Dead LCD monitor help

I have a three year old HP 17" lcd monitor

When I boot up the screen only stays lit for about 2 seconds and then goes to blank

Anytime I power the monitor off, and then back on, it will again light up for 2 seconds.

I have tried the monitor on a different PC to rule out a video card issue

I have tried it with a different cable to rule out a cable issue

Is this a case of a dead ambient light bulb, or what?

Yeah...lol...did some more research

I think the inverter must be fried, because it affects all of the CCFL lamps

I can buy parts, but it would cost me the same to just replace the monitor

3 years on a HP 17".....kinda sad

Thanks for the reply

I just bought a 19" widescreen ViewSonic@ Costco for $200!

Really sweet monitor for the price....5 ms response & very bright....has to turn brightness down to 50%