1. A method of implementing a computer for the compression of probability tables and the recovery of selected probability elements through the use of compressed probability tables, comprising the steps of: determining a probability table that is to be compressed, wherein the probability table contains a plurality of probability elements; compressing the probability table using a first probability table compression method, wherein the probability table compression method creates a first compressed probability table, the first compressed probability table containing a plurality of probability elements; compressing the probability table using a second probability table compression method, wherein the probability table compression method creates a second compressed probability table, the second compressed probability table containing a plurality of probability elements; and merging a first probability element with a second probability element in order to produce a merged probability element.