Pretty much any Digital-SLR can be used for Panoramic photos. It is more a way of shooting rather than just a type of camera.
Panoramic shots can be achieved by taking multiple shots. After the first shot is taken the camera is rotated slightly to the right, preferably on a tri-pod, and another shot taken slightly overlapping the previous shot. Taking 3 or more photos makes for a better panoramic.
After the photos are taken the shots can be "Stitched" together using software to make the finale shot.

Take it to your nearest BestBuy and let the Geek Squad take a look. They can advice you what would be best to do.

The Canon and Sony that are in that price range have Live View. That is the Canon XS, Sony a330 and a230.
The Nikon D40 and D3000 do not.

If neither the eject button on the remote or the player work the tray mechanism might be faulty and need servicing.
One thing to try is to unplug overnight to let it reset. If it still does not eject take it to your nearest BestBuy and have the Geek Squad take a look.