When attempting to turn camera on, the word "access" flashes on screen then camera turns off. Anyone know what the problem is and how it can be solved?

You're not going to believe the solution but it's corroborated on two sites:

Access Probelm with DSC-W50 camera - FixYa

Camera Hacker: Forums:

Before you try "whacking" your camera, try the other possible fixes (steps 3, 4, 5, 6 (tapping), and 7) outlined here:

Do It Yourself Digital Camera Repair: Fixing a Lens Error on a Digital Camera

If none of those work, then "whacking" is your solution of last resort, and it's better than nothing and just might work too. Good luck!