Abstract: Embodiments described are generally directed to ensuring a data storage device originated from a first location. The data storage device including a unique identifier visibly attached to said data storage device and the unique identifier digitally retained by the data storage device. At a first location a first hash of said unique identifier is generated via a hash function. Also at the first location a public key and a private key are created. The first hash is cryptographically signed using the private key. Before sending the data storage device to a second location the cryptographically signed hash is stored to the data storage device along with the public key. At the second location, a second hash of said unique identifier is generated using the same hash function used at the first location. The second hash is compared with a recovered version of the cryptographically signed hash which is decrypted by pairing the cryptographically signed hash with said public key.

Abstract: A non-volatile solid-state storage subsystem, such as a non-volatile memory device, maintains usage statistics reflective of the wear state, and thus the remaining useful life, of the subsystem's memory array. A host system reads the usage statistics information, or data derived therefrom, from the subsystem to evaluate the subsystem's remaining life expectancy. The host system may use this information for various purposes, such as to (a) display or report information regarding the remaining life of the subsystem; (b) adjust the frequency with which data is written to the subsystem; and/or (c) select the type(s) of data written to the subsystem.

Abstract: A storage system that comprises multiple solid-state storage devices includes a command set that enables a host system to initiate one or more types of purge operations. The supported purge operations may include an erase operation in which the storage devices are erased, a sanitization operation in which a pattern is written to the storage devices, and/or a destroy operation in which the storage devices are physically damaged via application of a high voltage. The command set preferably enables the host system to specify how many of the storage devices are to be purged at a time during a purge operation. The host system can thereby control the amount of time, and the current level, needed to complete the purge operation. In some embodiments, the number of storage devices that are purged at a time may additionally or alternatively be selectable by a controller of the storage system.

Abstract: A memory system comprising one or more memory devices is purged to prevent unauthorized access to data stored therein. A host system passes control of purge operations to the memory system. The purge operations are configured to erase data, write a pattern to memory locations, physically damage the memory devices in the memory system, or combinations of the foregoing. The memory system can perform a purge operation on two or more memory devices in parallel. The memory system includes a destroy circuit to provide an over-current and/or over-voltage condition to the memory devices. The memory system also includes one or more isolation circuits to protect control circuitry in the memory system from the over-current and/or over-voltage condition. In some embodiments, the memory system includes a backup battery so it can complete a purge operation if it looses its power connection to the host system.

Abstract: Footwear having a removable spat-type feature. This feature allows the wearer to remove and replace the spat. The advantage is that it allows the use of different color, design or material spats to color coordinate the footwear with different colored clothes. This feature is of particular benefit when traveling since one pair of shoes with different colored saddles can accommodate a varied holiday wardrobe. In addition, other types of symbols or trademarks may be placed on the spat. The spat my depict indicia indicating membership to a club or other association. The spat and/or the upper may be provided with eyelets for securing the footwear on the wearer. The footwear has a first attachment media sewn into an upper at a level such that when the spat is placed on the upper, upper surfaces of the spat and the upper are substantially flush.