VMware
 

Knowledge Base

Search the Knowledge Base:
Products:
Search In:
 

Cannot install Windows on a newly created virtual machine

Symptoms

  • You cannot install Windows on a newly created virtual machine.
  • A PXE boot screen displays during the creation of a new virtual machine.
  • A newly created virtual machine does not recognize Windows installation media when booting.

Resolution

Some late-2009 Mac models shipped with a special build of Mac OS 10.6.1 (Build 10A2155) may prevent Fusion from properly communicating with the Mac's optical drive. If this issue occurs using a Mac running Mac OS 10.6.1, please upgrade to Mac OS 10.6.2. 
 
If the issue persists, perform the following workaround.

To workaround this issue, use Apple's built-in Disk Utility to create an ISO image of the install disk, and then use this newly created image to install Windows:
  1. Use Finder to launch Disk Utility (located in Applications/Utilities).
  2. Insert the Windows install disk.
  3. In the left column, click the Windows Install Disk, then click New Image.
  4. From the drop-down menu, select DVD/CD Master.
  5. Take note of where the document is being saved, then click Save. The CD/DVD begins to convert. This can take several minutes depending on the size of the disk. A progress indicator displays the progress.
  6. Quit Disk Utility and launch Fusion.
  7. In Fusion, create a new virtual machine by clicking File > New > Continue without Disk.
  8. Select Use Operating System Installation Disk Image File, choose the newly created .cdr, and click Continue.
  9. Choose the Operating System. Ensure that it matches what you are trying to install. 
  10. Enter the desired user name, password and Windows Installation Key, and click Continue.
  11. Confirm the virtual machine settings and click Finish.
  12. When Fusion asks where to save the newly created virtual machine, click Save to accept the default location, or choose a location and click Save. The installation begins.

Feedback

Rating: 1 - Lowest 2 3 4 5 - Highest (4 Ratings)   

Did this article help you?
This article resolved my issue.
This article did not resolve my issue.
This article helped but additional information was required to resolve my issue.
What can we do to improve this information? (2000 or fewer characters)
Submit
Rating: 1 - Lowest 2 3 4 5 - Highest (4 Ratings)   
Actions
  • KB Article: 1015406
  • Updated: Nov 11, 2009
  • Products:
    VMware Fusion
  • Product Versions:
    VMware Fusion 1.x
    VMware Fusion 2.x
    VMware Fusion 3.x