An on-line anion-exchange preconcentration hydride generation ICP system for the determination of total inorganic arsenic in water is described. The column was packed with strongly basic anion-exchange resin (AG 1-X8). Experimental conditions including pH of the sample solution, eluent, flow rate of eluent, oxidation states of arsenic and competing anion ions were studied. Compared with the conventional continuous hydride generation ICP, a 9.2-fold improvement in sensitivity was obtained with RSD 1-2% at 100 ng/ml. The detection limit (3σ) was 0.08 ng/ml. The recoveries in water samples were satisfactory. The system provides complete automation of sample loading, eluting and regenerating of the resin.