Applies to: All editions
Method summary
The IEEE 2883-2022 – Clear profile performs a single all-zero overwrite of the addressable logical range and applies a distributed verification policy. It is intended to support an IEEE Clear result when the device, coverage, execution, and evidence satisfy all required conditions.
Pass sequence
| Pass | Pattern |
| 1 | 0x00 across the addressable logical range |
Preparation and marker checks
The IEEE profile performs method-specific preparation and verification checks before and after the full-range write. These checks are designed to establish that the target can be accessed consistently and that the final zero pattern is present at representative points across the logical address space.
Result conditions
A positive IEEE Clear result requires successful completion of the recorded method criteria. DriveErase does not issue that result merely because the profile was selected.
Certification can be withheld when:
- Device classification is unsuitable for the overwrite claim;
- Preparation or coverage cannot be confirmed;
- A write, flush, or verification operation fails;
- The media reports inaccessible or failed ranges;
- The job is interrupted or the target identity changes;
- Required execution evidence is incomplete.
Relationship to NIST Clear
Both NIST Clear and IEEE Clear use a one-pass zero overwrite in DriveErase, but they are recorded as separate profiles with their own evidence and compliance interpretation. Select the profile named in the organization’s approved procedure and preserve the actual result rather than describing the two profiles as interchangeable without review.
Flash-media limitation
As with any host overwrite, the result describes the logical range visible through the controller. It does not prove processing of flash over-provisioning, remapped cells, retired blocks, or other storage hidden from ordinary addressing.