v2.4.0.6
National Semiconductor acquisition (Acquired finite-lived intangible assets) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Dec. 31, 2011
In-process R&D [Member]
Dec. 31, 2010
In-process R&D [Member]
Dec. 31, 2011
National [Member]
Sep. 23, 2011
National [Member]
Dec. 31, 2011
National [Member]
Developed technology [Member]
years
Dec. 31, 2011
National [Member]
Customer relationships [Member]
years
Dec. 31, 2011
National [Member]
Other [Member]
years
Dec. 31, 2011
National [Member]
In-process R&D [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]                    
Identified intangible assets subject to amortization, Asset Amount         $ 2,851   $ 2,025 $ 810 $ 16  
Acquired intangible assets 2,960 0 93 [1] 0 [1] 2,956 2,956       105 [1]
Total identified intangible assets $ 2,960 $ 0 $ 93 [1] $ 0 [1] $ 2,956 $ 2,956       $ 105 [1]
Identified intangible assets subject to amortization, Weighted Average Useful Life (Years)             10 8 3  
[1] In-process R&D is not amortized until the associated project has been completed. Alternatively, if the associated project is determined not to be viable, it will be expensed.