,665)us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends (5,571,672)us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends  
Mortgage principal payments (524,220)us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt (489,706)us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt (457,464)us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of shares withheld 145,516us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock 246,119us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock 310,857us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock
Excess tax benefit from stock-based payments (5,712)us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities 80,402us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities 16,284us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities
Payment of contingent consideration related to acquisition   (565,647)us-gaap_PaymentsOfMergerRelatedCostsFinancingActivities (161,060)us-gaap_PaymentsOfMergerRelatedCostsFinancingActivities
Net cash used in financing activities (6,006,081)us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperations (6,300,504)us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperations (4,390,470)us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesContinuingOperations
EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH (153,596)us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents (145,519)us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents 31,145us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (3,924,120)us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease (6,322,263)us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease 2,189,408us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 13,736,857us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue 20,059,120us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue 17,869,712us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR 9,812,737us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue 13,736,857us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue 20,059,120us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:      
Income taxes (refunded) paid (2,364,994)us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet 1,591,257us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet 1,556,590us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet
Interest paid 77,801us-gaap_InterestPaid 73,860us-gaap_InterestPaid 106,101us-gaap_InterestPaid
Dividends declared not paid 1,474,892us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent 1,446,498us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent 1,436,318us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent
Capital expenditures in accounts payable 190,888us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid 188,564us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid  
Acquisition costs in accrued liabilities $ 442,234us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionPayablesAssumed1    

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Description of business: Communications Systems, Inc. (herein collectively called “CSI,” “our” or the “Company”) is a Minnesota corporation organized in 1969 that operates directly and through its subsidiaries located in the United States, Costa Rica, and the United Kingdom. CSI is principally engaged through its Suttle business unit in the manufacture and sale of connectivity infrastructure products for broadband and voice communications and through its Transition Networks business unit in the manufacture of media and rate conversion products for broadband networks. CSI also provides through its JDL Technologies business unit IT solutions including network design, computer infrastructure installations, IT service management, network security and network operations services.

 

The Company classifies its businesses into three segments: Suttle, which manufactures connectivity infrastructure products for broadband and voice communications; Transition Networks, which designs and markets media conversion products, ethernet switches, and other connectivity and data transmission products; and JDL Technologies, (JDL), which is and IT managed services provider and value-added reseller.  Non-allocated general and administrative expenses are separately accounted for as “Other” in the Company’s segment reporting. Intersegment revenues are eliminated upon consolidation.

 

Principles of consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries.  All material intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated.

 

Use of estimates: The presentation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company uses estimates based on the best information available in recording transactions and balances resulting from operations.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  The Company’s estimates consist principally of reserves for doubtful accounts, sales returns, warranty costs, asset impairment evaluations, accruals for compensation plans, self-insured medical and dental accruals, pension liabilities, lower of cost or market inventory adjustments, provisions for income taxes and deferred taxes and depreciable lives of fixed assets.

 

Cash equivalents: For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had $9,813,000 in cash and cash equivalents. Of this amount, $1,944,000 was invested in short-term money market funds that are not considered to be bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the federal deposit insurance company (FDIC) or other government agency. These money market funds seek to preserve the value of the investment at $1.00 per share; however, it is possible to lose money investing in these funds. The remainder is operating cash and certificates of deposit which are fully insured through the FDIC.

 

Investments: Investments consist of certificates of deposit, commercial paper, and corporate notes and bonds that are traded on the open market and are classified as available-for-sale at December 31, 2015. Available-for-sale investments are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from operations and reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of tax (see Accumulated other comprehensive loss below).

 

Inventories: Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method. Provision to reduce inventories to the lower of cost or market is made based on a review of excess and obsolete inventories, estimates of future sales, examination of historical consumption rates and the related value of component parts.

 

Property, plant and equipment: Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost.  Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method.  Depreciation included in cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses for continuing operations was $3,212,000, $2,375,000 and $2,030,000 for 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations and additions or improvements are capitalized.  Items of property sold, retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from the asset and accumulated depreciation accounts and any gains or losses on disposal are reflected in operations.

 

Intangible Assets: Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested at least annually for impairment.

 

Recoverability of long-lived assets: The Company reviews its long-lived assets periodically when impairment indicators exist as required under generally accepted accounting principles. Potential impairment is determined by comparing the carrying value of the assets with expected net cash flows expected to be provided by operating activities of the business or related products.  If the sum of the expected future net cash flows is less than the carrying value, an impairment loss would be measured by comparing the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset.

 

Warranty:  The Company reserves for the estimated cost of product warranties at the time revenue is recognized.  We estimate the costs of our warranty obligations based on our warranty policy or applicable contractual warranty, historical experience of known product failure rates, and use of materials and service delivery costs incurred in correcting product failures.  Management reviews the estimated warranty liability on a quarterly basis to determine its adequacy. 

 

The following table presents the changes in the Company’s warranty liability for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, which relate to normal product warranties and a five-year obligation to provide for potential future liabilities for certain network equipment sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Beginning balance

 

$

434,000 

 

$

564,000 

Amounts charged to expense

 

 

231,000 

 

 

(14,000)

Actual warranty costs paid

 

 

(111,000)

 

 

(116,000)

Ending balance

 

$

554,000 

 

$

434,000 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss: The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Minimum pension liability

 

$

4,148,000 

 

$

1,951,000 

Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments

 

 

(13,000)

 

 

(41,000)

Foreign currency translation

 

 

(4,801,000)

 

 

(2,605,000)

 

 

$

(666,000)

 

$

(695,000)

 

The functional currency of Austin Taylor and Patapsco is the British pound.  Assets and liabilities denominated in this foreign currency were translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates.  Revenue and expense transactions were translated using average exchange rates.  Suttle Costa Rica uses the U.S. dollar as their functional currency. 

 

Revenue recognition: The Company’s manufacturing operations (Suttle and Transition Networks) recognize revenue when the earnings process is complete, evidenced by persuasive evidence of an agreement, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.  Revenue is recognized for domestic and international sales at the shipping point or delivery to customers, based on the related shipping terms. Risk of loss transfers at the point of shipment or delivery to customers, and the Company has no further obligation after such time. Sales are made directly to customers and through distributors. Payment terms for distributors are consistent with the terms of the Company’s direct customers. The Company records a provision for sales returns, sales incentives and warranty costs at the time of the sale based on historical experience and current trends.


JDL generally records revenue on hardware, software and related equipment sales and installation contracts when the revenue recognition criteria are met and products are installed and accepted by the customer.  JDL records revenue on service contracts on a straight-line basis over the contract period, unless evidence suggests the revenue is earned in a different pattern. Each contract is individually reviewed to determine when the earnings process is complete.

 

Research and development: Research and development costs consist of outside testing services, equipment and supplies associated with enhancing existing products and developing new products.  Research and development costs are expensed when incurred and totaled $8,291,000 in 2015, $7,835,000 in 2014 and $2,760,000 in 2013.  

 

Net income per share: Basic net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net income per common share adjusts for the dilutive effect of potential common shares outstanding.  The Company’s only potential common shares outstanding are stock options and unvested shares, which resulted in a dilutive effect of 0 shares, 18,384 shares and 0 shares in 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company calculates the dilutive effect of outstanding options and unvested shares using the treasury stock method. The number of shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the options’ exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the year for 2015,  2014, and 2013 was 0,  243,427 and 0, respectively. Due to the net loss in 2015 and 2013, there was no dilutive impact from outstanding stock options or unvested shares. Options totaling 691,924 would have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for year ended December 31, 2015, because the exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the period and deferred stock awards totaling 95,668 shares would not have been included because of unmet performance conditions. Options totaling 169,437 would have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for year ended December 31, 2013, because the exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the period and deferred stock awards totaling 177,886 shares would not have been included because of unmet performance conditions.

 

Share based compensation: The Company accounts for share based compensation awards on a fair value basis. The estimated grant date fair value of each stock-based award is recognized in income over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period). The estimated fair value of each option is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.   

 

Accounting standards issued: 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a new accounting standard update on revenue recognition from contracts with customers. The new guidance will replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic and eliminate all industry-specific guidance. According to the new guidance, revenue is recognized when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. As a result of the FASB’s July 2015 deferral of the standard’s required implementation date, the guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard on inventory, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of inventory by requiring entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, except for inventory measured using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) or the retail inventory methods. This standard requires entities to compare the cost of inventory to one measure – net realizable value.  Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. The standard is effective for the annual period beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted, and is to be applied prospectively. The Company does not except the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard on deferred taxes, which removes the requirement to present deferred tax assets and liabilities as current and noncurrent on the balance sheet based on the classification of the related asset or liability, and instead requires classification of all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. This guidance will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and early adoption is permitted. Other than the prescribed classification of all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent, the Company does not expect the implementation of this standard to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

Accounting standards adopted:

There have been no new accounting pronouncements or changes in accounting pronouncements adopted during the period that are of significance or potential significance to the Company.


Cash Equivalents And Investments
v5.17.1.24
Cash Equivalents And Investments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Cash Equivalents And Investments [Abstract]  
Cash Equivalents And Investments

NOTE 2 –CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS

 

The following tables show the Company’s cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities’ amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses and fair value by significant investment category recorded as cash equivalents or short and long term investments as of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

Amortized Cost

 

Gross Unrealized Gains

 

Gross Unrealized Losses

 

Fair Value

 

Cash Equivalents

 

Short-Term Investments

 

Long-Term Investments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Subtotal

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

5,493,000 

 

 

3,000 

 

 

(8,000)

 

 

5,488,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

 

 

4,286,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

6,056,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

(22,000)

 

 

6,034,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

 

 

2,007,000 

Subtotal

 

11,549,000 

 

 

3,000 

 

 

(30,000)

 

 

11,522,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

13,493,000 

 

$

3,000 

 

$

(30,000)

 

$

13,466,000 

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

5,229,000 

 

$

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

Amortized Cost

 

Gross Unrealized Gains

 

Gross Unrealized Losses

 

Fair Value

 

Cash Equivalents

 

Short-Term Investments

 

Long-Term Investments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Subtotal

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

7,414,000 

 

 

1,000 

 

 

(32,000)

 

 

7,383,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

 

 

5,463,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

8,777,000 

 

 

6,000 

 

 

(23,000)

 

 

8,760,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

2,683,000 

 

 

6,077,000 

Subtotal

 

16,191,000 

 

 

7,000 

 

 

(55,000)

 

 

16,143,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

17,264,000 

 

$

7,000 

 

$

(55,000)

 

$

17,216,000 

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

4,603,000 

 

$

11,540,000 

 

 

The Company tests for other than temporary losses on a quarterly basis and has considered the unrealized losses indicated above to be temporary in nature. The Company intends to hold the investments until it can recover the full principal amount and has the ability to do so based on other sources of liquidity. The Company expects such recoveries to occur prior to the contractual maturities.  All unrealized losses as of December 31, 2015 were in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months and are not deemed to be other than temporarily impaired as of December 31, 2015.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of our investments, designated as available-for-sale and classified by the contractual maturity date of the securities as of December 31, 2015:  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortized Cost

 

Estimated Market Value

 

 

 

 

 

Due within one year

 

$  

5,237,000 

 

$

5,229,000 

Due after one year through five years

 

 

6,312,000 

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

11,549,000 

 

$

11,522,000 

 

The Company did not recognize any gross realized gains or gross realized losses during the years ending December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. If the Company had realized gains or losses, they would be included within investment and other income in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.


Inventories
v5.17.1.24
Inventories
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Inventories [Abstract]  
Inventories

NOTE 3 - INVENTORIES

 

Inventories consist of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

Finished goods

 

$         

14,112,000 

 

$

19,208,000 

Raw and processed materials

 

 

10,874,000 

 

 

11,902,000 

 

 

$

24,986,000 

 

$

31,110,000 

 


Property, Plant And Equipment
v5.17.1.24
Property, Plant And Equipment
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant And Equipment [Abstract]  
Property, Plant And Equipment

NOTE 4 - PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

 

Property, plant and equipment and the estimated useful lives are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated

 

December 31

 

useful life

 

2015

 

2014

Land

 

 

 

 

 

$

3,099,000 

 

$

3,107,000 

Buildings and improvements

7-40 years

 

 

9,422,000 

 

 

8,523,000 

Machinery and equipment

3-15 years

 

 

28,985,000 

 

 

28,728,000 

Furniture and fixtures

5-10 years

 

 

5,225,000 

 

 

3,490,000 

Construction in progress

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,166,000 

 

 

1,925,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

47,897,000 

 

 

45,773,000 

Less accumulated depreciation

 

 

 

 

 

 

(30,429,000)

 

 

(27,620,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

17,468,000 

 

$

18,153,000 

 


Acquisition
v5.17.1.24
Acquisition
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Acquisition [Abstract]  
Acquisition

NOTE 5 – ACQUISITION

 

On June 1, 2015, the Company acquired all of the shares of Twisted Technologies, Inc. (“Twisted Technologies”). The purchase price was $1,463,000, with cash acquired totaling $83,000. The purchase price includes initial consideration of $1,000,000, deferred consideration of $300,000 to be paid out on March 31, 2016, and $163,000 in estimated contingent consideration. The Company has agreed to pay consideration contingent upon the Twisted Technologies business meeting revenue targets over a three-year period, with the consideration to be paid after each annual period has lapsed. The Company has recognized $163,000 as the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration at the date of acquisition. The maximum payout is not limited. At December 31, 2015, the Company had estimated liabilities of $442,000 related to these outstanding deferred and contingent consideration payments.

 

The assets and liabilities of Twisted Technologies were recorded in the consolidated balance sheet within the JDL Technologies segment at December 31, 2015. The purchase price allocation was based on estimates of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed and included total assets of $1,591,000, including goodwill of $1,463,000, and total liabilities of $128,000. The entire goodwill balance is deductible for tax purposes. The pro forma impact of Twisted Technologies was not significant to the Company’s results for the year ended December 31, 2015.


Goodwill And Intangible Assets
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]  
Goodwill And Intangible Assets

NOTE 6  –GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2015 by segment are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JDL

 

 

 

 

January 1, 2015

 

$

 -

 

 

 

 

Goodwill acquired

 

 

1,463,000 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

$

1,463,000 

 

 

 

 

Gross goodwill

 

 

1,463,000 

Accumulated impairment loss

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2015

 

$

1,463,000 

 

The Company’s identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are being amortized over their estimated useful lives and are included within other assets in the consolidated balance sheets and were as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

Accumulated Amortization

Foreign Currency Translation

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trademarks

 

91,000  (48,000) (8,000) 35,000 

Customer relationships

 

491,000  (197,000) (46,000) 248,000 

Technology

 

229,000  (183,000) (22,000) 24,000 

 

 

811,000  (428,000) (76,000) 307,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

Accumulated Amortization

Foreign Currency Translation

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trademarks

 

91,000  (38,000) (4,000) 49,000 

Customer relationships

 

491,000  (159,000) (26,000) 306,000 

Technology

 

229,000  (149,000) (11,000) 69,000 

 

 

811,000  (346,000) (41,000) 424,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization expense on these identifiable intangible assets was $101,000, $107,000, and $102,000 in 2015,  2014, and 2013 respectively. The amortization expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses. The estimated future amortization expense for identifiable intangible assets during the next five fiscal years is as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ending December 31:

 

 

 

2016

 

$  

84,000 

2017

 

 

59,000 

2018

 

 

54,000 

2019

 

 

47,000 

2020

 

 

47,000 

 


Employee Retirement Benefits
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Employee Retirement Benefits

NOTE 7 - EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT BENEFITS

 

The Company has an Employee Savings Plan (401(k)) and matches a percentage of employee contributions up to six percent of compensation.  Contributions to the plan in 2015,  2014 and 2013 were $591,000, $528,000, and $457,000, respectively.

 

The Company’s U.K.-based subsidiary Austin Taylor maintains defined benefit pension plans that cover two active employees.  The Company does not provide any other post-retirement benefits to its employees.  The following table summarizes the balance sheet impact, including benefit obligations, assets and funded status of Austin Taylor’s pension plans at December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year

 

$         

3,584,000 

 

$

3,340,000 

Service cost

 

 

50,000 

 

 

8,000 

Interest cost

 

 

122,000 

 

 

143,000 

Actuarial (gains)/losses

 

 

(193,000)

 

 

363,000 

Benefits paid

 

 

(117,000)

 

 

(78,000)

Changes due to plan settlement

 

 

(534,000)

 

 

 -

Foreign currency gains

 

 

(163,000)

 

 

(192,000)

Benefit obligation at the end of the year

 

 

2,749,000 

 

 

3,584,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in plan assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

 

 

3,756,000 

 

 

3,645,000 

Actual return on plan assets

 

 

172,000 

 

 

340,000 

Employer contributions

 

 

703,000 

 

 

59,000 

Benefits paid

 

 

(117,000)

 

 

(78,000)

Changes due to plan settlement

 

 

(1,720,000)

 

 

 -

Foreign currency losses

 

 

(171,000)

 

 

(210,000)

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

 

 

2,623,000 

 

 

3,756,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status at end of year – net (liability) asset

 

$

(126,000)

 

$

172,000 

 

 

Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic pension costs:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discount rate

 

 

3.9% 

 

 

3.6% 

Expected return on assets

 

 

3.9% 

 

 

3.6% 

 

The plans are funded through annuities recorded in the financial statements at fair value. The related amounts for each of these investments were $2,623,000 and $3,756,000 as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 and were determined to be level 2 investments, respectively. Level 2 investments are valued based on observable inputs such as quoted prices for similar instruments and quoted prices in markets that are not active.

 

The Company does not expect any plan assets to be returned to the Company during the twelve months subsequent to December 31, 2015.

 

The Company is in the process of settling the pension plan and as of the end of 2015, the Company had contributed $650,000 (or 95%) toward the settlement of the pension into annuities, which resulted in the recognition of $1,222,000 of pension settlement costs in the income statement.

 

The Company expects to make  a final settlement contribution of $70,000 to the plan in 2016 which will result in a termination of the plan.    

 

Components of the Company’s net periodic pension (benefit) cost are:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

Service cost

 

$

50,000 

 

$

8,000 

 

$

5,000 

Interest cost

 

 

122,000 

 

 

143,000 

 

 

186,000 

Expected return on assets

 

 

(162,000)

 

 

(188,000)

 

 

(229,000)

Plan settlement costs

 

 

1,720,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

211,000 

Net periodic pension cost (benefit)

 

$

1,730,000 

 

$

(37,000)

 

$

173,000 

 


Commitments And Contingencies
v5.17.1.24
Commitments And Contingencies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Contingencies [Abstract]  
Commitments And Contingencies

NOTE 8 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Operating leases:  The Company leases land, buildings and equipment under operating leases with original terms from 1 to 5 years.  Total rent expense was $517,000, $546,000 and $409,000 in 2015,  2014 and 2013 respectively.   At December 31, 2015, the Company was obligated under noncancelable operating leases to make minimum annual future lease payments as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ending December 31:

 

 

 

2016

 

$  

251,000 

2017

 

 

114,000 

2018

 

 

85,000 

2019

 

 

24,000 

 

 

474,000 

 

Long-term debt:  The mortgage on the Company’s headquarters building is payable in monthly installments and carries an interest rate of 6.83%.  The mortgage matured on March 1, 2016 and the Company made payments totaling $104,000 in 2016 to fully settle the liability.  The outstanding balance on the mortgage was $104,000 at December 31, 2015. The mortgage is secured by the building.

 

Line of credit:  The Company has a $10,000,000 line of credit from Wells Fargo Bank.  The Company had no outstanding borrowings against the line of credit at December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the entire credit line is available for use.  Interest on borrowings on the credit line is at LIBOR plus 1.5% (1.9% at December 31, 2015). The credit agreement expires October 31, 2016 and is secured by assets of the Company.  The Company has pledged $5.0 million in investments against the line of credit. Our credit agreement contains financial covenants including tangible net worth minimums and a minimum cash balance.  The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants as of December 31, 2015.

As of December 31, 2015, the Company had no other material commitments (either cancelable or non-cancelable) for capital expenditures or other purchase commitments related to ongoing operations.

 

Long-term compensation plans:  The Company has a long term incentive plan.  The plan provides long-term competitive compensation to enable the Company to attract and retain qualified executive talent and to reward employees for achieving goals and improving company performance. The plan provides grants of “performance units” made at the beginning of performance periods and paid at the end of the period if performance goals are met. Awards were previously made every other year and are paid following the end of the cycle with annual vesting.  Payment in the case of retirement, disability or death will be on a pro rata basis.  The Company recognized (income)/expense of $0, $0 and $ (124,000) in 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  Accrual balances for long-term compensation plans at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $0 and $0, respectively. Awards paid were $0 in 2015, $199,000 in 2014 and $27,000 in 2013.  Awards for the 2012 to 2014 cycles were paid out 25% in cash and 75% in stock and awards for the 2013 to 2015 cycles will be paid out 100% in stock.  Starting in 2014, all long term compensation is awarded in stock. The stock portion of these awards are treated as equity plans and included within the Stock Compensation footnote within the Deferred Stock Outstanding section below.

 

Other contingencies:  In the ordinary course of business, the Company is exposed to legal actions and claims and incurs costs to defend against such actions and claims.  Company management is not aware of any outstanding or pending legal actions or claims that would materially affect the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.


Stock Compensation
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Compensation [Abstract]  
Stock Compensation

NOTE 9 – STOCK COMPENSATION

 

2011 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan

 

On March 28, 2011 the Board adopted and on May 19, 2011 the Company’s shareholders approved the Company’s 2011 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan (“2011 Incentive Plan”).  The 2011 Incentive Plan authorizes incentive awards to officers, key employees and non-employee directors in the form of options (incentive and non-qualified), stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock units (“deferred stock”), performance cash units, and other awards in stock, cash, or a combination of stock and cash.  On May 21, 2015, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the 2011 Incentive Plan to increase the authorized shares by 1,000,000 to 2,000,000. As a result, up to 2,000,000 shares of our common stock may be issued pursuant to awards under the 2011 Incentive Plan, as amended.    

 

During 2015, stock options covering 248,258 shares were awarded to key executive employees and non-employee directors, which options expire seven years from the date of award and vest 25% each year beginning one year after the date of award.  The Company also granted deferred stock awards of 100,017 shares to key employees during 2015 under the Company’s long-term incentive plan for the 2015 to 2017 period. The actual number of shares of deferred stock, if any, that are ultimately earned by the respective employees will be determined based on achievement against performance goals for each of the three years ending December 31, 2017 and the shares earned will be issued in the first quarter of 2018 to those key employees still with the Company at that time.    

 

At December 31, 2015,  95,465 shares have been issued under the 2011 Incentive Plan, 784,159 shares are subject to currently outstanding options, deferred stock awards, and unvested restricted stock units, and 1,120,376 shares remained available for future issuance under the 2011 Incentive Plan.

 

Stock Option Plan for Directors

 

Shares of common stock are reserved for issuance to non-employee directors under options granted by the Company prior to 2011 under its Stock Option Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the “Director Plan”).  Under the Director Plan nonqualified stock options to acquire 3,000 shares of common stock were automatically granted to each non-employee director concurrent with annual meetings of shareholders in 2010 and earlier years and vested immediately. The exercise price of options granted was the fair market value of the common stock on the date of the respective shareholder meetings.  Options granted under the Director Plan expire 10 years from date of grant.   

 

The Director Plan was suspended as of May 19, 2011 to prohibit automatic option grants in 2011 in connection with seeking and receiving shareholder approval of the 2011 Incentive Plan, at the 2011 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. As shareholder approval was received, the Board amended the Director Plan to prohibit any future option awards under that plan on August 11, 2011. No stock options were granted to non-employee directors in 2015,  2014 and 2013.

 

1992 Stock Plan

 

Under the Company’s 1992 Stock Plan (“the Stock Plan”), shares of common stock may be issued pursuant to stock options, restricted stock or deferred stock grants to officers and key employees. Exercise prices of stock options under the Stock Plan cannot be less than fair market value of the stock on the date of grant. Rules and conditions governing awards of stock options, restricted stock and deferred stock are determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, subject to certain limitations in the Stock Plan. When seeking approval of the 2011 Incentive Plan at the 2011 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company committed to amending the Stock Plan to prohibit the issuance of future equity awards if such approval was given. Effective August 11, 2011, the amendment to prohibit future stock options or other equity awards was approved by the Board.

 

At December 31, 2015 after reserving for stock options and deferred stock awards described in the two preceding paragraphs and adjusting for forfeitures and issuances during the year, there were 22,008 shares reserved for issuance under the Stock Plan. The Company has not awarded stock options or deferred stock under the Stock Plan since 2011.

 

Stock Options Outstanding

 

The following table summarizes changes in the number of outstanding stock options under the Director Plan, Stock Plan and the 2011 Incentive Plan during the three years ended December 31, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average

 

Weighted average

 

 

 

exercise price

 

remaining

 

Options

 

per share

 

contractual term

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

311,153 

 

$

 

12.05 

 

4.99 years

Awarded

169,550 

 

 

 

10.19 

 

 

Exercised

(15,000)

 

 

 

7.35 

 

 

Forfeited

(156,264)

 

 

 

11.25 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

309,439 

 

$

 

11.66 

 

4.13 years

Awarded

317,722 

 

 

 

12.30 

 

 

Exercised

(12,000)

 

 

 

8.28 

 

 

Forfeited

(74,757)

 

 

 

13.20 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

540,404 

 

$

 

11.90 

 

5.13 years

Awarded

248,258 

 

 

 

11.31 

 

 

Exercised

(12,000)

 

 

 

10.21 

 

 

Forfeited

(54,738)

 

 

 

12.21 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

721,924 

 

 

 

11.70 

 

4.89 years

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excercisable at December 31, 2015

297,439 

 

$

 

11.73 

 

3.58 years

Expected to vest December 31, 2015

721,924 

 

 

 

11.70 

 

4.89 years

 

The fair value of awards issued under the Company’s stock option plan is estimated at grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  The following table displays the assumptions used in the model.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Expected volatility

30.7% 

 

31.4% 

 

31.8% 

Risk free interest rate

1.6% 

 

2.7% 

 

2.1% 

Expected holding period

6 years

 

6 years

 

6 years

Dividend yield

5.7% 

 

5.2% 

 

6.3% 

 

Total unrecognized compensation expense was $370,000 as of December 31, 2015, which is expected to be recognized over the next 2.2 years.  The aggregate intrinsic value of all outstanding options, exercisable options, and options expected to vest (the amount by which the market price of the stock on the last day of the period exceeded the market price of the stock on the date of grant) was $0 based on the Company’s stock price at December 31, 2015.  The intrinsic value of options exercised during the year was $10,000, $40,000 and $38,000 in 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  Net cash proceeds from the exercise of all stock options were $0, $99,000 and $110,000 for 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  The following table summarizes the status of stock options outstanding at December 31, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

Remaining

 

Average

Range of Exercise Prices

 

Shares

 

Option Life

 

Exercise Price

$8.65 to $9.99

 

30,000 

 

2.2 years

 

 

9.68 

$10.00 to $12.00

 

506,734 

 

5.4 years

 

 

11.30 

$12.01 to $14.50

 

185,190 

 

4 years

 

 

13.14 

 

The Company receives an income tax benefit related to the gains received by officers and key employees who make disqualifying dispositions of stock received on exercise of qualified incentive stock options and on non-qualified options.  The amount of tax benefit received by the Company was $4,000, $14,000 and $14,000 in 2015,  2014 and 2013 respectively.  The tax benefit amounts have been credited to additional paid-in capital.

 

Deferred Stock Outstanding

 

The following table summarizes the changes in the number of deferred stock shares under the Stock Plan and 2011 Incentive Plan over the period December 31, 2012 to December 31, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Date

 

 

 

Shares

 

Fair Value

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

 

 

160,790 

 

$

14.16 

Granted

 

 

222,654 

 

 

10.08 

Vested

 

 

(1,849)

 

 

14.82 

Forfeited

 

 

(181,455)

 

 

12.11 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

 

 

200,140 

 

 

11.47 

Granted

 

 

48,824 

 

 

12.52 

Vested

 

 

(16,754)

 

 

13.81 

Forfeited

 

 

(70,896)

 

 

13.02 

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

 

 

161,314 

 

 

10.87 

Granted

 

 

103,017 

 

 

11.52 

Vested

 

 

(18,940)

 

 

12.37 

Forfeited

 

 

(118,964)

 

 

10.27 

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

 

 

126,427 

 

 

11.73 

 

The grant date fair value is calculated based on the Company’s closing stock price as of the grant date. As of December 31, 2015, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to the deferred stock shares was $348,000 and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.

 

Restricted Stock Units Outstanding

 

The following table summarizes the changes in the number of restricted stock units under the 2011 Incentive Plan over the period December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2015:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Date

 

 

 

Shares

 

Fair Value

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

 

 

25,879 

 

$

10.82 

Granted

 

 

31,354 

 

 

10.05 

Vested

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Forfeited

 

 

(4,040)

 

 

9.90 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

 

 

53,193 

 

 

10.44 

Granted

 

 

13,973 

 

 

11.98 

Vested

 

 

(28,015)

 

 

10.89 

Forfeited

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

 

 

39,151 

 

 

10.67 

Granted

 

 

20,979 

 

 

11.06 

Vested

 

 

(27,314)

 

 

10.08 

Forfeited

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

 

 

32,816 

 

 

11.41 

 

The grant date fair value is calculated based on the Company’s closing stock price as of the grant date. As of December 31, 2015, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to the restricted stock units was $59,000 and is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.4 years.

 

Compensation Expense

 

Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on the fair value of awards granted over the vesting period of the award.  Share-based compensation expense/(income) recognized for 2015,  2014 and 2013 was $899,000, $785,000 and $ (81,000) before income taxes and $584,000, $510,000 and $ (53,000) after income taxes, respectively. Share-based compensation expense is recorded as a part of selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

Under the Company’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) employees are able to acquire shares of common stock at 85% of the price at the end of each current quarterly plan term.  The most recent term ended December 31, 2015.  The ESPP is considered compensatory under current rules.  At December 31, 2015, after giving effect to the shares issued as of that date, 101,240 shares remain available for purchase under the ESPP.

 

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

 

All eligible employees of the Company participate in the ESOP after completing one year of service.  Contributions are allocated to each participant based on compensation and vest 20% after two years of service and incrementally thereafter, with full vesting after six years.  At December 31, 2015, the ESOP held 577,965 shares of the Company’s common stock, all of which have been allocated to the accounts of eligible employees.  Contributions to the plan are determined by the Board of Directors and can be made in cash or shares of the Company’s stock. The 2015 ESOP contribution was $467,731 for which the Company will issue 60,197 shares in March 2016.  The 2014 ESOP contribution was $395,220 for which the Company issued 37,640 shares in 2015.  The Company’s 2013 ESOP contribution was $362,273 for which the Company issued 32,520 shares of common stock to the ESOP in 2014


Common Stock
v5.17.1.24
Common Stock
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Common Stock [Abstract]  
Common Stock

NOTE 10 – COMMON STOCK

 

PURCHASES OF COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, INC. COMMON STOCK

 

In October 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of shares of the Company’s stock pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 10b-18 on the open market, in block trades or in private transactions. At December 31, 2015,  411,910 additional shares could be repurchased under outstanding Board authorizations.

 

SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS PLAN

 

On December 23, 2009 the Board of Directors adopted a shareholders’ rights plan.  Under this plan, the Board of Directors declared a distribution of one right per share of common stock.  Each right entitles the holder to purchase 1/100th of a share of a new series of Junior Participating Preferred Stock of the Company at an initial exercise price of $41.  The rights expire on December 23, 2019.  The rights will become exercisable only following the acquisition by a person or group, without the prior consent of the Board of Directors, of 16.5% or more of the Company’s voting stock, or following the announcement of a tender offer or exchange offer to acquire an interest of 16.5% or more.  If the rights become exercisable, each rightholder will be entitled to purchase, at the exercise price, common stock with a market value equal to twice the exercise price.  Should the Company be acquired, each right would entitle the holder to purchase, at the exercise price, common stock of the acquiring company with a market value equal to twice the exercise price.  Any rights owned by the acquiring person or group would become void.


Income Taxes
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Income Taxes

NOTE 11 - INCOME TAXES

 

Income tax expense from continuing operations consists of the following:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Currently payable income taxes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

(3,142,000)

 

$

328,000 

 

$

2,114,000 

State

 

 

(85,000)

 

 

(12,000)

 

 

297,000 

Foreign

 

 

254,000 

 

 

113,000 

 

 

(32,000)

 

 

 

(2,973,000)

 

 

429,000 

 

$

2,379,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes (benefit):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

2,191,000 

 

$

761,000 

 

$

(303,000)

State

 

 

38,000 

 

 

40,000 

 

 

18,000 

Foreign

 

 

(9,000)

 

 

(11,000)

 

 

(33,000)

 

 

 

2,220,000 

 

 

790,000 

 

 

(318,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(753,000)

 

$

1,219,000 

 

$

2,061,000 

 

Austin Taylor Communications, Ltd. operates in the United Kingdom (U.K.) and is subject to U.K. rather than U.S. income taxes.  Austin Taylor had pretax losses of $1,742,000,  $389,000 and $428,000 in 2015,  2014 and 2013 respectively.  At the end of 2015, Austin Taylor’s net operating loss carry-forward was $8,077,000The Company remains uncertain that it will be able to generate the future income needed to realize the tax benefit of the carry-forward.  Accordingly, the Company has continued to maintain its deferred tax valuation allowance against any potential carry-forward benefit from Austin Taylor.  

 

Transition Networks EMEA, Ltd. operates in the U.K. and is subject to U.K. rather than U.S. income taxes. Transition Networks EMEA, Ltd. had pretax income of $558,000 in 2015 and pretax losses of $54,000 and $2,754,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Austin Taylor's net operating loss provided group relief to Transition Networks EMEA, Ltd. during 2015. At the end of 2015, Transition Networks EMEA, Ltd.’s net operating loss carry-forward was $0.

 

In 2007, Transition Networks China began operations in China and is subject to Chinese taxes rather than U.S. income taxes.  Transition Networks China had pretax loss of $29,000 in 2015 and pretax income of $345,000 and $341,000 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At the end of 2015, Transition Networks China's net operating loss carry-forward was $374,000.  Due to the history of losses in China the Company remains uncertain that it will be able to generate the future income needed to realize the tax benefit of the carry-forward.  Accordingly, the Company has continued to maintain its deferred tax valuation reserve against the potential carry-forward benefit. Transition Networks China ceased operations in 2014 and incurred minor non-operating expenditures in 2015 to close the operations. After 2015, Transition Networks China will no longer have any operational activity.

 

Suttle Costa Rica operates in Costa Rica and is subject to Costa Rica income taxes. In 2005, the Board of Directors of Suttle Costa Rica declared a dividend in the amount of $3,500,000 payable to the Company. The dividend and related “dividend reinvestment plan” qualify under Internal Revenue Code Sec. 965, which allows the Company to receive an 85% dividend-received deduction if the amount of the dividend is reinvested in the United States pursuant to a domestic reinvestment plan.  The Company made the required qualified capital expenditures in 2006.  It is the Company’s intention to maintain the remaining undistributed earnings in its Costa Rica subsidiary to support continued operations there. No deferred taxes have been provided for the undistributed earnings. As of December 31, 2015, the amount of unremitted earnings outside of the United States was not significant to the Company’s liquidity and was available to fund investments abroad.

 

Suttle Costa Rica had pretax income of $446,000, $321,000 and $152,000 in 2015,  2014 and 2013 respectively.  At the end of 2015, Suttle Costa Rica’s net operating loss carry-forward was $0

 

The provision for income taxes for continuing operations varied from the federal statutory tax rate as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Tax at U.S. statutory rate

 

35.0% 

 

35.0% 

 

35.0% 

Surtax exemption

 

(1.1)

 

(0.7)

 

(5.4)

State income taxes, net of federal benefit

 

0.6 

 

1.0 

 

19.1 

Foreign income taxes, net of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 foreign tax credits

 

(3.6)

 

7.8 

 

3.3 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 -

 

 -

 

116.2 

Other nondeductible items

 

0.0 

 

3.1 

 

4.9 

Effect of (decrease) increase in uncertain tax positions

 

(1.4)

 

(10.2)

 

7.3 

Federal credits

 

15.1 

 

 -

 

 -

Change in valuation allowance

 

(35.2)

 

 -

 

 -

Other

 

(2.2)

 

2.3 

 

6.4 

Effective tax rate

 

7.2% 

 

38.3% 

 

186.8% 

 

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 related to the following:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

$

41,000 

 

$

4,000 

Inventory

 

2,016,000 

 

 

2,779,000 

Accrued and prepaid expenses

 

440,000 

 

 

594,000 

Domestic net operating loss carry-forward

 

1,208,000 

 

 

 -

Long-term compensation plans

 

351,000 

 

 

380,000 

Nonemployee director stock compensation

 

554,000 

 

 

403,000 

Other stock compensation

 

195,000 

 

 

118,000 

Foreign net operating loss carry-forwards and credits

 

2,008,000 

 

 

1,743,000 

Federal and state credits

 

927,000 

 

 

 -

Other

 

30,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross deferred tax assets

 

7,770,000 

 

 

6,021,000 

Valuation allowance

 

(5,668,000)

 

 

(1,734,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

 

2,102,000 

 

 

4,287,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

(2,141,000)

 

 

(2,110,000)

Intangible assets

 

(22,000)

 

 

(18,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liability

 

(2,163,000)

 

 

(2,128,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total net deferred tax (liability) asset

$

(61,000)

 

$

2,159,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Company assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use the existing deferred tax assets. A significant piece of objective negative evidence evaluated was the cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ending December 31, 2015. Such objective evidence limits the ability to consider other subjective evidence such as the projections for future growth. On the basis of this evaluation, as of December 31, 2015, a valuation allowance of $5,668,000 has been recorded to reflect the portion of the deferred tax asset that is more likely than not to be realized. The amount of deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be adjusted if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased or if objective negative evidence in the form of cumulative losses is no longer present and additional weight may be given to subjective evidence such as the Company’s projections for growth.

 

At December 31, 2015, the Company has a federal net operating loss carryforward from 2015 activity of approximately $3,647,000 that is available to offset future taxable income and begins to expire in 2035. 

 

During 2015, the Company engaged in a research and development tax credit study for the tax years 2011 to 2014.  As a result of this study, the Company claimed $1,554,000 of federal and $1,024,000 of state research and development credits.  The Company amended prior year tax returns to claim these credits and offset prior year taxes paid. Credits not utilized to reduce taxes are available to be carried forward. At December 31, 2015, the Company has an estimated federal research and development credit carryforward of approximately $496,000 and a state research and development credit carryforward of approximately $594,000.

 

The Company assesses uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740. Under this method, the Company must recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such uncertain tax positions are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate resolution. The Company’s practice is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

Changes in the Company’s uncertain tax positions are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Uncertain tax positions – January 1

$

75,000 

$

240,000 

$

153,000 

Gross increases - tax positions in prior period

 

142,000 

 

 

Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period

 

 

(73,000)

 

Gross increases - current period tax positions

 

 

 

158,000 

Settlements

 

 

(85,000)

 

(5,000)

Expiration of statute of limitations

 

 

(7,000)

 

(66,000)

Uncertain tax positions – December 31, 2015

$

217,000 

$

75,000 

$

240,000 

 

Included in the balance of uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2015 are $220,000 of tax benefits that if recognized would affect the tax rate.  There are no expected significant changes in the Company’s uncertain tax positions in the next twelve months.  The Company’s income tax liability accounts included accruals for interest and penalties of $4,000 at December 31, 2015.  The Company’s 2015 income tax expense decreased by $2,000 due to net decreases for accrued interest and penalties.

 

The Company’s federal and state tax returns and tax returns it has filed in Costa Rica and the United Kingdom are open for review going back to the 2012 tax year.


Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers
v5.17.1.24
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers [Abstract]  
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers

NOTE 12- INFORMATION CONCERNING INDUSTRY SEGMENTS AND MAJOR CUSTOMERS

 

The Company classifies its businesses into three segments as follows:

·

Suttle manufactures and markets connectivity infrastructure products for broadband and voice communications;

·

Transition Networks manufactures media converters, NIDs, NICs, Ethernet switches and other connectivity products that offer the ability to affordably integrate the benefits of fiber optics into any data network; and

·

JDL Technologies provides technology solutions including virtualization, managed services, wired and wireless network design and implementation services, and converged infrastructure configuration and deployment.

 

Management has chosen to organize the enterprise and disclose reportable segments based on products and services. Intersegment revenues are eliminated upon consolidation.  

 

Suttle products are sold principally to U.S. customers.  Suttle operates manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and Costa Rica.  Net long-lived assets held in foreign countries were approximately $2,932,000 and $2,810,000 at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.    Transition Networks manufactures its products in the United States and makes sales in both the U.S. and international markets.   JDL Technologies operates in the U.S. and makes sales in the U.S.  Consolidated sales to U.S. customers were approximately 81%,  86% and 87% of sales from continuing operations in 2015,  2014 and 2013 respectively.  In 2015, sales to one of Suttle’s customers accounted for 16.2% of consolidated sales and one of JDL’s customers accounted for 10.9% of consolidated sales. In 2014, sales to one of Suttle’s customers accounted for 33.6% of consolidated sales. In 2013, sales to one of JDL Technologies’ customers accounted for 17.5% of consolidated sales and one of Suttle’s customers accounted for 18.7% of consolidated sales.

 

Information concerning the Company’s operations in the various segments for the twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2015,  2014 and 2013 is as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

50,082,000 

$

42,570,000 

$

15,672,000 

$

 -

$

(654,000)

$

107,670,000 

Cost of sales

 

41,232,000 

 

24,088,000 

 

10,866,000 

 

 -

 

(62,000)

 

76,124,000 

Gross profit

 

8,850,000 

 

18,482,000 

 

4,806,000 

 

 -

 

(592,000)

 

31,546,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

15,285,000 

 

22,495,000 

 

3,635,000 

 

 -

 

(585,000)

 

40,830,000 

Pension settlement costs

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

1,222,000 

 

 -

 

1,222,000 

Operating (loss) income

$

(6,435,000)

$

(4,013,000)

$

1,171,000 

$

(1,222,000)

$

(7,000)

$

(10,506,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

2,125,000 

$

1,038,000 

$

150,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

3,313,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

1,710,000 

$

313,000 

$

263,000 

$

115,000 

$

(7,000)

$

2,394,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

38,163,000 

$

23,512,000 

$

5,964,000 

$

20,284,000 

$

(7,000)

$

87,916,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

67,331,000 

$

43,174,000 

$

8,567,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

119,072,000 

Cost of sales

 

46,339,000 

 

23,975,000 

 

6,599,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

76,913,000 

Gross profit

 

20,992,000 

 

19,199,000 

 

1,968,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

42,159,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

14,389,000 

 

21,393,000 

 

2,846,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

38,628,000 

Restructuring expense

 

 -

 

238,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

238,000 

Operating income (loss)

$

6,603,000 

$

(2,432,000)

$

(878,000)

$

 -

$

 -

$

3,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

1,386,000 

$

944,000 

$

152,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

2,482,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

4,471,000 

$

589,000 

$

43,000 

$

474,000 

$

 -

$

5,577,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

38,083,000 

$

26,508,000 

$

3,816,000 

$

31,879,000 

$

 -

$

100,286,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

54,346,000 

$

43,857,000 

$

33,117,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

131,320,000 

Cost of sales

 

38,535,000 

 

21,438,000 

 

26,448,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

86,421,000 

Gross profit

 

15,811,000 

 

22,419,000 

 

6,669,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

44,899,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

11,869,000 

 

21,581,000 

 

3,292,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

36,742,000 

Impairment

 

 -

 

5,850,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

5,850,000 

Restructuring expense

 

226,000 

 

779,000 

 

145,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

1,150,000 

Operating income (loss)

$

3,716,000 

$

(5,791,000)

$

3,232,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

1,157,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

1,044,000 

$

970,000 

$

171,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

2,185,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

1,215,000 

$

919,000 

$

46,000 

$

519,000 

$

 -

$

2,699,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

30,637,000 

$

29,440,000 

$

11,350,000 

$

32,106,000 

$

 -

$

103,533,000 

 


Fair Value Measurements
v5.17.1.24
Fair Value Measurements
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]  
Fair Value Measurements

NOTE 13 – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified using the following hierarchy, which is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation as of the measurement date: 

Level 1 – Observable inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2 – Observable inputs such as quoted prices for similar instruments and quoted prices in markets that are not active, and inputs that are directly observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 2 are typically either comparable to actively traded securities or contracts, such as treasury securities with pricing interpolated from recent trades of similar securities, or priced with models using highly observable inputs, such as commodity options priced using observable forward prices and volatilities.

Level 3 – Significant inputs to pricing that have little or no observability as of the reporting date. The types of assets and liabilities included in Level 3 are those with inputs requiring significant management judgment or estimation, such as the complex and subjective models and forecasts used to determine the fair value of financial instruments.

Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of December 31,  2015 and December 31, 2014, are summarized below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,944,000 

Subtotal

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

4,286,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,286,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 -

 

 

2,007,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

2,007,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued Consideration

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

(142,000)

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

1,944,000 

 

$

11,522,000 

 

$

(142,000)

 

$

13,324,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,073,000 

Subtotal

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 

 

 

2,683,000 

 

 

 

 

 

2,683,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

5,463,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,463,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 

 

 

6,077,000 

 

 

 

 

 

6,077,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

1,073,000 

 

$

16,143,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

17,216,000 

 

The estimated fair value of contingent consideration as of December 31, 2015 was $142,000, as noted above. The estimated fair value is considered a level 3 measurement because the probability weighted discounted cash flow methodology used to estimate fair value includes the use of significant unobservable inputs, primarily the contractual contingent consideration revenue targets and assumed probabilities. The change in the estimated contingent consideration during the year ended December 31, 2015 resulted in a gain of $21,000 included in operating income. The gains were the result of a change in future assumptions related to the contingent consideration. 

We record transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy, if necessary, at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between levels during 2015 and 2014.


Restructuring Charges
v5.17.1.24
Restructuring Charges
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]  
Restructuring Charges

NOTE 14RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company recorded $238,000 in restructuring expense.  This consisted of severance and related benefits costs due to the restructuring within the Transition Networks business segment, including ongoing costs related to the closure of the China facility.  The facility was completely closed in the second quarter of 2014. The Company had no  restructuring expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Austin Taylor has ceased operations and the Company is in the process of liquidating its Austin Taylor assets.  When this process is completed, the Company would recognize a significant portion of the accumulated foreign currency translations as a current period loss and would recognize the pension liability adjustment as a current period gain. 

 


Subsequent Events
v5.17.1.24
Subsequent Events
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]  
Subsequent Events

NOTE 15 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In January 2016, the Company sold the land and building associated with its Austin Taylor facility in the U.K.  The Company realized a gain on sale of assets of approximately $810,000 in the first quarter of 2016. 


Quarterly Operating Results
v5.17.1.24
Quarterly Operating Results
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Operating Results [Abstract]  
Quarterly Operating Results

Quarterly Operating Results

(in thousands except per share amounts)

Unaudited

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

March 31

 

June 30

 

Sep 30

 

Dec 31

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

19,545 

$

28,198 

$

32,246 

$

27,681 

Gross margins

 

4,887 

 

8,539 

 

10,424 

 

7,696 

Operating (loss) income

 

(5,691)

 

(1,718)

 

431 

 

(3,528)

Net (loss) income

 

(4,163)

 

(1,028)

 

1,284 

 

(5,741)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net (loss) income per share

$

(0.48)

$

(0.12)

$

0.15 

$

(0.66)

Diluted net (loss) income per share

$

(0.48)

$

(0.12)

$

0.15 

$

(0.66)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

25,198 

$

33,209 

$

33,434 

$

27,230 

Gross margins

 

8,988 

 

12,094 

 

12,013 

 

9,064 

Operating income (loss)

 

(252)

 

2,406 

 

2,658 

 

(1,519)

Net income (loss)

 

(141)

 

1,437 

 

1,695 

 

(1,029)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net income (loss) per share

$

(0.02)

$

0.17 

$

0.20 

$

(0.12)

Diluted net income (loss) per share

$

(0.02)

$

0.17 

$

0.20 

$

(0.12)

 

The Company recorded $1.2 million in pension settlement costs in operating expenses in the Consolidated Income Statement related to the wind up of the pension in the UK in the fourth quarter of 2015.  Additionally, the Company recorded a $3.7 million additional valuation allowance within income tax expense in the Consolidated Income Statement during the fourth quarter of 2015.


Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves
v5.17.1.24
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves [Abstract]  
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves

(in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at

 

Additions

 

Deductions

 

Balance

 

Beginning of

 

Charged to

 

from

 

at End

 

Period

 

Cost and

 

Reserves

 

of Period

Description

 

 

 

Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income Tax Valuation Allowance

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year ended:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

$

1,734 

 

$

3,934 

 

$

 -

 

$

5,668 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

$

1,618 

 

$

116 

 

$

 -

 

$

1,734 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2013

$

2,091 

 

$

 -

 

$

(473)

 

$

1,618 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Principles Of Consolidation

Principles of consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries.  All material intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated.

Use Of Estimates

Use of estimates: The presentation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company uses estimates based on the best information available in recording transactions and balances resulting from operations.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  The Company’s estimates consist principally of reserves for doubtful accounts, sales returns, warranty costs, asset impairment evaluations, accruals for compensation plans, self-insured medical and dental accruals, pension liabilities, lower of cost or market inventory adjustments, provisions for income taxes and deferred taxes and depreciable lives of fixed assets.

Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents: For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had $9,813,000 in cash and cash equivalents. Of this amount, $1,944,000 was invested in short-term money market funds that are not considered to be bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the federal deposit insurance company (FDIC) or other government agency. These money market funds seek to preserve the value of the investment at $1.00 per share; however, it is possible to lose money investing in these funds. The remainder is operating cash and certificates of deposit which are fully insured through the FDIC.

Investments

Investments: Investments consist of certificates of deposit, commercial paper, and corporate notes and bonds that are traded on the open market and are classified as available-for-sale at December 31, 2015. Available-for-sale investments are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses excluded from operations and reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of tax (see Accumulated other comprehensive loss below).

Inventories

Inventories: Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method. Provision to reduce inventories to the lower of cost or market is made based on a review of excess and obsolete inventories, estimates of future sales, examination of historical consumption rates and the related value of component parts.

Property, Plant And Equipment

Property, plant and equipment: Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost.  Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method.  Depreciation included in cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses for continuing operations was $3,212,000, $2,375,000 and $2,030,000 for 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations and additions or improvements are capitalized.  Items of property sold, retired or otherwise disposed of are removed from the asset and accumulated depreciation accounts and any gains or losses on disposal are reflected in operations.

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets: Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested at least annually for impairment.

Recoverability Of Long-Lived Assets

Recoverability of long-lived assets: The Company reviews its long-lived assets periodically when impairment indicators exist as required under generally accepted accounting principles. Potential impairment is determined by comparing the carrying value of the assets with expected net cash flows expected to be provided by operating activities of the business or related products.  If the sum of the expected future net cash flows is less than the carrying value, an impairment loss would be measured by comparing the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset.

Warranty

Warranty:  The Company reserves for the estimated cost of product warranties at the time revenue is recognized.  We estimate the costs of our warranty obligations based on our warranty policy or applicable contractual warranty, historical experience of known product failure rates, and use of materials and service delivery costs incurred in correcting product failures.  Management reviews the estimated warranty liability on a quarterly basis to determine its adequacy. 

 

The following table presents the changes in the Company’s warranty liability for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, which relate to normal product warranties and a five-year obligation to provide for potential future liabilities for certain network equipment sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Beginning balance

 

$

434,000 

 

$

564,000 

Amounts charged to expense

 

 

231,000 

 

 

(14,000)

Actual warranty costs paid

 

 

(111,000)

 

 

(116,000)

Ending balance

 

$

554,000 

 

$

434,000 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Accumulated other comprehensive loss: The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Minimum pension liability

 

$

4,148,000 

 

$

1,951,000 

Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments

 

 

(13,000)

 

 

(41,000)

Foreign currency translation

 

 

(4,801,000)

 

 

(2,605,000)

 

 

$

(666,000)

 

$

(695,000)

 

The functional currency of Austin Taylor and Patapsco is the British pound.  Assets and liabilities denominated in this foreign currency were translated into U.S. dollars at year-end exchange rates.  Revenue and expense transactions were translated using average exchange rates.  Suttle Costa Rica uses the U.S. dollar as their functional currency. 

Revenue Recognition

Revenue recognition: The Company’s manufacturing operations (Suttle and Transition Networks) recognize revenue when the earnings process is complete, evidenced by persuasive evidence of an agreement, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured.  Revenue is recognized for domestic and international sales at the shipping point or delivery to customers, based on the related shipping terms. Risk of loss transfers at the point of shipment or delivery to customers, and the Company has no further obligation after such time. Sales are made directly to customers and through distributors. Payment terms for distributors are consistent with the terms of the Company’s direct customers. The Company records a provision for sales returns, sales incentives and warranty costs at the time of the sale based on historical experience and current trends.


JDL generally records revenue on hardware, software and related equipment sales and installation contracts when the revenue recognition criteria are met and products are installed and accepted by the customer.  JDL records revenue on service contracts on a straight-line basis over the contract period, unless evidence suggests the revenue is earned in a different pattern. Each contract is individually reviewed to determine when the earnings process is complete.

Research And Development

Research and development: Research and development costs consist of outside testing services, equipment and supplies associated with enhancing existing products and developing new products.  Research and development costs are expensed when incurred and totaled $8,291,000 in 2015, $7,835,000 in 2014 and $2,760,000 in 2013.  

Net Income Per Share

Net income per share: Basic net income per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. Diluted net income per common share adjusts for the dilutive effect of potential common shares outstanding.  The Company’s only potential common shares outstanding are stock options and unvested shares, which resulted in a dilutive effect of 0 shares, 18,384 shares and 0 shares in 2015,  2014 and 2013, respectively.  The Company calculates the dilutive effect of outstanding options and unvested shares using the treasury stock method. The number of shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the options’ exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the year for 2015,  2014, and 2013 was 0,  243,427 and 0, respectively. Due to the net loss in 2015 and 2013, there was no dilutive impact from outstanding stock options or unvested shares. Options totaling 691,924 would have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for year ended December 31, 2015, because the exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the period and deferred stock awards totaling 95,668 shares would not have been included because of unmet performance conditions. Options totaling 169,437 would have been excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for year ended December 31, 2013, because the exercise price was greater than the average market price of common stock during the period and deferred stock awards totaling 177,886 shares would not have been included because of unmet performance conditions.

Share Based Compensation

Share based compensation: The Company accounts for share based compensation awards on a fair value basis. The estimated grant date fair value of each stock-based award is recognized in income over the requisite service period (generally the vesting period). The estimated fair value of each option is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.

Accounting Standards Issued

Accounting standards issued: 

In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued a new accounting standard update on revenue recognition from contracts with customers. The new guidance will replace all current U.S. GAAP guidance on this topic and eliminate all industry-specific guidance. According to the new guidance, revenue is recognized when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. As a result of the FASB’s July 2015 deferral of the standard’s required implementation date, the guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this standard on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard on inventory, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of inventory by requiring entities to measure inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value, except for inventory measured using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) or the retail inventory methods. This standard requires entities to compare the cost of inventory to one measure – net realizable value.  Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. The standard is effective for the annual period beginning after December 15, 2015 and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted, and is to be applied prospectively. The Company does not except the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standard on deferred taxes, which removes the requirement to present deferred tax assets and liabilities as current and noncurrent on the balance sheet based on the classification of the related asset or liability, and instead requires classification of all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent. This guidance will be effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and early adoption is permitted. Other than the prescribed classification of all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent, the Company does not expect the implementation of this standard to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Standards Adopted

Accounting standards adopted:

There have been no new accounting pronouncements or changes in accounting pronouncements adopted during the period that are of significance or potential significance to the Company.


Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Warranty

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Beginning balance

 

$

434,000 

 

$

564,000 

Amounts charged to expense

 

 

231,000 

 

 

(14,000)

Actual warranty costs paid

 

 

(111,000)

 

 

(116,000)

Ending balance

 

$

554,000 

 

$

434,000 

 

Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Minimum pension liability

 

$

4,148,000 

 

$

1,951,000 

Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments

 

 

(13,000)

 

 

(41,000)

Foreign currency translation

 

 

(4,801,000)

 

 

(2,605,000)

 

 

$

(666,000)

 

$

(695,000)

 


Cash Equivalents And Investments (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Cash Equivalents And Investments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Cash Equivalents And Investments [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Cash And Available-For-Sale Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

Amortized Cost

 

Gross Unrealized Gains

 

Gross Unrealized Losses

 

Fair Value

 

Cash Equivalents

 

Short-Term Investments

 

Long-Term Investments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Subtotal

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

5,493,000 

 

 

3,000 

 

 

(8,000)

 

 

5,488,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

 

 

4,286,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

6,056,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

(22,000)

 

 

6,034,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

 

 

2,007,000 

Subtotal

 

11,549,000 

 

 

3,000 

 

 

(30,000)

 

 

11,522,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

13,493,000 

 

$

3,000 

 

$

(30,000)

 

$

13,466,000 

 

$

1,944,000 

 

$

5,229,000 

 

$

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

Amortized Cost

 

Gross Unrealized Gains

 

Gross Unrealized Losses

 

Fair Value

 

Cash Equivalents

 

Short-Term Investments

 

Long-Term Investments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 

 

$

 

Subtotal

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

7,414,000 

 

 

1,000 

 

 

(32,000)

 

 

7,383,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

 

 

5,463,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

8,777,000 

 

 

6,000 

 

 

(23,000)

 

 

8,760,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

2,683,000 

 

 

6,077,000 

Subtotal

 

16,191,000 

 

 

7,000 

 

 

(55,000)

 

 

16,143,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

17,264,000 

 

$

7,000 

 

$

(55,000)

 

$

17,216,000 

 

$

1,073,000 

 

$

4,603,000 

 

$

11,540,000 

 

Schedule Of Estimated Fair Value Of Available-For-Sale Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortized Cost

 

Estimated Market Value

 

 

 

 

 

Due within one year

 

$  

5,237,000 

 

$

5,229,000 

Due after one year through five years

 

 

6,312,000 

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

11,549,000 

 

$

11,522,000 

 


Inventories (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Inventories (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Inventories [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Inventories

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

Finished goods

 

$         

14,112,000 

 

$

19,208,000 

Raw and processed materials

 

 

10,874,000 

 

 

11,902,000 

 

 

$

24,986,000 

 

$

31,110,000 

 


Property, Plant And Equipment (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Property, Plant And Equipment (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant And Equipment [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Property, Plant And Equipment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated

 

December 31

 

useful life

 

2015

 

2014

Land

 

 

 

 

 

$

3,099,000 

 

$

3,107,000 

Buildings and improvements

7-40 years

 

 

9,422,000 

 

 

8,523,000 

Machinery and equipment

3-15 years

 

 

28,985,000 

 

 

28,728,000 

Furniture and fixtures

5-10 years

 

 

5,225,000 

 

 

3,490,000 

Construction in progress

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,166,000 

 

 

1,925,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

47,897,000 

 

 

45,773,000 

Less accumulated depreciation

 

 

 

 

 

 

(30,429,000)

 

 

(27,620,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

17,468,000 

 

$

18,153,000 

 


Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Changes In Carrying Value Of Goodwill

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JDL

 

 

 

 

January 1, 2015

 

$

 -

 

 

 

 

Goodwill acquired

 

 

1,463,000 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

$

1,463,000 

 

 

 

 

Gross goodwill

 

 

1,463,000 

Accumulated impairment loss

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2015

 

$

1,463,000 

 

Schedule Of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

Accumulated Amortization

Foreign Currency Translation

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trademarks

 

91,000  (48,000) (8,000) 35,000 

Customer relationships

 

491,000  (197,000) (46,000) 248,000 

Technology

 

229,000  (183,000) (22,000) 24,000 

 

 

811,000  (428,000) (76,000) 307,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

 

Gross Carrying Amount

Accumulated Amortization

Foreign Currency Translation

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trademarks

 

91,000  (38,000) (4,000) 49,000 

Customer relationships

 

491,000  (159,000) (26,000) 306,000 

Technology

 

229,000  (149,000) (11,000) 69,000 

 

 

811,000  (346,000) (41,000) 424,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Schedule Of Estimated Future Amortization Expense

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ending December 31:

 

 

 

2016

 

$  

84,000 

2017

 

 

59,000 

2018

 

 

54,000 

2019

 

 

47,000 

2020

 

 

47,000 

 


Employee Retirement Benefits (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Summary Of The Balance Sheet Impact, Including Benefit Obligations, Assets And Funded Status Of The Pension Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year

 

$         

3,584,000 

 

$

3,340,000 

Service cost

 

 

50,000 

 

 

8,000 

Interest cost

 

 

122,000 

 

 

143,000 

Actuarial (gains)/losses

 

 

(193,000)

 

 

363,000 

Benefits paid

 

 

(117,000)

 

 

(78,000)

Changes due to plan settlement

 

 

(534,000)

 

 

 -

Foreign currency gains

 

 

(163,000)

 

 

(192,000)

Benefit obligation at the end of the year

 

 

2,749,000 

 

 

3,584,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in plan assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

 

 

3,756,000 

 

 

3,645,000 

Actual return on plan assets

 

 

172,000 

 

 

340,000 

Employer contributions

 

 

703,000 

 

 

59,000 

Benefits paid

 

 

(117,000)

 

 

(78,000)

Changes due to plan settlement

 

 

(1,720,000)

 

 

 -

Foreign currency losses

 

 

(171,000)

 

 

(210,000)

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

 

 

2,623,000 

 

 

3,756,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status at end of year – net (liability) asset

 

$

(126,000)

 

$

172,000 

 

Weighted Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Periodic Pension Costs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discount rate

 

 

3.9% 

 

 

3.6% 

Expected return on assets

 

 

3.9% 

 

 

3.6% 

 

Summary Of Components Of Net Periodic (Benefit) Cost

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

Service cost

 

$

50,000 

 

$

8,000 

 

$

5,000 

Interest cost

 

 

122,000 

 

 

143,000 

 

 

186,000 

Expected return on assets

 

 

(162,000)

 

 

(188,000)

 

 

(229,000)

Plan settlement costs

 

 

1,720,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

211,000 

Net periodic pension cost (benefit)

 

$

1,730,000 

 

$

(37,000)

 

$

173,000 

 


Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Commitments And Contingencies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Contingencies [Abstract]  
Minimum Future Lease Payments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ending December 31:

 

 

 

2016

 

$  

251,000 

2017

 

 

114,000 

2018

 

 

85,000 

2019

 

 

24,000 

 

 

474,000 

 


Stock Compensation (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Stock Compensation [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Changes In Number Of Outstanding Stock Options Under Director Plan, Stock Plan And 2011 Incentive Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average

 

Weighted average

 

 

 

exercise price

 

remaining

 

Options

 

per share

 

contractual term

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

311,153 

 

$

 

12.05 

 

4.99 years

Awarded

169,550 

 

 

 

10.19 

 

 

Exercised

(15,000)

 

 

 

7.35 

 

 

Forfeited

(156,264)

 

 

 

11.25 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

309,439 

 

$

 

11.66 

 

4.13 years

Awarded

317,722 

 

 

 

12.30 

 

 

Exercised

(12,000)

 

 

 

8.28 

 

 

Forfeited

(74,757)

 

 

 

13.20 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

540,404 

 

$

 

11.90 

 

5.13 years

Awarded

248,258 

 

 

 

11.31 

 

 

Exercised

(12,000)

 

 

 

10.21 

 

 

Forfeited

(54,738)

 

 

 

12.21 

 

 

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

721,924 

 

 

 

11.70 

 

4.89 years

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excercisable at December 31, 2015

297,439 

 

$

 

11.73 

 

3.58 years

Expected to vest December 31, 2015

721,924 

 

 

 

11.70 

 

4.89 years

 

Valuation Assumptions Of Stock Option Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Expected volatility

30.7% 

 

31.4% 

 

31.8% 

Risk free interest rate

1.6% 

 

2.7% 

 

2.1% 

Expected holding period

6 years

 

6 years

 

6 years

Dividend yield

5.7% 

 

5.2% 

 

6.3% 

 

Summary Of The Status Of Stock Options Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

Remaining

 

Average

Range of Exercise Prices

 

Shares

 

Option Life

 

Exercise Price

$8.65 to $9.99

 

30,000 

 

2.2 years

 

 

9.68 

$10.00 to $12.00

 

506,734 

 

5.4 years

 

 

11.30 

$12.01 to $14.50

 

185,190 

 

4 years

 

 

13.14 

 

Schedule Of Changes In The Number Of Deferred Stock Shares Under The Stock Plan And Incentive Plan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Date

 

 

 

Shares

 

Fair Value

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

 

 

160,790 

 

$

14.16 

Granted

 

 

222,654 

 

 

10.08 

Vested

 

 

(1,849)

 

 

14.82 

Forfeited

 

 

(181,455)

 

 

12.11 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

 

 

200,140 

 

 

11.47 

Granted

 

 

48,824 

 

 

12.52 

Vested

 

 

(16,754)

 

 

13.81 

Forfeited

 

 

(70,896)

 

 

13.02 

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

 

 

161,314 

 

 

10.87 

Granted

 

 

103,017 

 

 

11.52 

Vested

 

 

(18,940)

 

 

12.37 

Forfeited

 

 

(118,964)

 

 

10.27 

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

 

 

126,427 

 

 

11.73 

 

Schedule Of Changes In Restricted Stock Units Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted Average

 

 

 

 

 

Grant Date

 

 

 

Shares

 

Fair Value

Outstanding – December 31, 2012

 

 

25,879 

 

$

10.82 

Granted

 

 

31,354 

 

 

10.05 

Vested

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Forfeited

 

 

(4,040)

 

 

9.90 

Outstanding – December 31, 2013

 

 

53,193 

 

 

10.44 

Granted

 

 

13,973 

 

 

11.98 

Vested

 

 

(28,015)

 

 

10.89 

Forfeited

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Outstanding – December 31, 2014

 

 

39,151 

 

 

10.67 

Granted

 

 

20,979 

 

 

11.06 

Vested

 

 

(27,314)

 

 

10.08 

Forfeited

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

Outstanding – December 31, 2015

 

 

32,816 

 

 

11.41 

 


Income Taxes (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]  
Income Tax Expense By Jurisdiction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Currently payable income taxes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

(3,142,000)

 

$

328,000 

 

$

2,114,000 

State

 

 

(85,000)

 

 

(12,000)

 

 

297,000 

Foreign

 

 

254,000 

 

 

113,000 

 

 

(32,000)

 

 

 

(2,973,000)

 

 

429,000 

 

$

2,379,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred income taxes (benefit):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Federal

 

$

2,191,000 

 

$

761,000 

 

$

(303,000)

State

 

 

38,000 

 

 

40,000 

 

 

18,000 

Foreign

 

 

(9,000)

 

 

(11,000)

 

 

(33,000)

 

 

 

2,220,000 

 

 

790,000 

 

 

(318,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

(753,000)

 

$

1,219,000 

 

$

2,061,000 

 

Reconciliation Of Effective Tax Rate, By Percentage

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Tax at U.S. statutory rate

 

35.0% 

 

35.0% 

 

35.0% 

Surtax exemption

 

(1.1)

 

(0.7)

 

(5.4)

State income taxes, net of federal benefit

 

0.6 

 

1.0 

 

19.1 

Foreign income taxes, net of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 foreign tax credits

 

(3.6)

 

7.8 

 

3.3 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 -

 

 -

 

116.2 

Other nondeductible items

 

0.0 

 

3.1 

 

4.9 

Effect of (decrease) increase in uncertain tax positions

 

(1.4)

 

(10.2)

 

7.3 

Federal credits

 

15.1 

 

 -

 

 -

Change in valuation allowance

 

(35.2)

 

 -

 

 -

Other

 

(2.2)

 

2.3 

 

6.4 

Effective tax rate

 

7.2% 

 

38.3% 

 

186.8% 

 

Schedule Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

 

2014

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts

$

41,000 

 

$

4,000 

Inventory

 

2,016,000 

 

 

2,779,000 

Accrued and prepaid expenses

 

440,000 

 

 

594,000 

Domestic net operating loss carry-forward

 

1,208,000 

 

 

 -

Long-term compensation plans

 

351,000 

 

 

380,000 

Nonemployee director stock compensation

 

554,000 

 

 

403,000 

Other stock compensation

 

195,000 

 

 

118,000 

Foreign net operating loss carry-forwards and credits

 

2,008,000 

 

 

1,743,000 

Federal and state credits

 

927,000 

 

 

 -

Other

 

30,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross deferred tax assets

 

7,770,000 

 

 

6,021,000 

Valuation allowance

 

(5,668,000)

 

 

(1,734,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

 

2,102,000 

 

 

4,287,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

(2,141,000)

 

 

(2,110,000)

Intangible assets

 

(22,000)

 

 

(18,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax liability

 

(2,163,000)

 

 

(2,128,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total net deferred tax (liability) asset

$

(61,000)

 

$

2,159,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Schedule Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2015

 

2014

 

2013

Uncertain tax positions – January 1

$

75,000 

$

240,000 

$

153,000 

Gross increases - tax positions in prior period

 

142,000 

 

 

Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period

 

 

(73,000)

 

Gross increases - current period tax positions

 

 

 

158,000 

Settlements

 

 

(85,000)

 

(5,000)

Expiration of statute of limitations

 

 

(7,000)

 

(66,000)

Uncertain tax positions – December 31, 2015

$

217,000 

$

75,000 

$

240,000 

 


Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Segment Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

50,082,000 

$

42,570,000 

$

15,672,000 

$

 -

$

(654,000)

$

107,670,000 

Cost of sales

 

41,232,000 

 

24,088,000 

 

10,866,000 

 

 -

 

(62,000)

 

76,124,000 

Gross profit

 

8,850,000 

 

18,482,000 

 

4,806,000 

 

 -

 

(592,000)

 

31,546,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

15,285,000 

 

22,495,000 

 

3,635,000 

 

 -

 

(585,000)

 

40,830,000 

Pension settlement costs

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

1,222,000 

 

 -

 

1,222,000 

Operating (loss) income

$

(6,435,000)

$

(4,013,000)

$

1,171,000 

$

(1,222,000)

$

(7,000)

$

(10,506,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

2,125,000 

$

1,038,000 

$

150,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

3,313,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

1,710,000 

$

313,000 

$

263,000 

$

115,000 

$

(7,000)

$

2,394,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

38,163,000 

$

23,512,000 

$

5,964,000 

$

20,284,000 

$

(7,000)

$

87,916,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

67,331,000 

$

43,174,000 

$

8,567,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

119,072,000 

Cost of sales

 

46,339,000 

 

23,975,000 

 

6,599,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

76,913,000 

Gross profit

 

20,992,000 

 

19,199,000 

 

1,968,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

42,159,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

14,389,000 

 

21,393,000 

 

2,846,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

38,628,000 

Restructuring expense

 

 -

 

238,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

238,000 

Operating income (loss)

$

6,603,000 

$

(2,432,000)

$

(878,000)

$

 -

$

 -

$

3,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

1,386,000 

$

944,000 

$

152,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

2,482,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

4,471,000 

$

589,000 

$

43,000 

$

474,000 

$

 -

$

5,577,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

38,083,000 

$

26,508,000 

$

3,816,000 

$

31,879,000 

$

 -

$

100,286,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Transition

 

JDL

 

 

 

Intersegment

 

 

 

 

Suttle

 

Networks

 

Technologies

 

Other

 

Eliminations

 

Total

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

54,346,000 

$

43,857,000 

$

33,117,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

131,320,000 

Cost of sales

 

38,535,000 

 

21,438,000 

 

26,448,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

86,421,000 

Gross profit

 

15,811,000 

 

22,419,000 

 

6,669,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

44,899,000 

Selling, general and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 administrative expenses

 

11,869,000 

 

21,581,000 

 

3,292,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

36,742,000 

Impairment

 

 -

 

5,850,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

 -

 

5,850,000 

Restructuring expense

 

226,000 

 

779,000 

 

145,000 

 

 -

 

 -

 

1,150,000 

Operating income (loss)

$

3,716,000 

$

(5,791,000)

$

3,232,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

1,157,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

$

1,044,000 

$

970,000 

$

171,000 

$

 -

$

 -

$

2,185,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

$

1,215,000 

$

919,000 

$

46,000 

$

519,000 

$

 -

$

2,699,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

$

30,637,000 

$

29,440,000 

$

11,350,000 

$

32,106,000 

$

 -

$

103,533,000 

 


Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,944,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,944,000 

Subtotal

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,944,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,202,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,027,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,229,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

4,286,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,286,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 -

 

 

2,007,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

2,007,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

6,293,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued Consideration

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

(142,000)

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

(142,000)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

1,944,000 

 

$

11,522,000 

 

$

(142,000)

 

$

13,324,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

December 31, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

 

Total Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money Market funds

$

1,073,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

 -

 

$

1,073,000 

Subtotal

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

 -

 

 

1,073,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

1,920,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 

 

 

2,683,000 

 

 

 

 

 

2,683,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

4,603,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certificates of deposit

 

 -

 

 

5,463,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

5,463,000 

Corporate Notes/Bonds

 

 

 

 

6,077,000 

 

 

 

 

 

6,077,000 

Subtotal

 

 -

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 -

 

 

11,540,000 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

$

1,073,000 

 

$

16,143,000 

 

$

 -

 

$

17,216,000 

 


Quarterly Operating Results (Tables)
v5.17.1.24
Quarterly Operating Results (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Operating Results [Abstract]  
Schedule Of Quarterly Operating Results

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quarter Ended

 

 

March 31

 

June 30

 

Sep 30

 

Dec 31

2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

19,545 

$

28,198 

$

32,246 

$

27,681 

Gross margins

 

4,887 

 

8,539 

 

10,424 

 

7,696 

Operating (loss) income

 

(5,691)

 

(1,718)

 

431 

 

(3,528)

Net (loss) income

 

(4,163)

 

(1,028)

 

1,284 

 

(5,741)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net (loss) income per share

$

(0.48)

$

(0.12)

$

0.15 

$

(0.66)

Diluted net (loss) income per share

$

(0.48)

$

(0.12)

$

0.15 

$

(0.66)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

$

25,198 

$

33,209 

$

33,434 

$

27,230 

Gross margins

 

8,988 

 

12,094 

 

12,013 

 

9,064 

Operating income (loss)

 

(252)

 

2,406 

 

2,658 

 

(1,519)

Net income (loss)

 

(141)

 

1,437 

 

1,695 

 

(1,029)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic net income (loss) per share

$

(0.02)

$

0.17 

$

0.20 

$

(0.12)

Diluted net income (loss) per share

$

(0.02)

$

0.17 

$

0.20 

$

(0.12)

 


Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
segment
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]        
Number of segments 3us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments      
Cash and cash equivalents $ 9,812,737us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue $ 13,736,857us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue $ 20,059,120us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue $ 17,869,712us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
Money market funds 1,944,000us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsAtCarryingValue      
Value of the investment in short-term money market funds sought to be preserved (in dollars per share) $ 1.00jcs_ValueOfInvestmentInShortTermMoneyMarketFundsSoughtToBePreservedInDollarsPerShare      
Depreciation 3,212,000us-gaap_Depreciation 2,375,000us-gaap_Depreciation 2,030,000us-gaap_Depreciation  
Product warranty period 5 years      
Research and development costs $ 8,291,000us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense $ 7,835,000us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense $ 2,760,000us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense  
Dilutive shares 0us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment 18,384us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment 0us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment  
Shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share 0us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount 243,427us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount 0us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount  
Employee Stock Option [Member]        
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]        
Shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share 691,924us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount
/ us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis
= us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember
  169,437us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount
/ us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis
= us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember
 
Deferred Stock Awards [Member]        
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]        
Shares not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share 95,668us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount
/ us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis
= jcs_DeferredStockAwardsMember
  177,886us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount
/ us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis
= jcs_DeferredStockAwardsMember
 

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Warranty) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Warranty) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Beginning Balance $ 434us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual $ 564us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual
Amounts charged to expense 231us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrualPreexistingIncreaseDecrease (14)us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrualPreexistingIncreaseDecrease
Actual warranty costs paid (111)us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrualPayments (116)us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrualPayments
Ending balance $ 554us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual $ 434us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss) (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]    
Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (666,382)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax $ (695,158)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
Minimum Pension Liability [Member]    
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]    
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 4,148,000us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentMember
1,951,000us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentMember
Unrealized Loss On Available-For-Sale Investments [Member]    
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]    
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (13,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedNetUnrealizedInvestmentGainLossMember
(41,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedNetUnrealizedInvestmentGainLossMember
Foreign Currency Translation [Member]    
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]    
Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (4,801,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedTranslationAdjustmentMember
$ (2,605,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AccumulatedTranslationAdjustmentMember

Cash Equivalents And Investments (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Cash Equivalents And Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Cash Equivalents And Investments [Abstract]    
Gross realized gains (losses) $ 0us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGainLossNet $ 0us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGainLossNet

Cash Equivalents And Investments (Schedule Of Cash And Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Cash Equivalents And Investments (Schedule Of Cash And Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost $ 13,493,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost $ 17,264,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
Gross Unrealized Gains 3,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax 7,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
Gross Unrealized Losses (30,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax (55,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
Fair Value 13,466,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities 17,216,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
Cash Equivalents 1,944,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue 1,073,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
Short-Term Investments 5,228,668us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments 4,602,717us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
Long-Term Investments 6,293,505us-gaap_LongTermInvestments 11,540,261us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
Cash Equivalents [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 1,944,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
Fair Value 1,944,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
Cash Equivalents 1,944,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
Cash Equivalents [Member] | Money Market Funds [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 1,944,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
Fair Value 1,944,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
Cash Equivalents 1,944,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
1,073,000us-gaap_CashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
Investments [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 11,549,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
16,191,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Gross Unrealized Gains 3,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
7,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Gross Unrealized Losses (30,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
(55,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Fair Value 11,522,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
16,143,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Short-Term Investments 5,229,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
4,603,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Long-Term Investments 6,293,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
11,540,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
Investments [Member] | Certificates Of Deposit [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 5,493,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
7,414,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Gross Unrealized Gains 3,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
1,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Gross Unrealized Losses (8,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
(32,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Fair Value 5,488,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
7,383,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Short-Term Investments 1,202,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
1,920,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Long-Term Investments 4,286,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
5,463,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Investments [Member] | Corporate Notes/Bonds [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 6,056,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
8,777,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Gross Unrealized Gains   6,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedGainBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Gross Unrealized Losses (22,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
(23,000)us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAccumulatedGrossUnrealizedLossBeforeTax
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Fair Value 6,034,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
8,760,000us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Short-Term Investments 4,027,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
2,683,000us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Long-Term Investments $ 2,007,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
$ 6,077,000us-gaap_LongTermInvestments
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember

Cash Equivalents And Investments (Schedule Of Estimated Fair Value Of Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Cash Equivalents And Investments (Schedule Of Estimated Fair Value Of Available-For-Sale Securities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value $ 13,466us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities $ 17,216us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
Investments [Member]    
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]    
Due within one year, Amortized Cost 5,237us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesNextRollingTwelveMonthsAmortizedCostBasis
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
 
Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost 6,312us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesRollingYearTwoThroughFiveAmortizedCostBasis
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
 
Amortized Cost 11,549us-gaap_AvailableForSaleDebtSecuritiesAmortizedCostBasis
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
 
Due within one year, Fair Value 5,229us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
 
Due after one year through five years, Fair Value 6,293us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
 
Fair Value $ 11,522us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember
$ 16,143us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_InvestmentsMember

Inventories (Schedule Of Inventories) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Inventories (Schedule Of Inventories) (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Inventories [Abstract]    
Finished goods $ 14,112,000us-gaap_InventoryFinishedGoods $ 19,208,000us-gaap_InventoryFinishedGoods
Raw and processed materials 10,874,000us-gaap_InventoryWorkInProcessAndRawMaterials 11,902,000us-gaap_InventoryWorkInProcessAndRawMaterials
Total $ 24,985,560us-gaap_InventoryNet $ 31,109,653us-gaap_InventoryNet

Property, Plant And Equipment (Schedule Of Property, Plant And Equipment) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Property, Plant And Equipment (Schedule Of Property, Plant And Equipment) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 47,897,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross $ 45,773,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
Less accumulated depreciation (30,429,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment (27,620,000)us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment
Property, plant and equipment, net 17,468,420us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet 18,153,152us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet
Land [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 3,099,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
3,107,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LandMember
Buildings And Improvements [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 9,422,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
8,523,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember
Machinery And Equipment [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 28,985,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_MachineryAndEquipmentMember
28,728,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_MachineryAndEquipmentMember
Furniture And Fixtures [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 5,225,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember
3,490,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember
Construction In Progress [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property, plant and equipment 1,166,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember
$ 1,925,000us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross
/ us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis
= us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember
Minimum [Member] | Buildings And Improvements [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 7 years  
Minimum [Member] | Machinery And Equipment [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 3 years  
Minimum [Member] | Furniture And Fixtures [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 5 years  
Maximum [Member] | Buildings And Improvements [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 40 years  
Maximum [Member] | Machinery And Equipment [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 15 years  
Maximum [Member] | Furniture And Fixtures [Member]    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Estimated useful life 10 years  

Acquisition (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Acquisition (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
0 Months Ended
Jun. 01, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Contingent consideration at fair value   $ 142,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationLiability  
Goodwill   1,462,503us-gaap_Goodwill   
Twisted Technologies, Inc. [Member]      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Total purchase price of acquired entity 1,463,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
   
Cash acquired in acquisition 83,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
   
Business acquisition, initial cash consideration paid 1,000,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
   
Business acquisition, deferred consideration 300,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredLiabilitiesIncurred
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
   
Business Combination, Liabilities Arising from Contingencies, Amount Recognized   442,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationLiabilitiesArisingFromContingenciesAmountRecognized
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
 
Contingent consideration at fair value 163,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationLiability
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
   
Business acquisition, fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed   1,591,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
 
Goodwill   1,463,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
 
Business acquisition, liabilities   $ 128,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= jcs_TwistedTechnologiesInc.Member
 

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]      
Amortization expense $ 101us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets $ 107us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets $ 102us-gaap_AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Changes In Carrying Value Of Goodwill) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Changes In Carrying Value Of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Line Items]    
January 1, 2015     
Goodwill acquired 1,463,000us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod  
Impairment loss   (5,849,853)us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
December 31, 2015 1,462,503us-gaap_Goodwill  
Gross goodwill 1,463,000us-gaap_GoodwillGross  
Accumulated impairment loss     
Balance at December 31, 2015 1,462,503us-gaap_Goodwill  
Transition Networks [Member]    
Goodwill [Line Items]    
Impairment loss   $ (5,850,000)us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount $ 811us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross $ 811us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
Accumulated Amortization (428)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization (346)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
Foreign Currency Translation (76)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation (41)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
Net 307us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet 424us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
Trademarks [Member]    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 91us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
91us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
Accumulated Amortization (48)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
(38)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
Foreign Currency Translation (8)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
(4)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
Net 35us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
49us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_TrademarksMember
Customer Relationships [Member]    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 491us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
491us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
Accumulated Amortization (197)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
(159)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
Foreign Currency Translation (46)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
(26)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
Net 248us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
306us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_CustomerRelationshipsMember
Technology [Member]    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 229us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
229us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
Accumulated Amortization (183)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
(149)us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
Foreign Currency Translation (22)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
(11)jcs_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsForeignCurrencyTranslation
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
Net $ 24us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember
$ 69us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet
/ us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis
= us-gaap_UnpatentedTechnologyMember

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Estimated Future Amortization Expense) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Schedule Of Estimated Future Amortization Expense) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]  
2016 $ 84us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseNextTwelveMonths
2017 59us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearTwo
2018 54us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearThree
2019 47us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFour
2020 $ 47us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpenseYearFive

Employee Retirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
employee
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Maximum matching percentage by employer 6.00%us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanMaximumAnnualContributionsPerEmployeePercent    
Contributions to the plan $ 591,000us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount $ 528,000us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount $ 457,000us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount
Expected contributions in 2016 70,000us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlansEstimatedFutureEmployerContributionsInNextFiscalYear    
Settlement contribution amount 650,000jcs_DefinedBenefitPlanSettlementContributionAmount    
Percentage of settlement contributed 95.00%jcs_DefinedBenefitPlanSettlementContributionPercentage    
Pension settlement costs 1,222,276us-gaap_OtherNonrecurringExpense    
Number of active employees covered by U.K. based subsidiary Austin Taylor 2us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanNumberOfEmployeesCovered    
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Investments used to fund the plan $ 2,623,000us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountOfEmployerAndRelatedPartySecuritiesIncludedInPlanAssets
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
$ 3,756,000us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmountOfEmployerAndRelatedPartySecuritiesIncludedInPlanAssets
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
 

Employee Retirement Benefits (Summary Of The Balance Sheet Impact, Including Benefit Obligations, Assets And Funded Status Of The Pension Plan) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits (Summary Of The Balance Sheet Impact, Including Benefit Obligations, Assets And Funded Status Of The Pension Plan) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Retirement Benefits [Abstract]      
Benefit obligation at the beginning of the year $ 3,584us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation $ 3,340us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation  
Service cost 50us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost 8us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost
Interest cost 122us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost 143us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost 186us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost
Actuarial (gains)/losses (193)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActuarialGainLoss 363us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActuarialGainLoss  
Benefits paid (117)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid (78)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid  
Changes due to plan settlement (534)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanSettlementsBenefitObligation    
Foreign currency gains (163)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesBenefitObligation (192)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesBenefitObligation  
Benefit obligation at the end of the year 2,749us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation 3,584us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation 3,340us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitObligation
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 3,756us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets 3,645us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets  
Actual return on plan assets 172us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssets 340us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanActualReturnOnPlanAssets  
Employer contributions 703us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer 59us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanContributionsByEmployer  
Benefits paid (117)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid (78)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanBenefitsPaid  
Changes due to plan settlements (1,720)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanSettlementsPlanAssets    
Foreign currency losses (171)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesPlanAssets (210)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanForeignCurrencyExchangeRateChangesPlanAssets  
Fair value of plan assets at end of year 2,623us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets 3,756us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets 3,645us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssets
Funded status at end of year - net (liability) asset $ (126)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlan $ 172us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFundedStatusOfPlan  

Employee Retirement Benefits (Weighted Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Periodic Pension Costs) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits (Weighted Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Periodic Pension Costs) (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Retirement Benefits [Abstract]    
Discount rate 3.90%us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRate 3.60%us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostDiscountRate
Expected return on plan assets 3.90%us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets 3.60%us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAssumptionsUsedCalculatingNetPeriodicBenefitCostExpectedLongTermReturnOnAssets

Employee Retirement Benefits (Summary Of Components Of Net Periodic (Benefit) Cost) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Employee Retirement Benefits (Summary Of Components Of Net Periodic (Benefit) Cost) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Retirement Benefits [Abstract]      
Service cost $ 50us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost $ 8us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost $ 5us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanServiceCost
Interest cost 122us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost 143us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost 186us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanInterestCost
Expected return on assets (162)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets (188)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets (229)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanExpectedReturnOnPlanAssets
Plan settlement costs 1,720us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanRecognizedNetGainLossDueToSettlements1    
Amortization of prior service cost     211us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanAmortizationOfPriorServiceCostCredit
Net periodic pension cost (benefit) $ 1,730us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost $ (37)us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost $ 173us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanNetPeriodicBenefitCost

Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Mar. 10, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Rent expense $ 517,000us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet $ 546,000us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet $ 409,000us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseNet  
Accrued (income)/expense for long-term compensation plans 0us-gaap_OtherLaborRelatedExpenses 0us-gaap_OtherLaborRelatedExpenses (124,000)us-gaap_OtherLaborRelatedExpenses  
Accrual for long-term compensation plans 0us-gaap_AccruedEmployeeBenefitsCurrentAndNoncurrent 0us-gaap_AccruedEmployeeBenefitsCurrentAndNoncurrent    
Long-term compensation plan, payments for awards 0jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPaymentsForAwards 199,000jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPaymentsForAwards 27,000jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPaymentsForAwards  
Long-term compensation plan, percentage paid out in cash, cycle 1 25.00%jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPercentagePaidOutInCashCycle1      
Long-term compensation plan, percentage paid out in stock, cycle 1 75.00%jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPercentagePaidOutInStockCycle1      
Long-term compensation plan, percentage paid out in stock, cycle 2 100.00%jcs_LongTermCompensationPlanPercentagePaidOutInStockCycle2      
Accrued Employee Benefits 0us-gaap_AccruedEmployeeBenefitsCurrentAndNoncurrent 0us-gaap_AccruedEmployeeBenefitsCurrentAndNoncurrent    
Mortgage [Member]        
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Interest rate 6.83%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_MortgagesMember
     
Outstanding balance on the mortgage 104,000us-gaap_LongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_MortgagesMember
     
Line of Credit [Member]        
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Line of credit, amount outstanding 0us-gaap_LineOfCredit
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
0us-gaap_LineOfCredit
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
   
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity 10,000,000us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
     
Line of credit, basis spread on variable rate 1.50%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
     
Line of credit facility, interest rate at period end 1.90%us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateAtPeriodEnd
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
     
Investments pledged against line of credit 5,000,000jcs_LineOfCreditFacilityInvestmentsPledgedAgainstLineOfCredit
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_LineOfCreditMember
     
Subsequent Event [Member] | Mortgage [Member]        
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Payment to settle mortgage       $ 104,000us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis
= us-gaap_MortgagesMember
/ us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis
= us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember
Maximum [Member]        
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Operating lease terms 5 years      
Minimum [Member]        
Commitments and Contingencies [Line Items]        
Operating lease terms 1 year      

Commitments And Contingencies (Minimum Future Lease Payments) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Commitments And Contingencies (Minimum Future Lease Payments) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Contingencies [Abstract]  
2016 $ 251us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent
2017 114us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears
2018 85us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears
2019 24us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears
Total minimum future lease payments $ 474us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue

Stock Compensation (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 1 Months Ended 0 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2016
May 21, 2015
Dec. 31, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Number of options outstanding 721,924us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 540,404us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 309,439us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber     311,153us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber
Unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options $ 370,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions          
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding 0us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue          
Intrinsic value of all options exercised 10,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue 40,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue 38,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue      
Net cash proceeds from exercise of stock options 0us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationCashReceivedFromExerciseOfStockOptions 99,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationCashReceivedFromExerciseOfStockOptions 110,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationCashReceivedFromExerciseOfStockOptions      
Excess tax benefits from exercise of stock options 4,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions 14,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions 14,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions      
Share based compensation expense before income taxes 899,000us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense 785,000us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense (81,000)us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense      
Share based compensation expense after income taxes 584,000us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpenseNetOfTax 510,000us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpenseNetOfTax (53,000)us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpenseNetOfTax      
Shares of ESOP allocated to accounts of eligible employees 577,965us-gaap_EmployeeStockOwnershipPlanESOPNumberOfAllocatedShares          
Shares issued under ESOP 37,640us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan 32,520us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan        
ESOP contributions 467,731us-gaap_EmployeeStockOwnershipPlanESOPCashContributionsToESOP 395,220us-gaap_EmployeeStockOwnershipPlanESOPCashContributionsToESOP 362,273us-gaap_EmployeeStockOwnershipPlanESOPCashContributionsToESOP      
Scenario, Forecast [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Shares issued under ESOP       60,197us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockOwnershipPlan
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember
   
2011 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Number of awards authorized         1,000,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
 
Number of additional awards authorized         2,000,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfAdditionalSharesAuthorized
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
 
Number of options granted 248,258us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
         
Award expiration period 7 years          
Awards eligible for grant 1,120,376us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
         
Shares issued under Plan 95,465us-gaap_SharesIssued
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
         
Number of options outstanding 784,159us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
         
2011 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 25.00%us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
/ us-gaap_VestingAxis
= us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember
         
1992 Stock Plan [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards eligible for grant 22,008us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_NineteenNinetyTwoStockPlanMember
         
Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting period 6 years          
Initial award vesting period 2 years          
Requisite service period 1 year          
Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Member] | Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Award vesting percentage 20.00%us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_EmployeeStockOwnershipPlanMember
/ us-gaap_VestingAxis
= us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationAwardTrancheOneMember
         
Non-Employee Directors [Member] | Stock Option Plan For Directors [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Number of options granted 0us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_StockOptionPlanForDirectorsMember
/ us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis
= jcs_NonEmployeeDirectorsMember
0us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_StockOptionPlanForDirectorsMember
/ us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis
= jcs_NonEmployeeDirectorsMember
0us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_StockOptionPlanForDirectorsMember
/ us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis
= jcs_NonEmployeeDirectorsMember
     
Award expiration period 10 years          
Number of shares automatically granted to each non-employee director 3,000jcs_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsAutomaticallyGrantedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_StockOptionPlanForDirectorsMember
/ us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis
= jcs_NonEmployeeDirectorsMember
         
Employee Stock Option [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense 2 years 2 months 12 days          
Deferred Stock [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards granted 103,017us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
48,824us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
222,654us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
     
Unrecognized compensation expense for awards 348,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
         
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense 1 year 9 months 18 days          
Deferred Stock [Member] | Key Employees [Member] | 2011 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards granted 100,017us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
/ us-gaap_PlanNameAxis
= jcs_TwoThousandElevenExecutiveIncentiveCompensationPlanMember
/ us-gaap_TitleOfIndividualAxis
= jcs_KeyEmployeesMember
         
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Awards granted 20,979us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
13,973us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
31,354us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
     
Unrecognized compensation expense for awards $ 59,000us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedShareBasedAwardsOtherThanOptions
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
         
Recognition period for unrecognized compensation expense 4 months 24 days          
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]            
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]            
Percentage of price of common stock at which employees are able to acquire 85.00%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardDiscountFromMarketPriceOfferingDate
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_EmployeeStockMember
         
Awards eligible for grant 101,240us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_EmployeeStockMember
         

Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In Number Of Outstanding Stock Options Under Director Plan, Stock Plan And 2011 Incentive Plan) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In Number Of Outstanding Stock Options Under Director Plan, Stock Plan And 2011 Incentive Plan) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Stock Compensation [Abstract]        
Options, Outstanding 540,404us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 309,439us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 311,153us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber  
Options, Awarded 248,258us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross 317,722us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross 169,550us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGross  
Options, Exercised (12,000)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised (12,000)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised (15,000)us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised  
Options, Forfeited (54,738)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod (74,757)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod (156,264)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod  
Options, Outstanding 721,924us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 540,404us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 309,439us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber 311,153us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber
Options, Exercisable 297,439us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber      
Options, Expected to vest 721,924us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber      
Weighted average exercise price per share, Outstanding $ 11.90us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 11.66us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 12.05us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice  
Weighted average exercise price per share, Awarded $ 11.31us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 12.30us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 10.19us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice  
Weighted average exercise price per share, Exercised $ 10.21us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 8.28us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 7.35us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice  
Weighted average exercise price per share, Forfeited $ 12.21us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 13.20us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 11.25us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice  
Weighted average exercise price per share, Outstanding $ 11.70us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 11.90us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 11.66us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice $ 12.05us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice
Weighted average exercise price per share, Exercisable $ 11.73us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice      
Weighted average exercise price per share, Expected to vest $ 11.70us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice      
Options, Outstanding - Weighted average remaining contractual term 4 years 10 months 21 days 5 years 1 month 17 days 4 years 1 month 17 days 4 years 11 months 27 days
Options, Exercisable - Weighted average remaining contractual term 3 years 6 months 29 days      
Options, Expected to vest - Weighted average remaining contractual term 4 years 10 months 21 days      

Stock Compensation (Valuation Assumptions Of Stock Option Plan) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Valuation Assumptions Of Stock Option Plan) (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Stock Compensation [Abstract]      
Expected volatility 30.70%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate 31.40%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate 31.80%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate
Risk free interest rate 1.60%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate 2.70%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate 2.10%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRate
Expected holding period 6 years 6 years 6 years
Dividend yield 5.70%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate 5.20%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate 6.30%us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate

Stock Compensation (Summary Of The Status Of Stock Options Outstanding) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Summary Of The Status Of Stock Options Outstanding) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
$8.65 to $9.99 [Member]  
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit $ 8.65us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeLowerRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeTwoMember
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit $ 9.99us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeUpperRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeTwoMember
Shares 30,000us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeTwoMember
Weighted Average Remaining Option Life 2 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price $ 9.68us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePriceBeginningBalance1
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeTwoMember
$10.00 to $12.00 [Member]  
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit $ 10.00us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeLowerRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeThreeMember
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit $ 12.00us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeUpperRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeThreeMember
Shares 506,734us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeThreeMember
Weighted Average Remaining Option Life 5 years 4 months 24 days
Weighted Average Exercise Price $ 11.30us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePriceBeginningBalance1
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeThreeMember
$12.01 to $14.50 [Member]  
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, lower limit $ 12.01us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeLowerRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeFourMember
Range of Exercise Prices, upper limit $ 14.50us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeUpperRangeLimit
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeFourMember
Shares 185,190us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeNumberOfOutstandingOptions
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeFourMember
Weighted Average Remaining Option Life 4 years
Weighted Average Exercise Price $ 13.14us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansExercisePriceRangeOutstandingOptionsWeightedAverageExercisePriceBeginningBalance1
/ us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationSharesAuthorizedUnderStockOptionPlansByExercisePriceRangeAxis
= jcs_RangeFourMember

Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In The Number Of Deferred Stock Shares Under The Stock Plan And Incentive Plan) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In The Number Of Deferred Stock Shares Under The Stock Plan And Incentive Plan) (Details) (Deferred Stock [Member], USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Stock [Member]
     
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Shares, Outstanding 161,314us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
200,140us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
160,790us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Shares, Granted 103,017us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
48,824us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
222,654us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Shares, Vested (18,940)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
(16,754)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
(1,849)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Shares, Forfeited (118,964)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
(70,896)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
(181,455)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Shares, Outstanding 126,427us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
161,314us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
200,140us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding $ 10.87us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 11.47us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 14.16us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted $ 11.52us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 12.52us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 10.08us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested $ 12.37us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 13.81us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 14.82us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited $ 10.27us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 13.02us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 12.11us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding $ 11.73us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 10.87us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember
$ 11.47us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember

Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In Restricted Stock Units Outstanding) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Stock Compensation (Schedule Of Changes In Restricted Stock Units Outstanding) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
     
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Shares, Outstanding 39,151us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
53,193us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
25,879us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Shares, Granted 20,979us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
13,973us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
31,354us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Shares, Vested (27,314)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
(28,015)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
 
Shares, Forfeited     (4,040)us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Shares, Outstanding 32,816us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
39,151us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
53,193us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding $ 10.67us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.44us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.82us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted $ 11.06us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 11.98us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.05us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested $ 10.08us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.89us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
 
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited     $ 9.90us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Outstanding $ 11.41us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.67us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember
$ 10.44us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue
/ us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis
= us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember

Common Stock (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Common Stock (Details) (USD $)
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 23, 2009
Common Stock [Abstract]    
Remaining number of shares authorized to be repurchased 411,910us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased  
Number of rights distributed for each share of common stock   1jcs_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfRightsDistributedBySecurities
Number of securities into which each right may be converted   0.01us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightNumberOfSecuritiesCalledByEachWarrantOrRight
Exercise price of right   $ 41us-gaap_ClassOfWarrantOrRightExercisePriceOfWarrantsOrRights1
Percentage of common stock required to be purchased for rights to become exercisable   16.50%jcs_PercentageOfCommonStockRequiredToBePurchasedForRightsToBecomeExercisable

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2005
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Uncertain tax benefit positions that would reduce the effective income tax rate if recognized $ 220,000us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate $ 220,000us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate      
Dividend-received deduction   85.00%jcs_DividendReceivedDeduction      
Valuation allowance 3,700,000us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount 5,668,000us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount      
Accrual for interest and penalties 4,000us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued 4,000us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued      
Net increase (decrease) in accrued interest and penalties   (2,000)jcs_NetIncreaseDecreaseInAccruedInterestAndPenalties      
Dividends declared not paid 1,474,892us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent 1,474,892us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent 1,446,498us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent 1,436,318us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent  
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Net operating loss carryforwards 3,647,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember
3,647,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember
     
Income tax benefit related to research and development credits   1,554,000us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxCreditsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember
     
Tax credit carryforward related to research and development 496,000us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwardsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember
496,000us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwardsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember
     
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Income tax benefit related to research and development credits   1,024,000us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxCreditsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember
     
Tax credit carryforward related to research and development 594,000us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwardsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember
594,000us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwardsResearch
/ us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis
= us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember
     
Austin Taylor Communications, Ltd. [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Pretax income (losses)   1,742,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_AustinTaylorCommunicationsLtdMember
389,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_AustinTaylorCommunicationsLtdMember
428,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_AustinTaylorCommunicationsLtdMember
 
Net operating loss carryforwards 8,077,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_AustinTaylorCommunicationsLtdMember
8,077,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_AustinTaylorCommunicationsLtdMember
     
Transition Networks EMEA, Ltd. [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Pretax income (losses)   (558,000)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksEmeaLtd.Member
(54,000)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksEmeaLtd.Member
2,754,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksEmeaLtd.Member
 
Net operating loss carryforwards 0us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksEmeaLtd.Member
0us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksEmeaLtd.Member
     
Transition Networks China [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Pretax income (losses)   29,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksChinaMember
345,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksChinaMember
341,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksChinaMember
 
Net operating loss carryforwards 374,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksChinaMember
374,000us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksChinaMember
     
Suttle Costa Rica, S.A. [Member]          
Income Taxes [Line Items]          
Pretax income (losses)   446,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember
321,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember
152,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesForeign
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember
 
Net operating loss carryforwards 0us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember
0us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember
     
Dividends declared not paid         $ 3,500,000us-gaap_DividendsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= jcs_SuttleCostaRicaSMember

Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense By Jurisdiction) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Income Tax Expense By Jurisdiction) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Currently payable income taxes: Federal $ (3,142,000)us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit $ 328,000us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit $ 2,114,000us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit
Currently payable income taxes: State (85,000)us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit (12,000)us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit 297,000us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit
Currently payable income taxes: Foreign 254,000us-gaap_CurrentForeignTaxExpenseBenefit 113,000us-gaap_CurrentForeignTaxExpenseBenefit (32,000)us-gaap_CurrentForeignTaxExpenseBenefit
Currently payable income taxes (2,973,000)us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 429,000us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 2,379,000us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Deferred income taxes (benefit): Federal 2,191,000us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 761,000us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit (303,000)us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Deferred income taxes (benefit): State 38,000us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 40,000us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 18,000us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Deferred income taxes (benefit): Foreign (9,000)us-gaap_DeferredForeignIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit (11,000)us-gaap_DeferredForeignIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit (33,000)us-gaap_DeferredForeignIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Deferred income taxes (benefit) 2,220,623us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit 790,402us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit (317,727)us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Income taxes (benefit) $ (753,415)us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit $ 1,219,355us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit $ 2,061,013us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of Effective Tax Rate, By Percentage) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of Effective Tax Rate, By Percentage) (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Tax at U.S. statutory rate 35.00%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate 35.00%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate 35.00%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate
Surtax exemption (1.10%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxExemptIncome (0.70%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxExemptIncome (5.40%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxExemptIncome
State income taxes, net of federal benefit 0.60%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes 1.00%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes 19.10%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes
Foreign income taxes, net of foreign tax credits (3.60%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferential 7.80%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferential 3.30%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferential
Impairment of goodwill     116.20%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseImpairmentLosses
Other nondeductible items 0.00%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseOther 3.10%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseOther 4.90%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseOther
Effect of (decrease) increase in uncertain tax positions (1.40%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxContingencies (10.20%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxContingencies 7.30%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxContingencies
Federal credits 15.10%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxCredits    
Change in valuation allowance (35.20%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationChangeInDeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance    
Other (2.20%)us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationOtherAdjustments 2.30%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationOtherAdjustments 6.40%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationOtherAdjustments
Effective tax rate 7.20%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations 38.30%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations 186.80%us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations

Income Taxes (Schedule Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Schedule Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]    
Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 41us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsAllowanceForDoubtfulAccounts $ 4us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsAllowanceForDoubtfulAccounts
Inventory 2,016us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsInventory 2,779us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsInventory
Accrued and prepaid expenses 440us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsAccruedLiabilities 594us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsAccruedLiabilities
Domestic net operating loss carry-forward 1,208us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsDomestic  
Long-term compensation plans 351us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsEmployeeCompensation 380us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsEmployeeCompensation
Nonemployee director stock compensation 554us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsOther 403us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsOther
Other stock compensation 195us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsShareBasedCompensationCost 118us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsShareBasedCompensationCost
Foreign net operating loss carry-forwards and credits 2,008us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsForeign 1,743us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsForeign
Federal and state credits 927us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCreditCarryforwards  
Other 30us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOther  
Gross deferred tax assets 7,770us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross 6,021us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross
Valuation allowance (5,668)us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance (1,734)us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance
Net deferred tax assets 2,102us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet 4,287us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet
Depreciation (2,141)us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOther (2,110)us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOther
Intangible assets (22)us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssets (18)us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssets
Net deferred tax liability (2,163)us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities (2,128)us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities
Total net deferred tax (liability) (61)us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities  
Total net deferred tax asset   $ 2,159us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet

Income Taxes (Schedule Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Income Taxes (Schedule Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]      
Unrecognized tax benefits - January 1 $ 75us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits $ 240us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits $ 153us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits
Gross increases - tax positions in prior period 142us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions
Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions (73)us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions
Gross increases - current period tax positions 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions 158us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions
Settlements 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities (85)us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities (5)us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities
Expiration of statute of limitations 0us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations (7)us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations (66)us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations
Unrecognized tax benefits - December 31 $ 217us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits $ 75us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits $ 240us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits

Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Number of segments 3us-gaap_NumberOfOperatingSegments    
Foreign Countries [Member] | Suttle [Member]      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Long-lived assets 2,932us-gaap_NoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= jcs_ForeignCountriesMember
2,810us-gaap_NoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= jcs_ForeignCountriesMember
 
United States [Member] | Sales [Member]      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Concentration risk percentage 81.00%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= country_US
86.00%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= country_US
87.00%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= country_US
One Customer [Member] | Sales [Member] | JDL Technologies [Member]      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Concentration risk percentage 10.90%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis
= jcs_OneCustomerMember
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
  17.50%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis
= jcs_OneCustomerMember
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
One Customer [Member] | Sales [Member] | Suttle [Member]      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Concentration risk percentage 16.20%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis
= jcs_OneCustomerMember
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
33.60%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis
= jcs_OneCustomerMember
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
18.70%us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskPercentage1
/ us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskByBenchmarkAxis
= us-gaap_SalesMember
/ us-gaap_MajorCustomersAxis
= jcs_OneCustomerMember
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember

Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Schedule Of Segment Information) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Information Concerning Industry Segments And Major Customers (Schedule Of Segment Information) (Details) (USD $)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Sep. 30, 2015
Jun. 30, 2015
Mar. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Sep. 30, 2014
Jun. 30, 2014
Mar. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Sales $ 27,681,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 32,246,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 28,198,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 19,545,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 27,230,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 33,434,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 33,209,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 25,198,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 107,669,524us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 119,071,439us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 131,319,510us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
Cost of sales                 76,123,362us-gaap_CostOfRevenue 76,912,881us-gaap_CostOfRevenue 86,420,982us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
Gross profit 7,696,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 10,424,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 8,539,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 4,887,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 9,064,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 12,013,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 12,094,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 8,988,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 31,546,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 42,159,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 44,899,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
Selling, general and administrative expenses                 40,829,755us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense 38,627,801us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense 36,742,869us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
Pension settlement costs                 1,222,276us-gaap_OtherNonrecurringExpense    
Impairment                     5,849,853us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
Restructuring expense                 0us-gaap_RestructuringCharges 237,838us-gaap_RestructuringCharges 1,149,439us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
Operating (loss) income (3,528,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 431,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (1,718,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (5,691,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (1,519,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 2,658,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 2,406,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (252,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (10,505,869)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 3,292,919us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 1,156,367us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Depreciation and amortization                 3,312,587us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization 2,482,300us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization 2,184,830us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
Capital expenditures                 2,394,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment 5,577,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment 2,699,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
Assets 87,916,230us-gaap_Assets       100,286,235us-gaap_Assets       87,916,230us-gaap_Assets 100,286,235us-gaap_Assets 103,533,000us-gaap_Assets
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Sales                 (654,000)us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Cost of sales                 (62,000)us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Gross profit                 (592,000)us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Selling, general and administrative expenses                 (585,000)us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Operating (loss) income                 (7,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Capital expenditures                 (7,000)us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Assets (7,000)us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
              (7,000)us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis
= us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember
   
Suttle [Member]                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Sales                 50,082,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
67,331,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
54,346,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Cost of sales                 41,232,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
46,339,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
38,535,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Gross profit                 8,850,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
20,992,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
15,811,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses                 15,285,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
14,389,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
11,869,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Restructuring expense                     226,000us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Operating (loss) income                 (6,435,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
6,603,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
3,716,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Depreciation and amortization                 2,125,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
1,386,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
1,044,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Capital expenditures                 1,710,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
4,471,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
1,215,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Assets 38,163,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
      38,083,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
      38,163,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
38,083,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
30,637,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_SuttleMember
Transition Networks [Member]                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Sales                 42,570,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
43,174,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
43,857,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Cost of sales                 24,088,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
23,975,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
21,438,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Gross profit                 18,482,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
19,199,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
22,419,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses                 22,495,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
21,393,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
21,581,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Impairment                     5,850,000us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Restructuring expense                   238,000us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
779,000us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Operating (loss) income                 (4,013,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
(2,432,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
(5,791,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Depreciation and amortization                 1,038,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
944,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
970,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Capital expenditures                 313,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
589,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
919,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
Assets 23,512,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
      26,508,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
      23,512,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
26,508,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
29,440,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_TransitionNetworksMember
JDL Technologies [Member]                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Sales                 15,672,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
8,567,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
33,117,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Cost of sales                 10,866,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
6,599,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
26,448,000us-gaap_CostOfRevenue
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Gross profit                 4,806,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
1,968,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
6,669,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses                 3,635,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
2,846,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
3,292,000us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Restructuring expense                     145,000us-gaap_RestructuringCharges
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Operating (loss) income                 1,171,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
(878,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
3,232,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Depreciation and amortization                 150,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
152,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
171,000us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Capital expenditures                 263,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
43,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
46,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Assets 5,964,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
      3,816,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
      5,964,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
3,816,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
11,350,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= jcs_JdlTechnologiesMember
Other [Member]                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Pension settlement costs                 1,222,000us-gaap_OtherNonrecurringExpense
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
   
Operating (loss) income                 (1,222,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
   
Capital expenditures                 115,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
474,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
519,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
Assets $ 20,284,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
      $ 31,879,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
      $ 20,284,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
$ 31,879,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember
$ 32,106,000us-gaap_Assets
/ us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis
= us-gaap_AllOtherSegmentsMember

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]      
Contingent consideration at fair value $ 142,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationLiability    
Change in fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration (20,636)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationArrangementsChangeInAmountOfContingentConsiderationLiability1   (43,898)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationContingentConsiderationArrangementsChangeInAmountOfContingentConsiderationLiability1
Transfers between levels $ 0jcs_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisTransfersNet $ 0jcs_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisTransfersNet  

Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value) (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Fair Value Measurements (Schedule Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents $ 1,944us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure $ 1,073us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
Current Liabilities, fair value (142)us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure  
Assets (Liabilities) Net, fair value 13,324us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability 17,216us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 1,944us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
1,073us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
Assets (Liabilities) Net, fair value 1,944us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
1,073us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Assets (Liabilities) Net, fair value 11,522us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
16,143us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Current Liabilities, fair value (142)us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
 
Assets (Liabilities) Net, fair value (142)us-gaap_FairValueNetAssetLiability
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
 
Money Market Funds [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 1,944us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
1,073us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
Money Market Funds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 1,944us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
1,073us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_MoneyMarketFundsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member
Accrued Consideration [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Current Liabilities, fair value (142)us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_AccruedConsiderationMember
 
Accrued Consideration [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Current Liabilities, fair value (142)us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesFairValueDisclosure
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_AccruedConsiderationMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
 
Short-Term Investments [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 5,229us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
4,603us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 5,229us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
4,603us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Certificates Of Deposit [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 1,202us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
1,920us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Certificates Of Deposit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 1,202us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
1,920us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Notes/Bonds [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 4,027us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
2,683us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Short-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Notes/Bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 4,027us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
2,683us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= us-gaap_ShortTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Long-Term Investments [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 6,293us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
11,540us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 6,293us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
11,540us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Certificates Of Deposit [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 4,286us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
5,463us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Certificates Of Deposit [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 4,286us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
5,463us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= us-gaap_CertificatesOfDepositMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Notes/Bonds [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 2,007us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
6,077us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
Long-Term Investments [Member] | Corporate Notes/Bonds [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments $ 2,007us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
$ 6,077us-gaap_InvestmentsFairValueDisclosure
/ jcs_AdditionalInvestmentInformationAxis
= jcs_LongTermInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_EligibleItemOrGroupForFairValueOptionAxis
= jcs_CorporateNotesAndBondsMember
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member

Restructuring Charges (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Restructuring Charges (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]      
Restructuring expense $ 0us-gaap_RestructuringCharges $ 237,838us-gaap_RestructuringCharges $ 1,149,439us-gaap_RestructuringCharges

Subsequent Events (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Mar. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Gain on sale of assets $ 8,090us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets $ (112,242)us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets $ (73,126)us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets  
Scenario, Forecast [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Gain on sale of assets       $ 810,000us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioForecastMember

Quarterly Operating Results (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Quarterly Operating Results (Details) (USD $)
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Sep. 30, 2015
Jun. 30, 2015
Mar. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Sep. 30, 2014
Jun. 30, 2014
Mar. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Operating Results [Abstract]                      
Sales $ 27,681,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 32,246,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 28,198,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 19,545,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 27,230,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 33,434,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 33,209,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 25,198,000us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 107,669,524us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 119,071,439us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet $ 131,319,510us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
Gross margins 7,696,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 10,424,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 8,539,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 4,887,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 9,064,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 12,013,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 12,094,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 8,988,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 31,546,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 42,159,000us-gaap_GrossProfit 44,899,000us-gaap_GrossProfit
Operating (loss) income (3,528,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 431,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (1,718,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (5,691,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (1,519,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 2,658,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 2,406,000us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (252,000)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss (10,505,869)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 3,292,919us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss 1,156,367us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Net (loss) income (5,741,000)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss 1,284,000us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (1,028,000)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (4,163,000)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (1,029,000)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss 1,695,000us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss 1,437,000us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (141,000)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (9,648,308)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss 1,961,873us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss (957,888)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Basic net (loss) income per share: $ (0.66)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ 0.15us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.12)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.48)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.12)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ 0.20us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ 0.17us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.02)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (1.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ 0.23us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic $ (0.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic
Diluted net (loss) income per share: $ (0.66)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ 0.15us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.12)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.48)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.12)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ 0.20us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ 0.17us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.02)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (1.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ 0.23us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted $ (0.11)us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted
Pension settlement costs                 1,222,276us-gaap_OtherNonrecurringExpense    
Valuation allowance $ 3,700,000us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount               $ 5,668,000us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount    

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves (Details)
v5.17.1.24
Valuation And Qualifying Accounts And Reserves (Details) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member], USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
     
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]      
Balance at Beginning of Period $ 1,734us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
$ 1,618us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
$ 2,091us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
Additions Charged to Cost and Expenses 3,934us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToCostAndExpense
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
116us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesChargedToCostAndExpense
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
 
Deductions from Reserves     (473)us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesDeductions
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
Balance at End of Period $ 5,668us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
$ 1,734us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember
$ 1,618us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesBalance
/ us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesTypeAxis
= us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsMember