[Numpy-discussion] random_array.poisson(0) gives -1 and -2

May 19, 2004


      Hi,
the random_array poisson functions returns negative values if mean=0:
...
...
...
from numarray import random_array as ra
ra.seed(x=1, y=1)
ra.poisson(0)
5
ra.poisson(0)
-2
My "math book" tells me that it should be always zero.
This seems to be a constructed case, but I'm using this to put
"quantum statistic" into a simulated image:
obj = na.array( something )
imageFromDetector = ra.poisson( obj ) + gaussianNoiseArray
The object array might have lots of zeros surrounding the "actual object". 
Thinking of a fluorescent object sending out photons it makes sense to not get 
any photons at all from 'empty' regions.
I'm using numarray 0.8;

Thanks for numarray,
Sebastian Haase