Inspiron E1505 has decided to go black every time I turn it on....any advice appreciated...

I have had my Inspiron notebook for about 2 1/2 years with no problems what so ever, just updated it to windows 7, it worked better than before until one day it just decided that the screen was going to go black.  the computer still runs but there is no screen on.  It will flash for  a millisecond when I turn it on, but then it goes perfectly black.  The batter is fine I have looked at it several times, the lights are on and the computer is running.  It makes a little noise when it flashes on then goes black...anyone have any idea what might be cause such an issue?  I love and need my computer!!! I am a nanny and my income doesn't allow for expensive repairs and I'm sure the computer is old enough not to be under warranty...I am borrowing my bosses old one but I want my baby back...I love my dell...please help.