random number generator

(computer science) A mathematical program which generates a set of numbers which pass a randomness test. An analog device that generates a randomly fluctuating variable, and usually operates from an electrical noise source.

A program routine that produces a random number. Random numbers are created easily in a computer, since there are many random events that take place such as the duration between keystrokes. Only a few milliseconds' difference is enough to seed a random number generation routine with a different starting number each time.

Once seeded, an algorithm computes different numbers throughout the session. The numbers that are created must be distributed evenly over a certain range, and they cannot be predictable (the next number cannot be determined from the last).

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Program that generates a sequence of numbers that seem to be completely random. For example, the basic statement N = RND(0) causes the computer to generate a random number and assign its value to N. Random numbers provide a way of selecting a sample without human bias.

The noun has one meaning:

Meaning #1: a routine designed to yield a random number