Random Number Generator Using a Normal Distribution (143350)
The information in this article applies to:
- Microsoft Excel for Windows 95 7.0a
- Microsoft Excel for Windows 5.0c
- Microsoft Excel for the Macintosh 5.0a
This article was previously published under Q143350 SYMPTOMS
In the versions of Microsoft Excel listed above, the Random Number
Generator, using a normal distribution with a random seed, does not produce
the same set of random numbers more than once. However, using other
distributions with a random seed will continually produce the same set of
random numbers.
RESOLUTION
To correct this problem, upgrade to either Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows
or Microsoft Excel 98 Macintosh Edition.
STATUS
Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in the versions of Microsoft
Excel listed at the beginning of this article. This problem was corrected
in Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows and Microsoft Excel 98 Macintosh Edition.
MORE INFORMATION
The Random Number Generator returns independent random numbers drawn from a
distribution. By using the same distribution with a random seed, the Random
Number Generator can be used to produce the same set of random numbers over
and over again.
REFERENCESIn Microsoft Excel Version 7.0
For more information about the Random Number Generation analysis tool,
click the Answer Wizard in Help and type:
how do I generate random numbers
In Microsoft Excel Version 5.0
Microsoft Excel, "User's Guide," version 5.0, Chapter 31, "Using a Data
Analysis Tool"
For more information about the Random Number Generation tool, click the
Search button in Help and type:
| Modification Type: | Minor | Last Reviewed: | 8/15/2003 |
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| Keywords: | kbbug kbprb KB143350 |
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