LCD Screen Black/Jumbled Sections-Troubleshoot/Specs for Replacement

[Newbie Knocking]

Hi,

My LCD screen has two sections on the right (corresponding to the wire sections that go into the top of the LCD panel) that are either black or scrambled.  I have looked at the wiring and it appears to be fine.  It isn't pinched and no bare wires are showing.  I took it apart a few times prior to this to replace the wireless card.  I don't know of any drops before this happened, but a small amount (a few small drops) of rain did reach the bottom of the screen.  I'm guessing this isn't repairable so what I really want to know is;  how can I be sure it is the LCD panel and not any wiring/ports?  Does a replacement LCD have to a specific replacement LCD for this laptop, or can it be simply the same size, type, etc...?  Where do I find the model number or some way of identifying the screen?

Thanks for any help.

Specs-
 
OS Name   Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Version   5.1.2600 Service Pack 3 Build 2600
OS Manufacturer   Microsoft Corporation
System Manufacturer   alienware
System Model   Aurora m9700
System Type   X86-based PC
Processor   x86 Family 15 Model 36 Stepping 2 Authentic AMD Turion 64 Mobile Technology ML-34 ~1809 Mhz
Directx   9.0 or better
BIOS Version/Date   American Megatrend

GeForce GO 7900 GS
5.71.22.26.21
IRQ: 17
Bus: PCI Express x8
Memory: 512 MB
ForceWare Version: 84.74
NVIDIA Integrated TV Encoder

LCD:  17" 1920x1200

[Quantos]

You could try using a second lcd to see how that works.  You also might want to try setting it at a lower resolution to see if that affects it.

[Newbie Knocking]

Quantos,

I tried attaching a second LCD.  It is clean and no sign of problems.  I changed the resolutions around and no effect on the bad sections.  I take it this means the problem is most likely with the LCD panel itself?

Thanks

[Quantos]

I think you should contact Dell or Alienware for a replacement screen, is it still under warranty?

[Newbie Knocking]

Quantos:  I got this second hand, so it is not under warranty.  It is an original Alienware, so it's a few years old.  I just wanted to make sure this was the LCD, and I should be able to get one for $95-$150.  Thanks for the help.

[Quantos]

No problem man, keep us informed, and let us know if you need more assistance.  This is more than likely going to need some more work done.