Please try this:

1- Go to the Bios.

2- Go to the Boot tab.

3- Verify Secure boot state: enabled should be active

4- Change Secure boot from Enable to Disable

5- Save and Exit Bios

6- Go to finish installation, you will get the personalize screen of Windows 8 that we have not getting before.

If that does not work send us an e-mail to AWSocialMedia@dell.com and we'll take care of the issue.

Hi unable to change as settings weren't highlighted and mouse skips past

I cannot be much help with the HD detection. BUT i will say I too have been having massive issues with my X51 fresh out of the box (less then a month old). Not sure what number you are calling for customer service, as I have called them 5 times with no issues...so I suggest calling: 800-254-3692 (obviously with prompts --- make sure you have you service tag# and express code). I have called them at 8am MST with NO problems...Hope that helps somewhat :)

Reguards,

Angelina

DazMez,

Apologies for the out of box issues. Boot back into the Bios. What do you see in the Advanced- Standard CMOS Features screen? Something like this:

SATA Port1 = CD/DVD
SATA Port2 = Hard Disk Drive
SATA Port3 = Not Present