How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers?

Re:How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers? by IIAOPSW on Monday September 14, 2020 @12:40AM (#24466812)

My personal favorite RNG is the logistical map. x_{n+1} = 4x_n(1-x_n). There is no hidden seed beyond the current output. Thus if you have a scientific calculator that lets you refer to the value on screen then you can rig it into an RNG. Seeing a simple, non-programmable machine "misbehave" and act random melts my mind a little.

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Re:How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers? by phreeza on Monday September 14, 2020 @03:52AM (#24467829)

Beware that while it looks random, this is actually not a great rng. For example, it does not satisfy the central limit theorem.

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Re:How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers? by bregma on Monday September 14, 2020 @07:31AM (#24468937)

That's still just a linear congruential PRNG with state sizeof(unsigned int). LCG is simple and has well-known flaws.

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Re:How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers? by IIAOPSW on Monday September 14, 2020 @07:30PM (#24476318)

No it is not an LCG. When you distribute the terms there is a -4x_n^2. Therefore it is non-linear.

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Re:How Do Computers Generate Random Numbers? by kanzenryu2 on Monday September 14, 2020 @03:45AM (#24467797)

You might find this ultra-simple RNG interesting https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rule_30

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