Thanks for the replies..
Unfortunately the suggestions do not solve my problem...bugger!
1) re. Mainlobby etc...I like the MC interface, it's comprehensive, and flexible and I already paid for it...so I do not want another interface...so that's no good.
2) While the tablet has wireless 54Mbit (g), I find remote desktop software (tried loads) slow and unreliable...so that's not a solution either unfortunately.
I find it amazing that the programme I love so much does not cater for this (apparently) simple and obvious need. Surely others, many others, run home (headless) media servers that perform as PVR's and media centers..and control these remotely via. a LAN.
Also, I am not sure I understand the value of the client/server option over just a mapped LAN drive then...
But I guess you can't be all things to all people...Oh well...the idea of a central home media server built around MC11 goes back into the drawer...and I'll have to put up with an intrusive loungeroom PC for a few more years.
Again, thanks for the suggestions.