The following instructions describe how to run a Virtual Machine Management (VMM) 7.1 inventory task (also applicable to 7.6 and later).

VMM 7.x, 8.x

Notes:
(1) These instructions describe how to configure a VMM inventory task based on discovered hosts and guests from an ESXi server but can be changed accordingly for other server types, such as for use with a Hypervisor server.
(2) A VMM host is defined as the ESXi or vCenter physical server. A VMM guest is defined as a virtual machine, whether it is a virtual server or virtual workstation, that runs on an ESXi physical server.
(3) vCenters are now supported as of VMM 7.1 SP2.
(4) Before running a VMM inventory task, ensure that a successful host and guest discovery occurred using an ESXi Administrator user account.
 

1. In the Symantec Management Platform (SMP) Console, click on the Home button > Virtual Machine Management.
2. If the Getting Started window does not appear, click on the Actions "V" drop-down button on the top left and then click on Getting Started.
3. Click on Run Inventory Task. A new window opens, which goes to Manage > Jobs and Tasks > Virtual Machine Management > Inventory.
4. Click on the New Schedule button.
5. Click on the "Now" choice if it is not already selected.
6. Click on the drop-down list for the "Quick add" field.
7. Type to locate the name of the ESXi host, which should have been discovered during network discovery, discussed in KB HOWTO60761. Once found, click on it to select it. The ESXi host is then added to the list.
8. Click on the Schedule button.
9. In the Task Status section, if the Status is Running, click on the refresh button to update the display periodically until the task finishes.
10. If the task failed, double-check the Profile and Credentials used. If the task completed successfully, click on the Home button > Virtual Machine Management.
11. Click to expand the host and guests under "vmware".
12. Click on a host or guest. This displays basic inventory data such as Memory, CPU, etc., and tasks are now able to be used.
    Notes:
    (1) Non-inventoried hosts and guests will not have commands available, for example, they will not be able to be started, shut-down or reset; these options will all be disabled.
    (2) Inventoried hosts and guests will display basic inventory data. If the hosts and guests are powered on, additional data is displayed and updated, such as memory and processor usage. However, hosts and guests that are shut down will not return information such as memory and processor usage as they are no longer active.
    (3) VMM does not install Agents onto the hosts or guests. Basic inventory is accomplished by Network Discovery (part of the Inventory Solution product).
    (4) The VMM inventory should not be confused with the inventory brought back by the core Altiris Agent or Inventory Solution. If the user is expecting or needing real inventory data, they should instead use the user interfaces and reports intended for real inventory processes such as complete hardware and software, as the core Altiris Agent and Inventory Solution offer. Please refer to those areas of the SMP Console for more information.
    (5) The VMM inventory process is almost entirely dependant upon the successful use of the Task Server(s) (part of the Deployment Solution product) that manages the hosts and guests and Network Discovery. If either or both of these are not working correctly in the environment, VMM will have severe issues with host and guest discovery and inventory. Please contact these product's respective teams for assistance.

Virtual Machine Management ( VMM ) Fails to populate inventories
KB 156917