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Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
Document and Entity Information - shares	Dec. 31, 2015	Jan. 29, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	POWELL INDUSTRIES INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000080420
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--09-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Trading Symbol	powl
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		11,358,711

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 58,924	$ 43,569
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,010 and $746	82,237	101,784
Inventories	34,245	32,891
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts	99,266	104,793
Income taxes receivable	2,995	1,232
Deferred income taxes	4,390	3,910
Prepaid expenses	4,401	5,004
Other current assets	4,244	3,916
Total Current Assets	290,702	297,099
Property, plant and equipment, net	150,195	154,594
Goodwill and intangible assets, net	2,299	2,393
Deferred income taxes	1,760	2,288
Other assets	10,611	10,117
Long-term receivable (Note D)	2,333	2,333
Total Assets	457,900	468,824
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	45,582	48,008
Accrued salaries, bonuses and commissions	15,332	19,223
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	43,407	42,057
Current maturities of long-term debt and capital lease obligations	400	400
Accrued product warranty	5,105	4,930
Other accrued expenses	9,167	7,521
Income taxes payable	1,221	784
Deferred credit ─ short term (Note D)	2,029	2,029
Total Current Liabilities	122,243	124,952
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities	2,000	2,400
Deferred compensation	5,759	4,950
Other long-term liabilities	787	723
Deferred credit ─ long term (Note D)	2,029	2,537
Total Liabilities	132,818	135,562
Commitments and Contingencies (Note F)
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.01; 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued
Common stock, par value $.01; 30,000,000 shares authorized; 12,164,729 and 12,100,459 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	122	121
Additional paid-in capital	50,055	48,507
Retained earnings	324,843	328,294
Treasury stock, 806,018 and 670,181 shares at cost, respectively	(24,999)	(21,259)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(24,939)	(22,401)
Total Stockholders' Equity	325,082	333,262
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$ 457,900	$ 468,824

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 1,010	$ 746
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	30,000,000	30,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	12,164,729	12,100,459
Common stock, shares outstanding	12,164,729	12,100,459
Treasury stock, shares	806,018	670,181

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 149,977	$ 152,601
Cost of goods sold	126,827	131,532
Gross profit	23,150	21,069
Selling, general and administrative expenses	19,400	20,816
Research and development expenses	1,854	1,840
Amortization of intangible assets	88	118
Restructuring and separation expenses	3,797
Operating loss	(1,989)	(1,705)
Other income	(507)	(507)
Interest expense	24	33
Interest income		(1)
Loss before income taxes	(1,506)	(1,230)
Income tax benefit	(1,047)	(991)
Net loss	$ (459)	$ (239)
Loss per share:
Basic	$ (0.04)	$ (0.02)
Diluted	$ (0.04)	$ (0.02)
Weighted average shares:
Basic	11,395	12,041
Diluted	11,395	12,041
Dividends per share	$ 0.26	$ 0.26

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (459)	$ (239)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,538)	(4,238)
Comprehensive loss	$ (2,997)	$ (4,477)

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References + Details

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) - 3 months ended Dec. 31, 2015 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at Sep. 30, 2015	$ 333,262	$ 121	$ 48,507	$ 328,294	$ (21,259)	$ (22,401)
Balance, shares at Sep. 30, 2015	12,100,459	12,100,000			(670,000)
Net loss	$ (459)			(459)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,538)					(2,538)
Stock-based compensation	2,344	$ 1	2,343
Stock-based compensation, shares		64,000
Shares withheld in lieu of employee tax withholding	(795)		(795)
Issuance of restricted stock, shares		1,000
Purchase of treasury value	(3,740)				$ (3,740)
Purchase of treasury shares					(136,000)
Dividends paid	(2,992)			(2,992)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 325,082	$ 122	$ 50,055	$ 324,843	$ (24,999)	$ (24,939)
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015	12,164,729	12,165,000			(806,000)

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Activities:
Net loss	$ (459)	$ (239)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	3,196	3,318
Amortization	88	118
Stock-based compensation	2,343	1,116
Bad debt expense	248	283
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	48	(317)
Gain on amended supply agreement	(507)	(507)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net	18,603	(25,674)
Costs and billings in excess of estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts	6,921	20,943
Inventories	(1,478)	(3,998)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,522)	467
Accounts payable and income taxes payable	(1,874)	(5,462)
Accrued liabilities	(1,898)	(12,793)
Other, net	356	17
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	24,065	(22,728)
Investing Activities:
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment	12	31
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(629)	(18,962)
Net cash used in investing activities	(617)	(18,931)
Financing Activities:
Payments on industrial development revenue bonds	(400)	(400)
Shares withheld in lieu of employee tax withholding	(795)	(454)
Purchase of treasury shares	(3,740)
Dividends paid	(2,992)	(3,128)
Net cash used in financing activities	(7,927)	(3,982)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	15,521	(45,641)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(166)	(1,013)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	43,569	103,118
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 58,924	$ 56,464

Overview and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
Overview and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Overview and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	A. OVERVIEW AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Overview Powell Industries, Inc. (we, us, our, Powell or the Company) was incorporated in the state of Delaware in 2004 as a successor to a Nevada company incorporated in 1968. The Nevada corporation was the successor to a company founded by William E. Powell in 1947, which merged into the Company in 1977. Our major subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned, include: Powell Electrical Systems, Inc.; Powell (UK) Limited; Powell Canada Inc. and Powell Industries International, B.V. We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems for the distribution, control and monitoring of electrical energy. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, we serve the oil and gas refining, offshore oil and gas production, petrochemical, pipeline, terminal, mining and metals, light rail traction power, electric utility, pulp and paper and other industrial markets. Basis of Presentation These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Powell and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information. Certain information and footnote disclosures, normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP), have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to fairly state the financial position, results of operations and cash flows with respect to the interim consolidated financial statements have been included. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year. We believe that these financial statements contain all adjustments necessary so that they are not misleading. The year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by U.S. GAAP. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Powell and its subsidiaries included in Powell’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2015, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on December 2, 2015. References to Fiscal 2016, Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014 used throughout this report shall mean our fiscal years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes. The most significant estimates used in our financial statements affect revenue and cost recognition for construction contracts, the allowance for doubtful accounts, provision for excess and obsolete inventory, goodwill and intangible assets, self-insurance, warranty accruals, liquidated damages and income taxes. The amounts recorded for insurance claims, warranties, legal, liquidated damages, income taxes and other contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding these contingent liabilities, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Additionally, the recognition of deferred tax assets requires estimates related to future income and other assumptions regarding timing and future profitability. Estimates may change as new events occur, additional information becomes available or operating environments change. Actual results may differ from our estimates. New Accounting Standards In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition that supersedes previously issued revenue recognition guidance. This standard provides a five-step approach to be applied to all contracts with customers and requires expanded disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue (and the related cash flows) arising from customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments used in applying the revenue model and the assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This guidance is now effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, which would be our fiscal year ending September 30, 2019. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method therefore we are evaluating the effect that this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. We have not yet selected a transition method nor have we determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting. In June 2014, the FASB issued an amendment to the topic regarding share-based payments and instances where terms of an award provide that a performance target can be achieved after the requisite service period. This guidance has been provided to resolve the diversity in practice concerning employee share-based payments that contain performance targets that could be achieved after the requisite service period. The updated guidance requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that can be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. Compensation cost should be recognized in the period in which it becomes probable that the performance target will be achieved and is attributable to the periods for which service has been rendered. If the performance target becomes probable of being achieved before the end of the service period, the remaining unrecognized compensation cost for which requisite service has not yet been rendered is recognized prospectively over the remaining service period. The total amount of compensation cost recognized during and after the service period should reflect the number of awards that are expected to vest and should be adjusted to reflect those awards that ultimately vest. The updated guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. In July 2015, the FASB issued a new topic on simplifying the measurement of inventory. The current standard is to measure inventory at lower of cost or market; where market could be replacement cost, net realizable value, or net realizable value less an approximately normal profit margin. This topic updates this guidance to measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value; where net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which would be our fiscal year ending September 30, 2018. The amendments should be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. This topic is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. In November 2015, the FASB issued an amendment to the topic regarding income taxes which requires an entity to separate deferred income tax liabilities and assets into current and noncurrent amounts in the statement of financial position. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. Deferred tax liabilities and assets that are not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. To simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes, the amendments require that deferred income tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. This amendment is effective for us beginning with fiscal year 2018 and we have no plans for early adoption. The adoption of t his guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Earnings Per Share

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

B. EARNINGS PER SHARE

We compute basic earnings per share by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common and potential common share includes the weighted average of additional shares associated with the incremental effect of dilutive restricted stock and restrictive stock units, as prescribed by the FASB guidance on earnings per share.

The following table reconciles basic and diluted weighted average shares used in the computation of earnings per share (in thousands, except per share data):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Numerator:
Net loss......................................................	$	(459	)	$	(239	)
Denominator:
Weighted average basic shares.......................................		11,395			12,041
Dilutive effect of restricted stock units..................................		—			—
Weighted average diluted shares with assumed conversions....................		11,395			12,041
Net loss per share:
Basic........................................................	$	(0.04	)	$	(0.02	)
Diluted......................................................	$	(0.04	)	$	(0.02	)

For the quarters ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we incurred net losses and therefore all potential common shares were deemed to be anti-dilutive.

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts

C. DETAIL OF SELECTED BALANCE SHEET ACCOUNTS

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Activity in our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Balance at beginning of period...................................	$	746		$	1,577
Bad debt expense............................................		248			283
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.....................		26			(2	)
Change in foreign currency translation..............................		(10	)		(14	)
Balance at end of period.......................................	$	1,010		$	1,844

Inventories:

The components of inventories are summarized below (in thousands):


	December 31, 2015		September 30, 2015
Raw materials, parts and subassemblies, net..............................	$	33,552	$	31,807
Work-in-progress................................................		693		1,084
Total inventories................................................	$	34,245	$	32,891

Cost and Estimated Earnings on Uncompleted Contracts

The components of costs and estimated earnings and related amounts billed on uncompleted contracts are summarized below (in thousands):


	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts....................................	$	934,278		$	912,237
Estimated earnings..................................................		274,099			271,640
		1,208,377			1,183,877
Less: Billings to date.................................................		(1,152,518	)		(1,121,141	)
Net underbilled position...............................................	$	55,859		$	62,736

Included in the accompanying balance sheets under the following captions:
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts – underbilled...	$	99,266		$	104,793
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts – overbilled....		(43,407	)		(42,057	)
Net underbilled position...............................................	$	55,859		$	62,736

Warranty Accrual

Activity in our product warranty accrual consisted of the following (in thousands):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Balance at beginning of period..............................................	$	4,930		$	4,557
Increase to warranty expense...............................................		1,326			537
Deduction for warranty charges..............................................		(1,100	)		(524	)
Change in foreign currency translation.........................................		(51	)		(90	)
Balance at end of period..................................................	$	5,105		$	4,480

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

D. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Our intangible assets consist of goodwill, which is not being amortized, and purchased technology, which is amortized over its estimated useful life. Intangible assets balances, subject to amortization, at December 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015 consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31, 2015							September 30, 2015
	Gross					Net		Gross					Net
	Carrying		Accumulated			Carrying		Carrying		Accumulated			Carrying
	Value		Amortization			Value		Value		Amortization			Value
Purchased technology...........	$	11,749	$	(10,453	)	$	1,296	$	11,749	$	(10,359	)	$	1,390
Goodwill...................		1,003		—			1,003		1,003		—			1,003
Total....................	$	12,752	$	(10,453	)	$	2,299	$	12,752	$	(10,359	)	$	2,393

Amortization of intangible assets was $0.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

On August 7, 2006, we purchased certain assets related to the manufacturing of ANSI medium-voltage switchgear and circuit breaker business from General Electric Company (GE). In connection with the acquisition, we entered into a 15 year supply agreement with GE pursuant to which GE would purchase from the Company all of its requirements for ANSI medium-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers and other related equipment and components (the Products). In connection with the acquisition, we recorded an intangible asset related to this supply agreement. On December 30, 2013, the Company and GE amended the supply agreement to allow GE to manufacture similar Products for sale immediately and allow GE to begin purchasing Products from other suppliers beginning December 31, 2014. In return, GE paid us $10 million upon execution of the amended supply agreement and agreed to pay an additional $7 million over three years, subject to certain conditions. The first payment of $2.3 million was received in March 2015. We have $2.3 million recorded in other current assets and the remaining $2.3 million is recorded as a long-term receivable. We wrote off the intangible asset related to the original supply agreement and recorded a deferred credit in the amount of $8.1 million at December 31, 2013, the amount by which the proceeds from GE exceeded the unamortized balance of our intangible asset. We are amortizing this deferred credit over the four-year life of the agreement and have recognized gains in other income of $0.5 million for the quarters ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

- 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

Long-Term Debt

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Long-Term Debt

E. LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
Industrial development revenue bonds.........................................	$	2,400		$	2,800
Less current portion.....................................................		(400	)		(400	)
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations...............................	$	2,000		$	2,400

U.S. Revolver

In Fiscal 2014, we amended and restated our existing credit agreement (the Amended Credit Agreement) with a major domestic bank. In Fiscal 2015, we entered into the Second Amendment of the Amended Credit Agreement (the Second Amendment). The Second Amendment provided for the expansion of our Canadian manufacturing facility and allowed for the repurchase of our common stock pursuant to a share repurchase program announced in December 2014. The Amended Credit Agreement provides for a $75.0 million revolving credit facility (U.S. Revolver). Obligations are collateralized by the stock of certain of our subsidiaries.

The interest rate for amounts outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement for the U.S. Revolver is a floating rate based upon the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, the bank’s prime rate, or the Eurocurrency rate plus 1.00%. Once the applicable rate is determined, a margin ranging up to 1.75%, as determined by our consolidated leverage ratio, is added to the applicable rate.

The U.S. Revolver provides for the issuance of letters of credit which reduce the amounts that may be borrowed under this revolver. The amount available under the U.S. Revolver was reduced by $21.6 million for our outstanding letters of credit at December 31, 2015.

There were no borrowings outstanding under the U.S. Revolver as of December 31, 2015. Amounts available under the U.S. Revolver were $53.4 million at December 31, 2015. The U.S. Revolver expires on December 31, 2018.

The Amended Credit Agreement contains certain restrictive and maintenance-type covenants, such as restrictions on the amount of capital expenditures allowed. It also contains financial covenants defining various financial measures and the levels of these measures with which we must comply, as well as a “material adverse change” clause. A “material adverse change” is defined as a material change in our operations, business, properties, liabilities or condition (financial or otherwise) or a material impairment of our ability to perform our obligations under our credit agreements.

The Amended Credit Agreement is collateralized by a pledge of 100% of the voting capital stock of each of our domestic subsidiaries and 65% of the voting capital stock of each non-domestic subsidiary, excluding Powell Canada. The Amended Credit Agreement provides for customary events of default and carries cross-default provisions with other existing debt agreements. If an event of default (as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement) occurs and is continuing, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Amended Credit Agreement, amounts outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement may be accelerated and may become immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all of the financial covenants of the Amended Credit Agreement.

Canadian Revolver

We have a $7.2 million credit agreement with a major international bank in Canada (the Canadian Revolver) to provide working capital support and letters of credit for our operations in Canada. The Canadian Revolver provides for the issuance of letters of credit which reduce the amounts that may be borrowed under this revolver. There were no outstanding letters of credit under the Canadian Revolver at December 31, 2015.

There were no borrowings outstanding under the Canadian Revolver as of December 31, 2015 and amounts available under the Canadian Revolver were $7.2 million at December 31, 2015. The interest rate for amounts outstanding under the Canadian Revolver is a floating interest rate based upon either the Canadian Prime Rate, or the lender’s Bankers’ Acceptance Rate. Once the applicable rate is determined, a margin of 0.50% to 1.75%, as determined by our consolidated leverage ratio, is added to the applicable rate. The Canadian Revolver expires on March 31, 2018.

The principal financial covenants are consistent with those described in our Amended Credit Agreement. The Canadian Revolver contains a “material adverse effect” clause. A “material adverse effect” is defined as a material change in the operations of Powell or Powell Canada in relation to our financial condition, property, business operations, expected net cash flows, liabilities or capitalization.

The Canadian Revolver is secured by the assets of our Canadian operations and provides for customary events of default and carries cross-default provisions with our existing debt agreements. If an event of default (as defined in the Canadian Revolver) occurs and is continuing, per the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Canadian Revolver, amounts outstanding under the Canadian Revolver may be accelerated and may become immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all of the financial covenants of the Canadian Revolver.

Industrial Development Revenue Bonds

We borrowed $8.0 million in October 2001 through a loan agreement funded with proceeds from tax-exempt industrial development revenue bonds (Bonds). These Bonds were issued by the Illinois Development Finance Authority and were used for the completion of our Northlake, Illinois facility. Pursuant to the Bond issuance, a reimbursement agreement between us and a major domestic bank required an issuance by the bank of an irrevocable direct-pay letter of credit (Bond LC), as collateral, to the Bonds’ trustee to guarantee payment of the Bonds’ principal and interest when due. The Bond LC is subject to both early termination and extension provisions customary to such agreements, as well as various covenants, for which we were in compliance at December 31, 2015. While the Bonds mature in 2021, the reimbursement agreement requires annual redemptions of $0.4 million that commenced on October 25, 2002. A sinking fund is used for the redemption of the Bonds. The Bonds bear interest at a floating rate determined weekly by the Bonds’ remarketing agent, which was the underwriter for the Bonds and is an affiliate of the bank. This interest rate was 0.15% as of December 31, 2015.

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	F. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Long-Term Debt See Note E herein for discussion of our long-term debt. Letters of Credit and Bonds Certain customers require us to post bank letter of credit guarantees or performance bonds issued by a surety. These guarantees and performance bonds assure that we will perform under the terms of our contract. In the event of default, the counterparty may demand payment from the bank under a letter of credit or performance by the surety under a performance bond. To date, there have been no significant expenses related to either letters of credit or performance bonds for the periods reported. We were contingently liable for secured and unsecured letters of credit of $21.6 million as of December 31, 2015. We also had performance and maintenance bonds totaling $307.5 million that were outstanding, with additional bonding capacity of $442.5 million available, at December 31, 2015. We have a $14.8 million facility agreement (Facility Agreement) between Powell (UK) Limited and a large international bank. This Facility Agreement provides Powell (UK) the ability to enter into bank guarantees as well as forward exchange contracts and currency options. At December 31, 2015, we had outstanding guarantees totaling $3.0 million under this Facility Agreement and amounts available under this Facility Agreement were $11.8 million. This facility is renewable in May 2016. The Facility Agreement provides for financial covenants and customary events of default, and carries cross-default provisions with our Amended Credit Facility. If an event of default (as defined in the Facility Agreement) occurs and is continuing, per the terms and subject to the conditions set forth therein, obligations outstanding under the Facility Agreement may be accelerated and may become or be declared immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all of the financial covenants of the Facility Agreement. Litigation We are involved in various legal proceedings, claims and other disputes arising from our commercial operations, projects, employees and other matters which, in general, are subject to uncertainties and in which the outcomes are not predictable. Although we can give no assurances about the resolution of pending claims, litigation or other disputes and the effect such outcomes may have on us, management believes that any ultimate liability resulting from the outcome of such proceedings, to the extent not otherwise provided or covered by insurance, will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations or liquidity. Liquidated Damages Certain of our customer contracts have schedule and performance obligation clauses that, if we fail to meet them, could subject us to liquidated damages. Each individual contract defines the conditions under which the customer may make a claim against us. As of December 31, 2015, our exposure to possible liquidated damages is $7.5 million, of which approximately $2.2 million is probable. Based on our actual or projected failure to meet these various contractual commitments, $1.7 million has been recorded against revenue in our statement of operations. We believe that we will be successful in obtaining change orders or contract extensions that should resolve the potential for any unaccrued liquidated damages; however, should we fail to achieve relief on some or all of these contractual obligations, we could be subject to additional liquidated damages which could impact our future operating results.

Stock-Based Compensation

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

G.STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

Refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015 for a full description of our existing stock-based compensation plans.

Restricted Stock Units

We issue restricted stock units (RSUs) to certain officers and key employees of the Company. The fair value of the RSUs is based on the closing price of our common stock as reported on the NASDAQ Global Market on the grant dates. Typically, these grants vest over a three-year period from their date of issuance, of which sixty percent of the grant will be earned based on the three year earnings performance of the Company following the grant date. The remaining forty percent of the grant is time-based and vests over a three-year period on each anniversary of the grant date, based on continued employment. At December 31, 2015, there were 153,522 RSUs outstanding. The RSUs do not have voting rights but receive dividend equivalents upon vesting; additionally, the shares of common stock underlying the RSUs are not considered issued and outstanding until vested and common stock is issued.

RSU activity (number of shares) for the quarter is summarized below:

	Number of			Weighted
	Restricted			Average
	Stock			Fair Value
	Units			Per Share
Outstanding at September 30, 2015..........................................		133,506		$	50.26
Granted..........................................................		123,000			30.27
Vested(1)........................................................		(91,934	)		33.36
Forfeited/cancelled..................................................		(11,050	)		30.27
Outstanding at December 31, 2015..........................................		153,522		$	45.80

(1) Includes the accelerated vesting of 60,909 shares previously issued to our former Chief Executive Officer as part of his separation package, see Note J.

During the three months ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we recorded compensation expense of $2.1 million and $0.8 million, respectively, related to the RSUs. The increase in compensation expense recorded in the three months ended December 31, 2015, was primarily due to separation costs, see Note J.

Restricted Stock

Restricted stock grants vest equally over their respective vesting period on each anniversary of the grant date and compensation expense is recognized over their respective vesting periods based on the price per share on the grant date. During the first quarter of Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014, there was no restricted stock granted.

During the three months ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we recorded compensation expense of $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, related to restricted stock grants.

Fair Value Measurements

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

H. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Fair value is defined as an “exit price” which represents the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in valuing an asset or liability. The accounting guidance requires the use of valuation techniques to measure fair value that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. As a basis for considering such assumptions and inputs, a fair value hierarchy has been established which identifies and prioritizes three levels of inputs to be used in measuring fair value.

The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

Level 1 — Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 — Inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly, including: quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market data and require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

The following table summarizes the fair value of our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands):

	Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable		Fair Value at
	Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs		December 31,
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		2015
Assets:
Cash equivalents........................	$	134	$	—	$	—	$	134
Deferred compensation....................		2,502		2,980		—		5,482
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation....................		—		5,315		—		5,315

The following table summarizes the fair value of our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2015 (in thousands):

	Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2015
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable		Fair Value at
	Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs		September 30,
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		2015
Assets:
Cash equivalents........................	$	434	$	—	$	—	$	434
Deferred compensation....................		1,879		2,904		—		4,783
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation....................		—		4,487		—		4,487

Cash equivalents, primarily funds held in money market savings instruments, are reported at their current carrying value which approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments and are included in cash and cash equivalents in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments

Fair value guidance requires certain fair value disclosures be presented in both interim and annual reports. The estimated fair value amounts of financial instruments have been determined using available market information and valuation methodologies described below.

Deferred Compensation – We hold investments in an irrevocable Rabbi Trust for our deferred compensation plan. These assets include both mutual fund investments and company-owned life insurance policies. Under the plan, participants designate investment options to serve as the basis for measurement of the notional value of their accounts. The fair values of the underlying securities of these funds are based on quoted market prices and are categorized as Level I in the fair value measurement hierarchy. The company-owned life insurance policies are valued at cash surrender value and are therefore categorized as Level 2 in the fair value measurement hierarchy.

Industrial Development Revenue Bond – The fair value of our long-term debt depends primarily on the coupon rate of our industrial development revenue bonds. The carrying value of our long-term debt at December 31, 2015, approximates fair value based on the current coupon rate of the bonds, which is reset weekly, and is classified as a Level 2 input in the fair value measurement hierarchy as there is an active market for the trading of these industrial development revenue bonds.

There were no transfers between levels within the fair value measurement hierarchy during the three months ended December 31, 2015.

- 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 + Details

Income Taxes

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

I. INCOME TAXES

The calculation of the effective tax rate is as follows (in thousands):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Loss before income taxes....................................	$	(1,506	)	$	(1,230	)

Income tax benefit.........................................		(1,047	)		(991	)

Net loss................................................	$	(459	)	$	(239	)

Effective tax rate..........................................		70	%		81	%

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Statutory rate...............................................		35	%		35	%
Foreign valuation allowance.....................................		(11	)		—
Research and development credit.................................		45			46
State income taxes, net of federal benefit............................		3			2
Domestic production activities deduction............................		(2	)		(2	)
Effective rate...............................................		70	%		81	%

We recorded an income tax benefit of $1.0 million in the first quarter of Fiscal 2016 and Fiscal 2015. The effective tax rate for the first quarter of Fiscal 2016 was 70% compared to an effective tax rate of 81% in the first quarter of Fiscal 2015, primarily due to our inability to recognize a tax benefit on the Canadian loss incurred in the first quarter of Fiscal 2016. A tax benefit related to the Canadian loss was recognized in the first quarter of Fiscal 2015.

In the second quarter of Fiscal 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance against the Canadian net deferred assets. Due to the historical Canadian losses, and the projected losses in the near term, we were required under the more-likely-than-not accounting standard to record a valuation allowance against the Canadian net deferred assets because we anticipated that we may not be able to realize the benefits of the net operating loss carryforwards and other deductible differences.

On December 18, 2015, the “Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015” was enacted which retroactively reinstated and made permanent the Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D Tax Credit). The retroactive tax benefit for the previously expired period from January 1, 2015 to September 30, 2015 of $0.8 million is reflected as a discrete item and had a favorable impact to our consolidated tax benefit for the first quarter of Fiscal 2016. A retroactive reinstatement of the R&D Tax Credit resulting in a discrete item of $0.6 million was made in the first quarter of Fiscal 2015.

Restructuring and Separation Costs	3 Months Ended
Restructuring and Separation Costs	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring And Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Separation Costs	J. RESTRUCTURING AND SEPARATION COSTS In the first quarter of Fiscal 2016, we incurred $3.8 million of restructuring and separation costs associated with the departure of our former Chief Executive Officer on December 24, 2015. This includes stock-based compensation expense of $1.8 million due to the accelerated vesting of 60,909 restricted stock units, as well as future cash payments of $2.0 million, of which $1.7 million will be paid in Fiscal 2016.

Overview and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Overview	Overview Powell Industries, Inc. (we, us, our, Powell or the Company) was incorporated in the state of Delaware in 2004 as a successor to a Nevada company incorporated in 1968. The Nevada corporation was the successor to a company founded by William E. Powell in 1947, which merged into the Company in 1977. Our major subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned, include: Powell Electrical Systems, Inc.; Powell (UK) Limited; Powell Canada Inc. and Powell Industries International, B.V. We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems for the distribution, control and monitoring of electrical energy. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, we serve the oil and gas refining, offshore oil and gas production, petrochemical, pipeline, terminal, mining and metals, light rail traction power, electric utility, pulp and paper and other industrial markets.
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Powell and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information. Certain information and footnote disclosures, normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP), have been condensed or omitted pursuant to those rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to fairly state the financial position, results of operations and cash flows with respect to the interim consolidated financial statements have been included. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year. We believe that these financial statements contain all adjustments necessary so that they are not misleading. The year-end balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by U.S. GAAP. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Powell and its subsidiaries included in Powell’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2015, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on December 2, 2015. References to Fiscal 2016, Fiscal 2015 and Fiscal 2014 used throughout this report shall mean our fiscal years ended September 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying footnotes. The most significant estimates used in our financial statements affect revenue and cost recognition for construction contracts, the allowance for doubtful accounts, provision for excess and obsolete inventory, goodwill and intangible assets, self-insurance, warranty accruals, liquidated damages and income taxes. The amounts recorded for insurance claims, warranties, legal, liquidated damages, income taxes and other contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding these contingent liabilities, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Additionally, the recognition of deferred tax assets requires estimates related to future income and other assumptions regarding timing and future profitability. Estimates may change as new events occur, additional information becomes available or operating environments change. Actual results may differ from our estimates.
New Accounting Standards	New Accounting Standards In May 2014, the FASB issued a new standard on revenue recognition that supersedes previously issued revenue recognition guidance. This standard provides a five-step approach to be applied to all contracts with customers and requires expanded disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue (and the related cash flows) arising from customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments used in applying the revenue model and the assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. This guidance is now effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, which would be our fiscal year ending September 30, 2019. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method therefore we are evaluating the effect that this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. We have not yet selected a transition method nor have we determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting. In June 2014, the FASB issued an amendment to the topic regarding share-based payments and instances where terms of an award provide that a performance target can be achieved after the requisite service period. This guidance has been provided to resolve the diversity in practice concerning employee share-based payments that contain performance targets that could be achieved after the requisite service period. The updated guidance requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that can be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. Compensation cost should be recognized in the period in which it becomes probable that the performance target will be achieved and is attributable to the periods for which service has been rendered. If the performance target becomes probable of being achieved before the end of the service period, the remaining unrecognized compensation cost for which requisite service has not yet been rendered is recognized prospectively over the remaining service period. The total amount of compensation cost recognized during and after the service period should reflect the number of awards that are expected to vest and should be adjusted to reflect those awards that ultimately vest. The updated guidance is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. In July 2015, the FASB issued a new topic on simplifying the measurement of inventory. The current standard is to measure inventory at lower of cost or market; where market could be replacement cost, net realizable value, or net realizable value less an approximately normal profit margin. This topic updates this guidance to measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value; where net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This update is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, which would be our fiscal year ending September 30, 2018. The amendments should be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. This topic is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. In November 2015, the FASB issued an amendment to the topic regarding income taxes which requires an entity to separate deferred income tax liabilities and assets into current and noncurrent amounts in the statement of financial position. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as current or noncurrent based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting. Deferred tax liabilities and assets that are not related to an asset or liability for financial reporting are classified according to the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. To simplify the presentation of deferred income taxes, the amendments require that deferred income tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. This amendment is effective for us beginning with fiscal year 2018 and we have no plans for early adoption. The adoption of t his guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share

The following table reconciles basic and diluted weighted average shares used in the computation of earnings per share (in thousands, except per share data):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Numerator:
Net loss......................................................	$	(459	)	$	(239	)
Denominator:
Weighted average basic shares.......................................		11,395			12,041
Dilutive effect of restricted stock units..................................		—			—
Weighted average diluted shares with assumed conversions....................		11,395			12,041
Net loss per share:
Basic........................................................	$	(0.04	)	$	(0.02	)
Diluted......................................................	$	(0.04	)	$	(0.02	)

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract]

Activity in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Activity in our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable consisted of the following (in thousands):


	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Balance at beginning of period...................................	$	746		$	1,577
Bad debt expense............................................		248			283
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries.....................		26			(2	)
Change in foreign currency translation..............................		(10	)		(14	)
Balance at end of period.......................................	$	1,010		$	1,844

Components of Inventories

The components of inventories are summarized below (in thousands):


	December 31, 2015		September 30, 2015
Raw materials, parts and subassemblies, net..............................	$	33,552	$	31,807
Work-in-progress................................................		693		1,084
Total inventories................................................	$	34,245	$	32,891

Cost and Estimated Earnings on Uncompleted Contracts

The components of costs and estimated earnings and related amounts billed on uncompleted contracts are summarized below (in thousands):


	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts....................................	$	934,278		$	912,237
Estimated earnings..................................................		274,099			271,640
		1,208,377			1,183,877
Less: Billings to date.................................................		(1,152,518	)		(1,121,141	)
Net underbilled position...............................................	$	55,859		$	62,736

Included in the accompanying balance sheets under the following captions:
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts – underbilled...	$	99,266		$	104,793
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts – overbilled....		(43,407	)		(42,057	)
Net underbilled position...............................................	$	55,859		$	62,736

Activity in Product Warranty Accrual

Activity in our product warranty accrual consisted of the following (in thousands):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Balance at beginning of period..............................................	$	4,930		$	4,557
Increase to warranty expense...............................................		1,326			537
Deduction for warranty charges..............................................		(1,100	)		(524	)
Change in foreign currency translation.........................................		(51	)		(90	)
Balance at end of period..................................................	$	5,105		$	4,480

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization

Intangible assets balances, subject to amortization, at December 31, 2015 and September 30, 2015 consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31, 2015							September 30, 2015
	Gross					Net		Gross					Net
	Carrying		Accumulated			Carrying		Carrying		Accumulated			Carrying
	Value		Amortization			Value		Value		Amortization			Value
Purchased technology...........	$	11,749	$	(10,453	)	$	1,296	$	11,749	$	(10,359	)	$	1,390
Goodwill...................		1,003		—			1,003		1,003		—			1,003
Total....................	$	12,752	$	(10,453	)	$	2,299	$	12,752	$	(10,359	)	$	2,393

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Components of Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands):

	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
	December 31, 2015			September 30, 2015
Industrial development revenue bonds.........................................	$	2,400		$	2,800
Less current portion.....................................................		(400	)		(400	)
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations...............................	$	2,000		$	2,400

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 470
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6479336&loc=d3e64711-112823

Reference 4: 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.(e),(f))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 55
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34725769&loc=d3e28878-108400

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21538-112644

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28541-108399

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 835
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21521-112644

+ Details

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]

Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity

RSU activity (number of shares) for the quarter is summarized below:

	Number of			Weighted
	Restricted			Average
	Stock			Fair Value
	Units			Per Share
Outstanding at September 30, 2015..........................................		133,506		$	50.26
Granted..........................................................		123,000			30.27
Vested(1)........................................................		(91,934	)		33.36
Forfeited/cancelled..................................................		(11,050	)		30.27
Outstanding at December 31, 2015..........................................		153,522		$	45.80

(1) Includes the accelerated vesting of 60,909 shares previously issued to our former Chief Executive Officer as part of his separation package, see Note J.

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis

The following table summarizes the fair value of our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015 (in thousands):

	Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable		Fair Value at
	Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs		December 31,
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		2015
Assets:
Cash equivalents........................	$	134	$	—	$	—	$	134
Deferred compensation....................		2,502		2,980		—		5,482
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation....................		—		5,315		—		5,315

The following table summarizes the fair value of our assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2015 (in thousands):

	Fair Value Measurements at September 30, 2015
	Quoted Prices in		Significant Other		Significant
	Active Markets for		Observable		Unobservable		Fair Value at
	Identical Assets		Inputs		Inputs		September 30,
	(Level 1)		(Level 2)		(Level 3)		2015
Assets:
Cash equivalents........................	$	434	$	—	$	—	$	434
Deferred compensation....................		1,879		2,904		—		4,783
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation....................		—		4,487		—		4,487

Income Taxes (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate

The calculation of the effective tax rate is as follows (in thousands):

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Loss before income taxes....................................	$	(1,506	)	$	(1,230	)

Income tax benefit.........................................		(1,047	)		(991	)

Net loss................................................	$	(459	)	$	(239	)

Effective tax rate..........................................		70	%		81	%

	Three months ended December 31,
	2015			2014
Statutory rate...............................................		35	%		35	%
Foreign valuation allowance.....................................		(11	)		—
Research and development credit.................................		45			46
State income taxes, net of federal benefit............................		3			2
Domestic production activities deduction............................		(2	)		(2	)
Effective rate...............................................		70	%		81	%

Earnings Per Share (Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Numerator:
Net loss	$ (459)	$ (239)
Denominator:
Weighted average basic shares	11,395	12,041
Weighted average diluted shares with assumed conversions	11,395	12,041
Net loss per share:
Basic	$ (0.04)	$ (0.02)
Diluted	$ (0.04)	$ (0.02)

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References + Details

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts (Activity in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 746	$ 1,577
Bad debt expense	248	283
Uncollectible accounts written off, net of recoveries	26	(2)
Change in foreign currency translation	(10)	(14)
Balance at end of period	$ 1,010	$ 1,844

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts (Components of Inventories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Raw materials, parts and subassemblies, net	$ 33,552	$ 31,807
Work-in-progress	693	1,084
Total inventories	$ 34,245	$ 32,891

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts (Cost and Estimated Earnings on Uncompleted Contracts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts	$ 934,278	$ 912,237
Estimated earnings	274,099	271,640
Total	1,208,377	1,183,877
Less: Billings to date	(1,152,518)	(1,121,141)
Net underbilled position	55,859	62,736
Included in the accompanying balance sheets under the following captions:
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts – underbilled	99,266	104,793
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts – overbilled	(43,407)	(42,057)
Net underbilled position	$ 55,859	$ 62,736

Detail of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts (Activity in Product Warranty Accrual) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 4,930	$ 4,557
Increase to warranty expense	1,326	537
Deduction for warranty charges	(1,100)	(524)
Change in foreign currency translation	(51)	(90)
Balance at end of period	$ 5,105	$ 4,480

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Accumulated Amortization	$ (10,453)	$ (10,359)
Goodwill Gross Carrying Value	1,003	1,003
Goodwill Net Carrying Value	1,003	1,003
Gross Carrying Value	12,752	12,752
Net Carrying Value	2,299	2,393
Purchased Technology
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Value	11,749	11,749
Accumulated Amortization	(10,453)	(10,359)
Net Carrying Value	$ 1,296	$ 1,390

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets		$ 88	$ 118
Cash received from amended supply agreement	$ 2,300			$ 10,000
Other current assets		4,244			$ 3,916
Long term receivable		$ 2,333			$ 2,333
Deferred credit amortization period		4 years
Gains in other income		$ 507	$ 507
General Electric Company
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Additional amount paid on execution of agreement		$ 7,000
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, period		3 years
Other current assets		$ 2,300
Deferred credit						$ 8,100
Supply Agreement
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Useful life of intangible asset		15 years

Long-Term Debt (Components of Long-Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Industrial development revenue bonds	$ 2,400	$ 2,800
Less current portion	(400)	(400)
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations	$ 2,000	$ 2,400

Long Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
Long Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Oct. 31, 2001
U.S. Revolver
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility		$ 75,000,000
Revolving credit interest rate	The interest rate for amounts outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement for the U.S. Revolver is a floating rate based upon the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, the bank’s prime rate, or the Eurocurrency rate plus 1.00%.
Outstanding letters of credit	$ 21,600,000
Amount of credit facility remaining borrowing capacity	$ 53,400,000
Credit facility expiration date	Dec. 31, 2018
Revolving credit facility borrowings, outstanding amount	$ 0
Percentage of voting capital stock pledged as collateral	100.00%
Non-domestic subsidiaries of voting capital stock	65.00%
U.S. Revolver \| Maximum
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.75%
U.S. Revolver \| Federal Funds Rate
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	0.50%
U.S. Revolver \| Eurocurrency Rate
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.00%
Canadian Revolver
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility	$ 7,200,000
Outstanding letters of credit	0
Amount of credit facility remaining borrowing capacity	$ 7,200,000
Credit facility expiration date	Mar. 31, 2018
Revolving credit facility borrowings, outstanding amount	$ 0
Canadian Revolver \| Maximum
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.75%
Canadian Revolver \| Minimum
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	0.50%
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings			$ 8,000,000
Reimbursement agreement requires annual redemptions	$ 400,000
Interest rate	0.15%

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended
Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)
Guarantee Obligations [Line Items]
Additional bonding capacity	$ 442,500,000
Liquidated damages	7,500,000
Probable liquidated damages	2,200,000
Loss contingency, estimate of actual or projected loss	1,700,000
Facility Agreement \| Powell (UK) Limited
Guarantee Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantee liability	3,000,000
Revolving credit facility	14,800,000
Amount of credit facility remaining borrowing capacity	11,800,000
Financial Standby Letter of Credit
Guarantee Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantee liability	21,600,000
Performance Guarantee
Guarantee Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantee liability	$ 307,500,000

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2015
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested restricted stock outstanding	153,522			133,506
Compensation expense	$ 2.1	$ 0.8
Restricted stock granted	123,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) \| Performance Based Restricted Stock Unit
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Actual amount of RSUs earned based on cumulative earnings	60.00%
Vesting period	3 years
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) \| Time Based Restricted Stock Unit
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Target RSUs granted range	40.00%
Restricted Stock
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Compensation expense	$ 0.2	$ 0.3
Restricted stock granted		0	0

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity) (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

$ / shares

Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]

Outstanding Beginning Balance, Number of Restricted Stock Units | shares

133,506

Granted, Number of Restricted Stock Units | shares

123,000

Vested, Number of Restricted Stock Units | shares

(91,934)

^[1]

Forfeited/cancelled, Number of Restricted Stock Units | shares

(11,050)

Outstanding Ending balance, Number of Restricted Stock Units | shares

153,522

Outstanding Beginning Balance, Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares

$ 50.26

Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares

30.27

Vested, Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares

33.36

^[1]

Forfeited/cancelled, Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares

30.27

Outstanding Ending balance, Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share | $ / shares

$ 45.80

[1]	Includes the accelerated vesting of 60,909 shares previously issued to our former Chief Executive Officer as part of his separation package, see Note J.

Stock-Based Compensation (Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity) (Parenthetical) (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015 shares
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation accelerated vesting shares	60,909
Chief Executive Officer
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation accelerated vesting shares	60,909

Fair Value Measurements (Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Assets:
Cash equivalents	$ 134	$ 434
Deferred compensation	5,482	4,783
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation	5,315	4,487
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Assets:
Cash equivalents	134	434
Deferred compensation	2,502	1,879
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Assets:
Deferred compensation	2,980	2,904
Liabilities:
Deferred compensation	$ 5,315	$ 4,487

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details)	3 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Transfers between measurement levels	$ 0

Income Taxes (Schedule of Effective Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Loss before income taxes	$ (1,506)	$ (1,230)
Income tax benefit	(1,047)	(991)
Net loss	$ (459)	$ (239)
Effective tax rate	70.00%	81.00%

Income Taxes (Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation) (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%
Foreign valuation allowance	(11.00%)
Research and development credit	45.00%	46.00%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	3.00%	2.00%
Domestic production activities deduction	(2.00%)	(2.00%)
Effective rate	70.00%	81.00%

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Retroactive tax benefit	$ 800	$ 600
Income tax benefit	$ (1,047)	$ (991)
Effective tax rate	70.00%	81.00%
R&D Tax Credit
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Tax credit carryforward description	On December 18, 2015, the “Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015” was enacted which retroactively reinstated and made permanent the Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D Tax Credit).

Restructuring and Separation Costs (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and separation costs	$ 3,797
Stock-based compensation expense	2,343	$ 1,116
Restructuring and separation costs future cash payments	2,000
Restructuring and separation costs payable by fiscal 2016	$ 1,700
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Share-based compensation accelerated vesting shares	60,909
Restructuring and Separation Costs
Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 1,800