http://qs1969.pair.com?node_id=88021

Item Description: Generate random strings based on a pattern

Review Synopsis:

Motivation

Until I saw this module, String::Random I have been using clunky ways to generate random text, always having to lookup ascii codes. This module is an excellent way to generate random strings from a template of possible characters.

Instant Random Strings

use String::Random; $foo = new String::Random; # e.g. AqF8, YcE2, BjW8 ... $string = $foo->randpattern("CcCn");

yields a random four character string: uppercase letter, lowercase, uppercase and then a number. Need a license plate? randpattern("CnCnCn") works for where I live

Smarter Random Strings

Particularly useful is the ability to define sets of characters and assign them to a pattern

# define vowels $foo->{'V'} = [ qw(a e i o u) ]; # define common consonants $foo->{'Q'} = [ qw(r s t n m) ]; # e.g. retom, satan, timis ... $string = $foo->randpattern("QVQVQ");

particularly useful for generating names of MUD characters.

Random Regex

The module also accepts a regex as input.

# e.g. 342, 289, 832 ... print $foo->randregex('\d\d\d');

My Own Usage

This is one of those small-tool modules that you may find yourself using over and over again.

Edit: chipmunk 2001-06-18