What is the first step to configure a RAID 0 array for the operating system using SATA disks?

The first step to configure a RAID 0 array for the operating system using SATA disks involves loading the RAID drivers during the OS installation. This is crucial because RAID configurations typically require specific drivers to communicate properly with the hard disk controller. When setting up RAID 0, which is a striping configuration that enhances performance by distributing data across multiple disks, the operating system needs to understand how to manage the disks as a single logical unit rather than as separate drives.

By loading the RAID drivers during the installation process, the installation media can recognize the array, allowing the operating system to be installed directly onto the RAID configuration. Without the appropriate drivers, the operating system may not detect the RAID array at all, thereby preventing a successful installation.

Connecting the SATA disks to the motherboard is a necessary step, but it occurs before any configuration is made for RAID; it's essential but not the first step specific to RAID configuration. Similarly, formatting the disks or installing the OS without RAID would not align with the intention of setting up a RAID 0 array because those actions would not leverage the benefits of RAID 0. Therefore, loading the RAID drivers is the pivotal initial action for successfully installing an operating system on a RAID 0 array.