If the network card is not on the Hardware Compatibility List, it will not be official supported by VMware. Yet the card you mention uses the Intel 82571 gigabit chipset, which is also used on the Intel Pro 1000/PT Quad card, which is on the VMware VI35 I&O Guide .
You might be better off trying to find a real Intel Pro 1000/P, as the Intel boards do have the electronic componentson the proper side of the board. Look at the picture.
Erik Bussink
Solution Architect @VMware
CISSP, VCP#67, RHCE, DCUCD
