A non-volatile memory data address translation scheme is described that
utilizes a hierarchal address translation system that is stored in the
non-volatile memory itself. Embodiments of the present invention utilize
a hierarchal address data and translation system wherein the address
translation data entries are stored in one or more data structures/tables
in the hierarchy, one or more of which can be updated in-place multiple
times without having to overwrite data. This hierarchal address
translation data structure and multiple update of data entries in the
individual tables/data structures allow the hierarchal address
translation data structure to be efficiently stored in a non-volatile
memory array without markedly inducing write fatigue or adversely
affecting the lifetime of the part. The hierarchal address translation of
embodiments of the present invention also allow for an address
translation layer that does not have to be resident in system RAM for
operation.