9.5.2

1100 • CHAPTER 22
XPRESSO EDITOR • 1101
The Random node outputs decimal numbers in the range of -1.0 to +1.0. Two
modes are available for generating these numbers: Free and Time. Choose the
desired mode in the Attribute manager.
The node can output random values of the following data types: Bool, Integer,
Normal, Real or Vector. Specify the desired data type via the node’s output
port.
In addition, you can choose whether the random numbers generated are positive
only (Positive Only option enabled in the Attribute manager) or negative and
positive (Positive Only disabled). However, if the node outputs random values
of the type Bool, the option will not affect the result (a Bool value can have a
value of 1 or 0 only).
Random Mode
Time
This mode generates random numbers based on the animation’s current time. Each time you play the
animation, the same sequence of numbers is generated. This is the same mode used by CINEMA 4D’s
particles, since it gives the particle stream a random look yet ensures that the stream is exactly the
same each time you play it back. If instead you want completely different numbers to be generated
each time you play back the animation, use the Free mode.
Free
With Free mode, the number sequence generated will be different each time you play back the
animation. If instead you want the same sequence of numbers each time you play the animation, use
the Time mode.
Random Seed
If you use more than one Random node in your expression, each of the nodes will generate the same
number unless you enter a different Random Seed value for each node. Alternatively, pass the value
to each node via the Random Seed port.