[Boost-users] Looking for a simple example of instantiating normal_distribution from the random library correctly

I am instantiating normal_distribution from the random library incorrectly and looking for a simple example of how to do it correctly.

I compiled, built and ran random_test.cpp and can see when I step through the normal_distribution () operator that _r1 and _r2 have values < 1.

Here are the relevant excerpts from my incorrect attempt at instantiation and calling the () operator:

typedef boost::mt19937 base_generator_type;

boost::uint32_t x = 42u; Ideal4045EsmModel::base_generator_type base_generator(x);

double randomDrawResult;

boost::normal_distribution<double> boostNormalRand;

boostNormalRand.reset();

randomDrawResult = boostNormalRand(base_generator);

This compiles, builds, and runs, but when I step through the normal_distribution () operator, _r1 and _r2 have very large positive values, resulting in an attempt to take the log of a negative number and an Indefinite value being returned.

I am a relatively inexperienced C++ developer. I have built and stepped through random_test.cpp (http://www.boost.org/libs/random/random_test.cpp) and can see that its gets correct results, but I found it quite difficult to follow. Is there anyone out there who could show me a simpler way?

Thanks,

Dave