SQL 2008 R2 Cluster using RDM in VM

[dsearcy11]

Hello,

I want to create a SQL cluster using RDM's.  I understand that I must use FC for this to work.  I have LUNs configured with FC already and I can add the RDM to the first VM.  However how to I make the RDMs available to the 2nd VM for shared disk use?  Will they become available to the second SQL server as I begin to create my cluster?  Has anyone created an SQL cluster using RDM?

Thanks,

D

[a_p_ · Accepted solution]

To use the same RDM (not simultaneously of course) from another VM, you need to add the .vmdk mapping file which was created for the RDM when you added the LUN to the first VM. However, there are some more settings you need to take care of. Please take a look at VMware KB: Microsoft Cluster Service (MSCS) support on ESXi/ESX for the complete documentation.

André

[dsearcy11]

So, I would not add an RDM on the 2nd node. I would select an existing Virtual Disk and point to the location of the RDM that is attached to the first node?  I will give that a try.  Thanks

[admin]

Yes bus sharing should be enabled

[TomHowarth]

At a high level that is correct, but I would recommend reading the above referenced document as there are a few gotchas in the configuration of MSCS on vSphere