We are getting there.
Nope, apparently we are not.
Vista was sucked from the Install DVD but ended in a "black screen of death".
All the reports I have managed to find on line suggest going back to XP (or whatever) and updating drivers before doing a re-install of the dreaded Vista.
Now as this machine is a clean new build and has never had anything running on it before, "going back" is not an option.
Please, no comments on "dump it", use linux, buy a Mac (whatever) - but anything constructive would be appreciated. I found lots of on-line reports of it going wrong - no suitable reports on making it work.
If I reboot I do get the screen offereing
Safe Mode.
Safe mode with Networking.
Safe mode with Command Prompt
Last known good configuration
Start Windows Normally.