Last time I asked if you could find the bug in the original version of my histogram code. Here’s how I found it:
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The solution to the simple puzzle
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Monthly Archives: February 2012
A simple puzzle
The original version of the histogram-generating code that I whipped up for the previous episode of FAIC contained a subtle bug. Can you spot it without going back and reading the corrected code? Continue reading
Generating random non-uniform data in C#
UPDATE: I’ve posted a related article here.
When building simulations of real-world phenomena, or when generating test data for algorithms that will be consuming information from the real world, it is often highly desirable to produce pseudo-random data that conform to some non-uniform probability distribution.
But perhaps I have already lost some readers who do not remember STATS 101 all those years ago. I sure don’t. Let’s take a step back. Continue reading
Bad metaphors
The standard way to teach beginner OO programmers about classes is to make a metaphor to the real world. And indeed, I do this all the time in this blog, usually to the animal kingdom. A “class” in real life codifies a commonality amongst a certain set of objects: mammals, for example, have many things in common; they have backbones, can grow hair, can make their own heat, and so on. A class in a programming language does the same thing: codifies a commonality amongst a certain set of objects via the mechanism of inheritance. Inheritance ensures commonalities because, as we’ve already discussed, “inheritance” by definition means “all[1. Excepting constructors and destructors.] the members of the base type are also members of the derived type”.
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What is late binding?
“Late binding” is one of those computer-sciency terms that, like “strong typing“, or “duck typing” means different things to different people. I thought I might describe what the term means to me.
First off, what is “binding”? We can’t understand what it means to bind late if we don’t know what it is to bind at all. Continue reading
What’s the difference between a trenchcoat and a duster?
Today, yet another episode in my ongoing series “What’s the difference?” This time, a non-computer-related topic.
I am often complimented on my choice of outerwear in the Seattle rainy season, and I hate to respond to a well-meant compliment with a correction. So I usually let all those “Nice trenchcoat!” comments slide and just say “Thanks!” But as a public service, let me lay it out for you so that you don’t make the same mistake. Here we see David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor wearing a classic example of a trenchcoat: (Click for a larger version.)
The trenchcoat is a long waterproof coat, traditionally made of gabardine. The term originated in the trenches of the First World War, due to the popularity of this style of coat amongst officers in the British armed forces. The trench coat is not merely a functional warm raincoat but also stylish, with long wide lapels and decorative buttons. The trenchcoat is often belted and might be tailored in at the waist, particularly for women’s trenchcoats.
A duster is also a long waterproof coat that is often referred to as a “trenchcoat” — but as you’ll see, it is quite different in its details. Here’s the duster I wear, an Australian-made Driza-Bone:
Note the lack of decorative elements, the flap over the closure, the no-lapel collar (which clasps shut, completely enclosing the neck if necessary) and the built-in extra rain protection on the shoulders. (*) Dusters are typically made of oilcloth and are built for handling the practicalities of herding sheep in the rain, not for style (**).
Not shown in this view: the interior includes straps that let you attach the bottom of the coat to your legs, so that it does not blow around when you are on horseback. Also, the back is cut in such a way that you can cover both your legs and the rear portion of the saddle with the coat. I usually take the bus and not a horse to work, but still it’s nice to know that options are available should I need them. These practical elements are usually not present in trenchcoats.
Right, glad we got that sorted out.
Next time on FAIC: What is binding, and why is it always either early or late? Can’t it ever be on time?
(*) Duster manufacturers always hasten to point out that the shoulders are already waterproof; the extra layer keeps your shoulders warmer by shedding rain more effectively.
(**) There are, of course, some dusters built for style; if you watch the “Matrix” series of movies you’ll see the heroes wear an assortment of extremely stylish dusters and trenchcoats both.
Fabulous adventures in coding 