Currently using an EqualLogic PS4000X iSCSI array to provide storage for a couple of ESX4 hosts. The arrary is replicating a number of volumes to a DR array and I was looking for a way to browse a cloned version of the replica volume on a Windows 2003 server as a last resort.
Basically, I would like to be able to present the cloned replica volume to a server using the MS iSCSI initiator and use some sort of tool to be able to browse the VMFS disk and then browse the VMDKs. I have attached a test volume to the server but haven't been able to find a tool that will let me mount the disk. It is currently listed in Disk Management as an "Unknown Partition" as would be expected.
If this is not possible, I am looking for any recommendations on how to best setup a file server's data disk in ESX. I currently have the OS as a VMDK and cannot decide between presenting the SAN volume directly to ESX or using the MS iSCSI initiator within the guest os. I like the idea of being able to present the replica volume to just a physical Windows system in case of emergency. The file server will have a single 1TB disk for data. Any and all suggestions welcomed.
Thanks!
