Updated 11/16Yes finally I managed to open the panel after multiple calls with Amazon. Be careful with Amazon representatives. Two different reps told me they would contact the manufacturer and get back to me but they never got back to me. The third rep finally got a hold of the manufacturer and I received a call directly from USTecno. The guy simply told me to force it open and it wouldn't break. If it broke they would send me a replacement. With the guaranty from the manufacturer I tried it again with a flat screw driver. And it worked. So far the machine worked well. I've replaced the DVD-ROM with a DVD-RW and added a hard drive. Will try to expand the RAM later.In summary, this should be a five-star purchase but with all the hassle and wasted time, I can only give it a four-star. For whoever has the same issue as I do, just use your screw driver and open the panel with a little bit force. It can't be broken.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Access panel won’t open. Serious design issue as the release latched jammed. I bought one with a plan to expand RAM and replace graphic card. However the access panel just can’t be opened. Tried calling the customer support and they were unable to help and asked me to contact Amazon. Amazon offered replacement but the replacement has the same issue. And they won’t offer a second replacement. I was told to call again the next day to see if there’s any options other than a refund. Will update later.