MATLAB: Generating random numbers from normal distribution

Question

Hello,

I generated random numbers from normal distribution for a parameter that has typical values within the range 0.0 to 0.4. The generated random numbers have both negative and positive values. How do I generate only positive values to fit the range of my parameter?

I have another concern:

I understand the random numbers generated from normal distribution in matlab actually come from standard normal distribution. Is there a way to generate from the normal distribution?

Thanks in advance

Best Regards

Answer 1

If you take a random number from a gaussian (aka normal) curve, you can calculate the probability that number would come up.

 random = randn();
 prob = icdf('Normal', random_value, 0, 1);

You can then, if you know the cdf, calculate the value that would give you that probabiltiy.

 example:  random_value_my_distribution = cdf('binomial',prob, trials, prob)