pseudo-random numbers

A set of values or elements that is statistically random, but it is derived from a known starting point and is typically repeated over and over. Pseudo-random numbers provide necessary values for processes that require randomness, such as creating test signals or for synchronizing sending and receiving devices in a spread spectrum transmission. It is called "pseudo" random, because the algorithm can repeat the sequence, and the numbers are thus not entirely random. See CDMA and PN sequence.