Michelle,
I agree with you that we need to run AT LEAST 500 iterations.  But I did not
realize that it took 16 hours to run 100 iterations. Helen and I talked 
earlier about
using parallel computing technique to split the algorithm into smaller parts 
and
run the parts separately on different processors, then aggregate the results.
This procedure makes better use of computer power and saves time. Looks like
we have to do it this way now.  Buying a more powerful computer helps but 
does not solve the problem. 

In addition, we might want to re-consider if writing the code in VB is 
optimal.
I was assured at the very beginning that VB runs as fast (if not faster) as C,
but some re-assurance from IT group on this issue is helpful.

Best,
Alex


   
	
	
	From:  Michelle D Cisneros @ ECT                           04/09/2001 02:52 PM
	

To: Alex Huang/Corp/Enron@ENRON
cc: Gary Hickerson, Danielle Romain 

Subject: Generation Earnings Model

Hi Alex-

Danielle and I were talking to David M. today regarding running the model for 
purposes of back testing the results. Last week we ran Calpine using 46 days 
of historical forward price data at 10 and 100 iterations. The 100 iteration 
run took 16 hours to run. To run all 20 companies with the 46 days worth of 
data and at 100 iterations is estimated to take about 28 days. We are 
concerned that 100 iterations will not be sufficient and will need to be 
increased to at least 500 iterations. 

We are thinking that we need to use a server or something much more powerful 
than the test computer we have been using. Do you have any suggestions as to 
how we can improve the process?

Thanks,
Michelle
X35435


Hi Alex-

Danielle and I were talking to David M. today regarding running the model for 
purposes of back testing the results. Last week we ran Calpine using 46 days 
of historical forward price data at 10 and 100 iterations. The 100 iteration 
run took 16 hours to run. To run all 20 companies with the 46 days worth of 
data and at 100 iterations is estimated to take about 28 days. We are 
concerned that 100 iterations will not be sufficient and will need to be 
increased to at least 500 iterations. 

We are thinking that we need to use a server or something much more powerful 
than the test computer we have been using. Do you have any suggestions as to 
how we can improve the process?

Thanks,
Michelle
X35435