I have a Intel Server running ESXi 5 (with latest patches) connected to Drobo Elite (with latest firmware) through iSCSI Software Adapater from VMWare.
I am trying to install a Dual-Port 1 GB PCI-E Hardware iSCSI Adapter from QLogic. When I connect existing iSCSI Ethernet cable to QLogic iSCSI Hardware Adapter, the iSCSI target which used to show-up under Software Adapter is shown but datastore is not recognized.
When I start adding new storage using the same iSCSI target LUN that was under Software iSCSI Adapter, it is asking me to format the volume.
After going through technical articles from various websites, I came to a conclusion that VMFS ReSignaturing is not applicable in this scenario.
Is there any way to add previous datastore without having to format the volume?
Any suggestions or solutions are greatly appreciated. Please correct me if I am following the wrong process to switch between Software and Hardware iSCSI Adapters.
Regards,
Vidya
have you tried using the esxcfg to try and mount the targets?
sometimes I have been able to get around weird issues like this by using the cli instead.
Thank you for your response "bobbygedwards".
This is what I did before I got your response.
I have created another LUN on iSCSI SAN device and copied all the VMs from previous LUN to the new one using HW iSCSI adapter.
I have removed the old LUN and SW iSCSI adapter. After restart, I can see iSCSI devices but datastore is gone.
Can you please tell how do I load the datastore back using "esxcfg"?
I appreciate your quick response and detailed description.
Try the steps on this KB: http://kb.vmware.com/kb/1011387
Usually works. You will need to resignature the VMFS volume anyway (the option is not enabled graphically?)
