Generating Random Numbers in FORTRAN (27211)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft FORTRAN Compiler for MS-DOS 4.0
  • Microsoft FORTRAN Compiler for MS-DOS 4.01
  • Microsoft FORTRAN Compiler for MS-DOS 4.1
  • Microsoft FORTRAN Compiler for MS-DOS 5.0
  • Microsoft FORTRAN Compiler for MS-DOS 5.1

This article was previously published under Q27211

SUMMARY

Microsoft FORTRAN provides a random number generator in versions 5.0, 5.01, and 5.1. It is documented on pages 272-273 of the Microsoft FORTRAN "Reference" manual for versions 5.0 and 5.1. Even though previous versions of Microsoft FORTRAN do not provide a random number generation function, there are at least two methods to generate random numbers in FORTRAN versions 4.0, 4.01, and 4.1.

The DEMORAN.FOR file demonstrates a uniform random-number generator for FORTRAN. DEMORAN.FOR is distributed on the Utilities and Source Code Disk (disk 3 or 6) in FORTRAN versions 4.0 and 4.01 and on the Setup disk for version 4.1. Comments at the beginning of the DEMORAN.FOR file provide documentation.

The other method involves using the mixed-language programming capabilities of Microsoft FORTRAN. Call a Microsoft C or QuickC run-time library to access the rand() function in the library routines.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:9/30/2003
Keywords:KB27211