From napkin sketch to acquisition in 12 months

Invented by engineer and entrepreneur Jonathan Rothberg, the Ion Torrent DNA Sequencer is a sensor that directly reads individuals’ DNA. In two hours, the device can read 10 million letters of genetic code with a high degree of accuracy. The Ion Torrent sells at a fraction of the cost of other DNA scanners on the market meaning, for the first time, every scientist, local hospital, and college will be able to afford one. 

At the time of Rothberg’s invention there was a single dominant player in DNA sequencing, with several other companies developing new technologies that could launch at any time.

Determined to get to market first, Rothberg chose to outsource with Presco. Our experienced team successfully:

• Engineered data acquisition and microfluidics controls on an aggressive timeline

• Maintained project secrecy: Presco did not know the specific application

• Anticipated and simulated negative effects of electronic noise and addressed it with changes to circuit architecture

• Delivered fully functioning, first in the world electronics in just five months, allowing Ion Torrent to prove their theory of operation, testing, and speed to market

• Manufactured the first 200 sets of electronics, then moved production smoothly to Ion Torrent’s facility

A few months later, Ion Torrent was acquired for approximately $725M 

Outsourcing with Presco allowed Ion Torrent to focus on its core skills in molecular biology rather than spending months building a highly competent electronics team and losing the race to market. 

Mechanical engineering

• SolidWorks and ProE 3D Design

• Chassis and Sheet Metal Design

• Thermal Analysis

• Plastics and Injection Molding

• Optical Design and Lasers

Markets Served