Display goes blank but computer is still running

My display goes blank shortly after starting the computer. I can see it is still operating by lighting it with a flashlight. Sometimes closing it and opening again will make it come on but only for a few seconds. What does seem to work it is adjusting the brightness by pressing f1 for a few seconds then pressing f2. This will take several attempts, but once the display is lit it will stay on for several hours. After reading other post I think the problem is either the inverter, he inverter cable, or the LCD. At first I thought it was the cable because it happened when I opened and closed the computer, but once it is on moving the display to different angles doesn't affect it. Is there any way I can narrow down my problem?