I disagree, the inverter usually isn't the problem when its dim. Flickering and turning off alone, it could be the problem. If i was actually troubleshooting the machine, I would test the inverter with a voltmeter first, if the meter is constant, it most likely the FL Tube in the panel (also pretty cheap, just not as easy to get). From the description, dim, flickering then going off, it sounds like the tube to me.
I hope the inverter fixes the problem though, and is the first logical step in finding this problem since a tube is probably not available, and you want to make sure you dont have to replace the panel. Good luck.