Yes, I have configured it on the server and auto import is configured for the folders that I am using to put in my new downloads. I'd say a good indicator of the correct configuration is that all I have to do is to 'run auto import now' from tools->import in order to pick up the changes which always works.
Please note that auto import will eventually pick up the new files automatically, but it takes a really long time. It's clear that it always takes at least more than 4-6 hours since I download new files pretty much every day. My downloader runs automatically and is typically done around 4 - 6PM yet the new files don't show up the same day. They will normally show up automatically the next day, so I don't know exactly how long it actually takes.
The files are not stored on the server where Media Center runs and hence auto-import is configured to import files from a UNC path such as \\server\shows\bong. Not sure if that makes a difference.
Is there anyway I can see if / when auto-import is running? Trace file / logging or similar?