Abstract: A system and method for inspecting a visual display under test. A translational stage moves an optical instrument relative to the display in at least one of three generally orthogonal directions. The optical instrument is mounted on the translational stage and measures an electro-optical characteristic within a defined region of interest on the display. The display is mounted on a rotational stage for rotating the display about at least one of two generally orthogonal axes. A controller controls the translational and rotational stages to position the optical instrument at a desired position relative to the display and to position the display at a desired viewing angle relative to the optical instrument. The position of the optical instrument relative to the display is adjusted to maintain the optical axis of the instrument approximately centered within the defined region of interest on the display when the display is rotated.