Hello,

I have recently acquired an ML110 G7 server with a HP P212 Smart Array. I am able to successfully install ESXi 4.1 on it (albeit the HP CIM doesn't seem to recognize the hardware correctly), but when I try to install ESXi 5.0 I get a PSOD.

I have read reports on the web stating that some people have been able to install ESXi 5.0 on this server with success. Both the HP and the stock vmware versions crash during the boot of the installer.

Would anyone have an idea as to what I may try to make it work? Is the HP P212 the culprit?

Thanks for your much appreciated help!
Lionel

What sort of PSOD screen do you get?

It was saying "Exception 14", but if you need more specific information, I will be able to do it again tonight. I actually don't really know what information IS pertinent in the PSOD?

There you go. See attached for the full dump.

Anyone got any idea?

PF Exception 14 points to a memory problem (could be hardware or software). Given that ESXi 4.x installs, it is likely a software issue.

I would consider a memory check just to be sure. Have you tried upgrading to ESXi 5 after an install of 4?

I should read post more than once before posting. Below is specific to 4.1 not 5.0 as you have explained in your post... apologies.
Although your equipment is different I suspect the following may solve your issue.

Experienced similar issue with HP DL180 G6 server (ESXi 4.1 in production environment, ZERO problems to date). Corrective action for me was to edit oem-providerRegister by commenting out:

Code:

#[SMX_AutoStartGenesisInterop]
        #provider: SMXExecutive
        #location: SMXExecutiveProvider
        #type: instance
        #group: smx-interop
        #namespace: interop
#[SMX_ExecutiveStatus]
        #provider: SMXExecutive
        #location: SMXExecutiveProvider
        #type: instance
        #group: smx-interop
        #namespace: root/hpq

This has been documented very well by others here: http://forum.lettronics.com/forums/thread/1273.aspx

Dear Both,

Thanks for your comments and ideas!

@Dave: Yes, I have checked the memory, even took out all but one RAM, as well as all PCI cards but the SmartArray. Same result. Also, I am not able to upgrade 4.1 -> 5.0 because the 5.0 installation crashes before showing any option (it crashes during the boot).

@Douglas: Thanks man! But the P212 array is apparently well supported on the ML110 G7 with ESXi 4.1. No problem there.

Have you tried without the P212 installed just to eliminate that as the cause?

Sorry for the delay in my reply, have been away on business travel.

I did try without the P212 card, same problem.

HP even sent a new server (the one I had was not working correctly regarding the fans speed). No change. Same behavior.

I'm starting to think that I'll install ESXI 4.1 in the end. Too bad. Would have loved to have ESXi 5 on it!

Best,
L.