Several experimental parameters have been found to affect the intensity of microwave excited electrodeless discharge emission at the cadmium resonance line (228.8 nm.). A thorough study of the effect of pressure of the fill gas, microwave power applied to the tube; and weight of Cd introduced into the tube has been accomplished. Direct comparisons of Cd resonance emission for the cases of He, Ne, Ar and air fill gases are presented. From these studies preductions of optimum conditions for construction and operation of Cd electrodeless discharge lamps may be made.