I have been using the MH-C801D for several months and have been very happy with the charging and conditioning capabilities, but unfortunately this is not a defect, the LCD does not have a backlight (unless there is a newer version). I find it very difficult to read the display unless it is in direct light and I usually have to pick it up to read it.
Perhaps you need to setup a AA powered reading light above the charger... at least you'll always have batteries ready for it...