Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Common stock, par value (dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract] Segment Reporting Information [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Table] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Reporting Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Test & Measurement Test And Measurement [Member] Test and Measurement [Member] Environmental Environmental [Member] Environmental [Member] Life Sciences & Diagnostics Life Sciences And Diagnostics [Member] Life Sciences and Diagnostics [Member] Dental Dental [Member] Dental [Member] Industrial Technologies Industrial Technologies [Member] Industrial Technologies [Member] Equity Method Earnings Of Apex Joint Venture Equity Method Earnings Of Apex Joint Venture [Member] Equity method earnings of apex joint venture [Member] Other Other Segments [Member] Other Segments [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of segments reported (Business Segments) Number Of Reportable Segments Number of segments reported by the entity. A reportable segment is a component of an entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. Sales Revenue, Net Operating Profit Operating Income (Loss) Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding as of December 31,2011, Options (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted, Options (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised, Options (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Cancelled / forfeited, Options (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding as of September 28, 2012, Options (shares) Outstanding as of December 31, 2011, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Cancelled / forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Outstanding as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding as of September 28, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Vested and Expected to Vest as of September 28, 2012, Options (Shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Vested and Expected to Vest as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Vested and Expected to Vest as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Vested and Expected to Vest as of September 28, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Exercisable as of September 28, 2012, Options (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Exercisable as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable as of September 28, 2012, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable as of September 28, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Accounts receivable Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Goodwill Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Other intangible assets, primarily trade names, customer relationships and patents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangibles In-process research and development Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets In-Process Research And Development Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets In-Process Research And Development Accounts payable Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Other assets and liabilities, net Other assets and liabilities acquired Other identifiable assets and liabilities, net, acquired at the date of acquisition not otherwise defined in the taxonomy as associated with acquired businesses. Net cash consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward] Movement in Standard and Extended Product Warranty, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2011 Product Warranty Accrual Accruals for warranties issued during the period Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Settlements made Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Additions due to acquisitions Product Warranty Accrual, Additions from Business Acquisition Effect of foreign currency translation Product Warranty Accrual, Currency Translation, Increase (Decrease) Balance, September 28, 2012 Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Accounts receivable, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Inventories Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory Prepaid expenses and other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets Property, plant and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Goodwill and other intangibles, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Net Total assets Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Accounts payable Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable Accrued expenses and other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Eurobond Senior Notes Eurobond Senior Notes [Member] Eurobond senior notes [Member] 2013 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Thirteen [Member] 2014 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] 2016 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] 2018 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] 2019 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] 2021 Notes Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Zero-Coupon LYONs Zero Coupon Liquid Yield Option Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Zero Coupon Liquid Yield Option Notes Due Two Thousand Twenty One [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper Commercial Paper Other notes payable Other Notes Payable Senior notes Senior Notes Zero-coupon LYONs due 2021 Convertible Notes Payable Other Other Long-term Debt Subtotal Long-term Debt Less - currently payable Debt, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Interest rate of debt instrument Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-U.S. Pension Benefits Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Other Post-Retirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Amortization of prior service costs / credits Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Settlement loss recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net (Gain) Loss Due to Settlements Net periodic cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost ASI Accu Sort Businesses [Member] Accu-Sort Businesses [Member] KEO Kollmorgen Electro Optical [Member] Kollmorgen Electro-Optical [Member] ASI And KEO Accu Sort Businesses And Kollmorgen Electro Optical [Member] Accu Sort Businesses And Kollmorgen Electro Optical [Member] PSA Pacific Scientific Aerospace [Member] Pacific Scientific Aerospace [Member] Proceeds from sale of business Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Revenue of divested business After-tax gain on sale of business Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax After-tax gain on sale of business, per diluted share (dollars per share) After-Tax Gain On Sale Upon Closing Of Transaction, Per Diluted Share After-Tax Gain On Sale Upon Closing Of Transaction, Per Diluted Share Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted Prices In Active Market (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Available-for-sale securities, Assets Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities: Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred compensation plans, Liabilities Fair Value Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Plans Represents a class of liability related to employee compensation deferred that is measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Currency swap agreement, Liabilities Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common stock issued in connection with LYONs' conversions, tax benefit Tax Benefit of Stock Issued During Period Value Conversion Of Convertible Securities Tax benefit of stock issued during period value conversion of convertible securities Treasury stock purchase, shares, acquired Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Contingencies Commitments Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Basic EPS, Net Earnings From Continuing Operations (Numerator) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Basic EPS, Shares (Denominator) (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic EPS, Per Share Amount (dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Adjustment for interest on convertible debentures, Net Earnings From Continuing Operations (Numerator) Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options and vesting of dilutive RSUs, Shares (Denominator) (shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Incremental shares from assumed conversion of the convertible debentures, Shares (Denominator) (shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Debt Securities Diluted EPS, Net Earnings From Continuing Operations (Numerator) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Diluted EPS, Shares (Denominator) (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted EPS, Per Share Amount (dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2011 Goodwill Attributable to 2012 acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation & other Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Balance, September 28, 2012 Fair Value Measurements [Table] Fair Value Measurements [Table] Fair Value Measurements [Table] Currency Type [Axis] Currency Type [Axis] Currency Type [Axis] Currency Type [Domain] Currency Type [Domain] Currency Type [Domain] Japanese Yen Japanese Yen [Member] Japanese Yen [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Beckman Coulter Beckman Coulter [Member] Beckman Coulter [Member] Fair Value Measurements [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements [Line Items] Japanese currency swap instruments bought, monthly basis (Japanese Yen) Investment Foreign Currency, Contract, Foreign Currency Amount Exchange rate of Japanese yen per United States dollar (US Dollars per Japanese Yen) Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate Aggregate purchase commitment Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivative Purchase Contracts Derivative, gain (loss) on currency swap Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Sales Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net earnings from continuing operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] U.S Commercial Paper Us Dollar Commercial Paper [Member] US Dollar Commercial Paper Member Liquid Yield Option Notes (LYONs) Liquid Yield Option Notes Due Two Thousand And Twenty One [Member] Liquid Yield Option Notes Due Two Thousand and Twenty One [Member] Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Unsecured revolving credit facility [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Euro Commercial Paper Program Commercial Paper [Member] Shares issued under debt conversion (shares) Debt Conversion, Converted Instrument, Shares Issued Deferred tax liability, basis difference in LYONs Deferred Tax Liabilities LYONS Basis Difference Estimated future tax effects attributable to the basis difference in convertible Liquid Yield Option Notes Weighted average interest rate of short-term debt (interest rate) Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Weighted average maturity of commercial paper, days Weighted Average Maturity Of Commercial Paper Weighted Average Maturity Of Commercial Paper Borrowings outstanding under credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Line of credit Long-term Line of Credit Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments, Before income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, Net of income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustment, Before income tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustment, Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustment, Net of income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, Before income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, Net of income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), Before income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), Net of income tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Unvested as of December 31, 2011, Number of RSUs / Restricted Shares (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted, Number of RSUs / Restricted Shares (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested, Number of RSUs / Restricted Shares (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited, Number of RSUs/ Restricted Shares (shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Unvested as of September 28, 2012, Number of RSUs / Restricted Shares (shares) Unvested as of December 31,2011, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grante-Date Fair Value (dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested as of September 28, 2012, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (dollars per share) Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Carrying Amount Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Available-for-sale securities Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term borrowings Long-term Debt, Fair Value Currency swap agreement SUBSEQUENT EVENT [Abstract] SUBSEQUENT EVENT [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Stock Options Stock Options [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Common stock, shares authorized (shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Stock repurchase program, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Purchase of treasury stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Common shares reserved for issuance under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Total unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted average period for cost to be recognized (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Cash receipts due to exercise of options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Tax benefit realized related to exercise of stock options Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Tax benefit related to the vesting of restricted stock units Tax benefit related to the vesting of restricted stock units Total number of shares withheld sufficient to fund minimum tax withholding requirements related to the vesting of restricted stock units (shares) Total Number Of Shares Withheld Sufficient To Fund Minimum Tax Withholding Requirements Related To Vesting Of Restricted Stock Units Total Number Of Shares Withheld Sufficient To Fund Minimum Tax Withholding Requirements Related To Vesting Of Restricted Stock Units Total value of shares withheld sufficient to fund minimum tax withholding requirements related to the vesting of restricted stock units Total Value Of Shares Withheld Sufficient To Fund Minimum Tax Withholding Requirements Related To Vesting Of Restricted Stock Units Total Value Of Shares Withheld Sufficient To Fund Minimum Tax Withholding Requirements Related To Vesting Of Restricted Stock Units Restructuring Charges [Abstract] Restructuring And Other Related Charges Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] General Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Operating costs and other: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Earnings from unconsolidated joint venture Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Operating profit Non-operating income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Loss on early extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net earnings from continuing operations Earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net earnings per share from continuing operations: Earnings Per Share From Continuing Operations [Abstract] Earnings per share from continuing operations [Abstract] Basic (dollars per share) Diluted (dollars per share) Net earnings per share from discontinued operations: Earnings Per Share From Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Earnings per share from discontinued operations [Abstract] Basic (dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Diluted (dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings Per Share, Diluted (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Average common stock and common equivalent shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (shares) Diluted (shares) Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Expected cash contribution requirements by employer Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Current Fiscal Year Accrual Balance And Utilization Of Restructuring Cost Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Warranty Accrual Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Businesses acquired (businesses) Number of Businesses Acquired Net cash consideration Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Aggregate annual sales of additional businesses Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period Goodwill related to acquisitions Key Components Of Income From Discontinued Operations Key Components Of Income From Discontinued Operations [Member] Key Components Of Income From Discontinued Operations [Member] Aggregate Components Of Assets And Liabilities Classified As Discontinued Operations Aggregate Components Of Assets And Liabilities Classified As Discontinued Operations [Member] Aggregate Components Of Assets And Liabilities Classified As Discontinued Operations [Member] Schedule Of Discontinued Operations Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring and Related Cost, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance And Related Employee Severance [Member] Facility Exit And Related Facility Closing [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Charges Opening Balance Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Charges Paid/Settled Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Restructuring Charges Closing Balance Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net earnings Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustments Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Non-Controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance, value Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance, shares (shares) Shares, Issued Net earnings for the period Other comprehensive income Dividends declared Dividends, Cash Common stock based award activity, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Common stock based award activity, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Common stock issued in connection with LYONs' conversions including tax benefit of $27.7 million, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities Common stock issued in connection with LYONs' conversions including tax benefit of $27.7 million, shares (shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Treasury stock purchase (5.0 million shares) Change in non-controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance, value Balance, shares (shares) Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill, carrying value Rollforward Of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Warranty period terms minimum, days (days) Warranty period terms minimum Warranty period terms minimum Warranty period terms maximum Warranty Period Terms Maximum Warranty period terms maximum. Net sales Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Operating expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Expense Allocated interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Earnings (loss) before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, before Income Tax Income tax (expense) benefit Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax Gain on sale, net of $55 million and $126 million of related income taxes for the nine month periods ended September 28, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively Earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income taxes related to the gain on the sale Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Financing Transactions Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Apex [Member] Apex [Member] APEX [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Equity method investment, ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Proceeds from sale of equity method investment Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Equity method investment, net sales proceeds Equity Method Investment, Net Sales Proceeds Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Assumptions Used In The Black-Scholes Model To Value Options Granted Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Components Of Stock-Based Compensation Program Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Option Activity Under The Company's Stock Plans Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] RSU And Restricted Shares Activity Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Fair Values Of The Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Results Of Operations If Acquisition Was Consummated Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Net Earnings Per Share From Continuing Operations Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Components Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Segment Results Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Trade accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories: Inventory, Net [Abstract] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods Work in process Inventory, Work in Process Raw material and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials Total inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,870,658 and $1,665,983, respectively Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Investment in joint venture Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Stockholders' Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock - $0.01 par value Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Danaher stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Non-controlling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Discontinued Operation or Asset Disposal [Member] Discontinued Operation or Asset Disposal [Member] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Less: earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Net earnings from continuing operations Non-cash items: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation Depreciation Amortization Amortization Stock compensation expense Share-based Compensation Earnings from unconsolidated joint venture, net of cash dividends received Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Change in trade accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Change in inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Change in trade accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Change in prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Change in accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Total operating cash provided by continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Total operating cash used in discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Payments for additions to property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment and other assets Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Proceeds from contribution of businesses to joint venture Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Cash paid for acquisitions Total investing cash used in continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Total investing cash used in discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Proceeds from the sale of discontinued operations Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from the issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Payment of dividends Payments of Dividends Net (repayments of) proceeds from borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less) Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt, Maturing in Three Months or Less Proceeds of borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days) Proceeds from Debt, Maturing in More than Three Months Repayments of borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days) Repayments of Long-term Debt Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Beginning balance of cash and equivalents Ending balance of cash and equivalents Supplemental disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash interest payments Interest Paid, Net Cash income tax payments (including $41 million and $85 million for the nine month periods ended September 28, 2012 and September 30, 2011, respectively, related to the gain on sale of discontinued operations - refer to Note 3) Income Taxes Paid, Net Defined Benefit Plans Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Assets And Liabilities Carried At Fair Value Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Carrying Amounts And Fair Values Of Financial Instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Restructuring and other related charges recorded Business Exit Costs Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Stock Option [Member] Stock Option [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Pre-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Income tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Risk-free interest rate (percentage) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Weighted average volatility (percentage) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Dividend yield (percentage) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected years until exercise (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Components Of Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Options excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation (anti-dilutive) (shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Components Of Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]