Artificial simulation of rainfall to produce controlled conditions is increasing in importance both as a laboratory and field research tool in a variety of disciplines. The development of a compact laboratory rainfall simulator for use in erosion research is described. This unit is capable of producing rainfall intensities from 1.27 to 91 cm/h with raindrops ranging from 0.50 to 5.28 mm in diameter. In an available fall height of 2.59 m these drops achieve estimated velocities ranging from 100 to 69.3% of terminal velocity. Rainfall characteristics produced are critically reviewed and laboratory operating procedures are described.