Data Interoperability crashes if installed on a VMware virtual machine

Error Message

There is an issue with VMware Tools 12.5 that causes applications running vm3dgl64.dll to crash. Virtual machines do not inc;lude a graphics driver, but the above DLL calls a graphics driver. This causes the crash.

This includes the applications Data Interoperability, ArcGIS Server and AutoCAD.

Broadcom, the owner of VMware, released a document with the 12.5.1 patch that states it causes problems. See the VMware Tools 12.5.1 Release Notes.

The following Broadcom article provides some limited information: OpenGL dll is not unloaded on application exit

Cause

In VMware Tools 12.5.0, ArcGIS Server, Data Interoperability and other OpenGL applications that load vm3dgl64.dll fail due to memory corruption issues.

Solution or Workaround

There is a workaround by setting the system variable SVGA_ALLOW_LLVMPIPE = 0.  This workaround requires administrative permissions on their computer, otherwise assistance from IT may be needed. Use the following steps:

1. Open the Control Panel. In the upper right, change the View by: drop-down menu from Category to Small icons.

2. In the All Control Panel Items window, click System, and in the Settings window, click Advanced system settings.
3. In the System Properties dialog box, click the Advanced tab, and click the Environment Variables button.
4. In the Environment Variables dialog, under System variables, click New.

5. In the New System Variable dialog, enter the following:
   • for Variable name, enter SVGA_ALLOW_LLVMPIPE 
   • for Variable value, enter 0

6. Click Apply and Save as needed to complete the process. After adding the new system variable, close the dialog boxes, save your work and reboot the computer.