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Revision 1.136 by root, Thu Mar 13 13:06:16 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.172 by root, Wed Aug 6 07:01:25 2008 UTC

2 2
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required 11 // a single header file is required
12 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
13 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct 14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type> 15 // with the name ev_<type>
16 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
17 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
18 18
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature 19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin 20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
21 static void 21 static void
22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
23 { 23 {
24 puts ("stdin ready"); 24 puts ("stdin ready");
25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
26 // with its corresponding stop function. 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28 28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
31 } 31 }
32 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out 33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
34 static void 34 static void
35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
36 { 36 {
37 puts ("timeout"); 37 puts ("timeout");
38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
40 } 40 }
41 41
42 int 42 int
43 main (void) 43 main (void)
44 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
47 47
48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
52 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it 53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
57 57
58 // now wait for events to arrive 58 // now wait for events to arrive
59 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
60 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit 61 // unloop was called, so exit
62 return 0; 62 return 0;
63 } 63 }
64 64
65=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
66 66
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted 67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first 68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
69time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>. 69time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>.
70 70
71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
72file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 72file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
73these event sources and provide your program with events. 73these event sources and provide your program with events.
74 74
113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
118it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name 118it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name
119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
120throughout libev. 120throughout libev.
121
122=head1 ERROR HANDLING
123
124Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
125and internal errors (bugs).
126
127When libev catches an operating system error it cannot handle (for example
128a system call indicating a condition libev cannot fix), it calls the callback
129set via C<ev_set_syserr_cb>, which is supposed to fix the problem or
130abort. The default is to print a diagnostic message and to call C<abort
131()>.
132
133When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then
134it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism,
135so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in
136the libev caller and need to be fixed there.
137
138Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions, and also has
139extensive consistency checking code. These do not trigger under normal
140circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev or worse.
141
121 142
122=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 143=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
123 144
124These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 145These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
125library in any way. 146library in any way.
134 155
135=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 156=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
136 157
137Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 158Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
138either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 159either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
139this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>. 160this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
140 161
141=item int ev_version_major () 162=item int ev_version_major ()
142 163
143=item int ev_version_minor () 164=item int ev_version_minor ()
144 165
157not a problem. 178not a problem.
158 179
159Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
160version. 181version.
161 182
162 assert (("libev version mismatch", 183 assert (("libev version mismatch",
163 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
164 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
165 186
166=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
167 188
168Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*> 189Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*>
169value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
171a description of the set values. 192a description of the set values.
172 193
173Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and 194Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and
174a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11 195a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11
175 196
176 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
177 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
178 199
179=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
180 201
181Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 202Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also
182recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one
183returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 204returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on
184most BSDs and will not be autodetected unless you explicitly request it 205most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it
185(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 206(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that
186libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 207libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
187 208
188=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 209=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
189 210
196See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 217See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
197 218
198=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 219=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
199 220
200Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 221Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
201semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to 222semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
202allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when 223used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
203memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some 224when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
204potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc 225or take some potentially destructive action.
205function. 226
227Since some systems (at least OpenBSD and Darwin) fail to implement
228correct C<realloc> semantics, libev will use a wrapper around the system
229C<realloc> and C<free> functions by default.
206 230
207You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 231You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
208free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 232free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
209or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 233or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
210 234
211Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 235Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
212retries). 236retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>).
213 237
214 static void * 238 static void *
215 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 239 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
216 { 240 {
217 for (;;) 241 for (;;)
228 ... 252 ...
229 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
230 254
231=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg));
232 256
233Set the callback function to call on a retryable syscall error (such 257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
234as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
235indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
236callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 260callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
237matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 261matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
238requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 262requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
239(such as abort). 263(such as abort).
240 264
241Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too. 265Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
255=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP
256 280
257An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 281An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two
258types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child
259events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 283events, and dynamically created loops which do not.
260
261If you use threads, a common model is to run the default event loop
262in your main thread (or in a separate thread) and for each thread you
263create, you also create another event loop. Libev itself does no locking
264whatsoever, so if you mix calls to the same event loop in different
265threads, make sure you lock (this is usually a bad idea, though, even if
266done correctly, because it's hideous and inefficient).
267 284
268=over 4 285=over 4
269 286
270=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 287=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
271 288
275flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 292flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards).
276 293
277If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 294If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
278function. 295function.
279 296
297Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
300
280The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
281C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
282for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your app you can either 303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
283create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
284can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
285C<ev_default_init>. 306C<ev_default_init>.
286 307
287The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
296The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right 317The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right
297thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
298 319
299=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
300 321
301If this flag bit is ored into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 322If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
302or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
303C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
304override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 325override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
305useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 326useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
306around bugs. 327around bugs.
313 334
314This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
315and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 336and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
316iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
317GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 338GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
318without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 339without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
319C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
320 341
321The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 342The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
322forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
323flag. 344flag.
324 345
325This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 346This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
326environment variable. 347environment variable.
327 348
328=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
329 350
330This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
332but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 353but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
333using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its 354using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
334usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
335 356
336To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of 357To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
337parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
338writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many 359writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
339connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
340a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of 361a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
341readyness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
342 363
343=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 364=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
344 365
345And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
346than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
354For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 375For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
355but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
356like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 377like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
357epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number 378epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
358of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
359cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad 380cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad
360support for dup. 381support for dup.
361 382
362While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 383While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
363will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 384will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such incident
364(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 385(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
365best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work 386best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
366very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
367 388
368Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
371 392
372Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
373watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e. 394watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e.
374keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
375 396
376While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
377all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
378 399
379=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
380 401
381Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
382was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 403was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
383with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
384it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
385unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
386C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 407C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
387system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
388 409
389You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 410You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
391the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
392 413
393It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 414It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
394kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
395course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
396cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 417cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
397two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 418two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
398drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
399 420
400This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
401 422
416=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
417 438
418This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 439This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
419it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 440it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
420 441
421Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
422notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 443notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
423blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
424 445
425While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
426file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
427descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
428might perform better. 449might perform better.
429 450
430On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this 451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
431backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
432embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
433 454
434=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
435 456
439 460
440It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
441 462
442=back 463=back
443 464
444If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 465If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these
445backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
446specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
447 468
448The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
449 470
450 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
451 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
452 473
453Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
454environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
455 476
456 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
457 478
458Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if 479Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if
459available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
460event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds): 481event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds):
461 482
462 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
463 484
464=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
465 486
466Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 487Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
467always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
468handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 489handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
469undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 490undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
470 491
492Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
495
471Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 496Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
472 497
473 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
474 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
475 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
476 501
477=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
478 503
479Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
480etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 505etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
481sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 506sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
482responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
483calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
484the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 509the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
485for example). 510for example).
486 511
487Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by 512Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
568A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 593A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
569those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 594those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in
570case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 595case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop.
571 596
572A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 597A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
573neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
574your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 599your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after
575one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 600one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some
576external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
577libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 602libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
578usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 603usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
579 604
580Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 605Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
581 606
582 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 607 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
583 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 608 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
584 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers. 609 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
585 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 610 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
586 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 611 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
612 as to not disturb the other process.
587 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 613 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
588 - Update the "event loop time". 614 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
589 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 615 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
590 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 616 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
591 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 617 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
592 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 618 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
593 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 619 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
594 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 620 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
595 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 621 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
596 - Queue all outstanding timers. 622 - Queue all outstanding timers.
597 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 623 - Queue all outstanding periodics.
598 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 624 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
599 - Queue all check watchers. 625 - Queue all check watchers.
600 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 626 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
601 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 627 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
602 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 628 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
603 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 629 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
608anymore. 634anymore.
609 635
610 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 636 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
611 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 637 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
612 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 638 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
613 ... jobs done. yeah! 639 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
614 640
615=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 641=item ev_unloop (loop, how)
616 642
617Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 643Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
618has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 644has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
639respectively). 665respectively).
640 666
641Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 667Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
642running when nothing else is active. 668running when nothing else is active.
643 669
644 struct ev_signal exitsig; 670 struct ev_signal exitsig;
645 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 671 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
646 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 672 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
647 evf_unref (loop); 673 evf_unref (loop);
648 674
649Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 675Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
650 676
651 ev_ref (loop); 677 ev_ref (loop);
652 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 678 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
653 679
654=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 680=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
655 681
656=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 682=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
657 683
658These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting 684These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
659for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to 685for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
660invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency. 686will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
687latency.
661 688
662Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>) 689Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
663allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to 690allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
664increase efficiency of loop iterations. 691to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
692opportunities).
665 693
666The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to 694The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
667handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes 695handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
668the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new 696the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
669events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high 697events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
679to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 707to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
680latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 708latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
681will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 709will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
682any overhead in libev. 710any overhead in libev.
683 711
684Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 712Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
685interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 713interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
686interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 714interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
687usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 715usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
688as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems. 716as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
717
718Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
719saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
720are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
721times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
722reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
723they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
724
725=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
726
727This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
728compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks
729them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print
730an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>.
731
732This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
733circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
734data structures consistent.
689 735
690=back 736=back
691 737
692 738
693=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 739=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
694 740
695A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 741A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
696interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 742interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
697become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 743become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
698 744
699 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 745 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
700 { 746 {
701 ev_io_stop (w); 747 ev_io_stop (w);
702 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 748 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
703 } 749 }
704 750
705 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 751 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
706 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 752 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
707 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 753 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
708 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 754 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
709 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 755 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
710 ev_loop (loop, 0); 756 ev_loop (loop, 0);
711 757
712As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 758As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
713watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 759watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
714although this can sometimes be quite valid). 760although this can sometimes be quite valid).
715 761
716Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 762Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
717(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 763(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
718callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 764callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
719watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 765watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
720is readable and/or writable). 766is readable and/or writable).
721 767
722Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 768Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
723with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 769with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
799 845
800The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 846The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
801 847
802=item C<EV_ERROR> 848=item C<EV_ERROR>
803 849
804An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 850An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
805happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 851happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
806ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 852ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
807problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 853problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
808with the watcher being stopped. 854with the watcher being stopped.
809 855
810Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 856Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
811for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 857for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if
812your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 858your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
813with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 859with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
814programs, though, so beware. 860programs, though, so beware.
815 861
816=back 862=back
817 863
818=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 864=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
848Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 894Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
849(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 895(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
850 896
851=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 897=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
852 898
853This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 899This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
854calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 900calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
855a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 901a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
856 902
857=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 903=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
858 904
859Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 905Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
942to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 988to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
943don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 989don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
944member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 990member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
945data: 991data:
946 992
947 struct my_io 993 struct my_io
948 { 994 {
949 struct ev_io io; 995 struct ev_io io;
950 int otherfd; 996 int otherfd;
951 void *somedata; 997 void *somedata;
952 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 998 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
953 } 999 }
954 1000
955And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1001And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
956can cast it back to your own type: 1002can cast it back to your own type:
957 1003
958 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1004 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
959 { 1005 {
960 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1006 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
961 ... 1007 ...
962 } 1008 }
963 1009
964More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1010More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
965instead have been omitted. 1011instead have been omitted.
966 1012
967Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1013Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
968watchers: 1014watchers:
969 1015
970 struct my_biggy 1016 struct my_biggy
971 { 1017 {
972 int some_data; 1018 int some_data;
973 ev_timer t1; 1019 ev_timer t1;
974 ev_timer t2; 1020 ev_timer t2;
975 } 1021 }
976 1022
977In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1023In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
978you need to use C<offsetof>: 1024you need to use C<offsetof>:
979 1025
980 #include <stddef.h> 1026 #include <stddef.h>
981 1027
982 static void 1028 static void
983 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1029 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
984 { 1030 {
985 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1031 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
986 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1032 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
987 } 1033 }
988 1034
989 static void 1035 static void
990 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1036 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
991 { 1037 {
992 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1038 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
993 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1039 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
994 } 1040 }
995 1041
996 1042
997=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1043=head1 WATCHER TYPES
998 1044
999This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1045This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1028If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1074If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
1029(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1075(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
1030C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1076C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1031 1077
1032Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1078Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1033receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1079receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1034be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1080be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1035because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1081because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1036lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1082lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1037this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1083this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1038it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1084it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1039C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1085C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1040 1086
1041If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1087If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
1042play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1088play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test
1043whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1089whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
1044such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1090such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
1045its own, so its quite safe to use). 1091its own, so its quite safe to use).
1046 1092
1047=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1093=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1085To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1131To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1086C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1132C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1087enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1133enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1088C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1134C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1089 1135
1136=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1137
1138While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1139when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program
1140gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most
1141programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually
1142undesirable.
1143
1144So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1145ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1146somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1147
1090 1148
1091=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1149=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1092 1150
1093=over 4 1151=over 4
1094 1152
1095=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1153=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1096 1154
1097=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1155=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1098 1156
1099Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1157Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1100rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1158receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1101C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1159C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1102 1160
1103=item int fd [read-only] 1161=item int fd [read-only]
1104 1162
1105The file descriptor being watched. 1163The file descriptor being watched.
1114 1172
1115Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1173Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1116readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1174readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1117attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1175attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1118 1176
1119 static void 1177 static void
1120 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1178 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1121 { 1179 {
1122 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1180 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1123 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1181 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1124 } 1182 }
1125 1183
1126 ... 1184 ...
1127 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1185 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1128 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1186 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1129 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1187 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1130 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1188 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1131 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1189 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1132 1190
1133 1191
1134=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1192=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1135 1193
1136Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1194Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1137given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1195given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1138 1196
1139The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1197The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1140times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1198times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1141time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1199year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1142detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1200detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1143monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1201monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1144 1202
1145The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1203The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1146time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1204time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1148you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1206you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout
1149on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1207on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1150 1208
1151 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1209 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1152 1210
1153The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1211The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1154but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1212but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1155order of execution is undefined. 1213order of execution is undefined.
1156 1214
1157=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1215=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1158 1216
1160 1218
1161=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1219=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1162 1220
1163=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1221=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1164 1222
1165Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1223Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1166C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1224is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1167timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1225reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1168later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1226configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1227until stopped manually.
1169 1228
1170The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1229The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1171configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1230you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1172exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1231trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1173the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1232keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1174timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1233do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1175 1234
1176=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 1235=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1177 1236
1178This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1237This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1179repeating. The exact semantics are: 1238repeating. The exact semantics are:
1180 1239
1181If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1240If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1182 1241
1183If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1242If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1184 1243
1185If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1244If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1186C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1245C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1187 1246
1188This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1247This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1189example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 1248example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle
1190timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 1249timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1191seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 1250seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1192configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call 1251configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1193C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1252C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1194you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1253you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1220 1279
1221=head3 Examples 1280=head3 Examples
1222 1281
1223Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1282Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1224 1283
1225 static void 1284 static void
1226 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1285 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1227 { 1286 {
1228 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1287 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1229 } 1288 }
1230 1289
1231 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1290 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1232 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1291 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1233 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1292 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1234 1293
1235Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1294Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1236inactivity. 1295inactivity.
1237 1296
1238 static void 1297 static void
1239 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1298 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1240 { 1299 {
1241 .. ten seconds without any activity 1300 .. ten seconds without any activity
1242 } 1301 }
1243 1302
1244 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1303 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1245 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1304 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1246 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1305 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1247 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1306 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1248 1307
1249 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1308 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1250 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1309 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1251 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1310 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1252 1311
1253 1312
1254=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1313=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1255 1314
1256Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1315Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1257(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1316(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1258 1317
1259Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1318Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
1260but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1319but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1261to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1320to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1262periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1321periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1263+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1322+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1323clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
1264take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1324to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1265roughly 10 seconds later). 1325roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1266 1326
1267They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1327C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1268triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1328such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1269rules. 1329complicated, rules.
1270 1330
1271As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1331As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1272time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1332time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1273during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1333during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1274 1334
1275=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1335=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1276 1336
1277=over 4 1337=over 4
1285 1345
1286=over 4 1346=over 4
1287 1347
1288=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1348=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1289 1349
1290In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1350In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1291C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1351time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1292that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1352jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1293system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1353run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1294 1354
1295=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1355=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1296 1356
1297In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1357In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1298C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1358C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1299and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1359and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1300 1360
1301This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1361This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1302time: 1362time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1363the hour:
1303 1364
1304 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1365 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1305 1366
1306This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1367This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1307but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1368but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1308full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1369full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1309by 3600. 1370by 3600.
1310 1371
1311Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1372Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1312C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1373C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1313time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1374time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1314 1375
1315For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1376For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1316C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 1377C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1317this value. 1378this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1379
1380Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1381speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1382will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1383millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1318 1384
1319=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1385=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1320 1386
1321In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1387In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1322ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1388ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1323reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1389reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1324current time as second argument. 1390current time as second argument.
1325 1391
1326NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1392NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1327ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1393ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1328return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1329starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1330 1394
1395If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1396it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1397only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1398
1331Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1399The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1332ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1400*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1333 1401
1334 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1402 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1335 { 1403 {
1336 return now + 60.; 1404 return now + 60.;
1337 } 1405 }
1339It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1407It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1340(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 1408(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1341will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1409will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1342might be called at other times, too. 1410might be called at other times, too.
1343 1411
1344NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1412NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1345passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1413equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1346 1414
1347This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1415This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1348triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 1416triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1349next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 1417next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1350you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 1418you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1351reason I omitted it as an example). 1419reason I omitted it as an example).
1352 1420
1353=back 1421=back
1357Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1425Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1358when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1426when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1359a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1427a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1360program when the crontabs have changed). 1428program when the crontabs have changed).
1361 1429
1430=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1431
1432When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1433trigger next.
1434
1362=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1435=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1363 1436
1364When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1437When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1365absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1438absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1366 1439
1377 1450
1378The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1451The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1379switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1452switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1380the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1453the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1381 1454
1382=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1383
1384When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1385trigger next.
1386
1387=back 1455=back
1388 1456
1389=head3 Examples 1457=head3 Examples
1390 1458
1391Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1459Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1392system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1460system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1393potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1461potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1394 1462
1395 static void 1463 static void
1396 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1464 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1397 { 1465 {
1398 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1466 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1399 } 1467 }
1400 1468
1401 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1469 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1402 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1470 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1403 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1471 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1404 1472
1405Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1473Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1406 1474
1407 #include <math.h> 1475 #include <math.h>
1408 1476
1409 static ev_tstamp 1477 static ev_tstamp
1410 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1478 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1411 { 1479 {
1412 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1480 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1413 } 1481 }
1414 1482
1415 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1483 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1416 1484
1417Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1485Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1418 1486
1419 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1487 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1420 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1488 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1421 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1489 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1422 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1490 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1423 1491
1424 1492
1425=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1493=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1426 1494
1427Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1495Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1435as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1503as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1436watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1504watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1437SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1505SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1438 1506
1439If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 1507If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1440C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly 1508C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1441interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by 1509interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1442signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 1510signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1443them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 1511them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1444 1512
1445=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1513=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1446 1514
1461 1529
1462=head3 Examples 1530=head3 Examples
1463 1531
1464Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1532Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1465 1533
1466 static void 1534 static void
1467 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1535 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1468 { 1536 {
1469 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1537 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1470 } 1538 }
1471 1539
1472 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1540 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1473 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1541 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1474 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1542 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1475 1543
1476 1544
1477=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1545=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1478 1546
1479Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1547Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1481is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1549is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1482forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 1550forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1483loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1551loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1484 1552
1485Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1553Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1486you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 1554you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1487 1555
1488=head3 Process Interaction 1556=head3 Process Interaction
1489 1557
1490Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 1558Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1491initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 1559initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1492the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 1560the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1493of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 1561of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1494synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 1562synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1495children, even ones not watched. 1563children, even ones not watched.
1496 1564
1497=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 1565=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1539=head3 Examples 1607=head3 Examples
1540 1608
1541Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1609Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1542its completion. 1610its completion.
1543 1611
1544 ev_child cw; 1612 ev_child cw;
1545 1613
1546 static void 1614 static void
1547 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1615 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1548 { 1616 {
1549 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1617 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1550 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1618 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1551 } 1619 }
1552 1620
1553 pid_t pid = fork (); 1621 pid_t pid = fork ();
1554 1622
1555 if (pid < 0) 1623 if (pid < 0)
1556 // error 1624 // error
1557 else if (pid == 0) 1625 else if (pid == 0)
1558 { 1626 {
1559 // the forked child executes here 1627 // the forked child executes here
1560 exit (1); 1628 exit (1);
1561 } 1629 }
1562 else 1630 else
1563 { 1631 {
1564 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1632 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1565 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1633 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1566 } 1634 }
1567 1635
1568 1636
1569=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1637=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1570 1638
1571This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1639This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1572C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1640C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1573compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1641compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1574 1642
1575The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1643The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1576not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1644not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1594as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1662as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1595resource-intensive. 1663resource-intensive.
1596 1664
1597At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1665At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1598implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1666implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1667reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat
1599reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1668semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1600semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1669not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1601to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1670sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1602usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1671but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1603polling. 1672will be no polling.
1673
1674=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1675
1676Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1677compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1678support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1679structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1680use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1681compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1682obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1683most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1684
1685The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1686file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1687optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1688to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1689default compilation environment.
1604 1690
1605=head3 Inotify 1691=head3 Inotify
1606 1692
1607When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1693When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1608available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1694available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1609change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1695change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1610when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1696when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1611 1697
1612Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1698Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1613except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1699except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1614making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1700making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1615there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1701there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1616 1702
1617(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1703(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1618implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1704implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1619descriptor open on the object at all times). 1705descriptor open on the object at all times).
1620 1706
1621=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1707=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1622 1708
1623The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1709The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1624even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1710even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1625only support whole seconds. 1711only support whole seconds.
1626 1712
1627That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 1713That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1628miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 1714easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1629your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1715calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1630the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 1716within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1717data does not change.
1631 1718
1632The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 1719The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1633the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 1720than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1634(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 1721a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1635is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1722ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1636systems. 1723
1724The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1725of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1726might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1727C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1728a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1729update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1730the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1731the timer callback).
1637 1732
1638=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1733=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1639 1734
1640=over 4 1735=over 4
1641 1736
1647C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1742C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1648be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1743be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1649a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1744a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1650path for as long as the watcher is active. 1745path for as long as the watcher is active.
1651 1746
1652The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1747The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1653relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1748to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1654last change was detected). 1749was detected).
1655 1750
1656=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 1751=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1657 1752
1658Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1753Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1659watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1754watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1660detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1755detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1661useful simply to find out the new values. 1756the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1757new values.
1662 1758
1663=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1759=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1664 1760
1665The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1761The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1666C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1762C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1667suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1763suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1764members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1668was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1765some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1669 1766
1670=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1767=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1671 1768
1672The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1769The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1673C<prev> != C<attr>. 1770C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1771differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1772C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1674 1773
1675=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1774=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1676 1775
1677The specified interval. 1776The specified interval.
1678 1777
1679=item const char *path [read-only] 1778=item const char *path [read-only]
1680 1779
1681The filesystem path that is being watched. 1780The file system path that is being watched.
1682 1781
1683=back 1782=back
1684 1783
1685=head3 Examples 1784=head3 Examples
1686 1785
1687Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1786Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1688 1787
1689 static void 1788 static void
1690 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1789 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1691 { 1790 {
1692 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1791 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1693 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1792 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1694 { 1793 {
1695 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1794 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1696 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1795 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1697 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1796 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1698 } 1797 }
1699 else 1798 else
1700 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1799 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1701 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1800 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1702 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1801 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1703 } 1802 }
1704 1803
1705 ... 1804 ...
1706 ev_stat passwd; 1805 ev_stat passwd;
1707 1806
1708 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1807 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1709 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1808 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1710 1809
1711Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1810Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1712miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1811miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1713one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1812one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1714C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1813C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1715 1814
1716 static ev_stat passwd; 1815 static ev_stat passwd;
1717 static ev_timer timer; 1816 static ev_timer timer;
1718 1817
1719 static void 1818 static void
1720 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1819 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1721 { 1820 {
1722 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1821 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1723 1822
1724 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1823 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1725 } 1824 }
1726 1825
1727 static void 1826 static void
1728 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1827 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1729 { 1828 {
1730 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1829 /* reset the one-second timer */
1731 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1830 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1732 } 1831 }
1733 1832
1734 ... 1833 ...
1735 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1834 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1736 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1835 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1737 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1836 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1738 1837
1739 1838
1740=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1839=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1741 1840
1742Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1841Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1773=head3 Examples 1872=head3 Examples
1774 1873
1775Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1874Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1776callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1875callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1777 1876
1778 static void 1877 static void
1779 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1878 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1780 { 1879 {
1781 free (w); 1880 free (w);
1782 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1881 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1783 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1882 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1784 } 1883 }
1785 1884
1786 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1885 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1787 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1886 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1788 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1887 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1789 1888
1790 1889
1791=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1890=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1792 1891
1793Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1892Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1812 1911
1813This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1912This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1814to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1913to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1815them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1914them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1816provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1915provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1817any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1916any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1818and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1917and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1819callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1918callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1820because you never know, you know?). 1919because you never know, you know?).
1821 1920
1822As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1921As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1830 1929
1831It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 1930It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1832priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1931priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1833after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 1932after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1834too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1933too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1835supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1934supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1836did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 1935did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1837(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 1936(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1838state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1937state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1839coexist peacefully with others). 1938coexist peacefully with others).
1840 1939
1855=head3 Examples 1954=head3 Examples
1856 1955
1857There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 1956There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1858into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 1957into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1859(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 1958(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1860use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 1959use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1861embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 1960Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1862into the Glib event loop). 1961Glib event loop).
1863 1962
1864Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 1963Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1865and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 1964and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1866is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 1965is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1867priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 1966priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1868the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 1967the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1869 1968
1870 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1969 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1871 static ev_timer tw; 1970 static ev_timer tw;
1872 1971
1873 static void 1972 static void
1874 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1973 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1875 { 1974 {
1876 } 1975 }
1877 1976
1878 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1977 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1879 static void 1978 static void
1880 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1979 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1881 { 1980 {
1882 int timeout = 3600000; 1981 int timeout = 3600000;
1883 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1982 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1884 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1983 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1885 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1984 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1886 1985
1887 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1986 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1888 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1987 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1889 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1988 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1890 1989
1891 // create one ev_io per pollfd 1990 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1892 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1991 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1893 { 1992 {
1894 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1993 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1895 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1994 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1896 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1995 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1897 1996
1898 fds [i].revents = 0; 1997 fds [i].revents = 0;
1899 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1998 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1900 } 1999 }
1901 } 2000 }
1902 2001
1903 // stop all watchers after blocking 2002 // stop all watchers after blocking
1904 static void 2003 static void
1905 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2004 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1906 { 2005 {
1907 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2006 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1908 2007
1909 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2008 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1910 { 2009 {
1911 // set the relevant poll flags 2010 // set the relevant poll flags
1912 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2011 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1913 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2012 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1914 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2013 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1915 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2014 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1916 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2015 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1917 2016
1918 // now stop the watcher 2017 // now stop the watcher
1919 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2018 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1920 } 2019 }
1921 2020
1922 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2021 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1923 } 2022 }
1924 2023
1925Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2024Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1926in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2025in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1927 2026
1928Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2027Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1929notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2028notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1930callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2029callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1931 2030
1932 static void 2031 static void
1933 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2032 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1934 { 2033 {
1935 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2034 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1936 update_now (EV_A); 2035 update_now (EV_A);
1937 2036
1938 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2037 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1939 } 2038 }
1940 2039
1941 static void 2040 static void
1942 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2041 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1943 { 2042 {
1944 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2043 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1945 update_now (EV_A); 2044 update_now (EV_A);
1946 2045
1947 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2046 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1948 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2047 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1949 } 2048 }
1950 2049
1951 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2050 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1952 2051
1953Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2052Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1954want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2053want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
1955their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2054their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1956loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2055loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1957this. 2056this.
1958 2057
1959 static gint 2058 static gint
1960 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2059 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1961 { 2060 {
1962 int got_events = 0; 2061 int got_events = 0;
1963 2062
1964 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2063 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1965 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2064 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1966 2065
1967 if (timeout >= 0) 2066 if (timeout >= 0)
1968 // create/start timer 2067 // create/start timer
1969 2068
1970 // poll 2069 // poll
1971 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2070 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1972 2071
1973 // stop timer again 2072 // stop timer again
1974 if (timeout >= 0) 2073 if (timeout >= 0)
1975 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2074 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1976 2075
1977 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2076 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1978 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2077 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1979 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2078 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1980 2079
1981 return got_events; 2080 return got_events;
1982 } 2081 }
1983 2082
1984 2083
1985=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2084=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1986 2085
1987This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2086This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2043 2142
2044Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2143Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2045embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2144embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2046invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2145invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2047to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2146to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2048if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2147if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2049 2148
2050=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2149=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2051 2150
2052Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2151Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2053similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2152similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2054apropriate way for embedded loops. 2153appropriate way for embedded loops.
2055 2154
2056=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2155=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2057 2156
2058The embedded event loop. 2157The embedded event loop.
2059 2158
2061 2160
2062=head3 Examples 2161=head3 Examples
2063 2162
2064Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 2163Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2065event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2164event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2066loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 2165loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2067C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 2166C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2068used). 2167used).
2069 2168
2070 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2169 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2071 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2170 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2072 struct ev_embed embed; 2171 struct ev_embed embed;
2073 2172
2074 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2173 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2075 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2174 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2076 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2175 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2077 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2176 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2078 : 0; 2177 : 0;
2079 2178
2080 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2179 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2081 if (loop_lo) 2180 if (loop_lo)
2082 { 2181 {
2083 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2182 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2084 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2183 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2085 } 2184 }
2086 else 2185 else
2087 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2186 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2088 2187
2089Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2188Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2090a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2189a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2091kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2190kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2092C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2191C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2093 2192
2094 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2193 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2095 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2194 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2096 struct ev_embed embed; 2195 struct ev_embed embed;
2097 2196
2098 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2197 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2099 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2198 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2100 { 2199 {
2101 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2200 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2102 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2201 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2103 } 2202 }
2104 2203
2105 if (!loop_socket) 2204 if (!loop_socket)
2106 loop_socket = loop; 2205 loop_socket = loop;
2107 2206
2108 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2207 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2109 2208
2110 2209
2111=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2210=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2112 2211
2113Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2212Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2166 2265
2167=item queueing from a signal handler context 2266=item queueing from a signal handler context
2168 2267
2169To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2268To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2170handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2269handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2171some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2270some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2172 2271
2173 static ev_async mysig; 2272 static ev_async mysig;
2174 2273
2175 static void 2274 static void
2176 sigusr1_handler (void) 2275 sigusr1_handler (void)
2250=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2349=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2251 2350
2252Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2351Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2253an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2352an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2254C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2353C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2255similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2354similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2256section below on what exactly this means). 2355section below on what exactly this means).
2257 2356
2258This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 2357This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2259so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2358so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2260calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2359calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2360
2361=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2362
2363Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2364watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2365event loop.
2366
2367C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2368the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2369it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2370quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2371
2372Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2373whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2261 2374
2262=back 2375=back
2263 2376
2264 2377
2265=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2378=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2276or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2389or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2277more watchers yourself. 2390more watchers yourself.
2278 2391
2279If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2392If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
2280is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2393is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
2281C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2394C<events> set will be created and started.
2282 2395
2283If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2396If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2284started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2397started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2285repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2398repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
2286dubious value. 2399dubious value.
2288The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2401The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2289passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2402passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2290C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2403C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2291value passed to C<ev_once>: 2404value passed to C<ev_once>:
2292 2405
2293 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2406 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2294 { 2407 {
2295 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2408 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2296 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2409 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2297 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2410 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2298 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2411 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2299 } 2412 }
2300 2413
2301 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2414 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2302 2415
2303=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2416=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2304 2417
2305Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2418Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2306had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2419had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2311Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2424Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2312the given events it. 2425the given events it.
2313 2426
2314=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2427=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2315 2428
2316Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2429Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2317loop!). 2430loop!).
2318 2431
2319=back 2432=back
2320 2433
2321 2434
2337 2450
2338=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2451=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2339will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2452will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2340is an ev_pri field. 2453is an ev_pri field.
2341 2454
2455=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2456first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2457
2342=item * Other members are not supported. 2458=item * Other members are not supported.
2343 2459
2344=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2460=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2345to use the libev header file and library. 2461to use the libev header file and library.
2346 2462
2347=back 2463=back
2348 2464
2349=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2465=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2350 2466
2351Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2467Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2352you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2468you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2353the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2469the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2354 2470
2355To use it, 2471To use it,
2356 2472
2357 #include <ev++.h> 2473 #include <ev++.h>
2358 2474
2359This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2475This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2360of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2476of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2361put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2477put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2362options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2478options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2429your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2545your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2430thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2546thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2431 2547
2432Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2548Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2433 2549
2434 struct myclass 2550 struct myclass
2435 { 2551 {
2436 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2552 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2437 } 2553 }
2438 2554
2439 myclass obj; 2555 myclass obj;
2440 ev::io iow; 2556 ev::io iow;
2441 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2557 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2442 2558
2443=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2559=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2444 2560
2445Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2561Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2446callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2562callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2450 2566
2451See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2567See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2452 2568
2453Example: 2569Example:
2454 2570
2455 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2571 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2456 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2572 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2457 2573
2458=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2574=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2459 2575
2460Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2576Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2461do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2577do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2462 2578
2463=item w->set ([args]) 2579=item w->set ([arguments])
2464 2580
2465Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2581Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
2466called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2582called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2467automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2583automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2468method. 2584method.
2469 2585
2470=item w->start () 2586=item w->start ()
2494=back 2610=back
2495 2611
2496Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2612Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2497the constructor. 2613the constructor.
2498 2614
2499 class myclass 2615 class myclass
2500 { 2616 {
2501 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2617 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2502 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2618 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2503 2619
2504 myclass (int fd) 2620 myclass (int fd)
2505 { 2621 {
2506 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2622 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2507 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2623 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2508 2624
2509 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2625 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2510 } 2626 }
2511 }; 2627 };
2512 2628
2513 2629
2514=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 2630=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2515 2631
2516Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 2632Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2517numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know 2633number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2518any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop 2634any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2519me a note. 2635me a note.
2520 2636
2521=over 4 2637=over 4
2522 2638
2526libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2642libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2527there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2643there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2528to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2644to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2529C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2645C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2530 2646
2531It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 2647It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2532L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2648L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2533 2649
2650=item Python
2651
2652Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2653seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2654patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2655for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2656libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2657libev).
2658
2534=item Ruby 2659=item Ruby
2535 2660
2536Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 2661Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2537of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 2662of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2538more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 2663more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2539L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 2664L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2540 2665
2541=item D 2666=item D
2542 2667
2543Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 2668Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2544be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>. 2669be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
2545 2670
2546=back 2671=back
2547 2672
2548 2673
2549=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2674=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2550 2675
2551Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2676Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2552of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2677of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2553functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2678functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2554 2679
2555To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2680To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2556following macros are defined: 2681following macros are defined:
2561 2686
2562This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2687This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2563loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2688loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2564C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2689C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2565 2690
2566 ev_unref (EV_A); 2691 ev_unref (EV_A);
2567 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2692 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2568 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2693 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2569 2694
2570It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2695It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2571which is often provided by the following macro. 2696which is often provided by the following macro.
2572 2697
2573=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2698=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2574 2699
2575This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2700This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2576loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2701loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2577C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2702C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2578 2703
2579 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2704 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2580 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2705 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2581 2706
2582 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2707 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2583 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2708 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2584 2709
2585It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2710It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2586suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2711suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2587 2712
2588=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2713=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2589 2714
2590Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2715Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2591loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2716loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2717
2718=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2719
2720Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2721default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2722is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2723execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2724
2725It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2726watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2592 2727
2593=back 2728=back
2594 2729
2595Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2730Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2596macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2731macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2597or not. 2732or not.
2598 2733
2599 static void 2734 static void
2600 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2735 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2601 { 2736 {
2602 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2737 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2603 } 2738 }
2604 2739
2605 ev_check check; 2740 ev_check check;
2606 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2741 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2607 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2742 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2608 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2743 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2609 2744
2610=head1 EMBEDDING 2745=head1 EMBEDDING
2611 2746
2612Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2747Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2613applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2748applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2620libev somewhere in your source tree). 2755libev somewhere in your source tree).
2621 2756
2622=head2 FILESETS 2757=head2 FILESETS
2623 2758
2624Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2759Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2625in your app. 2760in your application.
2626 2761
2627=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2762=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2628 2763
2629To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2764To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2630configuration (no autoconf): 2765configuration (no autoconf):
2631 2766
2632 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2767 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2633 #include "ev.c" 2768 #include "ev.c"
2634 2769
2635This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2770This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2636single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2771single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2637it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2772it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2638done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2773done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2639where you can put other configuration options): 2774where you can put other configuration options):
2640 2775
2641 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2776 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2642 #include "ev.h" 2777 #include "ev.h"
2643 2778
2644Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2779Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2645compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2780compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2646as a bug). 2781as a bug).
2647 2782
2648You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2783You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2649in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2784in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2650 2785
2651 ev.h 2786 ev.h
2652 ev.c 2787 ev.c
2653 ev_vars.h 2788 ev_vars.h
2654 ev_wrap.h 2789 ev_wrap.h
2655 2790
2656 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2791 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2657 2792
2658 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2793 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2659 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2794 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2660 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2795 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2661 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2796 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2662 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2797 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2663 2798
2664F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2799F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2665to compile this single file. 2800to compile this single file.
2666 2801
2667=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2802=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2668 2803
2669To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2804To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2670 2805
2671 #include "event.c" 2806 #include "event.c"
2672 2807
2673in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2808in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2674 2809
2675 #include "event.h" 2810 #include "event.h"
2676 2811
2677in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2812in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2678 2813
2679You need the following additional files for this: 2814You need the following additional files for this:
2680 2815
2681 event.h 2816 event.h
2682 event.c 2817 event.c
2683 2818
2684=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2819=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2685 2820
2686Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2821Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2687whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2822whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2688F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2823F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2689include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2824include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2690 2825
2691For this of course you need the m4 file: 2826For this of course you need the m4 file:
2692 2827
2693 libev.m4 2828 libev.m4
2694 2829
2695=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2830=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2696 2831
2697Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2832Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2698before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2833define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2699and only include the select backend. 2834autoconf is noted for every option.
2700 2835
2701=over 4 2836=over 4
2702 2837
2703=item EV_STANDALONE 2838=item EV_STANDALONE
2704 2839
2709F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2844F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2710 2845
2711=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2846=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2712 2847
2713If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2848If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2714monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2849monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2715of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2850of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2716usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2851usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2717the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2852the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2718to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2853to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2719function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2854function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2720 2855
2721=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2856=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2722 2857
2723If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2858If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2724realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2859real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2725runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2860runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2726be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2861be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2727(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2862(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2728note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2863note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2729 2864
2730=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2865=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2731 2866
2732If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 2867If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2733and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2868and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2734 2869
2870=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2871
2872If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2873available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2874C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2875If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
28762.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2877
2735=item EV_USE_SELECT 2878=item EV_USE_SELECT
2736 2879
2737If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2880If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2738C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2881C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2739other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2882other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2740will not be compiled in. 2883will not be compiled in.
2741 2884
2742=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2885=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2743 2886
2744If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2887If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2745structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2888structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2746C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2889C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2747exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2890exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2748low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2891low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2749allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2892allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2750influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2893influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2751 2894
2775 2918
2776=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2919=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2777 2920
2778If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2921If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
2779C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2922C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2780otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2923otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2781preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2924backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2925headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2782 2926
2783=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2927=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2784 2928
2785If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2929If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2786C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2930C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2799otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2943otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2800backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2944backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2801 2945
2802=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2946=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2803 2947
2804reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2948Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2805 2949
2806=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2950=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2807 2951
2808If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2952If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2809interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2953interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2810be detected at runtime. 2954be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2955indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2811 2956
2812=item EV_ATOMIC_T 2957=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2813 2958
2814Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 2959Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2815access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2960access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2816type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2961type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2817that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 2962that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2818as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 2963as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2819 2964
2820In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 2965In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2821(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 2966(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2822 2967
2823=item EV_H 2968=item EV_H
2824 2969
2825The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2970The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2864When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3009When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2865all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3010all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2866and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3011and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2867fine. 3012fine.
2868 3013
2869If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3014If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2870C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 3015C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2871 3016
2872=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3017=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2873 3018
2874If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3019If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2875defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3020defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2902defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3047defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2903 3048
2904=item EV_MINIMAL 3049=item EV_MINIMAL
2905 3050
2906If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3051If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2907speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3052speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2908some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3053inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3054much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2909 3055
2910=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3056=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2911 3057
2912C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3058C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2913pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3059pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2920inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3066inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2921usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3067usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2922watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3068watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2923two). 3069two).
2924 3070
3071=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3072
3073Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3074timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3075to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3076noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3077
3078The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3079(disabled).
3080
3081=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3082
3083Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3084timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3085the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3086which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3087but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3088noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3089
3090The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3091(disabled).
3092
3093=item EV_VERIFY
3094
3095Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3096be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3097in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3098called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3099called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3100verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3101libev considerably.
3102
3103The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3104C<0.>
3105
2925=item EV_COMMON 3106=item EV_COMMON
2926 3107
2927By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3108By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2928this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3109this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2929members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3110members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2930though, and it must be identical each time. 3111though, and it must be identical each time.
2931 3112
2932For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3113For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2933 3114
2934 #define EV_COMMON \ 3115 #define EV_COMMON \
2935 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3116 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2936 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3117 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2937 3118
2938=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3119=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2939 3120
2940=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3121=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2941 3122
2948avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3129avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2949method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3130method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2950 3131
2951=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3132=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2952 3133
2953If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3134If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
2954exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3135exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2955all public symbols, one per line: 3136all public symbols, one per line:
2956 3137
2957 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3138 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2958 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3139 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2959 3140
2960This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3141This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2961multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3142multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2962itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3143itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2963 3144
2964A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3145A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2965include before including F<ev.h>: 3146include before including F<ev.h>:
2966 3147
2967 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3148 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2984file. 3165file.
2985 3166
2986The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3167The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2987that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3168that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2988 3169
2989 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3170 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2990 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3171 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2991 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3172 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2992 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3173 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2993 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3174 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2994 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3175 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2995 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3176 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2996 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3177 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2997 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3178 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2998 3179
2999 #include "ev++.h" 3180 #include "ev++.h"
3000 3181
3001And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3182And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3002 3183
3003 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3184 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3004 #include "ev.c" 3185 #include "ev.c"
3186
3187
3188=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3189
3190=head2 THREADS
3191
3192Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3193means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3194only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3195parameter.
3196
3197Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3198parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3199done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3200thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3201per loop).
3202
3203If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3204without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3205help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3206
3207=over 4
3208
3209=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3210in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3211
3212This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3213themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3214
3215=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3216
3217Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3218exists, but it is always a good start.
3219
3220=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3221loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3222
3223Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3224better than you currently do :-)
3225
3226=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3227event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3228threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3229
3230=back
3231
3232=head2 COROUTINES
3233
3234Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3235libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3236coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3237different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3238loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3239you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3240
3241Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3242state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3243switches.
3005 3244
3006 3245
3007=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3246=head1 COMPLEXITIES
3008 3247
3009In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3248In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
3041correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3280correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3042have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3281have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3043 3282
3044=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3283=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3045 3284
3046By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 3285By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
3047beginning of the storage array. 3286fixed position in the storage array.
3048 3287
3049=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3288=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3050 3289
3051A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3290A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3052libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3291libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3053on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3292on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3054 3293
3055=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3294=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3056 3295
3057=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3296=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3058 3297
3065 3304
3066=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 3305=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3067 3306
3068=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 3307=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3069 3308
3070Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 3309Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3071calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 3310calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3072involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3311involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3073 3312
3074=back 3313=back
3075 3314
3076 3315
3077=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3316=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3078 3317
3079Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3318Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3080requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3319requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3081model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3320model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3082the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3321the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3083descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3322descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3084e.g. cygwin. 3323e.g. cygwin.
3085 3324
3325Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3326re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3327things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3328way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3329
3086There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3330There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3087embedding it into other applications. 3331embedding it into other applications.
3088 3332
3333Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3334accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3335either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3336so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3337megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3338available).
3339
3089Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 3340Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3090abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3341the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3091recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3342is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3092a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 3343more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3093implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3344different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3094be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3345notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3346(Microsoft monopoly games).
3347
3348A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3349section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3350of F<ev.h>:
3351
3352 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3353 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3354
3355 #include "ev.h"
3356
3357And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3358you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3359
3360 #include "evwrap.h"
3361 #include "ev.c"
3095 3362
3096=over 4 3363=over 4
3097 3364
3098=item The winsocket select function 3365=item The winsocket select function
3099 3366
3100The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3367The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3101socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3368requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3102very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3369also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3103to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3370requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3104C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3371C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3105symbols for more info. 3372discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3373C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3106 3374
3107The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3375The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3108libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3376libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3109 3377
3110 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3378 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3111 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3379 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3112 3380
3113Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3381Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3114complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3382complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3115 3383
3116=item Limited number of file descriptors 3384=item Limited number of file descriptors
3117 3385
3118Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3386Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3119of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 3387
3388Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3120(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 3389of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3121C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3390can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3122chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 3391recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3392previous thread in each. Great).
3123 3393
3124Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3394Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3125to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3395to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3126call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3396call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3127select emulation on windows). 3397select emulation on windows).
3128 3398
3129Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3399Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3130libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3400libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3131or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3401or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3132C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3402C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3133arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3403arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3134libraries. 3404libraries.
3135 3405
3136This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3406This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3137windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3407windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3138wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3408wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3139calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3409calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3140 3410
3141=back 3411=back
3142 3412
3143 3413
3414=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3415
3416In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3417additional extensions:
3418
3419=over 4
3420
3421=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3422calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3423
3424Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3425structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3426assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3427callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3428calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3429
3430=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3431
3432The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3433C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3434threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3435believed to be sufficiently portable.
3436
3437=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3438
3439Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3440allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3441pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3442thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3443be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3444C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3445
3446The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3447except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3448well.
3449
3450=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3451
3452To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3453internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3454non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3455is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3456millions of watchers.
3457
3458=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3459
3460The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3461have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3462enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3463implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3464
3465=back
3466
3467If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3468
3469
3470=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3471
3472Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3473lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3474scared by this.
3475
3476However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3477has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3478warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3479targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3480
3481Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3482workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3483maintainable.
3484
3485And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3486wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3487seems to warn about).
3488
3489While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3490"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3491with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3492them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3493warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3494
3495
3496=head1 VALGRIND
3497
3498Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3499highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3500
3501If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3502in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3503
3504 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3505 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3506 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3507
3508Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3509valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3510might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3511
3512If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3513with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3514a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3515no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3516properly.
3517
3518If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3519I suggest using suppression lists.
3520
3521
3144=head1 AUTHOR 3522=head1 AUTHOR
3145 3523
3146Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3524Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
3147 3525

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