half my screen is blank or scrambled

 

I was able to configure my system to use the external monitor, but the left half, when it isn't wildly-scrambled, is blank   This is true during POST and OS boot, so it's not a OS or driver problem.  Is this typically a video card or display problem?  I'm out of warrantee, can I buy the parts and install them myself? This is an Inspiron 9300 with the nVidia option.

 

I will first try to re-seat the video card and display connection.

 

Thanks.