Abstract. The performance of stereoscopic television systems and its dependence on various parameters are investigated. It is shown that the extent of the region of space which can be displayed in three dimensions without causing undue eyestrain to the observer, and also the minimum detectable depth interval, are related to and may therefore be controlled by the system geometrical and optical parameters. Distortion in three-dimensional images due to the difference between the depth magnification and the magnification of the xy-plane is also analysed. Finally, it is demonstrated that the expressions defining the relationship between the performance of a 3D television system and its various parameters form a useful basis for the design of a system of this type for a given application.