The invention relates to a device for the detection of surface defects on cylinders. More specifically, the invention relates to the production of a contactless optoelectronic device which is used for detecting, distinguishing and spatially locating surface defects or structures. Said device comprises three units: a) a light unit; b) a capture unit; and c) a signal processing unit. The invention is suitable for cylinders, cables or metal wires in general. In this specific case, the term surface structure refers to any topographic variation in relation to the cylindrical form.