Single and double precision matlab

[sara_87]

Homework Statement

MATLAB uses double precision as default.
How can I change this to single? so that all computations will be made using single precision.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I went to:
file
preferences
virtual reality precision: floating point: single (I changed this from double to single)

However, my computations are still being made in double precision.

I don't want to change a single variable to single precision (this is done using single(A)) I want to change all computations.

thank you.

 

[Steely Dan]

I do not believe there is a way to change the default arithmetic for all operations, as MATLAB variables are indeed double precision by default. Nevertheless, if you define variables to be single precision to begin with, then any operations between them will result in a single precision output.

 

[sara_87]

oh right i see. thank you.

 

[Steely Dan]

I know that's not a comforting answer if you have a large code with lots of variables -- sorry!

 

[DeeNos]

As a scientist, it is important to understand the precision of your calculations and how it may affect your results. In MATLAB, the default precision is double, meaning all computations are performed using double-precision floating-point numbers. This provides a higher level of accuracy compared to single-precision calculations, but it also requires more memory and processing time.

To change the default precision to single, you can go to File > Preferences > General > Floating Point and select "Single" under the "Default Numeric Type" option. This will change the default precision for all computations in your MATLAB session. However, it is important to note that this may affect the accuracy of your results, especially for complex calculations.

Alternatively, you can use the "single" function to convert specific variables or arrays to single precision. This allows you to control the precision for individual calculations without changing the default precision for the entire session. It is recommended to only use single precision when necessary, such as for large datasets or when memory is limited.

In conclusion, changing the default precision to single in MATLAB can be done through the preferences menu, but it is important to understand the potential implications on your calculations and to use single precision only when necessary.