A microcomputer program for the generation of random grid squares in quantitative analysis

Subjectivity in selecting random grid squares for routine quantitative analysis can be circumvented through a combination of finder grids and a computer program. The simple BASIC program described in this paper generates a list of random grid-square numbers, which are sequentially analyzed. The concept was applied in the quantitation of asbestos and other microparticles in environmental samples. The use of finder grids and this program can also be useful in quality-control programs and in cross-referencing analyses, as well as in the study of biological specimens.