laptop update:
so it was the inverter that was a problem. dell has a funky design though, on one side of the leads it doesn't look like its supposed to be soddered, its just like a battery terminal, flat metal, and if it doesnt sit right it flickers, i think ill either solder it or reinforce it with epoxy/glue

so small parts my eyes hurt

anyway, its pretty when its on

thai,. battery is kaputz, no workie, got any extras? i think i can get one on ebay for like 30 bucks