How to open external I/O Magic USB 2.0 CDRW case?

[RobsTV]

Picked up a 52x24x52x I/O Magic External USB 2.0 CDRW that uses a Benq drive.
Planned on removing Benq and installing either a LiteOn or a hard drive in the case.

What's the secret on getting this case open?
Have removed the 4 visible bottom screws, plus the one screw hidden under the void if removed sticker,
but the plastic/rubber housing still won't come off the drive.

Any advice is appreciated.

 

[Mday]

there may be clips which keep the plastic together, look for some, and use a slot screw driver CAREFULLY.

 

[RobsTV]

Thanks for replying.

What I am finding is the drive is probably a BenQ 5224WU, which is the same as their internal 5224W?
This external case is unlike any I have ever seen, and even the description on Benq website says:
Compact stylish sleek design; identical blueprint as internal CD-RW drive (breakthrough invention)

It is the same size as an internal drive, except about 2 inches longer.
The I/O Magic uses a different cosmetic pattern design on the top than the BenQ, but size is the same.
The I/O magic drive came with J.CZ firmware.
Model on bottom of drive case shows: 5224WI-032 March 2003, and shows J.CZ on bottom as well.

Glad to hear that it can be done, but just wanted to confirm one last time that we are talking
about the same drive. This thing does not want to come apart, and before I break something, just
making sure it's the same unit.

 

[cpeckat]

I know this thread is really old but I ran into the same issue with a unit I came across. Make sure you remove all 5 screws on the bottom and then put your fingernails in the groove on the side on either end and push in with one hand and pull out with the other. You'll have to use a little force but it will eventually come apart. See photos.

Hopefully someone out there will find this useful. lol