Method and apparatus for transferring data between a host device and a data
storage device having a first memory space and a second memory space. The
host issues access commands to store and retrieve data. The device stores
write data associated with write commands in the first memory space
pending transfer to the second memory space. An interface circuit
evaluates relative proximity of first and second sets of LBAs associated
with pending first and second write commands, and forms an adaptive
bi-directional write skip mask when the sets of LBAs fit within a
predetermined mask interval. The mask is preferably slidably adjustable to
encompass both sets of LBAs and is preferably expandable to accommodate
additional sets of LBAs. The data within the mask are treated as a
combined write command and are thereafter written in an order
corresponding to an order in which the data appear in the mask.
