Unable to create DB in Win7 (2 replies)

I am trying to get MySQL running on a Win7 64 laptop
to (at some point) connect to a java web app.

But I cannot seem to create DB with either cmd line or Workbench.

I have installed mysql Essential 5.1.52-winx64.msi.
I was able to run the instanceconfig and create the root user.

Then using Workbench I am able to create a new server instance
which automatically creates the connection using the root user credentials.

My problem is that I cannot connect or see this newly created instance
from the cmd line. "Status" show no DB. "Connect" returns "Current DB NONE"

Any help on what I am doing wrong here would be greatly appreciated.

TIA,

Michael-