Random Number Generators for Parallel Computers

Abstract

Random number generators are used in many applications, from slot machines to simulations of nuclear reactors. For many computational science applications, such as Monte Carlo simulation, it is crucial that the generators have good randomness properties. This is particularly true for large-scale simulations done on high-performance parallel computers. Good random number generators are hard to find, and many widely-used techniques have been shown to be inadequate. Finding high-quality, efficient algorithms for random number generation on parallel computers is even more difficult. Here we present a review of the most commonly-used random number generators for parallel computers, and evaluate each generator based on theoretical knowledge and empirical tests. In conclusion, we provide recommendations for using random number generators on parallel computers. Outline This review is organized as follows: A brief summary of the findings of this review is first presented, giving an overview of the use of parallel random number generators and a list of recommended algorithms. Section 1 is an introduction to random number generators and their use in computer simulations on parallel computers. Section 2 is a summary of the methods used to test and evaluate random number generators, on both sequential and parallel computers. Section 3 gives an overview of the main algorithms used to implement random number generators on sequential computers, provides examples of software implementations of the algorithms, and states any known problems with the algorithms or implementations. Section 4 gives a description of the most common methods used to parallelize the sequential algorithms, provides examples of software implementing these algorithms, and states any known problems ...