These data show that a mobile PCR platform can rapidly detect CaPVs from suspect cases, within 60 minutes of sample collection, offering a sensitive molecular technology that can be deployed into field settings. Furthermore, the comparative data for the lyophilized reagents demonstrate that it is possible to generate a stabilized assay with equivalent (or better) performance compared with the wet‐assay format. This current assay format represents the results of a collaborative research project that was undertaken to highlight the potential of these technologies for diagnostic use. Future validation to include a greater sample data set would increase confidence in the test and could be combined with optimization of the DNA extraction steps to bring its performance in line with that of a standard laboratory extraction robot. Further availability of this particular assay (via commercial sources), as well as other tests that might also exploit this format, will be dependent upon demand and interest from customers.