4.1 Computer simulation is known to be a very powerful analytical tool for both practitioners and researchers in the area of wood products and their applications in structural engineering. Complex structural systems can be analyzed by computer with the computer generating the system components, given the probability distribution of each component. Frequently the components are single boards for which a compatible set of strength and stiffness properties are needed. However, the entire structural simulation process is dependent upon the adequacy of the standard uniform number generator required to generate random observations from prescribed probability distribution functions.

4.2 The technological capabilities and wide availability of microcomputers has encouraged their increased use for simulation studies. Tests of random number generators in commonly available microcomputers have disclosed serious deficiencies (1).³ Adequacy may be a function of intended end-use. This practice is concerned with generation of sets of random numbers, as may be required for simulations of large populations of material properties for simulation of complex structures. For more demanding applications, the use of packaged and pretested random number generators is encouraged.

1.1 This practice gives a minimum testing procedure of computer generation routines for the standard uniform distribution. Random observations from the standard uniform distribution, R_U, range from zero to one with every value between zero and one having an equal chance of occurrence.

1.2 The tests described in this practice only support the basic use of random number generators, not their use in complex or extremely precise simulations.

1.3 Simulation details for the normal, lognormal, 2-parameter Weibull and 3-parameter Weibull probability distributions are presented.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. See specific warning statement in 5.5.3.