well, it is all sorted. Oddly enough, Dell, were right. After another two reboots, the system allowed full access to files in the D drive. Still not happy with the machine though as it feels oddly unresponsive for a well specified system. On the whole, it works, but I really can't give it more than 6/10.
Convergance means all sorts of odd bells and whistles, with remote controls, set top boxes for TV and radio and yes - you are quite right - Windows Media Center (Ye Gods, that grates as much as the only option for language being English (American) ) but the technology is becoming more streamlined and though many of us could have achieved the same results three years ago, today's offering has a lot fewer wires.
Another whinge afore ye go. 6 USB inputs, but two taken up by a horrible USB keyboard and even more horrible USB ball driven mouse. That leaves just four. Dunno if they sell USB hubs yet, but if not, it won't be long....
Thanks again everyone.
Conan