Storage device and method for utilizing unused storage space

摘要

A storage device and method for utilizing unused storage space are provided. In one embodiment, a storage device identifies unused storage space in the memory. The storage device then performs risk analysis on the identified unused storage space. Based on the risk analysis, the storage device uses the identified unused storage space for an internal storage device operation. Other embodiments are disclosed, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.

主权项

1. A method for utilized unused storage space, the method comprising:
performing the following in a storage device in communication with a host device, the storage device having a non-volatile memory:
compressing user data in a used storage space in the memory to create unused storage space for use for an internal storage device operation, wherein a capacity reported to the host device as being available for storing additional user data remains unchanged after compressing the user data and wherein the unused storage space is unavailable for storing additional user data;identifying the unused storage space in the memory;performing risk analysis on the identified unused storage space; andbased on the risk analysis, using the identified unused storage space for the internal storage device operation.