Skip to main content

Using the embedded hypervisor

The VMware ESXi embedded hypervisor software is available on the optional IBM USB flash device with embedded hypervisor.

The USB flash device can be installed in USB connectors on the system board (see Internal cable routing and connectors for the location of the connectors). Hypervisor is virtualization software that enables multiple operating systems to run on a host system at the same time. The USB flash device is required to activate the hypervisor functions.

To start using the embedded hypervisor functions, you must add the USB flash device to the startup sequence in the Setup utility.

To add the USB flash device to the startup sequence, complete the following steps:

  1. Turn on the server.
    Note
    Approximately 5 to 10 seconds after the server is connected to power, the power-control button becomes active.
  2. When the prompt <F1> Setup is displayed, press F1.
  3. From the Setup utility main menu, select Boot Manager.
  4. Select Add Boot Option; then, select Generic Boot Option > Embedded Hypervisor. Press Enter, and then select Esc.
  5. Select Change Boot Order > Change the order. Use the Up arrow and Down Arrow keys to select Embedded Hypervisor and use the plus (+) and minus (-) keys to move Embedded Hypervisor in the boot order. When Embedded Hypervisor is in the correct location in the boot order, press Enter. Select Commit Changes and press Enter.
  6. Select Save Settings and then select Exit Setup.

If the embedded hypervisor flash device image becomes corrupt, you can download the image from the IBM x86 solutions for VMware vSphere Hypervisor website.

For additional information and instructions, see VMware vSphere 4.1 Documentation at the VMware vSphere 4.1 Documentation website or the VMware vSphere Installation and Setup Guide at the VMware vSphere Installation and Setup Guide website.