I've got one of the new DMR-PWT500 Panasonic Blu-ray HDD recorders and generally I am very pleased with it, but I am unable to get the DLNA server working. It has both client and server in it. I am able to see my NAS device and play content from it on the player but I am not able to see the DMR-PWT500 from a computer (like I can my NAS device).

In order words the client seems to be working but I am unable to get the server part working.

Anybody know of any work-arounds?

i am trying to use VLC to see the machine if that helps.

You need to install Twonky software.

See here.

Twonky doesn't work on Linux (should have mentioned that bit).
If my PC can see my NAS box and the TV can see the NAS box I should be able to see the DMR-PWT500 using the same methods? Does it not use the same protocols?

I've no idea... but probably not.
Panasonic products are notoriously fussy about what they will work with.

What about Twonky for linux - here.

Sure its Twonky for Linux but its Twonky server so that other things can see what it on my Linux box. I want to access the Panasonic box. I'll find a windows machine and try Twonky from there.

Despite the name, you may still be able to use it the way you want.

Give it a try first.

Have you turned on the DLNA server function on the DMR 500?

Twonky functions as both server and client and it works fine here with a Mac. It's not elegant but it does work.

Bill

Ensure you have the server function turned on (Setup > Network > Home Network Settings > Home Network Function).

Then use either VLC (>2.0) or XBMC. If you use VLC it can take quite a while for the DLNA servers to show up in the interface (Under Local Network > Universal Plug 'n'play).

Works fine with XBMC (on my Raspberry Pi).