So I think something could be wrong with my server; I've had issues with installs of several components in the past, that some parts of the administrator system won't work after installation.

This could probably be applied to any component, but basically I just want to see if anyone thinks it's possible to just drag and drop all the folders to their correct place to install. Or is there some sort of database manipulation going on behind the scenes that would render this impossible?

Please let me know your thoughts; I'm at my wits end here.

Unfortunately this is impossible. There IS database manipulation. The install folder creates ALL your tables and there is a table in your DB called jos_components, which keeps track of your components which are installed.

I see; do you think it's possible to an uninstall of fireboard, then a literal "manual reinstall" so that those catalogue database entries don't need to be modified? Just theorizing/brainstorming...

If you uninstall, the tables remain BUT the component is taken out of jos_components and will not show up in the components dropdown menu nor will your system know where to find it.

What exactly IS the problem and what are you trying to do?