Repeatable random number simulation

Hi all! I would like to simulate a random number between 0 and 1 for every row of my data in a reproducible way. I am aware I can create random numbers with RAND() in a Formula tool, however they are not reproducible (to my knowledge). Is there a nice way to achieve this? I guess i could create the numbers separately and save the output and just use that for my workflow, however there might be a nicer solution?

Thanks,

Blaz

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Accepted answers

danilang

Hi @BlazB

While the Rand() and RandInt() functions don't accept a seed value, the Simulation Sampling tool does, allowing for a repeatable random number stream. Configure it as shown below, sample parametrically with a uniform distribution, from 0 to 1

Change the number of iterations to be larger than the number of items in your input data. Join the output of this with your data on record position

resulting in the following random distribution on every run. Change the seed value to get a new list of random values

Note that the reported seed value is 1 more than the seed set in the Simulation Sampling tool.

Dan

RepeatingRand.yxmd

All comments

Jonathan-Sherman

Hi @BlazB,

I don't believe there is a way to create a truly random number that could be repeated each time run as this would go against the initial "truly random" idea. The closest i can get is by using the IntToBin() function to convert an integer to its binary value. This way the value would be identical each time run, however wouldn't be between 0 and 1. Otherwise I would go down the same route as you, using the RAND() function and exporting separately.

If this solves your issue please mark the answer as correct, if not let me know! I've attached my workflow for you to download if needed.

Regards,

Jonathan

20191117 - RepeatableNumber.yxmd

BlazB

Hi @Jonathan-Sherman ,

thank you for your reply. I see what you mean with your solution, however it will not be appropriate for my workflow. I will need to go down the mentioned path of exporting the simulation results separately and using those as an input. Not the cleanest way, but will do the trick

Thanks again,

Blaz

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