v2.4.0.6
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Assets:    
Marketable securities $ 165,695 $ 563,997
Carrying Value
   
Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 704,153 742,099
Marketable securities 165,695 563,997
Notes receivable 3,424 3,316
Liabilities:    
Contingent consideration arrangement (10,000)  
Long-term debt (95,844) (95,844)
Carrying Value | Guarantee of debt obligation | Equity method investee
   
Liabilities:    
Guarantee of an equity method investee's debt (5,000)  
Carrying Value | Long-term marketable equity securities
   
Assets:    
Long-term investments 74,691  
Carrying Value | Auction rate securities
   
Assets:    
Long-term investments 5,870 13,100
Fair Value
   
Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 704,153 742,099
Marketable securities 165,695 563,997
Notes receivable 3,058 2,818
Liabilities:    
Contingent consideration arrangement (10,000)  
Long-term debt (93,339) (83,363)
Letters of credit and surety bond (312) (362)
Fair Value | Guarantee of debt obligation | Equity method investee
   
Liabilities:    
Guarantee of an equity method investee's debt (5,000)  
Fair Value | Long-term marketable equity securities
   
Assets:    
Long-term investments 74,691  
Fair Value | Auction rate securities
   
Assets:    
Long-term investments $ 5,870 $ 13,100