My daughter is using the i3 version with full autocad, no problem using a microsd for extra storage
the program I think is just JUST VMWARE, and I use the player as its free. The workstation class if you call it adds some great features, but is $250 a liceanse.
I'm a controls engineer and DCS is my game/life. But most plants still use plc for the small stuff so I have to ty that in as well.
Deal alot with Rockwell, but 9/10 it's Siemens. But most rockwell type need for me is older Allen Bradley and having to use logics 500. otherwise most work is in 4mation typically or ps7.
I run vm's for Siemens software, that way I can run multiple copies of customer programs and not need multiple liceanses. And that's also why I use micro sd, I can work with up to 3 customers a day, with that much program switching, I try not to use the ssd when I can avoid it. So my #1 is my wd passport, bUT when I need 2 vm's open, I run one off a micro and one off the passport.