The resulting silicon can be treated with the usual chip-making processes to make transistors that are small, flexible and reasonably fast.

ECONOMIST: Just press print

What is more, according to Dr Hergenrother, all of this is possible using current chip-making equipment and processes.

ECONOMIST: Transistors: A tall story | The

The new version puts the full DNA extraction, amplification and separation processes on a newer chip that meets NEC's original goal of producing output in 25 minutes -- faster than a short cop drama, if you include the commercial breaks.

ENGADGET: NEC shows 2014-era portable DNA analyzer that could outpace your favorite crime drama