Review: II-VI compound semiconductors such as CdTe and Hg1-xCd(x)Te are important in a wide range of optoelectronics applications ranging from solar cells and infrared detectors to "smart" goggles. An alternative to the cost-intensive vacuum-based production techniques is electrodeposition which allows large-area deposition, close control of the deposition conditions, and obviates the need for toxic, organometallic precursors. The advantages and disadvantages of the method are discussed.