Equations

The relationship between a node and its parent nodes can be entered using an equation if desired.  This is possible whether the nodes are continuous or discrete, and whether the relationship is probabilistic or deterministic.  The primary purpose of Equations in Netica is to build tables ( CPT or function table ), which are then used for Bayesian inference, doing net transforms, or expanding DBNs.  However, Netica may use the equations directly during deterministic inference (for greater accuracy) and inference by sampling (in which case tables might not be built because they would be too large).

The following sections outline further information on Netica’s equations:

• Using Equations

• Syntax

• Converting to a Table

• Comparison to Java /C/C++

• Conditionals

• Link (Input) Names

• State Names as Constants

• Discrete Variables with State Values

• Internal Form of Equations

• Constant Nodes as Adjustable Parameters

• Examples of Equation Use

• Built-in Constants

• Built-in Functions and Distributions