In order to meet the needs of TV detection in deep sea environment, a compact continuous zoom system driven by cam sleeve is studied. Through the analysis of the system indicators, the optical system of three groups of linkage zoom and rear group for focusing is selected, and the structure of cylindrical cam driving to cooperate with the cylindrical guide sliding is clarified. Based on this idea, each module of the TV detection system is designed in detail. The design method of electric iris diaphragm in the middle of the system is proposed, and the calculation process and results of zoom drive mechanism selection are given. The method of alignment of lens optical axis adjustment with theodolite and cross-reticle is put forward. With this design and adjustment process, the TV detection system can be applied to deep sea environment is finally realized. The system has a continuously variable field of view with 5.8°∼60° underwater, the F number changes from 3.5 to 16, and the whole zoom time is less than 2s. The test results show that the MTF of the center field of view at the long focal point and the short focal point are 0.4 and 0.57. Test images in laboratory and underwater scene are clear and high resolution, which shows that the imaging quality of the system is excellent. At the same time, the system is Φ 105×115mm in actual size and 860g in weight, and can be integrated into the deep-sea pressure cabin to meet the needs of deep-sea detection. © COPYRIGHT SPIE. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.