MS Access Randomize() Function
The Randomize() function in MS Access is used to initialize the random number generator. This is crucial for getting different random numbers each time you run your code that uses the `Rnd()` function.
Randomize(): Definition and Usage
Without calling Randomize() first, the Rnd() function (which generates pseudo-random numbers) may return the same number repeatedly. Randomize() seeds the random number generator, making subsequent calls to Rnd() more unpredictable and producing a more random sequence of numbers. The seed value determines the starting point for the random number generation process.
Syntax
Syntax
Randomize(seed)
Parameter Values
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
seed (Optional) |
A numeric value used to seed the random number generator. If omitted, MS Access uses the system timer, resulting in a different sequence each time. |
Example
While `Randomize()` doesn't directly produce output, its effect is seen when you subsequently use the `Rnd()` function. If you call `Rnd()` multiple times without calling `Randomize()`, you'll get the same random number. With `Randomize()`, you get different random numbers each time. Note that this is a pseudo-random number generator, meaning that it uses a mathematical formula to generate numbers that appear random but are actually deterministic.
Illustrative Example
'Illustrative purpose only; you'd typically use Rnd() within a loop
Randomize()
? Rnd()
? Rnd()
? Rnd()
Illustrative Output
(Three different random numbers between 0 and 1 will be displayed.)