# RAID Controller HPE SmartArray E208i-a

**URL:** https://aio.lv/en/product--hp-enterprise-836259-001-rfb--4143984
**Data updated:** 2025-12-02 01:56 (EET)
**Category:** Other Repair Parts
**Manufacturer:** HP Enterprise
**Manufacturer code:** 836259-001-RFB
**Warranty:** 2 Years
**Availability:** Out of stock

## Summary description

The HPE SmartArray E208i-a RAID controller offers PCI Express x8 3.0 interface and supports SAS and SATA storage drives. It provides RAID levels 0, 1, 5, and 10, ensuring data redundancy and performance. Ideal for enhancing server storage capabilities, it is designed for HP Enterprise systems, making it a reliable choice for data management.

## Long description

Smart Array E208i-a controller with Adaptive RAID on Chip (AROC) provides server storage connectivity via two internal Mini-SAS x4 ports supporting eight SAS lanes. The controller supports 12 Gb/s SAS and 6 Gb/s SATA interfaces and implements hardware RAID levels 0, 1, 5 and 10. This model does not include a flash-backed write cache.
Advantages
The Smart Array E208i-a offers a compact onboard RAID solution with eight SAS lanes across two internal Mini-SAS x4 ports, enabling connection of multiple drives at up to 12 Gb/s for SAS and 6 Gb/s for SATA. Hardware RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 provide data protection and performance options without requiring additional cache modules. The absence of a flash-backed write cache simplifies maintenance and reduces component requirements.
Key specifications
 Controller model: Smart Array E208i-a
 RAID engine: Adaptive RAID on Chip (AROC)
 Internal ports: 2 × Mini-SAS (SFF-8643) x4
 SAS lanes: 8 across internal ports
 SAS speed: 12 Gb/s
 SATA speed: 6 Gb/s
 Supported RAID levels: 0, 1, 5, 10
 Write cache: No flash-backed write cache
How to use
Install the Smart Array E208i-a into a compatible server PCIe slot or use the vendor-prescribed onboard connector location, then connect drive backplanes or drive enclosures to the two internal Mini-SAS x4 ports. Configure RAID arrays using the server's storage controller utility or firmware interface, selecting among RAID 0, 1, 5 or 10 according to performance and redundancy requirements. Monitor array health and performance through standard management tools; note that write cache settings are limited since there is no flash-backed cache on this controller.
Recommendations
Use the Smart Array E208i-a for systems where onboard hardware RAID is required without additional flash-backed cache. For workloads requiring sustained write acceleration or battery/flash-backed protection, consider controllers with write-back cache or add complementary solutions that provide cache protection.

## Specifications

| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| RAID levels | 1, 5, 10 |
| Host interface | PCI Express x8 |
| PCI Express slots version | 3.0 |
| Internal mini-SAS ports | 2 |
| Supported storage drive interfaces | SAS, Serial ATA |

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### What is the warranty period?

All HP Enterprise products come with an official 2 Years warranty. It covers all manufacturing defects and malfunctions that may occur during use. The warranty is valid at all authorized HP Enterprise service centers and through AiO.lv

### Can the product be returned after purchase?

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