Embodiments of the present invention disclose a portable computer 100 having a removable access panel 108 for accessing data processing components stored within the portable computer. In one embodiment, the portable computer includes an upper housing 102 pivotably connected to a base housing 104. The base housing accommodates the data processing component and includes a top side that faces the upper housing and a bottom side opposite the top side. Furthermore, the access panel is formed to have substantially similar dimensions as the bottom side of the base housing, while also being configured to tool-lessly and releasably attach to said bottom side so as to expose or cover the removable component and an entire area of the bottom side of the base housing.