  The influence of finite size effects, choice of statistical ensemble and
contribution of the forces in numerical simulations using the dissipative
particle dynamics (DPD) model are revisited here. Finite size effects in stress
anisotropy, interfacial tension and dynamic viscosity are computed and found to
be minimal with respect to other models. Additionally, the choice of ensemble
is found to be of fundamental importance for the accurate calculation of
properties such as the solvation pressure, especially for relatively small
systems. Lastly, the contribution of the random, dissipative and conservative
forces that make up the DPD model in the prediction of properties of simple
liquids such as the pressure is studied as well. Some tricks of the trade are
provided, which may be useful for those carrying out high-performance numerical
simulations using the DPD model.
