Overhaul of Random Number Library
by Jens Maurer other posts by this author
Feb 9 2001 7:08PM messages near this date
Re: [boost] Boost release 1.20.2 posted on web site
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Review: Boost Test Library
My random number library, available in boost since a few months,
needs some maintenance.
I would like to split the header <boost/random.hpp> (now 45 KB) into
several named <boost/random/XXX.hpp> . Each <boost/random/XXX.hpp>
header shall contain one generator or one distribution only, and should
be mostly independent of other generators/distributions. The
<boost/random.hpp> header will consist of a list of #include's for all
<boost/random/XXX.hpp> headers to stay backward-compatible and allow
for easy initial usage.
This change has the following advantages:
- Allow reduced compile time for users needing only one generator
and a few distributions.
- Allow for easier contribution of new generators/distributions
by third parties.
- Make dependencies between generators/distributions more explicit.
Also, the random number library should be adapted to the changing
environment boost provides, in particular:
- boost/static_assert.hpp to check compile-time assertions in the
generators (these are currently runtime-assert()).
- the upcoming Boost Test Library for the regression tests
Since all these issues concern mostly implementation details, I think
a formal review is not needed. If no serious concerns show up within
a week, I'll go forward and implement these items starting
16 Feb 2001.
I'm looking forward to your comments.
Jens Maurer
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