A data storage device includes a controller and a memory. The controller includes a host interface and a memory interface. The controller performs a first operation on the memory through the memory interface at a first frequency associated with the host interface to determine a first data pattern. The controller performs a read operation on the memory through the memory interface at a second frequency to determine a second data pattern. The controller changes the first frequency by a predetermined amount until the first frequency is equal to a maximum operating frequency having an associated risk of a setup/hold violation that is below a predetermined probability.