An electrode holder has been constructed for improving the speed and ease of operations in miscellaneous spectrographic testing. Advantages afforded by the new holder include: (1) application to a variet y of electrode sizes and excitation conditions, (2) positive and precise adjustment and motion of the parts, (3) watercooling of the electrode clamps, and (4) a housi ng for protection against light, fu mes, and electric shock. The construction of the holder and its application t o excitation problems with the high-voltage spark, the a-c arc, and the d·c arc are described.