Abstract. We present an algorithm to evaluate large deviation functions associated to history-dependent observables. Instead of relying on a time discretization procedure to approximate the dynamics, we provide a direct continuous-time algorithm valuable for systems with multiple timescales, thus extending the work of Giardinà, Kurchan and Peliti (2006 Phys. Rev. Lett. 96 120603).

The procedure is supplemented with a thermodynamic-integration scheme which improves its efficiency. We also show how the method can be used to probe large deviation functions in systems with a dynamical phase transition—revealed in our context through the appearance of a non-analyticity in the large deviation functions.

Key words: other numerical approaches; fluctuations (theory); stochastic processes (theory); current fluctuations

Received 9 January 2007, accepted for publication 5 February 2007
Published 2 March 2007