it should be usable for a while yet but to be clear the gradual dimming of the screen in certain areas is a backlight issue? It has only gradually dimmed in a certain area and has been like that for a while but the dimming spot is getting larger. Also it isn't all that noticeable up close but if watching a movie while sitting from a bit if a distance it is really noticeable. You know typical 17in LCD from 04 with terrible viewing angle and response time. it is hooked up to a computer mainly used for word processing and whatnot but occasionally since we run a dog boarding facility I am out there waiting for people to show up I will stick on some saved tv shows and watch them that is when I notice these things