vmware RDM

https://kb.vmware.com/selfservice/microsites/search.do?language=en_US&cmd=displayKC&externalId=2009226

RDM has two compatibility modes:
  • Physical compatibility mode
  • Virtual compatibility mode

Note: RDM is not available for direct-attached block devices or certain RAID devices. You cannot map a disk partition as RDM. RDMs require the mapped device to be a whole LUN.  (depends on the controller)