If you have the Enterprise version of Converter you can use the Cold Clone CD to do this. Converter only has limited support for Linux so it can be difficult to clone, you usually have to do some manual modifications to the VM to get it to boot after the conversion.
You can also try Platespin PowerConvert which has full Linux support.
Linux conversion - http://virtualaleph.blogspot.com/2007/04/cloning-linux-machine-with-converter.html
Linux conversion - http://www.vmware.com/community/thread.jspa?messageID=562582
Virtualize a Linux Server with VmWare Converter 3.0.1 - http://virtualaleph.blogspot.com/2007/05/virtualize-linux-server-with-vmware.html
Platespin PowerConvert - http://www.platespin.com/products/index.aspx
Fyi…if you find this post helpful, please award points using the Helpful/Correct buttons.
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Thanks, Eric
Visit my website: http://vmware-land.com
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What is the difference between the Starter and Enterprise edition of Converter?
The differences are Enterprise includes support, the ability to cold-clone with the boot CD, able to do multiple simultaneous conversions and perform remote conversions.
How do I get a Enterprise license for Converter?
VMware Converter Enterprise is available at no additional cost to existing and new VirtualCenter Management Server customers and P2V Assistant customers, with valid support and subscription contracts. First go to http://www.vmware.com/download/licensing.html and click on the Manage VMware Product Licenses link. If you are entitled to Converter licenses you will see Vmware Converter 3.0 Enterprise listed once you log in. Once you activate the license and download the license file you can go to http://www.vmware.com/download/converter/ and click on the Enterprise Edition link to download the ISO file for cold-cloning. The installation program for hot-cloning is the same for Starter and Enterprise editions. Once you select a license file in Converter it will unlock the Enterprise features. One thing to note is that the license file you download for Converter does not work with the License Manager server. Even though it is in the same format as the ESX licenses the License Server will not recognize it. To use your Converter license file simply copy it to the server that Converter is installed on and launch the Converter application and select Administration, Licensing Information and click Add License and browser and select your Converter license file.
Can I convert Linux servers with Converter?
The Converter documentation states: “Experimental support only is available for Linux-based physical to virtual machine conversions using the Vmware Converter BootCD (cold cloning) if the source physical machine has SCSI disks.” Some people have had success converting Linux machines, others have not. If Converter does not work on your Linux machine you can try a commercially available conversion product from Platespin called PowerConvert which has full Linux support.
