M&G Investment Management Ltd. purchased a significant stake in Silicon Motion Technology Co. during the fourth quarter of 2022. The move came even as Silicon Motion (NASDAQ: SIMO) navigated a period of weaker-than-expected revenue, showing that M&G was betting on long-term growth rather than short-term earnings.

Silicon Motion, often shortened to SMI, is a leading developer of microcontrollers for NAND flash storage. Their chips sit at the heart of solid-state drives (SSDs), embedded multimedia cards (eMMCs), and flash solutions used in mobile devices, digital cameras, and industrial applications. The company’s engineering focus on speed, power efficiency, and durability has made it a trusted supplier in consumer, enterprise, and automotive markets.

The UK-based M&G Investment Management Ltd. saw opportunity despite market turbulence. By acquiring more shares, M&G expressed confidence that Silicon Motion’s roadmap of storage controllers and flash management software would translate into long-term gains. The UK firm, founded in 1931, is known for its disciplined, research-driven approach and is increasingly focused on companies aligned with digital transformation and sustainability themes.

Why M&G Chose Silicon Motion

Several factors made Silicon Motion attractive. First, rising demand for flash memory across data centers, smartphones, and cars created steady tailwinds. SMI’s NAND flash controllers are embedded in SSDs, USB flash drives, and memory cards, with clients ranging from global OEMs to niche storage specialists like Nexcopy.

Second, the company’s commitment to innovation stands out. Heavy investments in R&D and a deep intellectual property portfolio keep SMI at the forefront of controller design, ready to adapt as NAND geometry and system requirements evolve. This focus on continuous product refresh cycles ensures relevance even in volatile memory markets.

Third, Silicon Motion’s financial stability added to its appeal. With consistent cash flow generation, the company has been able to return capital to shareholders while also reinvesting in product development. That combination of resilience and growth potential is exactly what long-horizon investors like M&G look for.

Finally, the acquisition aligned with M&G’s strategy to back disruptive technology leaders. As global data creation accelerates, storage is mission-critical infrastructure. By increasing its position in Silicon Motion, M&G positioned itself to benefit from rising demand for SSDs, edge devices, and secure storage solutions.

In short, the Q4 2022 purchase underlined a vote of confidence: despite market headwinds, M&G believes Silicon Motion has the product depth, balance sheet strength, and vision to remain a dominant force in flash memory controllers for years to come.

Nexcopy Introduces an Ultra-Fast 16-Target SD Card Duplicator with Advanced CID Capabilities

The latest innovation from Nexcopy, the 16-target SD Card Duplicator, redefines efficiency by allowing users to copy 1GB of data every 30 seconds. With its enhanced copy speeds, this cutting-edge device is a key product for those needing to perform Secure Digital duplication.

Manufactured by Nexcopy Inc., a Southern California based technology company, the SD160PC sets a new standard for SD Card Duplicators. Designed to connect to a computer, this device works with Nexcopy’s exclusive Drive Manager software. The platform offers a comprehensive array of features, enabling users to execute even the most intricate data duplication projects with ease.

Key features of the SD Card Duplicator:

• Rapid duplication of 1GB of data to all sockets every 30 seconds.
• Ability to read CID numbers from Secure Digital cards for enhanced security.
• Drive Manager software with six copy modes to suit diverse requirements.
• Support for any file format, with compatibility dependent on the copy mode.
• Password-controlled Admin area to manage access between supervisors and operators.

A standout capability of the SD160PC is its ability to read CID numbers from Secure Digital media. The CID number, a unique identifier stored in read-only memory, strengthens encrypted content deployment. Nexcopy makes it easy to download and export these values to a .csv file for analysis or record keeping.

Nexcopy also provides a live speed test video on the product page, demonstrating the remarkable copy speed and efficiency of the system. Prospective users can see firsthand the duplicator’s performance.

The SD160PC is available now for direct purchase from Nexcopy or through authorized resellers worldwide. Whether for commercial duplication or secure data management, the SD160PC delivers speed, reliability, and top-tier functionality.

UPDATE:

Since this press release from March 2022, Nexcopy has updated its software to support the writing of CID numbers to SD cards, in addition to reading them. While writing CID values is not universally supported, Nexcopy offers Secure Digital media specifically designed for this process, providing a turnkey solution where required.

What is a CID number?

The CID (Card Identification) of an SD card is a unique identifier embedded in read-only memory by the manufacturer. It typically contains the manufacturer ID, production date, and proprietary details. The value is accessible only through specialized hardware or commands, such as those used by the SD160PC duplicator.

CID numbers are hidden from standard users but can be accessed programmatically for applications like device authentication, data encryption, and asset tracking. Some management software also supports exporting these identifiers for administrative use.

The 16-target SD Card Duplicator represents a leap forward in duplication technology. With lightning-fast performance, robust software, and enhanced security measures, it stands as the industry benchmark for Secure Digital duplication.

Nexcopy announced this SD Card Duplicator release through PRLeap on March 30, 2022.

Nexcopy introduces Disc License flash drives that emulate a CD-ROM device.

Lake Forest, CA – July 19, 2021 – Nexcopy Inc., a leading manufacturer of advanced flash memory solutions, has announced the release of its Disc License CD-ROM flash drives. These devices provide a hardware-based way to make a USB flash drive appear as a CD-ROM when connected to any host computer.

Why Disc License?

With optical drives disappearing from modern laptops and desktops, organizations that relied on CD or DVD media need alternatives. The Disc License drive bridges that gap. It appears to the system as a CD-ROM and is permanently read-only, ensuring that files cannot be altered, deleted, or reformatted. This makes it an effective method to create a USB CD-ROM flash drive that retains the benefits of optical media.

Greg Morris, President of Nexcopy, explains: “Think of Disc License as a blank CD. The drive capacity matches the GB size ordered by the customer. Point our software at any ISO file and the drive becomes a CD-ROM.” He adds, “What makes it elegant is the ability to re-write ISO files at any time. In practice, it’s like a CD-RW—but in the form of a USB stick.”

Key Benefits

Optical discs have long been trusted for software distribution thanks to auto-run functionality and read-only protection. Disc License preserves those advantages while moving away from fragile optical media. Because the device is hardware write-protected, it cannot be infected with malware or tampered with once data is loaded.

Features

• Default state is read-only (hardware write-protected)
• Burn any ISO file to create a CD-ROM USB flash drive
• Supports bootable ISO files
• Free Drive Wizard software for ISO burning
• Re-write with new ISO files anytime
• Hardware solution—cannot be hacked by software
• Available in USB 2.0 and USB 3.0, 2GB to 128GB

Industry Response

Stan McCrosky, head of Sales, highlights the demand: “After 15 years in the CD/DVD duplication industry, we’ve seen companies struggling to repurpose large ISO libraries. The Disc License drive solves that immediately—no conversion needed. Customers can use their ISO files as-is, and the response so far has been overwhelming.”

Implementation

Using the drive is straightforward:

• Connect the USB drive to a Windows computer
• Open the Drive Wizard software
• Select an ISO file
• Click “Burn” to write the ISO

To re-write, follow the same process—Drive Wizard will overwrite the old image with the new ISO.

Options and Availability

Nexcopy offers the Disc License in six body styles with customizable colors and branding, including Oxford (swivel), Newport, Lexington, Augusta, Huntington, and Geneva. The Oxford swivel drive is stocked for same-day printing and shipping, available in USB 2.0 (2GB, 4GB) and USB 3.0 (8GB–128GB). Custom branding is available through Nexcopy’s Logo-EZ printer.

The Drive Wizard software is available from Nexcopy’s support page and requires licensed Nexcopy drives to function.

Product Information

High-resolution image: Download here

Product page: https://www.nexcopy.com/usb-secure-flash-drives/disc-license/

Availability: Lock License USB 2.0 and 3.0 media are available for immediate delivery. Contact Nexcopy or authorized dealers for details.

Nexcopy’s Lock License flash drive adds password-based control to hardware write protection.

Nexcopy has redefined how secure USB media can function with the Lock License flash drive. By default, the drive is read-only—completely write protected. Using Nexcopy’s Lock License utility, the user can temporarily unlock the device with a password to enable write access. Once power is cut, the device automatically reverts to its safest state: read-only.

Greg Morris, CEO of Nexcopy Inc., explains: “What makes the Lock License unique is that whenever power is cut, the USB automatically returns to write-protected mode. This first-line defense makes it impossible for malicious software or a virus to infect the drive.”

The initial password is set on first use. From that point on, the user controls when the drive is writable. The design offers businesses a practical balance between usability and security.

Key Features

• Default state is read-only (hardware write protection)
• User-defined password removes write protection
• No password required for reading; functions like a WORM device
• GUI and command line utilities available for unlocking
• No back-door access—Nexcopy cannot unlock the device
• Available in USB 2.0 and USB 3.0, from 2GB up to 128GB

Stan McCrosky, head of Sales at Nexcopy, points to industries such as utilities, petroleum, and waterworks as clear beneficiaries. “Being able to update firmware on a hardware write-protected USB ensures maximum in-field security. The command line utility lets manufacturers automate updates without leaving the drive in a writable state.”

How It Works

• Insert the Lock License USB into a Windows computer
• Launch the GUI or command line utility
• Enter the assigned password to unlock write access
• Load or update content on the drive
• Eject the drive—once disconnected, it reverts to read-only
• Read access is universal; password is only required for unlocking write access

Nexcopy offers the Lock License media in multiple body styles and colors suitable for custom branding. Options include Oxford (swivel style), Newport, Lexington, Augusta, Huntington, and Geneva. Oxford is the stocked model, available for same-day printing and shipping.

In stock, Nexcopy carries Oxford swivel drives in USB 2.0 (2GB, 4GB) and USB 3.0 (8GB through 128GB) capacities. Full-color branding is available through Nexcopy’s Logo-EZ printer.

The Lock License utility can be downloaded from Nexcopy’s support page. Note: the security function requires Nexcopy-licensed media—it cannot be applied to off-the-shelf USB sticks.

Best practices for sending sensitive files to a third party—and why copy protection is stronger than encryption.

You have a document, video, or audio file with sensitive information and need to send it to someone else. What’s the safest option?

Three common choices come to mind: email, Dropbox, or a USB flash drive.

Sending an email is like sending a postcard. It’s open to interception, and anyone determined enough can read it. Most of the time nothing happens, but relying on luck with sensitive data is risky. Encryption improves email security, but file size limits (usually around 20MB) make it impractical for large videos or datasets. And once decrypted, the file is free to be copied or shared without restriction.

Dropbox solves the size problem by letting you upload large files and share a download link. However, Dropbox doesn’t encrypt files by default. You can password-protect a compressed archive, but the same weakness applies: once decrypted, the file is wide open to manipulation or unauthorized sharing.

That leads to a critical question: Do you trust the recipient?

News Review: Nexcopy Launches USB-C Duplicator For Mass USB-C Duplication

Nexcopy announced a new USB-C Duplicator, available for immediate purchase. The USB-C200PC is a 20-target, PC-based system designed for high-volume Type-C deployments and comes bundled with Nexcopy’s feature-rich Drive Manager software.

Via the EIN Presswire service, Nexcopy noted rising demand driven by Apple’s adoption of USB-C on Macs and the broader shift to USB-C across IoT products. As device makers migrate to Type-C, duplication workflows are following suit.

Being PC-based doesn’t mean sacrificing speed or capability. The USB-C200PC leverages modern SuperSpeed protocols (commonly referred to as USB 3.1/3.2) and writes at the connected device’s maximum sustained rate. While USB 3.1 Gen 2 advertises up to 10 Gbps theoretical throughput, real-world duplication performance depends on the media and workload.

The system ships with Drive Manager, Nexcopy’s control software known for granular job control, verification, logging, and advanced media functions.

Highlighted Features of the USB-C Duplicator

• Six copy modes to match source/target workflows
• Binary device copy supporting all formats (HFS, ext2/3/4, proprietary, etc.)
• Unique data streaming to each USB-C socket (serialization, per-drive payloads)
• Binary verification for integrity assurance
• Erase and DoD Erase options for disk sanitization
• Data collection to extract files from connected USB-C devices
• Intuitive, informative Drive Manager UI with logging
• Upgradeable to PRO Series for controller-level write protection (read-only)
• Upgradeable to PRO Series for partitioning and advanced media control

The unique data streaming mode is a standout for publishers and on-demand fulfillment: it allows static content plus per-device files (keys, licenses, IDs) to be injected in a single run.

Nexcopy’s PRO Series capabilities—such as USB read-only (write protection), controller-level partitioning, and serial-number control—are also available as upgrades for the USB-C200PC platform.

Why USB-C Matters (Context)

Versatility: A single reversible port that can handle data, display, and power (USB PD) simplifies modern device design and deployment.

Speed: With USB 3.1/3.2 and Thunderbolt 3/4 support on many hosts, data rates are dramatically higher than legacy USB.

Power Delivery: Faster, smarter charging and the ability to power bus-powered peripherals.

Compact form factor: Ideal for thin, light laptops and embedded/IoT designs.

Broad adoption & future-proofing: Momentum across laptops, mobiles, and accessories ensures longevity and compatibility.

The USB-C200PC duplicator lists at $1,299 and is available through major online retailers (e.g., Amazon, Walmart.com, Newegg) and a worldwide network of authorized resellers.

Nexcopy has indicated larger models are in the pipeline, with 40-target and 60-target USB-C duplicators anticipated later in the year.

USB Duplicator by Nexcopy, Model USB600PC

The USB600PC is a PC-connected USB duplicator featuring 60 target ports, designed for high-volume, high-reliability USB rollouts. It pairs with Nexcopy’s Drive Manager software to deliver speed, flexibility, and detailed job control.

Why a PC-Based USB Duplicator?

• Copy from an Image File: Point to a master .img and create verified, bit-accurate clones.
• Copy from Network Locations: Pull masters from shared folders to streamline team workflows.
• Unique Data Streaming: Serialize or inject per-drive files (IDs, licenses, configs) on the same run.
• Bulk Extract: Read/harvest files from each individual USB for QA or audit trails.
• Enable Write-Protect Media: Apply hardware/firmware write-protection on supported media for tamper-resistant distribution.

This overview focuses on Nexcopy’s USB600PC. If your organization distributes software, content, or field tools via flash media, this system can collapse hours of manual effort into a single, predictable workflow.

https://www.nexcopy.com/usb-duplicator/

About Nexcopy

Nexcopy Inc. is a Southern California technology company (founded 2008) specializing in digital media duplication and distribution hardware. The portfolio spans USB, SD/microSD, and CF duplicators to serve education, government, enterprise IT, content publishers, and manufacturing.

Innovation: Nexcopy systems emphasize advanced features—copy and write protection, serialization, binary verification, and robust logging—while the Drive Manager software adds granular control, progress telemetry, and job reporting.

Security Focus: Options such as copy protection and write protection help safeguard proprietary or regulated data sets throughout deployment and use.

Support & Reach: Nexcopy provides training and technical assistance through a global network of authorized resellers, ensuring availability and responsive service in multiple regions.

Slide deck reference: USB Duplicator by Nexcopy, Model USB600PC

SlideShare Highlight: Nexcopy USB115SA USB Duplicator

USB Duplicator by Nexcopy, Model USB115SA

The Benefits of the USB115SA Duplicator

Efficiency: USB duplicators streamline production by allowing simultaneous data copying to multiple drives. This saves time and reduces manual effort, especially when dealing with large batches.

High-Speed Duplication: Depending on the model, USB duplicators can copy data at impressive speeds, enabling large-scale distribution of content in minutes rather than hours.

Batch Processing: Ideal for distributing software, training material, or marketing content, these systems enable duplication of many USB drives in a single pass.

Plug-and-Play Operation: Most USB duplicators require minimal setup, offering user-friendly operation with no additional software installations for basic use.

Versatility: Support for USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB-C media ensures flexibility across a wide range of devices and applications.

Customization: Options such as serialization or branded preloads give businesses the ability to personalize content delivery.

Data Security: Features like write-protection and copy-protection help safeguard proprietary or sensitive information.

Cost-Effectiveness: By reducing labor, minimizing errors, and accelerating turnaround, USB duplicators can lower long-term distribution costs.

The SlideShare presentation introduces the Nexcopy USB115SA system, aligned with the USB-IF specification.

About Nexcopy

Nexcopy Inc. is a Southern California–based company founded in 2008, recognized for digital media duplication solutions. Their product range includes USB duplicators, SD and microSD duplicators, and CF card duplicators.

Product Portfolio: Nexcopy systems serve industries from education and corporate training to content distribution and government. With models ranging from small setups to high-volume standalone units, they cover a broad set of needs.

Innovation: Nexcopy integrates features like serialization, write-protection, and advanced copy modes into their systems. Their Drive Manager software provides control, reporting, and customization for duplication tasks.

Focus on Security: Copy-protection and secure duplication functions help organizations distribute content without compromising confidentiality.

Customer Support: Nexcopy offers training, technical assistance, and responsive service to maximize the effectiveness of their products.

Global Reach: With authorized distributors worldwide, Nexcopy ensures accessibility of its systems across multiple regions and industries.

Trusted for reliability and innovation, Nexcopy remains a strong partner for organizations seeking professional-grade data duplication and protection solutions.

Nexcopy Adds Standalone microSD Duplicators With Card Sanitization Features

Press Release

LAKE FOREST, CA — June 22, 2016 — Nexcopy Inc., a California-based manufacturer of flash memory solutions, has introduced two new standalone microSD Duplicator models to its growing lineup. The new 1-to-15 and 1-to-31 systems deliver high-speed binary copying and built-in sanitization functions designed for professional IT use.

These systems operate as truly standalone devices, requiring no host computer. One-button operation makes them especially well-suited for IT departments, fulfillment houses, software developers, and government agencies handling sensitive data.

Key Features

• Bit-for-bit binary copying
• Benchmark and speed testing
• Pre-scan memory diagnostics
• Transfer speeds up to 1GB per minute
• Multiple copy speed modes
• Password-protected equipment control
• Multi-language interface: English, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese

Beyond duplication, the units introduce sanitization functions to securely wipe multiple microSD cards in parallel—a time-saving tool for IT professionals managing sensitive media. Supported file systems include FAT, FAT32, NTFS, ext2/3/4, and proprietary formats.

“Pivoting from our core binary copy firmware, Nexcopy expands our technology to include sanitization features now being sought by IT professionals,” said Greg Morris, President of Nexcopy. “It is important for Nexcopy to listen to customer requests and deliver practical solutions.”

microSD Background

Introduced in 2005 by the SD Association, the microSD card has evolved from MB-sized storage to multi-terabyte capacities. With faster bus interfaces like UHS-II and UHS-III, microSD cards now serve not just mobile phones but also industrial systems, automotive electronics, and IoT devices. Security features such as built-in encryption and secure erase functions continue to expand their use in sensitive applications.

Product Details

• mSD115SA — 1-to-15 target microSD duplicator & sanitizer (110/220V)
• mSD131SA — 1-to-31 target microSD duplicator & sanitizer (110/220V)

High-resolution images:
mSD115SA image
mSD131SA image

For more details, visit the official Nexcopy microSD duplicator page.

Availability

Nexcopy’s complete line of USB, CF, SD, and microSD duplicators is available now through its worldwide reseller network.

Contact:
Cyrus Riahi
Nexcopy Inc.
+1 949 481 6478

CF Duplicator – Press Release – New from Nexcopy Inc.

LAKE FOREST, Calif.—Nexcopy Inc., a long-standing leader in flash memory duplication, announced a complete redesign of its CF Duplicator product family. The new systems are available in 15, 30, and 45 socket configurations and are built to tackle the heavy demands of bulk CompactFlash (CF) duplication.

With Nexcopy’s bundled Drive Manager software, users gain access to six different copy modes for maximum flexibility:

• File Copy
• Device Copy (Short)
• Device Copy (Full)
• IMG Copy
• Copy Add
• Unique Data Streaming

New Features and Improvements

• All-new CF Duplicator design
• Deep CF sockets with rail guides to reduce bent pins
• Available in 15, 30, and 45 target systems
• Auto-detects 110V or 220V input power
• Bulk read and file extract functions

The new CF Duplicators are built with production environments in mind. Top-loading sockets and extended rail guides streamline the insertion process, virtually eliminating the bent-pin failures that plague high-volume duplication runs.

“Coupling the power of Nexcopy’s Drive Manager software with the new CF duplicator hardware, our systems can handle any requirement from contract manufacturers or fulfillment houses,” said Greg Morris, President of Nexcopy. “With IMG support, unique data streaming, and advanced reporting, we’ve designed these systems to make large-scale duplication both reliable and efficient.”

Each unit supports IMG-based duplication, bit-for-bit verification, and full physical-device cloning. These capabilities make them particularly valuable for bootable CF cards, a common requirement in embedded and industrial systems. The updated CF Duplicators are available now with a starting price of $1,299 (USD).

Where CF Cards Still Matter

While SD and SSD formats dominate consumer markets, CompactFlash remains an active player in professional and industrial spaces:

• Video and broadcast: Professional cameras and camcorders still rely on CF’s high throughput and durability.
• Industrial controls: Embedded systems use CF cards for rugged, reliable storage in harsh environments.
• Medical and scientific: Imaging systems, patient monitors, and diagnostics tools continue to trust CF for stable performance.
• Gaming and kiosks: Arcade systems and specialized consoles have deployed CF media for years.
• Data forensics: CF’s structure and resilience keep it useful in recovery and investigative workflows.

For these sectors, bulk duplication remains a daily task—and Nexcopy’s updated CF duplicator line is positioned as the go-to solution.

Source: GetUSB.info