@johnfoy
Congrats on the plunge. This kitchen is the best way to learn. For me, like you, I dont know what the options do/are, so everything's about trial and error.
1) I dont have a network extender so cant help you there. I just use the *228 for the initial programming.
2) Just download and save the wallpaper to phone/card and use it as background again. Not sure if theres an easier way built into the rom.
3) Not sure.
4) Trial and error for me. I found out that the power has been remapped to the backlight button on top after just holding the button too long without thinking.
5) No idea, a screenshot might help, but not.like I know whats wrong
I'm not much help but asking is always part of learning.