Toshiba showcases 2013 AV range and updated Cloud TV platform (eyes-on)

Toshiba isn't the first name you'd associate with exciting products, but recently we were invited to check out its 2013 selection of AV gear in the hope we'd be dazzled by pixel counts and the IQ of its revamped smart TV platform. We revisited a few products we had flings with at CES, were introduced to some new panels, and taken through the ins-and-outs of the company's fresh Cloud TV interface. Was there anything to get excited about? Head past the break for the full tour.

2013 LED HDTV lineup

Not everyone wants or needs monolithic displays and internet services, which is where Toshiba's 1 and 2 series come into play. As you would imagine, the 1 series is the most basic of the range, with full HD (1,920 x 1,080) panels ranging from 19 to 40 inches. There are a few configuration options which chop and change features, such as D1, which denotes a built-in DVD player, and L1, which signifies USB support and picture / music / video capabilities. Moving up to the 39- and 50-inch 2 series grants you MHL support, but no other bells and whistles. Prices for these entry level sets start at below £200 (around $300) for the 1 series, which are available now, and go up to £600 (approx. $900) for the biggest 2 series TV. There's no word on when the 2 series will hit stores, but they're expected "shortly."

Toshiba's common 2013 design features and Cloud TV functionality (more on that later) starts with the L4 and W4 series, spreading up through the 6, 7 and UHDTV 9 series displays. Surprisingly, the 32-inch W4 is only 720p-ready, but has on-board WiFi, WiDi and USB storage program recording. However, the L4 series steps back up to 1080p, and will be available in three sizes up to 50 inches. We didn't see any of the 6 series at CES, which'll come in 32- and 40-inch options with all of the aforementioned features and "super slim design." Also boasting a skinny profile are the 40-, 50- and 58-inch 7 series HDTVs, with active-shutter 3D and 2D-to-3D conversion joining the spec list for these models. All of Cloud TV-equipped flatscreens will go on sale in May starting at £330 (circa $500) for the W4 and up to £1200 (around $1815) for the 58-inch 7 series.

A quick note on the shared aesthetics of the 4 series and above. Their rounded edges and slim bezels are intended for the "modern" living space, but what we liked most were the bases, which are clearly intended to be as discreet as possible. The bezels aren't that slim, but probably won't put you off picking up any of the TVs if the features take your fancy. They are either all black, or a mixture of black and silver plastic, and don't look or feel particularly "premium." That being said, you wouldn't consider them offensive or cheap-looking.%Gallery-183300%

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Cloud TV

Probably the most interesting part of our time with Toshiba was the presentation of its new Cloud TV platform, and it's also likely to be the most important consideration for anyone looking to upgrade their entertainment setup. Previously, the TV interface (e.g. programming guide) was separated from Cloud TV services, but in this iteration, everything's married into one user experience and accessed via a common button on the remote. The home screen pulls up a picture-in-picture of what's currently playing, an all-important weather widget, and recommended content based on the viewing habits of up to seven unique profiles (it's age appropriate, too). Social media addicts will appreciate the live twitter feed also on the home screen. It shows updates relevant to the top programs being discussed, and a deeper menu allows you to switch to one of those shows, or perform custom hashtag searching. Toshiba plans to integrate chatter from other social networks like Facebook in the future.

Cloud TV also has a media player for accessing music, pictures and video stored on connected USB devices or your home network. A metasearch feature known as MediaGuide will also tap into that data, as well as what's currently on normal TV and what can be found on VOD and streaming services. Speaking of streaming, various apps will come as standard, including Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube and Blinkbox. Deezer and Skype will also be available at launch, with an app store coming later, which'll hopefully be filled with more software developed under the Smart TV Alliance standard. If there isn't an app for that, there's always the on-board browser with HTML5 and Flash support. All things considered, we can't say it's lacking anything major, but isn't as feature rich as other smart TV portals we've seen from competing manufacturers. However, it should only improve with subsequent updates and the key addition of an app market. %Gallery-183301%

Blu-ray / media players and SBK1 Soundbar

We caught a fleeting glimpse of Toshiba's media players with Blu-ray at CES, but are now informed they'll be ready to sneak into your setup sometime during the second quarter. We say sneak because they're all pretty small, and if you're looking for something to marry with one of Toshiba's new sets, they conform to the whole curved-edge common design. All models will of course play Blu-rays, as well as provide access to several online services, such as Netflix, iPlayer, YouTube and Picasa. Depending on how much you want to spend, you can also add WiFi and Miracast connectivity out of the box, as well as 3D support. The basic model (BDX2400KB) is expected to retail at £79 (approx. $120), the second-tier unit (BDX2400KB) at £89 (approx. $135) and the best of the bunch (BDX5400KB) at £99 (approx. $150). We also saw another TV condiment in the form of the SBK1 Soundbar intended for panels from 39 to 42 inches. It's got a built-in sub, touts Toshiba's 3D sound technology (which promises uniform quality regardless of your position), and will be out in April for £129 (around $195).

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9-series UHDTVs

Toshiba's 9-series 4K LED TVs (3,840 x 2,160) were obviously the stars of the show, and in addition to the 84-inch beast we've seen before, we also got a glimpse of the 58- and 65-inch models. Debuting with the 9 series is the new CEVO 4K chip, which attempts to upscale content to make the best use of the resolution. There has to be extra data available to it, however -- from Blu-ray discs, for example -- so the chip can perform its wizardry and check for loss of quality and artifacts before deciding to push the enhanced image through the pixels. Upscaling is supported from any HDMI input, with one port accepting native Ultra HD. CEVO 4K also promises to make colors richer and add "texture" for greater image depth. We were taken in by the glamor, as we always are with 4K displays despite the lack of content to make one a viable purchase. We aren't any closer to a strict release date or price range, though. They're expected to drop sometime in the summer for "competitive" prices, which almost certainly means "ridiculously expensive" to some people, or "are you kidding me?" to the other 99 percent. %Gallery-183303%

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Smart entertainment and connectivity for all – Toshiba unveils new Smart LED TV range

 New Toshiba Cloud TV service offers access to a world of entertainment

 Built-in Wi-Fi® and Intel® Wi-Di® for easy connectivity and content sharing

 Range of screen sizes and super slim design complement any room

London, UK, 20th March 2013 – Toshiba UK today unveils its new range of Smart LED TVs, designed to provide easy access to content on demand and a range of connectivity features, along with stunning picture quality straight out of the box. Two new series – the 6 Series and 4 Series – each feature access to Toshiba's new Cloud TV service, providing an intuitive, interactive and personalised TV experience for any home, along with a range of smart connectivity options that make it easy to share content between multiple devices.

Each model in the 6 Series includes Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution screens, while the 4 Series features both Full HD and HD Ready resolutions, ideal for enjoying the latest blockbuster movie or high definition video games. A choice of screen sizes, ranging from 80cm (32") to 126cm (50") and a choice of matte black or brushed aluminium finishes ensure there's a perfect model for every living room.

Toshiba Cloud TV – cleverly connected entertainment

Viewers can experience the latest movies, catch-up on their favourite TV shows and browse the internet, all from the comfort of their sofa, thanks to the new Cloud TV service and built-in Wi-Fi® as standard. The newly designed platform provides access to a range of new content services, including Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox and Deezer, as well as existing popular on- demand services such as YouTube®, BBC iPlayer and Acetrax® movies, so viewers always have something to watch.

Cloud TV offers an advanced personalised approach to smart TV, with users receiving content recommendations based on their viewing history, dynamically building refreshed lists of content available over the next seven days. A powerful search tool explores favourite series, shows, movies, sports programmes and much more that are listed in the connected Electronic Program Guide (EPG) and Video-on-Demand services as well as stored on other devices in the home network. Cloud TV also includes a live feed of tweets and updates relevant to the on-screen content, dynamically refreshing alongside the visuals, while social network profiles can be accessed direct from the TV.

Instant control from smartphones, tablets and PCs

All new models offer instant compatibility with multiple devices around the home. Users can wirelessly stream or mirror content from compatible PCs to the TV using Intel® Wireless Display (Wi-Di®) technology, or use Toshiba's MediaGuide1 to browse the EPG, change channels, volume levels and as well as set programme recordings, all from their mobile device without interrupting the on-screen content. With USB recording, viewers can also record programmes they might miss direct to a USB hard drive connected to the TV.

The 6 Series – stylish and smart entertainment

The new 6 Series merges Full HD picture quality with an elegant, stylish finish, perfect for contemporary living spaces. As well as offering new Cloud TV, the 6 Series includes a Freeview HD ready tuner, Resolution+ image upscaling along with 100 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) image processing ensuring fluid and crisp motion during fast moving movies or sporting action.

Available in 80cm (32") and 102cm (40") screen sizes, the 6 Series features a super slim profile with subtle, smooth corners and a brushed aluminium finish to the lower bezel and stand.

The 4 Series – value, content and connectivity

The new L4 and W4 series offer Toshiba's range of Cloud TV features and connectivity options, in a variety of screen sizes, perfect for home entertainment enthusiasts looking for affordable, big screen viewing. The W4 series has an 80cm (32") HD-ready screen, ideal for smaller rooms, as well as an integrated Freeview tuner for access to free-to-air content. The new L4 series adds the additional benefits of a Freeview HD tuner, Full-HD resolution as well as 100 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution), and a wider range of screen sizes including 80cm (32"), 98cm (39") and 126cm (50"). All W4 and L4 models feature a sleek, narrow, matte black bezel and stylish metal neck, designed to seamlessly fit into any living room décor.

The new Toshiba 4 and 6 Series will be available in May 2013.

Toshiba 6 Series
 Available in 80cm (32") and 102cm (40") screen sizes
 Full HD resolution, 1920 x 1080p
 Super slim design
 100 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) picture processing
 Toshiba Cloud TV including Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox, BBC iPlayer, Acetrax,
YouTube® and more
 Open Browser, SkypeTM ready
 Built-in Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi® Protected Setup (WPS)
 Intel® WiDi® v3.5
 USB Video Recording
 MediaGuide powered by Rovi
 4 x HDMI® (incl. 1x HDMI® with MHL support), 2x USB
 Resolution+ image up-scaling
 Dolby® Digital Pulse
 Freeview HD (DVB–T/DVB-T21/DVB-C tuners)

Toshiba L4 series
 80cm (32"), 98cm (39") and 126cm (50") screen sizes
 Full HD resolution, 1920 x 1080p
 100 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) processing
 Toshiba Cloud TV including Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox, BBC iPlayer, Acetrax®,
YouTube® and more
 Open Browser, SkypeTM ready
 Built-in Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi® Protected Setup (WPS)
 Intel® WiDi® v3.5
 USB Video Recording
 MediaGuide powered by Rovi
 Resolution+ image up-scaling
 4 x HDMI®, (incl. 1x HDMI® with MHL support), 2x USB
 Freeview HD (DVB–T/DVB-T21/DVB-C tuners)
 Dolby® Digital Pulse

Toshiba W4 series
 80cm (32")
 HD Ready resolution 720p
 Toshiba Cloud TV including Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox, BBC iPlayer, Acetrax®,
YouTube® and more
 Open Browser, SkypeTM ready
 Built-in Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi® Protected Setup (WPS)
 Intel® WiDi® v3.5
 USB Video Recording
 MediaGuide powered by Rovi
 Resolution+ image up-scaling
 4 x HDMI®, (incl. 1x HDMI® with MHL support), 2x USB
 Dolby® Digital Pulse

Toshiba unveils the new 7 Series – Smart TV, 3D entertainment and all-new design

 Experience the latest online content with Toshiba Cloud TV and built-in Wi-Fi®

 200 AMR picture processing, Full HD resolution and 3D across the range

 Eye-catching, slim design adds elegant style to entertainment

London, UK, 20th March 2013 – Toshiba UK today announces its new smart 3D TV range – the 7 Series. Merging premium 3D technology with a host of new smart TV features and built- in Wi-Fi®, the 7 Series offers an exciting home entertainment experience for every living room. Toshiba's new Cloud TV platform now offers more on-demand content, adding Netflix and Vimeo apps to existing services such as YouTube®, Acetrax® and BBC iPlayer.

Available in 102cm (40"), 126cm (50") and 146cm (58") screen sizes, the new 7 Series adopts a contemporary design identity, with smooth corners, an ultra-thin bezel and minimalist brushed aluminium details, all designed to fit seamlessly into any modern living space.

Experience a new dimension of entertainment

On-screen content is displayed in stunning Full HD (1920 x 1080p) resolution, while 200 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) image processing technology provides smooth and crisp images when enjoying fast sports and action scenes. Active shutter 3D technology acrossthe 7 Series ensures viewers can enjoy immersive entertainment from the latest 3D Blu- rayTM Discs or broadcasts, while 2D broadcast content, DVDs and the latest blockbuster games can be be upscaled to 3D in real time, thanks to Toshiba's powerful 2D-to-3D conversion technology.

Smarter viewing with Cloud TV

The 7 Series lets viewers enjoy a world of online content and entertainment at their fingertips, using the new Toshiba Cloud TV service and built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity. The newly designed Cloud TV platform provides a personalised approach to smart TV, with each viewer able to create individual accounts and receive programme suggestions based on a user's viewing history. A powerful new search tool also allows users to explore content across multiple locations, including video-on-demand services, the EPG, and devices connected to the home network.

Access to a host of new content providers, including Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox and Deezer, as well as existing popular servces, including YouTube®, BBC iPlayer and Acetrax® movies, lets users enjoy their favourite online content instantly, all from the big screen. An integrated DVB- T2 digital tuner provides instant access to free high definition programmes via Freeview HD1. The addition of Skype® allows makes it easy to connect with friends and family with free voice or video calls over the internet, when used with a compatible Skype® camera2, while social media profiles can be also accessed direct from the television.

Cleverly connected

The 7 Series has been optimised to connect to multiple devices around the home, so users can conveniently control, mirror and share content with the TV. Intel® Wireless Display (Wi- Di®) technology enables users to wirelessly mirror content on compatible PCs, direct to their big screen TV – perfect for enjoying the latest internet sensation or content stored on different devices.

With Toshiba MediaGuide, users can easily control their TV and find out more about what's on-screen, using a mobile device, without interrupting the picture. Users can browse and control the EPG, set programme recordings, and find out more about their favourite programmes and actors.

Elegant design for contemporary living

The new 7 Series features an elegant, premium design which seamlessly fits into any room of the house. Incorporating a new unified design featured across Toshiba's 2013 home entertainment range, the new 7 Series is encased in a super-slim bezel with smooth-edged corner curves, allowing the Full HD picture to reach to the far edges of the TV, giving a modern home cinema experience.

The new Toshiba 7 Series will be available from May 2013.

Toshiba 7 Series
 Available in 102cm (40"), 126cm (50") and 146cm (58") screen sizes
 Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080p)
 3D (active shutter), 2 pairs of 3D glasses included
 2D-to-3D conversion, 3D depth control
 200 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) picture processing
 Resolution+ image upscaling
 Toshiba Cloud TV including Netflix, Vimeo, BBC iPlayer, Blinkbox, Acetrax®,
YouTube® and more
 Open Browser, SkypeTM ready
 Built-in Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi® Protected Setup (WPS)
 Intel® WiDi v3.5
 USB Video Recording
 MediaGuide powered by Rovi
 Dolby® Digital Pulse, Audyssey Premium T elevisionTM
 4x HDMI® (incl. 1x HDMI® with MHL support), 2x USB
 Freeview HD (DVB–T/DVB-T21/DVB-C tuners)

Toshiba launches flagship 9 Series: Ultra HD technology, CEVOTM 4K upscaling and stunning new design

 Ultra HD technology featuring CEVOTM 4K processing engine for outstanding image quality and upscaling

 84" (213cm), 65" (165) cm and 58" (146cm) screens offer up to four times the resolution of Full HD

 Flagship slim design, 3D and new Cloud TV

London, UK, 20th March 2013 – Toshiba, the first company to launch an Ultra High Definition (UHD) television to worldwide consumer audiences, today announces the launch of its 2013 flagship series Ultra HD screens, the 9 Series.

Three new models, in screen sizes of 213cm (84"), 165cm (65") and 146cm (58"), offer a stunningly detailed display with a resolution up to four times that of Full HD (3840 x 2160), advanced image upscaling and smart TV functionality for outstanding image quality and access to a wide selection of content.

Incredible UHD images and next-generation upscaling

Powered by Toshiba's advanced CEVOTM 4K multi-processor, the new 9 Series is able to deliver incredible clarity, sharpness and detail from UHD content. The 9 Series also intelligently upscales Full HD (1920 x 1080p) images, displaying movies, TV shows, video games, still images and PC applications with new levels of picture quality. Containing over eight million megapixels natively, each screen can be viewed at closer distances without individual pixels being visible, creating a more realistic and immersive overall image.

With the addition of 800 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution), Toshiba's most advanced high- speed picture processing technology to date, the 9 Series displays ultra-smooth images that maintain detail and minimise ghosting effects, even when watching fast moving scenes, typically found in sports or action movies.

Cloud TV: personalised smart TV, curated content and more

The 9 Series is one of the first televisions to feature Toshiba Cloud TV, a brand new connected entertainment platform that combines access to broadcast and online content. Cloud TV also offers a more personalised and interactive approach to TV viewing, including recommendations based on viewing history, and the ability to watch television whilst simultaneously following live Twitter feeds that dynamically refresh when the channel or program is changed.

A host of new content providers includes Netflix, Vimeo, Blinkbox and Deezer, adding to Toshiba's existing line up of popular sevices such as Acetrax® Movies, BBC iPlayer and YouTube®, giving viewers even more choice and instant access to hundreds of films, TV shows, videos and music on demand. Additionally, Cloud TV provides users with a powerful search tool that explores available content listed across the online EPG, video-on-demand services and even items stored on other devices connected to the home network.

Multi-screen connectivity

Using Intel® Wireless Display (Wi-Di®) technology, the 9 Series allows users to wirelessly stream, share and mirror content from compatible devices around the home, ideal for watching digital content on the big screen.

With Toshiba MediaGuide1, users can easily control their TV and find out more about current and future programming using their mobile devices, without interrupting what's on screen. Users can also browse and control the EPG, set recordings, and discover additional information about shows and actors.

Incredible Full HD 3D images and instant 2D-to-3D conversion

Just as each 9 Series model offers an exceptional screen resolution and upscaling, 3D picture quality is also improved, with the range capable of displaying Full HD 3D images – enhancing detail, clarity and sharpness. The large screen 84'' and 65'' models both use passive 3D technology – the same system used in cinemas – while the 58'' uses active shutter 3D technology. Like previous flagship Toshiba televisions, the 9 Series also features a 2D-to-3D conversion tool, transforming 2D content from DVDs or Blu-rayTM Discs into 3D, in real-time. Depth Control also allows viewers to adjust the 3D effect to suit personal taste.

Flagship design

As part of Toshiba's refreshed design identity across all its home entertainment range, the 9 Series also features a premium, super slim profile, with a thin, unobtrusive bezel and chic rounded edges making it ideal for contemporary living spaces.

The 9 Series will be available in the summer of 2013.

Toshiba 9 Series facts & figures
 Ultra HD resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels)
 213cm (84"), 165cm (65") and 146cm (58") screen sizes
 CEVOTM 4K processing engine with upscaling
 800 AMR (Active Motion & Resolution) picture processing
 Full HD 3D technology: 84" and 65": passive technology, 58": active shutter
 2D-to-3D conversion including depth control
 Toshiba Cloud TV including Netflix, Vimeo, BBC iPlayer, Blinkbox, Acetrax® Movies,
YouTube® and more
 Open Browser, SkypeTM ready
 Built-in Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi® Protected Setup (WPS)
 Intel® WiDi v3.5
 USB Video Recording
 MediaGuide powered by Rovi
 Audyssey Premium TelevisionTM
 DVB –T/DVB-T21/DVB-C/ DVB-C2, DVB-S / DVB-S2 tuners
 4x HDMI®, featuring HDMI® UHD support and 1x HDMI® with MHL support, 2 x USB, 1x
SD card

Toshiba unveils 2013 Blu-rayTM player collection: Smart entertainment, wireless connectivity and premium design

 Wi-Fi® as standard, 3D playback, and stunning Full HD picture quality

 Smart TV functionality includes YouTube® Leanback, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Acetrax® and
more

 Stylish designs complement Toshiba's new TV ranges

London, UK, 20th March 2013 – Toshiba UK today announces the launch of its latest Blu- rayTM player range, featuring a stylish new design direction, Wi-Fi® and smart TV functionality as standard.

Ideal for users looking to upgrade their DVD player or for HDTV owners wanting to add online connectivity to their home entertainment set up, Toshiba's latest range offers a wide choice of cinema and entertainment features, designs and price points. The three new models in the range – the BDX5400KB, BDX3400KB and BDX2400KB – also feature Toshiba's new elegant and compact design accents in a matte and gloss black finish.

More than just a Blu-rayTM player

Each model provides fast and convenient access to streaming services including YouTube® Leanback, leading video-on-demand services such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Acetrax®, as well as Cloud-based tools including Picasa® for sharing picture albums. Additionally, each model is also equipped with a new content portal, allowing easy access and navigation to local network features and popular online services.

The BDX2400KB is Wi-Fi® ready, while the BDX3400KB and BDX5400KB feature Wi-Fi® connectivity built-in, ensuring access to online content without requiring proximity to a wired internet connection. Furthermore, the BDX5400KB and the BDX3400KB also support MiracastTM, the new universal standard for streaming content, including Full HD video or other multimedia content between certified MiracastTM devices, using a Wi-Fi® connection.

3D playback, surround sound and Full HD video

The BDX5400KB is enhanced for 3D Blu-ray playback, making it an ideal match for any 3D- ready HDTV. All models cater for Full HD playback via HDMI®, while DVDs are automatically upscaled to get the most detail possible out of standard definition content. Additionally, embedded Dolby® True HD and DTS®-HD technology adds a cinema-like sound experience to movies and videos.

Distinctive new design

To complement the new design across Toshiba's 2013 TV range, the new models feature common design motifs, such as refined, smooth-edged curves and a circular power button. The impressively compact designs are also small enough to fit in any home entertainment set up. The sleek looks are further emphasised with a range of stylish finishes - matte black exterior give the BDX2400KB and BDX3400KB a minimalist aesthetic, while the BDX5400KB combines a glossy black front with a brushed aluminium cover and features a subtly illuminated touch control panel.

The new Blu-rayTM models will be available from Q2 2013.

BDX2400KB & BDX3400KB Smart Blu-rayTM players
 Wi-Fi® Ready (BDX2400KB)
 Wi-Fi® built-in (BDX3400KB)
 Smart features: Netflix, Acetrax® Movies, BBC
iPlayer, YouTube® Leanback
 Connectivity: DLNA-enabled (BDX3400KB);
MiracastTM (BDX3400KB); HDMI® Out 1080i/1080p; HDMI-CEC®; USB port; Ethernet; Digital audio coaxial
 Video: 1080p/24 Output; 480p – 576p – 720p – 1080p Upscaling; Deep colour / XV Colour; Slow Motion; Variable Zoom
 Audio: Dolby® Digital Plus; Dolby® TrueHD; DTS®-HD
 290 x 180 x 36 mm (Width/Depth/Height)

BDX5400KB Smart 3D Blu-rayTM player
 Wi-Fi® built-in
 3D ready
 Black and silver aluminum design
 Smart features: Netflix, Acetrax® Movies, BBC
iPlayer, YouTube® Leanback
 Connectivity: DLNA-enabled; MiracastTM;
HDMI® Out 1080i/1080p; HDMI-CEC®; USB
port; Ethernet; Digital audio coaxial
 Video: 1080p/24 Output; 480p – 576p – 720p –
1080p Upscaling; Deep colour / XV Colour;
Slow Motion; Variable Zoom
 Audio: Dolby® Digital Plus; Dolby® TrueHD;
DTS®-HD
 290 x 180 x 36 mm (Width/Depth/Height)
 Illuminated touch controls