XL: Random Number Generator Using a Normal Distribution

• Microsoft Excel for Windows, version 5.0, 5.0c
• Microsoft Excel for Windows 95, version 7.0, 7.0a
• Microsoft Excel for Macintosh, version 5.0, 5.0a

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.

REFERENCES

In 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:

   random