Simple Fast PCR

thingiverse

Here is a work in progress of developing an innovative, open-source PCR machine that significantly outperforms commercial counterparts, delivering rapid and robust results while being approximately 50 to 100 times more cost-effective. The design utilizes 8mm diameter rails, features M4 screws for the step motor attachment, and employs M3 screws elsewhere. Three water baths are used instead of peltiers for temperature control. The plan includes a heated lid feature; however, given the accelerated performance and potential for condensation formation due to rapid test tube heating or cooling, the heated lid might be redundant in this configuration. Designed to accommodate 96 well holders that can be stacked up to three or four times, the machine should efficiently run PCR on hundreds of 0.2ml tubes within 20-30 minutes. All electronic components will utilize readily available 3D printable parts and Arduino boards, making it feasible to source them locally without any difficult-to-obtain parts. Additionally, this setup allows for potential extension into two to four temperature zones. An advantageous perk is that the machine uses up to 80% less electricity than conventional peltier-based PCR machines. Repository files, including Arduino source code, can be found at https://github.com/yardimli/open-fast-pcr