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Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information - USD ($)	Apr. 28, 2012	Jun. 01, 2012	Oct. 29, 2011
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	DAKTRONICS INC /SD/
Entity Central Index Key	0000915779
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--04-28
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Apr. 28, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		42,015,406
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 438,325,388

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2012	Apr. 30, 2011
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 29,423	$ 54,308
Restricted cash	1,169	1,546
Marketable securities	25,258	22,943
Accounts receivable, net	66,923	61,778
Inventories	54,924	46,889
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings	23,020	24,193
Current maturities of long-term receivables	5,830	5,343
Prepaid expenses and other assets	5,528	6,312
Deferred income taxes	10,941	9,640
Income tax receivables	5,990	4,870
Total current assets	229,006	237,822
Property and equipment, net	68,396	69,866
Advertising rights, net and other assets	1,157	1,383
Long-term receivables, less current maturities	12,622	13,558
Goodwill	3,347	3,384
Intangible assets	1,409	1,654
Deferred income taxes	30	180
TOTAL ASSETS	315,967	327,847
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Notes payable, bank	1,459	2,316
Accounts payable	33,906	29,223
Accrued expenses	22,731	21,748
Warranty obligations	13,049	14,474
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings	14,385	20,284
Customer deposits (billed or collected)	12,826	11,288
Deferred revenue (billed or collected)	9,751	8,770
Current portion of other long-term obligations	359	273
Income tax payable	665	880
Deferred income taxes	42	406
Total current liabilities	109,173	109,662
Long-term warranty obligations	9,166	8,508
Long-term deferred revenue (billed or collected)	4,361	4,559
Other long-term obligations, less current maturities	1,009	2,010
Deferred income taxes	1,453	6
Total long-term liabilities	15,989	15,083
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common stock, no par value, authorized 120,000,000 shares; 41,930,116 and 41,606,070 shares issued at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively	34,631	32,670
Additional paid-in capital	24,320	21,149
Retained earnings	131,830	149,291
Treasury stock, at cost, 19,680 shares	(9)	(9)
Accumulated other comprehensive income	33	1
Total Shareholders' Equity	190,805	203,102
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	$ 315,967	$ 327,847

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited) (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Apr. 28, 2012	Apr. 30, 2011
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common stock, no par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, authorized (in shares)	120,000,000	120,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares)	41,930,116	41,606,070

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2012	Apr. 30, 2011	May 01, 2010
Net sales	$ 489,526	$ 441,676	$ 393,185
Cost of goods sold	376,089	330,192	298,629
Gross profit	113,437	111,484	94,556
Operating expenses:
Selling expense	52,233	49,555	54,253
General and administrative	27,422	23,453	25,199
Product design and development	23,507	18,949	21,920
Gain on insurance proceeds	0	0	(1,496)
Goodwill impairment	0	0	1,410
Total operating expenses	103,162	91,957	101,286
Operating income (loss)	10,275	19,527	(6,730)
Nonoperating income (expense):
Interest income	1,747	1,921	1,514
Interest expense	(335)	(184)	(170)
Other (expense) income, net	(110)	877	(2,756)
Income (loss) before income taxes	11,577	22,141	(8,142)
Income tax expense (benefit)	3,088	7,897	(1,153)
Net income (loss)	$ 8,489	$ 14,244	$ (6,989)
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic	41,869	41,422	40,908
Diluted	42,304	42,277	40,908
Earnings per share:
Basic	$ 0.20	$ 0.34	$ (0.17)
Diluted	0.20	0.34	(0.17)
Cash dividends paid per share	$ 0.62	$ 0.60	$ 0.095

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Balance at Beginning of Period at May. 02, 2009	$ 211,911	$ 27,872	$ 13,898	$ 170,705	$ (9)	$ (555)
Net Income (loss)	(6,989)	0	0	(6,989)	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	108	0	0	0	0	108
Comprehensive income (loss)	(6,881)
Net tax benefit (deduction) related to share compensation	71	0	71	0	0	0
Share-based compensation	3,762	0	3,762	0	0	0
Exercise of stock options	365	365	0	0	0	0
Employee savings plan activity	1,699	1,699	0	0	0	0
Dividends paid	(3,874)	0	0	(3,874)	0	0
Balance at End of Period at May. 01, 2010	207,053	29,936	17,731	159,842	(9)	(447)
Net Income (loss)	14,244	0	0	14,244	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	426	0	0	0	0	426
Unrealized gain on available for sale securities	22	0	0	0	0	22
Comprehensive income (loss)	14,692
Net tax benefit (deduction) related to share compensation	121	0	121	0	0	0
Share-based compensation	3,370	0	3,370	0	0	0
Exercise of stock options	1,279	1,352	(73)	0	0	0
Employee savings plan activity	1,382	1,382	0	0	0	0
Dividends paid	(24,795)	0	0	(24,795)	0	0
Balance at End of Period at Apr. 30, 2011	203,102	32,670	21,149	149,291	(9)	1
Net Income (loss)	8,489	0	0	8,489	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(20)	0	0	0	0	(20)
Unrealized gain on available for sale securities	52	0	0	0	0	52
Comprehensive income (loss)	8,521
Net tax benefit (deduction) related to share compensation	(2)	0	(2)	0	0	0
Share-based compensation	3,262	0	3,262	0	0	0
Exercise of stock options	458	547	(89)	0	0	0
Employee savings plan activity	1,414	1,414	0	0	0	0
Dividends paid	(25,950)	0	0	(25,950)	0	0
Balance at End of Period at Apr. 28, 2012	$ 190,805	$ 34,631	$ 24,320	$ 131,830	$ (9)	$ 33

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2012	Apr. 30, 2011	May 01, 2010
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$ 8,489	$ 14,244	$ (6,989)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	17,273	19,354	21,945
Amortization	245	287	315
Amortization of premium/discount on marketable securities	183	48	0
Gain on sale of property and equipment	(16)	(62)	(982)
Share-based compensation	3,262	3,370	3,762
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	(48)	(121)	(71)
Equity in losses of affiliates	0	36	2,535
Impairment of goodwill	0	0	1,410
Loss on sale of equity investees	0	0	230
Provision for doubtful accounts	(150)	(37)	421
Deferred income taxes, net	(68)	852	120
Change in operating assets and liabilities	(9,132)	3,375	21,088
Net cash provided by operating activities	20,038	41,346	43,784
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(16,524)	(9,386)	(16,121)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	231	238	181
Purchases of marketable securities	(18,870)	(23,035)	0
Sales or maturities of marketable securities	16,410	0	0
Insurance recoveries on property and equipment	0	187	3,213
Other investing activities, net	0	2,110	(372)
Net cash used in investing activities	(18,753)	(29,886)	(13,099)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Borrowings on notes payable	782	2,316	0
Payments on notes payable	(1,711)	0	0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	547	1,352	365
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	48	121	71
Principal payments on long-term obligations	0	(26)	(27)
Dividends paid	(25,950)	(24,795)	(3,874)
Net cash used in financing activities	(26,284)	(21,032)	(3,465)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH	114	277	(118)
NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	(24,885)	(9,295)	27,102
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
Beginning of period	54,308	63,603	36,501
End of period	$ 29,423	$ 54,308	$ 63,603

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Nature of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Nature of business: Daktronics, Inc. and its subsidiaries are engaged principally in the design, manufacture and sale of a wide range of electronic display systems and related products which are sold in a variety of markets throughout the world and the rendering of related maintenance and professional services. Our products are designed primarily to inform and entertain people through the communication of content.

Fiscal year: We operate on a 52 to 53 week fiscal year, with our fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to April 30 of each year. When April 30 falls on a Wednesday, the fiscal year ends on the preceding Saturday. The fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010 each consisted of 52 weeks. Within each fiscal year, each quarter is comprised of 13 week periods following the beginning of each fiscal year. In each 53 week year, each of the last three quarters is comprised of a 13 week period, and an additional week is added to the first quarter of that fiscal year.

Principles of consolidation: The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our wholly-owned subsidiaries – Daktronics France SARL; Daktronics Shanghai, Ltd.; Daktronics GmbH; Daktronics Media Holdings, Inc.; Daktronics UK, Ltd.; Daktronics HK Limited; Daktronics International Limited; Daktronics Canada, Inc.; Daktronics Hoist, Inc.; Daktronics Beijing; Daktronics Australia Pty Ltd.; Daktronics FZE; Daktronics Installation; Daktronics Japan, Inc.; Daktronics Trading, Ltd.; Daktronics Brazil, Ltda.; and Daktronics Singapore Pte. Ltd. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Investments in affiliates over which we have significant influence are accounted for by the equity method. As of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 we did not have any investments accounted for by the equity method. Prior to April 30, 2011, as explained in Note 17, we had various investments accounted for under the equity method. Investments in affiliates as to which we do not have the ability to exert significant influence over their operating and financing activities are accounted for under the cost method of accounting. We have evaluated our relationships with affiliates and have determined that these entities are either not variable interest entities or, in the case of variable interest entities, we are not the primary beneficiary and therefore they are not required to be consolidated in our consolidated financial statements. The equity method requires us to report our share of losses up to our equity investment amount, including any financial support made or committed to. At such time the equity investment is reduced to zero, we recognize losses to the extent of and as an adjustment to the other investments in the affiliate in order of seniority or priority in liquidation. Our proportional share of the respective affiliates' earnings or losses is included in other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of operations.

As of May 1, 2010, we had a variable interest in Outcast Media International, Inc. (“Outcast”). During fiscal 2011 it became a cost method investee and ceased being treated as a variable interest entity. This occurred as a result of a reorganization of Outcast in connection with a sale of most of its assets. The results of the variable interest analysis we completed prior to fiscal 2011 indicated that we were not the primary beneficiary of this variable interest entity and, as a result, we were not required to consolidate it. Our analysis included reviewing the amount of financial support, equity risk, and board influence. As of April 28, 2012, our interest in Outcast consisted of a seven percent equity interest. During fiscal 2010, we had written down our equity investment to zero. During fiscal 2011, as described in Note 17, we exchanged certain other debt and obligations related to Outcast for a note from a third party related to Outcast.

The aggregate amount of investments accounted for under the cost method was $106 at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011. The fair value of these investments has not been estimated, as there have not been any identified events or changes in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on their fair value, and it is not practical to estimate their fair value.

Use of estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the 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. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near-term relate to the determination of the estimated total costs on construction-type contracts, estimated costs to be incurred for product warranties, excess and obsolete inventory, the reserve for doubtful accounts, share-based compensation, goodwill impairment and income taxes. Changes in estimates are reflected in the periods in which they become known.

Reclassifications: Certain reclassifications have been made to the fiscal year 2011 financial statements to conform to the presentation used in the fiscal year 2012 financial statements. We reclassified certain other assets from intangible assets and accrued expenses from warranty obligations. These reclassifications had no effect on shareholders’ equity or net income as previously reported.

Cash and cash equivalents: All highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents and consist primarily of government repurchase agreements, savings accounts and money market accounts that are carried at cost, which approximates fair value. We maintain our cash in bank deposit accounts, the balances of which at times may exceed federally insured limits. We have not experienced any losses in such accounts.

Restricted cash: Restricted cash consists of deposits to secure bank guarantees issued by our foreign subsidiaries.

Inventories: Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market. Market is determined on the basis of estimated net realizable values.

Revenue recognition: Net sales are reported net of estimated sales returns and exclude sales taxes. We estimate our sales returns reserve based on historical return rates and analysis of specific accounts. Our sales returns reserve was $63 and $19 at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively.

Long-term construction-type contracts: Earnings on construction-type contracts are recognized on the percentage-of-completion method, measured by the percentage of costs incurred to date to estimated total costs for each contract. Contract costs include all direct material and labor costs and those indirect costs related to contract performance. Indirect costs include charges for such items as facilities, engineering, and project management. Provisions for estimated losses on uncompleted contracts are made in the period in which such losses are probable and capable of being estimated. We combine contracts for accounting purposes when they are negotiated as a package with an overall profit margin objective, essentially represent an agreement to do a single project for a customer, involve interrelated construction activities, and are performed concurrently or sequentially. When a group of contracts is combined, revenue and profit are earned uniformly over the performance of the combined projects. We segment revenues in accordance with contract segmenting criteria in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 650-35, Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts.

Equipment other than construction-type contracts: We recognize revenue on equipment sales, other than construction-type contracts, when title passes, which is usually upon shipment and then only if the terms of the arrangement are fixed and determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. We record estimated sales returns and discounts as a reduction of net sales in the same period revenue is recognized.

Product maintenance: In connection with the sale of our products, we also occasionally sell separately priced extended warranties and product maintenance contracts. The revenue related to such contracts is deferred and recognized ratably as net sales over the terms of the contracts, which vary up to 10 years. We record unrealized revenue in deferred revenue (billed or collected) in the liability section of the balance sheet. Deferred revenue (billed or collected) excludes unrealized revenue from contractual obligations that will be billed by us in future periods.

Services: Revenues generated by us for services, such as event support, control room design, on-site training, equipment service and technical support of our equipment, are recognized as net sales when the services are performed. Net sales from services approximated 9.0 percent, 9.4 percent and 9.4 percent of net sales for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010.

Multiple-element arrangements: We generate revenue from the sale of equipment and related services, including customization, installation and maintenance services. In these limited cases, we provide some or all of such equipment and services to our customers under the terms of a single multiple-element sales arrangement. These arrangements, typically involve the sale of equipment bundled with some or all of these services, but they may also involve instances in which we have contracted to deliver multiple pieces of equipment over time rather than at a single point in time.

When a sales arrangement involves multiple elements, the items included in the arrangement (deliverables) are evaluated pursuant to ASC 605-25, Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables and ASC 605-35, to determine whether they represent separate units of accounting. We perform this evaluation at the inception of an arrangement and as we deliver each item in the arrangement. We first consider the separation criteria of ASC 605-35. Deliverables not within the scope of ASC 605-35 are evaluated for separation under ASC 605-25. For those elements that fall under the guidance of ASC 605-25, we generally account for a deliverable (or a group of deliverables) separately if the delivered item(s) has standalone value to the customer and if we have given the customer a general right of return relative to the delivered item(s) and delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) or service(s) is probable and substantially in our control.

When items included in a multiple-element arrangement represent separate units of accounting, we allocate the arrangement consideration to the individual items based on their relative fair values. The amount of arrangement consideration allocated to the delivered item(s) is limited to the amount that is not contingent on us delivering additional products or services. Once we have determined the amount, if any, of arrangement consideration allocable to the delivered item(s), we apply the applicable revenue recognition policy to determine when and by which method such amount may be recognized as revenue.

We generally determine if objective and reliable evidence of fair value for the items included in a multiple-element arrangement exists based on whether we have vendor-specific objective evidence ("VSOE") of the price for which we sell an item on a standalone basis. If we do not have VSOE for the item, we will use the price charged by a competitor selling a comparable product or service on a standalone

basis to similarly situated customers, if available. If neither vendor-specific objective evidence nor third party evidence is available, we use our best estimate of selling price for that deliverable.

Software: We typically sell our proprietary software bundled with our video displays and certain other products, but we also sell our software separately. Pursuant to ASC 985-605, Software Revenue Recognition, revenues from software license fees on sales, other than construction-type contracts, are recognized when persuasive evidence of an agreement exists, delivery of the product has occurred, the fee is fixed and determinable, and collection is probable. For sales of software included in construction-type contracts, the revenue is recognized under the percentage-of-completion method starting when all of these criteria have been met.

Long-term receivables and advertising rights: We occasionally sell and install our products at facilities in exchange for the rights to sell or to retain future advertising revenues. For these transactions, we recognize revenue for the amount of the present value of the future advertising payments if enough advertising is sold to obtain normal margins on the contract and we record the related receivable in long-term receivables. On those transactions where we have not sold the advertising for the full value of the equipment at normal margins, we record the related cost of equipment as advertising rights. Revenue to the extent of the present value of the advertising payments is recognized in long-term receivables when it becomes fixed and determinable under the provisions of the applicable advertising contracts. At the time the revenue is recognized, costs of the equipment are recognized based on an estimate of overall margin expected.

In cases where we receive advertising rights as opposed to only cash payments in exchange for the equipment, revenue is recognized as it becomes earned, and the related costs of the equipment are amortized over the term of the advertising rights, which are owned by us. On these transactions, advance collections of advertising revenues are recorded as deferred revenue.

The cost of advertising rights, net of amortization, was $446 and $525 as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively.

Property and equipment: Property and equipment is stated at cost and depreciated principally on the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:



	Years
Buildings	7 - 40
Machinery and equipment	5 - 7
Office furniture and equipment	3 - 5
Computer software and hardware	3 - 5
Equipment held for rental	2 - 7
Demonstration equipment	3 - 5
Transportation equipment	5 - 7

Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the lesser of the useful life of the asset or the term of the lease. Our depreciation expense was $17,273, $19,354 and $21,945 for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010, respectively.

Long-Lived Assets: Long-lived assets other than goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, as described in Note 4, which are separately tested for impairment, are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable.

When evaluating long-lived assets for potential impairment, we first compare the carrying value of the asset to the asset's estimated future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges). If the estimated future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, we calculate an impairment loss. The impairment loss calculation compares the carrying value of the asset to the asset's estimated fair value. We recognize an impairment loss if the amount of the asset's carrying value exceeds the asset's estimated fair value. If we recognize an impairment loss, the adjusted carrying amount of the asset becomes its new cost basis. For a depreciable long-lived asset, the new cost basis will be depreciated (amortized) over the remaining useful life of that asset.

Our impairment loss calculations contain uncertainties because they require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment to estimate future cash flows and asset fair values, including forecasting useful lives of the assets and selecting the discount rate that reflects the risk inherent in future cash flows.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, changes in our business, including the decline in orders, the operating losses and the impairment of goodwill, were indicators of potential impairment for our business units. Therefore, we tested our long-lived assets for recoverability in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, by comparing the undiscounted cash flows expected from the use and eventual disposition of the assets to the carrying amount of the assets. We grouped the assets at the lowest level for which there were identifiable cash flows that were independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. Based on this analysis, the undiscounted cash flows significantly exceeded the carrying amount of the long-lived assets, and therefore it was determined that there was no impairment. If actual results in the future are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions used in estimating future cash flows and asset fair values, we may be exposed to future losses that could be material. We do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood that there will be a material change in the estimates or assumptions we use to calculate long-lived asset impairment losses.

Software costs: We capitalize certain costs incurred in connection with developing or obtaining internal-use software. Capitalized software costs are included in Property and Equipment on our consolidated balance sheets. Software costs that do not meet capitalization criteria are expensed immediately.

Insurance: We are self-insured for certain losses related to health and liability claims and workers’ compensation, although we obtain third-party insurance to limit our exposure to these claims. We estimate our self-insured liabilities using a number of factors, including historical claims experience. Our self-insurance liability was $2,075 and $2,831 at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively, and is included in accrued expenses in our consolidated balance sheets.

Foreign currency translation: Our foreign subsidiaries use the local currency of their respective countries as their functional currency. The assets and liabilities of foreign operations are generally translated at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. The operating results of foreign operations are translated at weighted average exchange rates. The related translation gains or losses are reported as a separate component of shareholders’ equity.

Income taxes: We account for income taxes under ASC 740, Income Taxes, which requires recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in our financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. ASC 740 requires the consideration of a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is “more likely than not” that some component or all of the benefits of deferred tax assets will not be realized. Tax rate changes are reflected in income during the period such changes are enacted. We have benefited from a tax holiday in China that expired in fiscal 2012. In fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2009, we realized a benefit of approximately $249 or $0.006 per share, $77 or $0.002 per share, and $97 or $0.002 per share, respectively.

Our income tax returns, like those of most companies, are periodically audited by U.S. federal, state and local and foreign tax authorities. These audits include questions regarding our tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions and the allocation of income among various tax jurisdictions. At any one time, multiple tax years are subject to audit by the various tax authorities. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with our various tax filing positions, we record a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions using the highest cumulative tax benefit that is more likely than not to be realized. A number of years may elapse before a particular matter, for which we have established a liability, is audited and effectively settled. We adjust our liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the period in which we determine the issue is effectively settled with the tax authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position, or when more information becomes available. We include our liability for unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued penalties and interest, in income taxes payable on our consolidated balance sheets and in income tax expense in our consolidated statements of operations.

Comprehensive income (loss): We follow the provisions of ASC 220, Reporting Comprehensive Income, which establishes standards for reporting and displaying comprehensive income and its components. Comprehensive income reflects the change in equity of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. For us, comprehensive income represents net income (loss) adjusted for foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities. The foreign currency translation adjustment included in comprehensive income has not been tax affected, as the investments in foreign affiliates are deemed to be permanent. In accordance with ASC 220, we have chosen to disclose comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity.

Product design and development: All expenses related to product design and development are charged to operations as incurred. Our product development activities include the enhancement of existing products and the development of new products.

Advertising costs: We expense advertising costs as incurred. Advertising expenses were $1,843, $1,895 and $1,215 for fiscal years 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Shipping and handling costs: Shipping and handling costs that are collected from our customers in connection with our sales are recorded as revenue. We record shipping and handling costs as a component of cost of sales at the time the product is shipped.

Earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”): Basic EPS is computed by dividing income (loss) attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that would occur if securities or other obligations to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then share in our earnings.

The following is a reconciliation of the income (loss) and common stock share amounts used in the calculation of basic and diluted EPS for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010:



	Net income (loss)			Shares	Per share income (loss)
For the year ended April 28, 2012:
Basic earnings per share	$	8,489		41,869	$	0.20
Dilution associated with stock compensation plans	—			435	—
Diluted earnings per share	$	8,489		42,304	$	0.20
For the year ended April 30, 2011:
Basic earnings per share	$	14,244		41,422	$	0.34
Dilution associated with stock compensation plans	—			855	—
Diluted earnings per share	$	14,244		42,277	$	0.34
For the year ended May 1, 2010:
Basic loss per share	$	(6,989	)	40,908	$	(0.17	)
Dilution associated with stock compensation plans	—			—	—
Diluted loss per share	$	(6,989	)	40,908	$	(0.17	)

Options outstanding to purchase 1,611 shares of common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $19.17 per share during the fiscal year ended April 28, 2012 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the weighted average exercise price of those instruments exceeded the average market price of the common shares during the year.

Options outstanding to purchase 1,655 shares of common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $19.23 per share during the fiscal year ended April 30, 2011 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the weighted average exercise price of those instruments exceeded the average market price of the common shares during the year.

Options outstanding to purchase 2,658 shares of common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $14.14 per share during the fiscal year ended May 1, 2010 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the loss recorded for the period makes the options anti-dilutive.

Share-based compensation: We account for share-based compensation in accordance with ASC 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. Under the fair value recognition provisions of ASC 718, we measure share-based compensation cost at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognize the compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is the vesting period. The valuation provisions of ASC 718 apply to awards granted after its April 30, 2006 effective date. Share-based compensation expense for awards granted prior to April 30, 2006, but that remained unvested on the effective date, were recognized over the remaining service period using the compensation cost estimated for the ASC 718 pro forma disclosures. See Note 9 for additional information and the assumptions we use to calculate the fair value of share-based employee compensation.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

On May 1, 2011, we prospectively adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standard Updates ("ASU") 2009-13 Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements, and ASU 2009-14, Certain Revenue Arrangements that Include Software Elements, regarding revenue recognition for multiple deliverable arrangements and arrangements that include software elements. The update requires a vendor to allocate revenue in an arrangement using its best estimate of selling price if neither vendor specific objective evidence nor third party evidence of selling price exists. The residual method of revenue allocation is no longer permissible. Our adoption of ASU 2009-13 and ASU 2009-14 did not change our units of accounting for bundled arrangements, nor did it materially change how we allocate arrangement consideration to our various products and services. Accordingly, our adoption of ASU 2009-13 and ASU 2009-14 did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-28, When to Perform Step 2 of the Goodwill Impairment Test for Reporting Units with Zero or Negative Carrying Amounts (Topic 350)-Intangibles-Goodwill and Other. ASU 2010-28 amends the criteria for performing Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts and requires performing Step 2 if qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists. ASU 2010-28 requires any impairment to be recorded upon adoption as an adjustment to our beginning retained earnings. The adoption of this update on May 1, 2011 did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements, as we do not have any reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts.

In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04, Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRS, which amends ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures. ASU 2011-04 provides a consistent definition of fair value and ensures that the fair value measurement and disclosure requirements are similar between U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and International Financial Reporting Standards. ASU 2011-04 also changes certain fair value measurement principles and enhances the disclosure requirements, particularly for level 3 fair value measurements. ASU 2011-04 is effective during interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. We adopted ASU 2011-04 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012. Its adoption had no impact our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, Presentation of Comprehensive Income, which amends ASC 220, Comprehensive Income. ASU 2011-05 requires the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income to be presented either in a single continuous statement of comprehensive income or in two separate but continuous statements. ASU 2011-05 eliminates the option to present components of other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in shareholders' equity. In addition, ASU 2011-05 requires companies to present on the face of the financial statements reclassification adjustments for items that are reclassified from other comprehensive income to net income in the statement(s) where the components of net income and the components of other comprehensive income are presented. ASU 2011-05 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011 and interim periods thereafter. On December 23, 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-12, Deferral of the Effective Date for Amendments to the Presentation of Reclassifications of Items Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, which deferred the effective date for certain provisions that related to the presentation of reclassification adjustments and their presentation in the financial statements until further notice. As this update impacts presentation only, its adoption will not impact our consolidated financial statements.

In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-08, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) — Testing Goodwill for Impairment. ASU 2011-08 permits an entity to make a qualitative assessment of whether it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than its carrying value before applying the two-step goodwill impairment model that is currently in place. If it is determined through the qualitative assessment that a reporting unit’s fair value is more likely than not greater than its carrying value, the remaining impairment steps would be unnecessary. The qualitative assessment is optional, allowing companies to go directly to the quantitative assessment. ASU 2011-08 will be effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. This new standard will be effective for us beginning in fiscal 2013. There will be no impact to our consolidated financial statement presentation, as ASU 2011-08 impacts the analysis to be performed only if needed.

Segment Reporting

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

We have organized our business into five business units which meet the definition of reportable segments under ASC 280-10, Segment Reporting: the Commercial segment, the Live Events segment, the Schools and Theatres segment, the Transportation segment, and the International segment. These segments are based on the type of customer and geography.

Our Commercial segment primarily consists of sales of our video, Galaxy^®, Fuelight^™ and Valo^™ product lines to resellers (primarily sign companies), outdoor advertisers, national retailers, quick-serve restaurants, casinos and petroleum retailers. Our Live Events segment primarily consists of sales of integrated scoring and video display systems to college and professional sports facilities and convention centers and sales of our mobile display technology to video rental organizations and other live events type venues. Our Schools and Theatres segment primarily consists of sales of scoring systems, Galaxy^® displays and video display systems to primary and secondary education facilities and sales of our Vortek^® automated rigging systems for theatre applications. Our Transportation segment primarily consists of sales of our Vanguard^® and Galaxy^® product lines to governmental transportation departments, airlines and other transportation related customers. Our International segment consists of sales of all product lines outside the United States and Canada.

Segment reports present results through contribution margin, which is comprised of gross profit less selling costs. Segment profit excludes general and administration expense, product development expense, interest income and expense, non-operating income and income tax expense. Assets are not allocated to the segments. Depreciation and amortization, excluding that portion related to non-allocated costs, are allocated to each segment based on various financial measures. In general, segments follow the same accounting policies as those described in Note 1. Absorbed costs of domestic field sales and services infrastructure, including most field administrative staff, are allocated to the Commercial, Live Events, and Schools and Theatres segments based on cost of sales. Shared manufacturing, building and utilities and procurement costs are allocated based on payroll dollars, square footage and various other financial measures.

We do not maintain information on sales by products and, therefore, disclosure of such information is not practical.

The following table sets forth certain financial information for each of our five operating segments for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Net sales:
Commercial	$	148,585		$	112,515		$	91,860
Live Events	160,933			161,572			159,229
Schools & Theatres	59,662			62,310			62,878
Transportation	48,284			45,215			40,481
International	72,062			60,064			38,737
	489,526			441,676			393,185
Contribution margin:
Commercial	24,011			12,925			5,176
Live Events	13,579			18,889			18,320
Schools & Theatres	4,716			7,247			4,422
Transportation	11,009			12,149			9,490
International	7,889			10,719			2,895
	61,204			61,929			40,303

Non-allocated operating expenses:
General and administrative	27,422			23,453			25,199
Product design and development	23,507			18,949			21,920
Gain on insurance proceeds	—			—			(1,496		)
Goodwill impairment	—			—			1,410
Operating income (loss)	10,275			19,527			(6,730		)

Nonoperating income (expense):
Interest income	1,747			1,921			1,514
Interest expense	(335		)	(184		)	(170		)
Other income (expense), net	(110		)	877			(2,756		)

Income (loss) before income taxes	11,577			22,141			(8,142		)
Income tax expense (benefit)	3,088			7,897			(1,153		)
Net income (loss)	$	8,489		$	14,244		$	(6,989	)

Depreciation and amortization:
Commercial	$	6,103		$	6,790		$	7,119
Live Events	5,055			6,224			7,477
Schools & Theatres	2,361			2,621			2,823
Transportation	1,386			1,524			1,745
International	650			692			1,010
Unallocated corporate depreciation	1,963			1,790			2,086
	$	17,518		$	19,641		$	22,260

No single geographic area comprises a material amount of net sales or long-lived assets other than the United States. The following table presents information about net sales and long-lived assets in the United States and elsewhere:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Net sales:
United States	$	405,479	$	368,979	$	347,787
Outside U.S.	84,047		72,697		45,398
	$	489,526	$	441,676	$	393,185
Long-lived assets:
United States	$	66,350	$	68,034	$	78,465
Outside U.S.	2,046		1,832		2,420
	$	68,396	$	69,866	$	80,885

We are not economically dependent on a limited number of customers for the sale of our products and services because we have numerous customers world-wide. We are not economically dependent on a limited number of suppliers for our inventory items because we have numerous suppliers world-wide.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

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+ Details

Marketable Securities

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Marketable Securities [Abstract]

Marketable Securities

We have a cash management program which provides for the investment of cash balances not used in current operations. We classify our investments in marketable securities as available-for-sale in accordance with the provisions of ASU 320, Investments – Debt and Equity Securities. Marketable securities classified as available-for-sale are reported at fair value with unrealized gains or losses, net of tax, reported in other comprehensive income (loss). Unrealized losses considered to be “other-than-temporary” are recognized currently in earnings. For fiscal 2012 and 2011, no gains or losses on available-for-sale securities were recognized in earnings. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. Where quoted market prices are not available, we use the market price of similar types of securities that are traded in the market to estimate fair value. As of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, our available-for-sale securities consisted of the following:



	Amortized Cost		Unrealized Gain		Unrealized Loss		Fair Value
Balance as of April 28, 2012:
Certificates of deposit	$	7,657	$	—	$	—	$	7,657
U.S. Government securities	7,507		49		—		7,556
U.S. Government sponsored entities	4,503		2		—		4,505
Municipal bonds	5,517		23		—		5,540
	$	25,184	$	74	$	—	$	25,258
Balance as of April 30, 2011:
Certificates of deposit	$	4,913	$	—	$	—	$	4,913
U.S. Government securities	1,998		1		—		1,999
U.S. Government sponsored entities	13,598		19		—		13,617
Municipal bonds	2,412		2		—		2,414
	$	22,921	$	22	$	—	$	22,943

All available-for-sale securities are classified as current assets, as they are readily available to support our current operating needs. The contractual maturities of available-for-sale debt securities as of April 28, 2012 were as follows:



	Less than 12 months		Greater than 12 months		Total
Certificates of deposit	$	5,927	$	1,730	$	7,657
U.S. Government securities	4,522		3,034		7,556
U.S. Government sponsored agencies	500		4,005		4,505
Municipal obligations	1,601		3,939		5,540
Total available for sale	$	12,550	$	12,708	$	25,258

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of investments in certain debt and equity securities (and certain other trading assets) which include all debt and equity securities (other than those equity securities accounted for under the equity or cost methods of accounting) with readily determinable fair values. Other trading assets include assets that are carried on the balance sheet at fair value and held for trading purposes. A debt security represents a creditor relationship with an enterprise that is in the form of a security. Debt securities include, among other items, US Treasury securities, US government securities, municipal securities, corporate bonds, convertible debt, commercial paper, and all securitized debt instruments. An equity security represents an ownership interest in an enterprise or the right to acquire or dispose of an ownership interest in an enterprise at fixed or determinable prices. Equity securities include, among other things, common stock, certain preferred stock, warrant rights, call options, and put options, but do not include convertible debt. An entity may opt to provide the reader with additional narrative text to better understand the nature of investments in debt and equity securities (and other trading assets).

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 115
-Paragraph 3, 19, 20, 21, 22, 137
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Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Topic 320

+ Details

Long Lived Assets

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Long Lived Assets

Goodwill and other intangible assets: We account for goodwill and intangible assets in accordance with ASC 350, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Under these provisions, goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment on at least an annual basis. Impairment testing is required more often than annually if an event or circumstance indicates that an impairment or a decline in value may have occurred. In conducting our impairment testing, we compare the fair value of each of our business units (reporting unit) to the related carrying value. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is not impaired. If the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is measured and recognized. We conduct our impairment testing as of the first business day of the third fiscal quarter each year.

We utilize an income approach to estimate the fair value of each reporting unit. We selected this method because we believe that it most appropriately measures our income producing assets. We considered using the market approach and cost approach, but concluded they were not appropriate in valuing our reporting units given the lack of relevant and available market comparisons. The income approach is based on the projected cash flows, which are discounted to their present value using discount rates that consider the timing and risk of the forecasted cash flows. We believe that this approach is appropriate because it provides a fair value estimate based upon the reporting units’ expected long-term operating cash performance. This approach also mitigates the impact of the cyclical trends that occur in the industry. Fair value is estimated using internally-developed forecasts and assumptions. The discount rate used is the average estimated value of a market participant’s cost of capital and debt, derived using customary market metrics. Other significant assumptions include terminal value margin rates, future capital expenditures, and changes in future working capital requirements. We also compare and reconcile our overall fair value to our market capitalization. Although there are inherent uncertainties related to the assumptions used and to our application of these assumptions to this analysis, we believe that the income approach provides a reasonable estimate of the fair value of our reporting units. The foregoing assumptions to a large degree were consistent with our long-term performance, with limited exceptions. We believe that our future investments for capital expenditures as a percent of revenue will decline in future years due to our improved utilization resulting from lean initiatives, and we believe that long-term receivables will decrease as we grow. We also have assumed that through this economic downturn, our markets have not contracted for the long term; however, it may be a number of years before they fully recover. These assumptions could deviate materially from actual results.

We performed an analysis of goodwill as of the first business day of our third quarter in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010. The results of the analysis indicated that no goodwill impairment existed as of that date with respect to 2012 and 2011. During fiscal 2010, as a result of revisions in our forward-looking 12-month forecast during the month of January 2010 resulting from lower than expected order bookings and increased near-term uncertainty, primarily in our Live Events business unit, the significance of orders being delayed in all business units, and the decline in our stock price, we believed that an additional goodwill impairment test was required as of January 31, 2010. Based on the test at that time, we determined that the goodwill associated with the Schools and Theatres business unit, totaling $685, was fully impaired and that the goodwill associated with our International business unit of $725 was fully impaired. We therefore recognized an impairment loss as a result. The impaired goodwill was related primarily to the acquisition of Hoffend and Sons, which was allocated to all business units, and the purchase of European Timing Systems, which was allocated to the International business unit.

The following table sets forth the change in goodwill during fiscal 2012:



	Live Events			Commercial			Transportation			Total Goodwill
Balance as of April 30, 2011:	$	2,452		$	756		$	176		$	3,384
Foreign currency translation	(17		)	(15		)	(5		)	(37		)
Balance as of April 28, 2012:	$	2,435		$	741		$	171		$	3,347

The following table sets forth the amounts of goodwill and accumulated impairment as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011:



	Live Events		Commercial		Transportation		Schools and Theatres			International			Total
Balance as of April 28, 2012:
Goodwill	$	2,435	$	741	$	171	$	685		$	725		$	4,757
Accumulated impairment losses	—		—		—		(685		)	(725		)	(1,410		)
	$	2,435	$	741	$	171	$	—		$	—		$	3,347
Balance as of April 30, 2011:
Goodwill	$	2,452	$	756	$	176	$	685		$	725		$	4,794
Accumulated impairment losses	—		—		—		(685		)	(725		)	(1,410		)
	$	2,452	$	756	$	176	$	—		$	—		$	3,384

We face a number of risks to our business which can adversely impact cash flows in each of our business units and cause a significant decline in the fair values of each business unit. This decline could lead to an impairment of goodwill in some or all of our business units. Certain events, such as a worsening trend of orders and sales without a corresponding way to preserve future cash flows or a significant decline on our stock price, could cause a further impairment in goodwill.

As required by ASC 350, intangibles with finite lives are amortized. We evaluate indefinite lived assets for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate their carrying value may not be recoverable. The net value of intangible assets is shown on our consolidated balance sheets. Estimated amortization expense based on intangibles as of April 28, 2012 is $228 for each of the fiscal years 2013 through 2016 and $95 for fiscal 2017.

The following table sets forth the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of intangible assets by major intangible class as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011:



	April 28, 2012						April 30, 2011
	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Value		Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Value
Definite-lived:
Patents	$	2,282	$	1,274	$	1,008	$	2,282	$	1,046	$	1,236
Non-compete agreements	—		—		—		348		331		17
	2,282		1,274		1,008		2,630		1,377		1,253
Indefinite-lived:
Registered trademarks	401		—		401		401		—		401
	$	2,683	$	1,274	$	1,409	$	3,031	$	1,377	$	1,654

Impairment of long-lived assets: We recorded a pretax asset impairment charge of $538, $355 and $861 for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010, respectively for other long-lived assets including property and equipment. The impairment charges related to technology changes in our demonstration equipment and tooling equipment. Impairment charges related to the demonstration equipment are included in selling expense. Impairment charges related to tooling were primarily included in product development.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss.

+ References + Details

Selected Financial Statement Data

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Selected Financial Statement Data [Abstract]

Selected Financial Statement Data

Inventories consisted of the following:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011
Raw materials	$	24,880	$	18,795
Work-in-process	10,581		8,457
Finished goods	19,463		19,637
	$	54,924	$	46,889

Inventories are reported net of the allowance for excess and obsolete inventory of $2,851 and $2,139 as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively.

Property and equipment consisted of the following:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011
Land	$	1,497	$	1,497
Buildings	56,431		55,457
Machinery and equipment	61,654		58,233
Office furniture and equipment	15,648		15,648
Computer software and hardware	42,172		37,754
Equipment held for rental	1,003		1,283
Demonstration equipment	9,806		8,086
Transportation equipment	4,116		3,688
	192,327		181,646
Less accumulated depreciation	123,931		111,780
	$	68,396	$	69,866

Accrued expenses consisted of the following:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011
Compensation	$	11,475	$	11,149
Taxes, other than income taxes	3,987		4,237
Other	7,269		6,362
	$	22,731	$	21,748

Other (expense) income, net consisted of the following:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses)	$	(206	)	$	463		$	(81	)
Equity in losses of affiliates	—			(36		)	(2,535		)
Other	96			450			(140		)
	$	(110	)	$	877		$	(2,756	)

Uncompleted Contracts

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Uncompleted Contracts [Abstract]

Uncompleted Contracts

Uncompleted contracts consisted of the following:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011
Costs incurred	$	304,058	$	261,062
Estimated earnings	114,687		103,832
	418,745		364,894
Less billings to date	410,110		360,985
	$	8,635	$	3,909

Uncompleted contracts are included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as follows:



	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings	$	23,020		$	24,193
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings	(14,385		)	(20,284		)
	$	8,635		$	3,909

- Definition

The entire disclosure for long-term contracts or programs.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 11
-Section A
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 45
-Paragraph 12, 15, 16
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 81-1
-Paragraph 94
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 3, 6
-Article 5

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 11
-Section B
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
-Chapter 11
-Section C
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.3(c))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 912
-SubTopic 275
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6471736&loc=d3e54651-109401

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 605
-SubTopic 35
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6407836&loc=d3e58033-111643

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.6(d))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 912
-SubTopic 405
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6471944&loc=d3e56414-109416

+ Details

Receivables	12 Months Ended
Receivables	Apr. 28, 2012
Receivables [Abstract]
Receivables	Receivables We sell our products throughout the United States and in certain foreign countries on credit terms that we establish for each customer. On the sale of certain products, we have the ability to file a contractor’s lien against the product installed as collateral and to file claims against surety bonds to protect our interest in receivables. Foreign sales are at times secured by irrevocable letters of credit or bank guarantees. Accounts receivable are reported net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,398 and $2,548 at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively. Subsequent to April 28, 2012, we became aware of circumstances that could cause an increase in our allowance for doubtful accounts in an amount between $0 and $2,500. These circumstances arise out of a contract in China for which payment by our customer is dependent on funding from a local government entity that is not under any legal obligation to provide. We make estimates regarding the collectability of our accounts receivable, long-term receivables, costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings and other receivables. In evaluating the adequacy of our allowance for doubtful accounts, we analyze specific balances, customer creditworthiness, changes in customer payment cycles, and current economic trends. If the financial condition of any customer was to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of its ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. We charge off receivables at such time as it is determined that collection will not occur. Charge offs of receivables and our allowance for doubtful accounts related to financing receivables are not material to our financial results. In connection with certain sales transactions, we have entered into sales contracts with installment payments exceeding six months and sales type leases. The present value of these contracts and leases is recorded as a receivable as the revenue is recognized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and profit is recognized to the extent that the present value is in excess of cost. We generally retain a security interest in the equipment or in the cash flow generated by the equipment until the contract is paid. The present value of long-term contracts and lease receivables, including accrued interest and current maturities, was $18,452 and $18,901 as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively. Contract and lease receivables bearing annual interest rates of 5.8 to 10.0 percent are due in varying annual installments through May 2023. The face amount of long-term receivables was $21,494 as of April 28, 2012 and $22,807 as of April 30, 2011. Included in accounts receivable as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 was $783 and $31, respectively, of retainage on construction-type contracts, all of which is expected to be collected in one year.

Financing Agreements

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Financing Agreements [Abstract]

Financing Agreements

We have a credit agreement with a U.S. bank that provides for a $35.0 million line of credit and includes up to $15.0 million for standby letters of credit. The line of credit is due on November 15, 2012. The interest rate ranges from LIBOR plus 125 basis points to LIBOR plus 175 basis points depending on the ratio of interest-bearing debt to EBITDA. EBITDA is defined as net income before income taxes, interest expense, depreciation and amortization. The effective interest rate was 1.5 percent at April 28, 2012. We are assessed a loan fee equal to 0.125 percent per annum of any non-used portion of the loan. As of April 28, 2012, there were no advances under the line of credit.

The credit agreement is unsecured. In addition to provisions that limit dividends to the current year net profits after tax, the credit agreement also requires us to be in compliance with the following financial ratios:


•	A minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 2 to 1 at the end of any fiscal year. The ratio is equal to (a) EBITDA less dividends, a capital expenditure reserve of $6.0 million, and income tax expense, over (b) all principal and interest payments with respect to debt, excluding debt outstanding on the line of credit, and


•	A ratio of interest-bearing debt, excluding any marketing obligations, to EBITDA of less than 1 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter.

We have an additional credit agreement with another U.S. bank that expires on November 15, 2012 that is intended to support our credit needs outside of the U.S., primarily in China and Europe. The facility provides for a $20.0 million line of credit and includes facilities to issue up to $20.0 million for letters of credit and bank guarantees and to secure foreign loans. This U.S. credit facility secured the credit facility that we entered into in China with a Chinese affiliate of the U.S. bank. It is also expected to secure another facility in Europe to be used to issue credit enhancements as required under our contracts with our customers. The U.S. credit agreement is unsecured and is cross collateralized with the $35.0 million line of credit described above. It contains the same covenants as the credit agreement for that line of credit. As of April 28, 2012, there was $1.5 million of advances outstanding under the China credit facility.

We were in compliance with all applicable covenants as of April 28, 2012. The special dividends paid on October 14, 2010 and December 22, 2011 were excluded from the computation of the fixed charge coverage ratio and are not subject to the limitations on dividends set forth in the credit agreement. The minimum fixed charge coverage ratio as of April 28, 2012 was 45-to-1, and the ratio of interest-bearing debt to EBITDA as of April 28, 2012 was approximately 0.08-to-1.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants.

+ References + Details

Shareholders' Equity and Share-Based Compensation

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Shareholders’ Equity and Share-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Shareholders' Equity and Share-Based Compensation

Shareholders’ Equity and Share-Based Compensation

Common stock: Our authorized shares of 120,000 consist of 115,000 shares of common stock and 5,000 shares of “undesignated stock.” Our Board of Directors has the power to issue any or all of the shares of undesignated stock, including the authority to establish the rights and preferences of the undesignated stock, without shareholder approval.

Each outstanding share of our common stock includes one common share purchase right. Each right entitles the registered holder to purchase from us one one-tenth of one share of common stock at a price of $100 per common share, subject to adjustment and the terms of the shareholder rights agreement under which the dividend was declared and paid. The rights become exercisable immediately after the earlier of (i) 10 business days following a public announcement that a person or group has acquired beneficial ownership of 15 percent or more of our outstanding common shares (subject to certain exclusions) or (ii) 10 business days following the commencement or announcement of an intention to make a tender offer or exchange offer for our common shares, the consummation of which would result in the beneficial ownership by a person or group of 15 percent or more of our outstanding common shares. The rights expire on November 19, 2018, which date may be extended by our Board subject to certain additional conditions.

Stock incentive plans: During fiscal 2008, we established the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan (“2007 Plan”) and ceased granting options under the 2001 Incentive Stock Option Plan, the 2001 Outside Directors Option Plan (“2001 Plans”), the 1993 Incentive Stock Option Plan, as amended, and the 1993 Outside Directors Option Plan, as amended (“1993 Plans”). The 2007 Plan provides for the issuance of stock-based awards, including stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and deferred stock, to employees, directors and consultants. Stock options issued to employees under the plans generally have a 10-year life, an exercise price equal to the fair market value on the grant date and a five-year vesting period. Stock options granted to independent directors under these plans have a seven-year life and an exercise price equal to the fair market value on the date of grant. Stock options granted to independent directors prior to fiscal 2010 vest over three years, and options granted in or after fiscal 2010 vest in one year. The restricted stock granted to independent directors vests in one year, provided that they remain on the Board. Restricted stock units are granted to employees and have a five-year vesting period. As with stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock unit ownership cannot be transferred during the vesting period.

The total number of shares of stock reserved and available for distribution under the 2007 Plan is 4,000 shares. At April 28, 2012, there were 1,415 shares available for grants under the 2007 Plan. As of their date of termination, the total number of shares reserved under

the 2001 Plans and 1993 Plans were 3,200 and 6,080 shares, respectively. Although the 2001 Plans and 1993 Plans remain in effect for options outstanding, no new options can be granted under these plans.

Restricted stock and restricted stock units: We issue restricted stock to our non-employee directors and restricted stock units to employees. In computing compensation expense under ASC 718 for restricted stock awards, we assumed an average annual forfeiture rate of zero percent when calculating the number of shares expected to vest based on the relatively short vesting period and the term of the director. In computing compensation expense for restricted stock units, we assumed a range of forfeiture rates of 7.0 to 7.8 percent when computing the number of shares expected to vest and a dividend yield of approximately 1 percent. Unrecognized compensation expense related to the restricted stock and restrict stock unit awards was approximately $1,908 at April 28, 2012, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.6 years. The total fair value of restricted stock vested was $511, $288, and $80 for fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

A summary of nonvested restricted stock and restricted stock units for the years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010 is as follows:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012				April 30, 2011				May 1, 2010
	Number of Nonvested Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share		Number of Nonvested Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share		Number of Nonvested Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Outstanding at beginning of year	181		$	11.07	121		$	8.21	4		$	17.82
Granted	118		8.24		103		13.29		122		8.21
Vested	(49	)	10.51		(35	)	8.24		(4	)	17.82
Forfeited	(8	)	10.85		(8	)	9.17		(1	)	8.20
Outstanding at end of year	242		9.81		181		11.07		121		8.21

Stock Options: We issue incentive stock options to our employees and non-qualified stock options to our independent directors. A summary of stock option activity under all stock option plans during the fiscal year ended April 28, 2012 is as follows:



	Stock Options		Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at April 30, 2011	3,061		$	14.07	5.5	$	3,848
Granted	468		9.18		9.1	—
Canceled or forfeited	(114	)	14.41		—	—
Exercised	(125	)	4.39		—	624
Outstanding at April 28, 2012	3,290		13.73		5.3	463

Shares vested and expected to vest	3,121		13.72		5.3	459
Exercisable at April 28, 2012	2,206		15.31		4.0	437

The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options represents the difference between the exercise price of stock options and the fair market value of the underlying common stock on that day for all in-the-money options. We define in-the-money options at April 28, 2012 as options that had exercise prices that were lower than the $8.46 per share market price of our common stock at that date. There were in-the-money options to purchase 402 shares exercisable at April 28, 2012. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010 was $624, $1,945, and $897, respectively. The total fair value of stock options vested was $2,497, $2,628, and $2,783 for fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

We estimate the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. We recognize the fair value of the stock options on a straight-line basis as compensation expense. All options are recognized over the requisite service periods of the awards, which are generally the vesting periods.

The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility. ASC 718 requires us to estimate forfeitures at the time of grant and revise those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. We use historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and record share-based compensation expense only for those awards that are expected to vest. The following factors are the significant assumptions used in the computation of fair value of options:

Expected life. The expected life of options granted represents the period of time that they are expected to be outstanding. We estimate the expected life of options granted based on historical exercise patterns, which we believe are representative of future behavior. We have examined our historical pattern of option exercises in an effort to determine if there were any discernible patterns of activity based on certain demographic characteristics. Demographic characteristics tested included age, salary level, job level and geographic location. We have determined that there were no meaningful differences in option exercise activity based on the demographic characteristics tested.

Expected volatility. We estimate the volatility of our common stock at the date of grant based on historical volatility consistent with ASC 718 and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107, Share Based Payments. Our decision to use historical volatility instead of implied volatility was based upon analyzing historical data along with the lack of availability of history of actively traded options on our common stock.

Risk-free interest rate. The rate is based on the U.S. Treasury zero-coupon yield curve on the grant date for a term similar to the expected life of the options.

Dividend yield. We use an expected dividend yield consistent with our dividend yield over the period of time we have paid dividends.

The following table provides the weighted-average fair value of options granted and the related assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Fair Value of options granted	$	3.46	$	5.74	$	3.73
Risk-free interest rate	1.10% - 1.50%		1.40% - 2.30%		2.10% - 2.50%
Expected dividend rate	0.71% - 2.15%		0.67% - 0.68%		0.51% - 0.56%
Expected volatility	44.59% - 46.85%		42.00% - 46.00%		47.00% - 49.00%
Expected life of option	5.9 - 6.8 years		5.9 - 6.7 years		5.1 - 5.5 years

Employee stock purchase plan: We have an employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”), which enables employees to elect, in advance semi-annually, to contribute up to 15 percent of their compensation, subject to certain limitations, toward the purchase of our common stock at a purchase price equal to 85 percent of the lower of the fair market value of the common stock on the first or last day of the participation period. Compensation expense recognized on shares issued under our ESPP is based on the value of a traded option to purchase shares of our stock at a 15 percent discount to the stock price. The number of shares of common stock issued under the ESPP totaled approximately 160, 205, and 243 shares in fiscal 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively. The number of shares of common stock reserved for future employee purchases under the ESPP totaled 1,400 shares at April 28, 2012. The total number of shares reserved under the ESPP is 2,500. The ESPP is intended to qualify under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

Total share-based compensation expense: As of April 28, 2012, there was $5,357 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements granted under all equity compensation plans. Total unrecognized compensation cost will be adjusted for future changes in estimated forfeitures. We expect to recognize that cost over a weighted-average period of 3.1 years.

The following table presents a summary of the share-based compensation expense by equity type as follows:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Stock options	$	2,565	$	2,671	$	3,090
Restricted stock and stock units	256		256		201
Employee stock purchase plans	441		443		471
	$	3,262	$	3,370	$	3,762

A summary of the share-based compensation expenses for stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and shares issued under the ESPP for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011, and May 1, 2010 is as follows:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Cost of sales	$	610	$	565	$	532
Selling	982		1,065		1,207
General and administrative	1,059		1,103		1,333
Product design and development	611		637		690
	$	3,262	$	3,370	$	3,762

We received $547 in cash from option exercises under all share-based payment arrangements for the fiscal year ended April 28, 2012. The tax benefit related to non-qualified options and restricted stock units under all share-based payment arrangements totaled $325, $239, and $188 for fiscal years 2012, 2011, and 2010, respectively.

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
Employee Benefit Plans	Apr. 28, 2012
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans We sponsor a 401(k) savings plan under which eligible U.S. employees may choose to make voluntary contributions of such employee's compensation on a pretax basis, subject to certain Internal Revenue Service (IRS) limits. We make matching contributions equal to 25 percent (50 percent prior to August 1, 2010 and after January 29, 2011) of the employee's qualifying contribution up to six percent of such employee's compensation plus other discretionary contributions as authorized by our Board of Directors. Employees are eligible to participate upon completion of one year of service if they have attained the age of 21 and have worked more than 1,000 hours during such plan year. We contributed $1,618, $905 and $937 to the plan for fiscal years 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. We have unfunded deferred compensation agreements with certain officers and a former director under which interest is credited each year to each participant’s account in an amount equal to the five-year Treasury note rate as of January 1 of each plan year. Total amounts accrued for these plans as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 were $625 and $673, respectively. Contributions for each of the fiscal years 2012, 2011 and 2010 were $23, $22 and $23, respectively. The amounts accrued under the plans are not funded and are subject to the claims of the participants’ creditors. Participants may elect various forms of withdrawals upon retirement, including a lump sum distribution or annual payments over five or 10 years.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph h
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph q
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph m
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 106
-Paragraph 518
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 87
-Paragraph 264
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 03-2
-Paragraph 8
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 30
-Paragraph 26
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Staff Position (FSP)
-Number FAS106-2
-Paragraph 20, 21, 22
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 158
-Paragraph 7, 21, 22
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5, 6, 7, 8
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Implementation Guide (Q and A)
-Number FAS88
-Paragraph 63
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/topic&trid=2235017

+ Details

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

We account for uncertainties in tax positions under the provisions of ASC 740-10, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretation of SFAS No. 109. ASC 740-10 creates a single model to address uncertainty in tax positions and clarifies the accounting for income taxes by prescribing the minimum recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements. ASC 740-10 also provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. The following table provides a reconciliation of changes in unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal 2012 and 2011:



	Amount
Balance as of May 1, 2010:	$	538
Gross increases related to prior period tax positions	132
Gross decreases related to prior period tax positions	(104		)
Gross increases related to current period tax positions	81
Lapse of statute of limitations	(120		)
Balance as of April 30, 2011:	$	527
Gross increases related to prior period tax positions	14
Gross decreases related to prior period tax positions	(178		)
Gross increases related to current period tax positions	86
Lapse of statute of limitations	—
Balance as of April 28, 2012:	$	449

As a result of the preliminary results of an IRS audit which is subject to change, we expect our unrecognized tax benefits to reduce in fiscal 2013.

We recorded $11, $(20) and $58 in net interest and penalties during the years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010, respectively. We had accrued $(12) and $4 in net interest or penalties as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, respectively. We are subject to U.S. Federal income tax as well as the income taxes of multiple state jurisdictions. As a result of the completion of exams by the Internal Revenue Service on prior years and the expiration of statutes of limitations, fiscal years 2009, 2010, and 2011 are the only years remaining open under statutes of limitations. Certain subsidiaries are also subject to income tax in several foreign jurisdictions which have open tax years varying by jurisdiction beginning in fiscal 2004.

During the third quarter of fiscal 2011, the President signed into law a reinstatement of the research and development tax credit, retroactively to January 1, 2010. This reinstatement was effective only through December 31, 2011. As a result, we recognized approximately $686 in benefits, of which approximately $211 related to fiscal 2010.

Income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Current:
Federal	$	2,266		$	4,879	$	(1,375	)
State	577			1,227		145
Foreign	313			939		(43		)
Deferred taxes	(68		)	852		120
	$	3,088		$	7,897	$	(1,153	)

A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the federal statutory rate to income (loss) before income taxes is as follows:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Computed income tax expense (benefit) at federal statutory rate	$	4,052		$	7,732		$	(2,849	)
State taxes, net of federal benefit	497			1,107			263
Research and development tax credit	(1,004		)	(981		)	(689		)
Meals and entertainment	375			299			272
Stock compensation	842			959			1,134
Dividends paid to retirement plan	(522		)	—			—
Goodwill impairment	—			—			305
Domestic production activities deduction	(270		)	(607		)	—
Change in foreign deferred rates	(249		)	—			—
Reversal of valuation allowance	(364		)	—			—
Other, net	(269		)	(612		)	411
	$	3,088		$	7,897		$	(1,153	)

At April 28, 2012, we had foreign net operating loss carry-forwards totaling $186, which have an unlimited carry-forward period. We operated under a tax holiday in China that expired in fiscal 2012. As noted above, the expiration of this tax holiday caused a $249 decrease in our income tax expense in fiscal 2012.

The pretax income (loss) attributable to domestic and foreign operations was as follows:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Domestic	$	10,052	$	17,892	$	(6,423	)
Foreign	1,525		4,249		(1,719		)
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	11,577	$	22,141	$	(8,142	)

The components of the net deferred tax asset were as follows:



	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Deferred taxes assets:
Warranty reserves	$	8,425		$	8,730		$	9,271
Vacation accrual	1,821			1,680			1,570
Net losses on equity investments	2,971			2,959			3,095
Deferred maintenance revenue	1,738			1,620			754
Reserves for excess and obsolete inventory	1,021			665			1,297
Equity compensation	653			557			486
Allowance for doubtful accounts	473			409			401
Inventory capitalization	907			414			478
Accrued compensation and benefits	742			900			753
Intangible assets	81			147			125
Net operating loss carry forwards	15			—			59
Other	334			214			174
	19,181			18,295			18,463
Deferred tax liabilities:
Property and equipment	(8,817		)	(7,866		)	(7,368		)
Prepaid expenses	(669		)	(470		)	(543		)
Other	(219		)	(551		)	(292		)
	(9,705		)	(8,887		)	(8,203		)
	$	9,476		$	9,408		$	10,260

At April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, we had recorded valuation allowances of $0 and $364, respectively, against foreign net operating losses. We believe that our deferred tax assets will be fully realized based upon our estimates of the future taxable income.

The following presents the classification of the net deferred tax asset on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets:



	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Current assets	$	10,941		$	9,640		$	12,578
Current liabilities	(42		)	(406		)	(210		)
Non-current assets	30			180			62
Non-current liabilities	(1,453		)	(6		)	(2,170		)
	$	9,476		$	9,408		$	10,260

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 136, 172
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32718-109319

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32537-109319

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32559-109319

+ Details

Cashflow Information

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Cash Flow Information

The changes in operating assets and liabilities consisted of the following:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
(Increase) decrease:
Restricted cash	$	377		$	(282	)	$	(181	)
Account receivable	(4,995		)	(16,837		)	14,073
Long-term receivables	462			(756		)	4,165
Inventories	(7,539		)	(10,341		)	17,711
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings	1,173			1,040			2,308
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	784			82			(812		)
Income taxes receivable	(1,120		)	2,574			(7,444		)
Advertising rights and other assets	226			823			1,043
Increase (decrease):
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	6,975			11,242			(6,399		)
Customer deposits	1,538			1,940			(659		)
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings	(5,899		)	7,179			(664		)
Long-term warranty obligations	(767		)	4,561			(576		)
Income taxes payable	(215		)	853			(2,715		)
Long-term deferred revenue	783			1,256			1,446
Other long-term obligations	(915		)	41			(208		)
	$	(9,132	)	$	3,375		$	21,088

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information consisted of the following:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011			May 1, 2010
Cash payments for:
Interest	$	306	$	113		$	262
Income taxes, net of refunds	4,292		(3,683		)	7,745

Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities consisted of the following:



	Year Ended
	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011		May 1, 2010
Demonstration equipment transferred to inventories	$	409	$	896	$	1,955
Contributions of common stock under the employee stock purchase plan	1,413		1,382		1,699
Purchase of plant and equipment included in accounts payable and notes payable	1,475		673		289
Transfer of equipment or conversion of accounts receivable from affiliates	—		—		53

Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

ASC 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer the liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. It also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The fair value hierarchy within ASC 820 distinguishes between three levels of inputs that may be utilized when measuring fair value as follows:


•	Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

•

Level 2 - Observable inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 for the assets or liability, either directly or indirectly (for example, quoted market prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or quoted market prices for identical assets or liabilities in markets not considered to be active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, or market-corroborated input.


•	Level 3 - Unobservable inputs supported by little or no market activity based on our own assumptions used to measure assets and liabilities.

The fair values for fixed-rate contracts receivable are estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on interest rates currently being offered for contracts with similar terms to customers with similar credit quality. The carrying amounts reported on our consolidated balance sheets for contracts receivable approximate fair value and have been categorized as a Level 2 fair value measurement. The carrying amounts reported for variable rate long-term marketing obligations approximate fair value. Fair values for fixed-rate long-term marketing obligations are estimated using a discounted cash flow calculation that applies interest rates currently being offered for debt with similar terms and underlying collateral. The total carrying value of long-term marketing obligations reported on our consolidated balance sheets approximates fair value and have been categorized as a Level 2 fair value measurement.

The following table sets forth by level within the fair value hierarchy our financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 according to the valuation techniques we used to determine their fair values. There have been no transfers of assets or liabilities between the fair value hierarchies presented.



	Fair Value Measurements
	Level 1		Level 2			Level 3		Total
Balance as of April 28, 2012:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	29,423	$	—		$	—	$	29,423
Restricted cash	1,169		—			—		1,169
Available for sale securities:
Certificates of deposit	—		7,657			—		7,657
U.S. Government securities	7,556		—			—		7,556
U.S. Government sponsored entities	—		4,505			—		4,505
Municipal Bonds	—		5,540			—		5,540
Derivatives - currency forward contracts	—		(95		)	—		(95		)
	$	38,148	$	17,607		$	—	$	55,755
Balance as of April 30, 2011:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	54,308	$	—		$	—	$	54,308
Restricted cash	1,546		—			—		1,546
Available for sale securities:
Certificates of deposit	—		4,913			—		4,913
U.S. Government securities	1,999		—			—		1,999
U.S. Government sponsored entities	—		13,617			—		13,617
Municipal Bonds	—		2,414			—		2,414
Derivatives - currency forward contracts	—		(258		)	—		(258		)
	$	57,853	$	20,686		$	—	$	78,539

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument. There have been no changes in the valuation techniques used by us to value our financial instruments.

Cash and cash equivalents: Consists of cash on hand in bank deposits and highly liquid investments, primarily money market accounts. The fair value was measured using quoted market prices in active markets and is classified as Level 1. The carrying amount approximates fair value.

Restricted cash: Consists of cash and cash equivalents that are held in bank deposit accounts to secure issuances of foreign bank guarantees. The fair value of cash equivalents was measured using quoted market prices in active markets and is classified as Level 1. The carrying amount approximates fair value.

Certificates of deposit: Consists of time deposit accounts with original maturities of less than three years and various yields. The fair value of these securities was measured based on valuations observed in less active markets that out Level 1 investments from a third party financial institution and is classified as Level 2. The carrying amount approximates fair value.

U.S. Government securities: Consists of U.S. Government treasury bills, notes, and bonds with original maturities of less than three years and various yields. The fair value of these securities was measured using quoted market prices in active markets and is classified as Level 1.

U.S. Government sponsored entities: Consist of Fannie Mae and Federal Home Loan Bank investment grade debt securities that trade with sufficient frequency and volume to enable us to obtain pricing information on an ongoing basis. The fair value of these securities was measured based on valuations observed in less active markets then Level 1 investments and is classified as Level 2. The contractual maturities of these investments vary from one month to three years.

Municipal obligations: Consist of investment grade municipal bonds that trade with sufficient frequency and volume to enable us to obtain pricing information on an ongoing basis. The contractual maturities of these investments vary from two to three years. The fair value of these bonds was measured based on valuations observed in less active markets then Level 1 investments and is classified as Level 2.

Derivatives – currency forward contracts: Consists of currency forward contracts that trade with sufficient frequency and volume to enable us to obtain pricing information on an ongoing basis. The fair value of these securities was measured based on valuation from a third party bank and is classified as Level 2. See Note 14 for more information regarding our derivatives.

The fair value measurement standard also applies to certain non-financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. For example, certain long-lived assets such as goodwill, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment are measured at fair value in connection with business combinations or when an impairment is recognized and the related assets are written down to fair value. We did not make any material business combinations or recognize significant impairment losses during fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2011.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
-Paragraph 44A, 44B
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15C, 15D
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15A
-Subparagraph a-d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15B
-Subparagraph a, b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 3, 10, 14, 15
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 32, 33, 34
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 159
-Paragraph 17-22, 27, 28
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6925170&loc=d3e19207-110258

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 21
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6947722&loc=d3e13537-108611

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
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-Paragraph 28
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6957238&loc=d3e14064-108612

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 10
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6947722&loc=d3e13433-108611

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
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-Paragraph 30
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6957238&loc=d3e14172-108612

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6947722&loc=d3e13504-108611

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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+ Details

Derivative Financial Information

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Financial Information

We utilize derivative financial instruments to manage the economic impact of fluctuations in currency exchange rates on those transactions that are denominated in currencies other than our functional currency, which is the U.S. dollar. We enter into currency forward contracts to manage these economic risks. We account for all derivatives on the balance sheet as an asset or liability measured at fair value, and changes in fair values are recognized in earnings unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met for cash flow or net investment hedges. If such hedge accounting criteria are met, the change is deferred in shareholders’ equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The deferred items are recognized in the statement of operations in the period the derivative contract is settled. As of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, we had not designated any of our derivative instruments as accounting hedges, and, thus, recorded the changes in fair value in the other income/expense.

The foreign currency exchange contracts in aggregated notional amounts in place to exchange United States Dollars at April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 were as follows:



	April 28, 2012		April 30, 2011
	U.S. Dollars	Foreign Currency	U.S. Dollars	Foreign Currency
Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts:
U.S. Dollars/Euros	130	99	2,600	1,867
U.S. Dollars/Australian Dollars	3,315	3,269	—	—
U.S. Dollars/Polish Zlotys	—	—	803	2,390
U.S. Dollars/Canadian Dollars	870	868	—	—
U.S. Dollars/Singapore Dollars	96	121	—	—
U.S. Dollars/Brazilian Reais	242	436	—	—

As of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011, there was a net liability of $95 and $258, respectively, representing the fair value of foreign currency exchange forward contracts was determined, using Level 2 inputs from a third party bank.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the entity's entire derivative instruments and hedging activities. Describes an entity's risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and non-hedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising therefrom, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts of such items.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
-Paragraph 45
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+ Details

Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation: We are involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, based upon consultation with legal counsel, the ultimate disposition of these matters, taken as a whole, will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Guarantees: In connection with the sale of equipment to various financial institutions, we have entered into contractual arrangements whereby we agreed to repurchase equipment at the end of the lease term at a fixed price. Our total obligations under these fixed price arrangements were $1,285 as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011. We have recognized a guarantee liability in accrued expenses for the amount of $185 in accordance with the provisions of ASC 460, Guarantees, in connection with these arrangements.

Warranties: We offer a standard parts coverage warranty for periods varying from one to five years for all of our products. We also offer additional types of warranties that include on-site labor, routine maintenance and event support. In addition, the terms of warranties on some installations can vary from one to 10 years. The specific terms and conditions of these warranties vary primarily depending on the type of the product sold. We estimate the costs that may be incurred under the warranty obligations and record a liability in the amount of such estimated costs at the time the revenue is recognized. Factors that affect our estimate of the cost of our warranty obligations include historical experience and expectations of future conditions. We periodically assess the adequacy of our recorded warranty reserves and, to the extent that we experience any changes in warranty claim activity or costs associated with servicing those claims, our warranty obligation is adjusted accordingly.

Changes in our product warranties during the years ended April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011 consisted of the following:



	April 28, 2012			April 30, 2011
Beginning accrued warranty costs	$	22,982		$	18,866
Warranties issued during the period	8,199			10,026
Settlements made during the period	(13,531		)	(14,909		)
Changes in accrued warranty costs for preexisting warranties during the period, including expirations	4,565			8,999
Ending accrued warranty costs	$	22,215		$	22,982

Performance guarantees: We have entered into standby letter of credit agreements, bank guarantees and surety bonds with financial institutions relating to the guarantee of future performance on contracts, primarily construction type contracts. As of April 28, 2012, we had outstanding letters of credit agreements, bank guarantees and surety bonds in the amount of $2,443 and $32,399, respectively. Performance guarantees are issued to certain customers to guarantee the operation and installation of the equipment and our ability to complete a contract. These performance guarantees have various terms, which are generally less than one year.

Leases: We lease vehicles and office space for various sales and service locations throughout the world, including manufacturing space in the United States and China and various equipment. Some of these leases, including the lease for manufacturing facilities in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, include provisions for extensions or purchase. The lease for the facilities in Sioux Falls, South Dakota can be extended for an additional three years past its current term, which ends December 31, 2016, and it contains an option to purchase the property subject to the lease from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016 for $8,400, which approximates fair value. If the lease is extended, the purchase option increases to $8,600 for the year ending December 31, 2017 and $8,800 for the year ending December 31, 2018. Rental expense for operating leases was $3,159, $3,738 and $3,513 for the fiscal years ended April 28, 2012, April 30, 2011 and May 1, 2010, respectively.

Future minimum payments under noncancelable operating leases, excluding executory costs such as management and maintenance fees, with initial or remaining terms of one year or more consisted of the following at April 28, 2012:



Fiscal years ending	Amount
2013	$	2,997
2014	2,170
2015	1,674
2016	1,598
2017	805
Thereafter	76
	$	9,320

Purchase commitments: From time to time, we commit to purchase inventory, advertising rights, and various other products and services over periods that extend beyond a year. As of April 28, 2012, we were obligated under the following conditional and unconditional purchase commitments, which included $1,000 in conditional purchase commitments.



Fiscal years ending	Amount
2013	$	1,801
2014	1,042
2015	299
2016	200
2017	200
Thereafter	200
	$	3,742

Allowance for doubtful accounts: Subsequent to April 28, 2012, we became aware of circumstances that could cause an increase in our allowance for doubtful accounts in an amount between $0 and $2,500. These circumstances arise out of a contract in China for which payment by our customer is dependent on funding from a local government entity that is not under any legal obligation to provide.

Insurance revenues: In October 2009, our subsidiary Star Circuits, Inc., which produces circuit boards for use in our products, had a fire which damaged or destroyed its key production equipment and building mechanical and structural components. Operations were stopped in this facility until new equipment was installed and the build out was completed in another building in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010. Our insurance coverages entitled us to receive payments for business interruption, as well as recoveries for damage to the building and equipment as a result of the fire.

During fiscal 2010, we received or settled on $3,748 of insurance proceeds related to this incident. Insurance proceeds to reimburse costs to reconstruct the facility and to replace manufacturing equipment, supplies and contents resulted in gains of $1,496 during fiscal 2010, or $0.04 per share, net of taxes. Additionally, in fiscal 2010, we recorded $988 in business interruption reimbursements for extra expenses incurred during the non-operating period in cost of goods sold. There were no outstanding insurance reimbursements as of April 28, 2012.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 14
-Paragraph 3
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 5
-Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.25)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

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+ Details

Exit or Disposal Costs	12 Months Ended
Exit or Disposal Costs	Apr. 28, 2012
Exit or Disposal Costs [Abstract]
Exit or Disposal Costs	Exit or Disposal Costs During fiscal 2010, we closed 16 regional offices throughout the United States and recorded the costs associated with these closures of approximately $543, on a pretax basis. This included approximately $208 related to inventory reserves included in costs of goods sold, approximately $78 in severance costs and approximately $257 in lease termination costs which are included in selling expenses. During fiscal 2011, we closed a regional office in the United States and recorded the costs associated with the closure of approximately $255, on a pretax basis, which was for lease termination costs and were included in selling expenses. At the end of fiscal 2012, we had accrued approximately $189 related to the lease termination costs incurred in fiscal 2010 and 2011.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the facts and circumstances leading to the completed or expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the gain (loss) recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain (loss), amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, the segment in which the disposal group was reported, and the classification (whether sold or classified as held for sale) and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group. Includes all disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations).

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 144
-Paragraph 43-48
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+ Details

Investments in Affiliates and Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2012
Investments in Affiliates and Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Investments in Affiliates and Related Party Transactions	Investments in Affiliates and Related Party Transactions We owned a seven percent interest in Outcast as of April 28, 2012 and April 30, 2011. Prior to February 2011, our interest in Outcast was 37.5 percent. As a result of certain transactions during fiscal 2011, Outcast ceased being an equity method investee and, as of April 30, 2011, was a cost method investee with a carrying balance of zero. These transactions during fiscal 2011 resulted in our release under our guarantees of certain debt of Outcast and resulted in the repayment of various loans and advances we had made to Outcast and related parties of Outcast. These transactions resulted in a gain of approximately $605 during fiscal 2011, which is included in other income. We sold our ownership in Ledtronics in fiscal 2010. Equity in earnings (losses) in Outcast and Ledtronics was $0 in fiscal 2012 and 2011 and $(2,765) in fiscal 2010. During the year ended May 30, 2010, we recorded revenues associated with equipment and service deliveries of $430, and inventory purchases of $76 relating to these related parties. We have no payables due to these affiliates.

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
Subsequent Events	Apr. 28, 2012
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events On May 24, 2012, our Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.115 per share payable on June 25, 2012 to holders of record of our common stock on June 14, 2012.

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Apr. 28, 2012

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

The following table presents summarized quarterly financial data:



Fiscal 2012	1st Quarter		2nd Quarter		3rd Quarter		4th Quarter
Net sales	$	118,698	$	135,910	$	122,925	$	111,994
Gross profit	29,507		31,470		27,855		24,606
Net income (loss)	3,368		3,959		1,666		(505		)
Basic earnings (loss) per share	0.08		0.09		0.04		(0.01		)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share	0.08		0.09		0.04		(0.01		)

Fiscal 2011	1st Quarter		2nd Quarter		3rd Quarter		4th Quarter
Net sales	$	100,503	$	126,919	$	99,868	$	114,386
Gross profit	26,588		32,817		23,642		28,437
Net income	2,442		7,007		1,831		2,964
Basic earnings per share	0.06		0.17		0.04		0.07
Diluted earnings per share	0.06		0.17		0.04		0.07

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure may include a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income or loss before extraordinary items and earnings per share data. It also includes an indication if the information in the note is unaudited, comments on the aggregate effect of year-end adjustments, and an explanation of matters or transactions that affect comparability or are pertinent to an understanding of the information furnished.

+ References + Details