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Revision 1.137 by root, Sun Mar 16 16:42:56 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.175 by root, Mon Sep 8 16:36:14 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 writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1140send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most programs
1141this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually undesirable.
1142
1143So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1144ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1145somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1146
1090 1147
1091=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1148=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1092 1149
1093=over 4 1150=over 4
1094 1151
1095=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1152=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1096 1153
1097=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1154=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1098 1155
1099Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1156Configures 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 1157receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1101C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1158C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1102 1159
1103=item int fd [read-only] 1160=item int fd [read-only]
1104 1161
1105The file descriptor being watched. 1162The file descriptor being watched.
1114 1171
1115Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1172Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1116readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1173readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1117attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1174attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1118 1175
1119 static void 1176 static void
1120 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1177 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1121 { 1178 {
1122 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1179 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1123 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1180 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1124 } 1181 }
1125 1182
1126 ... 1183 ...
1127 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1184 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1128 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1185 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1129 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1186 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1130 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1187 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1131 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1188 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1132 1189
1133 1190
1134=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1191=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1135 1192
1136Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1193Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1137given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1194given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1138 1195
1139The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1196The 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 1197times 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 1198year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1142detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1199detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1143monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1200monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1201
1202The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1203but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1204order of execution is undefined.
1205
1206=head3 The special problem of time updates
1207
1208Requesting the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1209least two syscalls): EV therefore updates it's idea of the current time
1210only before and after C<ev_loop> polls for new events, which causes the
1211difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()>.
1144 1212
1145The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1213The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1146time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1214time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1147of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 1215of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1148you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1216you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1149on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1217timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1150 1218
1151 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1219 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1152 1220
1153The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed,
1154but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1155order of execution is undefined.
1156
1157=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1221=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1158 1222
1159=over 4 1223=over 4
1160 1224
1161=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1225=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1162 1226
1163=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1227=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1164 1228
1165Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1229Configure 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 1230is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1167timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1231reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1168later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1232configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1233until stopped manually.
1169 1234
1170The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1235The 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 1236you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1172exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1237trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1173the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1238keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1174timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1239do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1175 1240
1176=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 1241=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1177 1242
1178This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1243This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1179repeating. The exact semantics are: 1244repeating. The exact semantics are:
1180 1245
1181If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1246If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1182 1247
1183If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1248If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1184 1249
1185If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1250If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1186C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1251C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1187 1252
1188This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1253This 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 1254example: 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 1255timeout, 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 1256seconds 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 1257configure 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 1258C<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 1259you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1220 1285
1221=head3 Examples 1286=head3 Examples
1222 1287
1223Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1288Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1224 1289
1225 static void 1290 static void
1226 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1291 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1227 { 1292 {
1228 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1293 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1229 } 1294 }
1230 1295
1231 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1296 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1232 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1297 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1233 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1298 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1234 1299
1235Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1300Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1236inactivity. 1301inactivity.
1237 1302
1238 static void 1303 static void
1239 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1304 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1240 { 1305 {
1241 .. ten seconds without any activity 1306 .. ten seconds without any activity
1242 } 1307 }
1243 1308
1244 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1309 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1245 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1310 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1246 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1311 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1247 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1312 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1248 1313
1249 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1314 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1250 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1315 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1251 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1316 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1252 1317
1253 1318
1254=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1319=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1255 1320
1256Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1321Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1257(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1322(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1258 1323
1259Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1324Unlike 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 1325but 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 1326to 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 () 1327periodic 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 1328+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1329clock 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 1330to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1265roughly 10 seconds later). 1331roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1266 1332
1267They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1333C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1268triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1334such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1269rules. 1335complicated, rules.
1270 1336
1271As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1337As 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 1338time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1273during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1339during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1274 1340
1275=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1341=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1276 1342
1277=over 4 1343=over 4
1285 1351
1286=over 4 1352=over 4
1287 1353
1288=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1354=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1289 1355
1290In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1356In 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, 1357time 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 1358jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1293system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1359run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1294 1360
1295=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1361=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1296 1362
1297In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1363In 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) 1364C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1299and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1365and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1300 1366
1301This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1367This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1302time: 1368time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1369the hour:
1303 1370
1304 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1371 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1305 1372
1306This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1373This 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 1374but 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 1375full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1309by 3600. 1376by 3600.
1310 1377
1311Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1378Another 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 1379C<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. 1380time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1314 1381
1315For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1382For 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 1383C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1317this value. 1384this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1385
1386Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1387speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1388will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1389millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1318 1390
1319=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1391=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1320 1392
1321In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1393In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1322ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1394ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1323reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1395reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1324current time as second argument. 1396current time as second argument.
1325 1397
1326NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1398NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1327ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1399ever, 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 1400
1401If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1402it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1403only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1404
1331Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1405The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1332ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1406*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1333 1407
1334 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1408 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1335 { 1409 {
1336 return now + 60.; 1410 return now + 60.;
1337 } 1411 }
1339It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1413It 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 1414(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 1415will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1342might be called at other times, too. 1416might be called at other times, too.
1343 1417
1344NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1418NOTE: 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. 1419equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1346 1420
1347This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1421This 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 1422triggers 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 1423next 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 1424you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1351reason I omitted it as an example). 1425reason I omitted it as an example).
1352 1426
1353=back 1427=back
1357Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1431Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1358when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1432when 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 1433a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1360program when the crontabs have changed). 1434program when the crontabs have changed).
1361 1435
1436=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1437
1438When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1439trigger next.
1440
1362=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1441=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1363 1442
1364When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1443When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1365absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1444absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1366 1445
1377 1456
1378The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1457The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1379switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1458switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1380the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1459the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1381 1460
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 1461=back
1388 1462
1389=head3 Examples 1463=head3 Examples
1390 1464
1391Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1465Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1392system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1466system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1393potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1467potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1394 1468
1395 static void 1469 static void
1396 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1470 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1397 { 1471 {
1398 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1472 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1399 } 1473 }
1400 1474
1401 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1475 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1402 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1476 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1403 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1477 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1404 1478
1405Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1479Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1406 1480
1407 #include <math.h> 1481 #include <math.h>
1408 1482
1409 static ev_tstamp 1483 static ev_tstamp
1410 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1484 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1411 { 1485 {
1412 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1486 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1413 } 1487 }
1414 1488
1415 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1489 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1416 1490
1417Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1491Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1418 1492
1419 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1493 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1420 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1494 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1421 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1495 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1422 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1496 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1423 1497
1424 1498
1425=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1499=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1426 1500
1427Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1501Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1435as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1509as 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 1510watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1437SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1511SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1438 1512
1439If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 1513If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1440C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly 1514C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1441interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by 1515interrupted. 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 1516signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1443them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 1517them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1444 1518
1445=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1519=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1446 1520
1461 1535
1462=head3 Examples 1536=head3 Examples
1463 1537
1464Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1538Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1465 1539
1466 static void 1540 static void
1467 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1541 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1468 { 1542 {
1469 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1543 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1470 } 1544 }
1471 1545
1472 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1546 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1473 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1547 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1474 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1548 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1475 1549
1476 1550
1477=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1551=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1478 1552
1479Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1553Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1481is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1555is 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 1556forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1483loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1557loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1484 1558
1485Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1559Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1486you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 1560you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1487 1561
1488=head3 Process Interaction 1562=head3 Process Interaction
1489 1563
1490Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 1564Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1491initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 1565initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1492the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 1566the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1493of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 1567of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1494synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 1568synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1495children, even ones not watched. 1569children, even ones not watched.
1496 1570
1497=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 1571=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1501handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for 1575handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1502C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the 1576C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1503default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an 1577default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1504event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for 1578event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1505that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely. 1579that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1580
1581=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
1582
1583Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
1584child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
1585callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
1586when a child exit is detected.
1506 1587
1507=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1588=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1508 1589
1509=over 4 1590=over 4
1510 1591
1539=head3 Examples 1620=head3 Examples
1540 1621
1541Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1622Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1542its completion. 1623its completion.
1543 1624
1544 ev_child cw; 1625 ev_child cw;
1545 1626
1546 static void 1627 static void
1547 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1628 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1548 { 1629 {
1549 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1630 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1550 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1631 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1551 } 1632 }
1552 1633
1553 pid_t pid = fork (); 1634 pid_t pid = fork ();
1554 1635
1555 if (pid < 0) 1636 if (pid < 0)
1556 // error 1637 // error
1557 else if (pid == 0) 1638 else if (pid == 0)
1558 { 1639 {
1559 // the forked child executes here 1640 // the forked child executes here
1560 exit (1); 1641 exit (1);
1561 } 1642 }
1562 else 1643 else
1563 { 1644 {
1564 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1645 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1565 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1646 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1566 } 1647 }
1567 1648
1568 1649
1569=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1650=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1570 1651
1571This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1652This 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 1653C<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. 1654compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1574 1655
1575The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1656The 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 1657not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1594as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1675as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1595resource-intensive. 1676resource-intensive.
1596 1677
1597At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1678At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1598implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1679implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1680reader, 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 1681semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1600semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1682not 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 1683sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1602usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1684but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1603polling. 1685will be no polling.
1604 1686
1605=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 1687=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1606 1688
1607Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 1689Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1608compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally 1690compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1609disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 1691support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1610structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 1692structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1611use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 1693use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1612compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 1694compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1613obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 1695obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1614most noticably with ev_stat and largefile support. 1696most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1697
1698The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1699file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1700optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1701to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1702default compilation environment.
1615 1703
1616=head3 Inotify 1704=head3 Inotify
1617 1705
1618When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1706When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1619available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1707available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1620change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1708change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1621when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1709when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1622 1710
1623Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1711Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1624except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1712except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1625making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1713making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1626there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1714there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1627 1715
1628(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1716(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1629implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1717implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1630descriptor open on the object at all times). 1718descriptor open on the object at all times).
1631 1719
1632=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1720=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1633 1721
1634The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1722The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1635even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1723even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1636only support whole seconds. 1724only support whole seconds.
1637 1725
1638That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 1726That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1639miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 1727easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1640your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1728calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1641the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 1729within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1730data does not change.
1642 1731
1643The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 1732The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1644the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 1733than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1645(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 1734a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1646is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1735ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1647systems. 1736
1737The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1738of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1739might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1740C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1741a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1742update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1743the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1744the timer callback).
1648 1745
1649=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1746=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1650 1747
1651=over 4 1748=over 4
1652 1749
1658C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1755C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1659be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1756be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1660a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1757a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1661path for as long as the watcher is active. 1758path for as long as the watcher is active.
1662 1759
1663The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1760The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1664relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1761to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1665last change was detected). 1762was detected).
1666 1763
1667=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 1764=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1668 1765
1669Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1766Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1670watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1767watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1671detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1768detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1672useful simply to find out the new values. 1769the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1770new values.
1673 1771
1674=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1772=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1675 1773
1676The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1774The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1677C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1775C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1678suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1776suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1777members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1679was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1778some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1680 1779
1681=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1780=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1682 1781
1683The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1782The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1684C<prev> != C<attr>. 1783C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1784differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1785C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1685 1786
1686=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1787=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1687 1788
1688The specified interval. 1789The specified interval.
1689 1790
1690=item const char *path [read-only] 1791=item const char *path [read-only]
1691 1792
1692The filesystem path that is being watched. 1793The file system path that is being watched.
1693 1794
1694=back 1795=back
1695 1796
1696=head3 Examples 1797=head3 Examples
1697 1798
1698Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1799Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1699 1800
1700 static void 1801 static void
1701 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1802 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1702 { 1803 {
1703 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1804 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1704 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1805 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1705 { 1806 {
1706 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1807 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1707 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1808 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1708 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1809 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1709 } 1810 }
1710 else 1811 else
1711 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1812 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1712 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1813 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1713 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1814 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1714 } 1815 }
1715 1816
1716 ... 1817 ...
1717 ev_stat passwd; 1818 ev_stat passwd;
1718 1819
1719 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1820 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1720 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1821 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1721 1822
1722Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1823Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1723miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1824miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1724one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1825one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1725C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1826C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1726 1827
1727 static ev_stat passwd; 1828 static ev_stat passwd;
1728 static ev_timer timer; 1829 static ev_timer timer;
1729 1830
1730 static void 1831 static void
1731 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1832 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1732 { 1833 {
1733 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1834 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1734 1835
1735 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1836 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1736 } 1837 }
1737 1838
1738 static void 1839 static void
1739 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1840 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1740 { 1841 {
1741 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1842 /* reset the one-second timer */
1742 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1843 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1743 } 1844 }
1744 1845
1745 ... 1846 ...
1746 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1847 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1747 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1848 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1748 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1849 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1749 1850
1750 1851
1751=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1852=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1752 1853
1753Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1854Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1784=head3 Examples 1885=head3 Examples
1785 1886
1786Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1887Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1787callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1888callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1788 1889
1789 static void 1890 static void
1790 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1891 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1791 { 1892 {
1792 free (w); 1893 free (w);
1793 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1894 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1794 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1895 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1795 } 1896 }
1796 1897
1797 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1898 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1798 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1899 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1799 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1900 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1800 1901
1801 1902
1802=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1903=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1803 1904
1804Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1905Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1823 1924
1824This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1925This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1825to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1926to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1826them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1927them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1827provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1928provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1828any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1929any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1829and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1930and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1830callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1931callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1831because you never know, you know?). 1932because you never know, you know?).
1832 1933
1833As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1934As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1841 1942
1842It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 1943It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1843priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1944priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1844after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 1945after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1845too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1946too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1846supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1947supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1847did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 1948did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1848(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 1949(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1849state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1950state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1850coexist peacefully with others). 1951coexist peacefully with others).
1851 1952
1866=head3 Examples 1967=head3 Examples
1867 1968
1868There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 1969There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1869into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 1970into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1870(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 1971(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1871use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 1972use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1872embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 1973Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1873into the Glib event loop). 1974Glib event loop).
1874 1975
1875Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 1976Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1876and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 1977and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1877is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 1978is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1878priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 1979priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1879the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 1980the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1880 1981
1881 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1982 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1882 static ev_timer tw; 1983 static ev_timer tw;
1883 1984
1884 static void 1985 static void
1885 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1986 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1886 { 1987 {
1887 } 1988 }
1888 1989
1889 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1990 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1890 static void 1991 static void
1891 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1992 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1892 { 1993 {
1893 int timeout = 3600000; 1994 int timeout = 3600000;
1894 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1995 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1895 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1996 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1896 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1997 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1897 1998
1898 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1999 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1899 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2000 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1900 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2001 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1901 2002
1902 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2003 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1903 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2004 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1904 { 2005 {
1905 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 2006 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1906 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 2007 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1907 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 2008 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1908 2009
1909 fds [i].revents = 0; 2010 fds [i].revents = 0;
1910 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 2011 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1911 } 2012 }
1912 } 2013 }
1913 2014
1914 // stop all watchers after blocking 2015 // stop all watchers after blocking
1915 static void 2016 static void
1916 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2017 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1917 { 2018 {
1918 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2019 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1919 2020
1920 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2021 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1921 { 2022 {
1922 // set the relevant poll flags 2023 // set the relevant poll flags
1923 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2024 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1924 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2025 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1925 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2026 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1926 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2027 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1927 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2028 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1928 2029
1929 // now stop the watcher 2030 // now stop the watcher
1930 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2031 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1931 } 2032 }
1932 2033
1933 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2034 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1934 } 2035 }
1935 2036
1936Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2037Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1937in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2038in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1938 2039
1939Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2040Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1940notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2041notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1941callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2042callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1942 2043
1943 static void 2044 static void
1944 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2045 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1945 { 2046 {
1946 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2047 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1947 update_now (EV_A); 2048 update_now (EV_A);
1948 2049
1949 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2050 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1950 } 2051 }
1951 2052
1952 static void 2053 static void
1953 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2054 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1954 { 2055 {
1955 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2056 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1956 update_now (EV_A); 2057 update_now (EV_A);
1957 2058
1958 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2059 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1959 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2060 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1960 } 2061 }
1961 2062
1962 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2063 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1963 2064
1964Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2065Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1965want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2066want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
1966their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2067their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1967loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2068loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1968this. 2069this.
1969 2070
1970 static gint 2071 static gint
1971 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2072 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1972 { 2073 {
1973 int got_events = 0; 2074 int got_events = 0;
1974 2075
1975 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2076 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1976 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2077 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1977 2078
1978 if (timeout >= 0) 2079 if (timeout >= 0)
1979 // create/start timer 2080 // create/start timer
1980 2081
1981 // poll 2082 // poll
1982 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2083 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1983 2084
1984 // stop timer again 2085 // stop timer again
1985 if (timeout >= 0) 2086 if (timeout >= 0)
1986 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2087 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1987 2088
1988 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2089 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1989 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2090 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1990 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2091 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1991 2092
1992 return got_events; 2093 return got_events;
1993 } 2094 }
1994 2095
1995 2096
1996=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2097=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1997 2098
1998This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2099This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2054 2155
2055Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2156Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2056embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2157embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2057invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2158invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2058to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2159to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2059if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2160if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2060 2161
2061=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2162=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2062 2163
2063Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2164Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2064similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2165similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2065apropriate way for embedded loops. 2166appropriate way for embedded loops.
2066 2167
2067=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2168=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2068 2169
2069The embedded event loop. 2170The embedded event loop.
2070 2171
2072 2173
2073=head3 Examples 2174=head3 Examples
2074 2175
2075Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 2176Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2076event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2177event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2077loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 2178loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2078C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 2179C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2079used). 2180used).
2080 2181
2081 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2182 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2082 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2183 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2083 struct ev_embed embed; 2184 struct ev_embed embed;
2084 2185
2085 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2186 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2086 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2187 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2087 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2188 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2088 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2189 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2089 : 0; 2190 : 0;
2090 2191
2091 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2192 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2092 if (loop_lo) 2193 if (loop_lo)
2093 { 2194 {
2094 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2195 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2095 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2196 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2096 } 2197 }
2097 else 2198 else
2098 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2199 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2099 2200
2100Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2201Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2101a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2202a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2102kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2203kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2103C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2204C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2104 2205
2105 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2206 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2106 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2207 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2107 struct ev_embed embed; 2208 struct ev_embed embed;
2108 2209
2109 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2210 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2110 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2211 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2111 { 2212 {
2112 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2213 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2113 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2214 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2114 } 2215 }
2115 2216
2116 if (!loop_socket) 2217 if (!loop_socket)
2117 loop_socket = loop; 2218 loop_socket = loop;
2118 2219
2119 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2220 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2120 2221
2121 2222
2122=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2223=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2123 2224
2124Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2225Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2177 2278
2178=item queueing from a signal handler context 2279=item queueing from a signal handler context
2179 2280
2180To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2281To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2181handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2282handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2182some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2283some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2183 2284
2184 static ev_async mysig; 2285 static ev_async mysig;
2185 2286
2186 static void 2287 static void
2187 sigusr1_handler (void) 2288 sigusr1_handler (void)
2261=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2362=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2262 2363
2263Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2364Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2264an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2365an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2265C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2366C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2266similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2367similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2267section below on what exactly this means). 2368section below on what exactly this means).
2268 2369
2269This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 2370This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2270so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2371so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2271calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2372calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2373
2374=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2375
2376Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2377watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2378event loop.
2379
2380C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2381the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2382it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2383quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2384
2385Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2386whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2272 2387
2273=back 2388=back
2274 2389
2275 2390
2276=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2391=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2287or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2402or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2288more watchers yourself. 2403more watchers yourself.
2289 2404
2290If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2405If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
2291is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2406is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
2292C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2407C<events> set will be created and started.
2293 2408
2294If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2409If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2295started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2410started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2296repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2411repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
2297dubious value. 2412dubious value.
2299The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2414The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2300passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2415passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2301C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2416C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2302value passed to C<ev_once>: 2417value passed to C<ev_once>:
2303 2418
2304 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2419 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2305 { 2420 {
2306 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2421 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2307 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2422 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2308 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2423 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2309 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2424 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2310 } 2425 }
2311 2426
2312 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2427 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2313 2428
2314=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2429=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2315 2430
2316Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2431Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2317had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2432had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2322Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2437Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2323the given events it. 2438the given events it.
2324 2439
2325=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2440=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2326 2441
2327Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2442Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2328loop!). 2443loop!).
2329 2444
2330=back 2445=back
2331 2446
2332 2447
2348 2463
2349=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2464=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2350will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2465will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2351is an ev_pri field. 2466is an ev_pri field.
2352 2467
2468=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2469first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2470
2353=item * Other members are not supported. 2471=item * Other members are not supported.
2354 2472
2355=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2473=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2356to use the libev header file and library. 2474to use the libev header file and library.
2357 2475
2358=back 2476=back
2359 2477
2360=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2478=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2361 2479
2362Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2480Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2363you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2481you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2364the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2482the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2365 2483
2366To use it, 2484To use it,
2367 2485
2368 #include <ev++.h> 2486 #include <ev++.h>
2369 2487
2370This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2488This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2371of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2489of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2372put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2490put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2373options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2491options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2440your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2558your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2441thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2559thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2442 2560
2443Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2561Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2444 2562
2445 struct myclass 2563 struct myclass
2446 { 2564 {
2447 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2565 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2448 } 2566 }
2449 2567
2450 myclass obj; 2568 myclass obj;
2451 ev::io iow; 2569 ev::io iow;
2452 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2570 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2453 2571
2454=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2572=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2455 2573
2456Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2574Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2457callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2575callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2461 2579
2462See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2580See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2463 2581
2464Example: 2582Example:
2465 2583
2466 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2584 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2467 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2585 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2468 2586
2469=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2587=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2470 2588
2471Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2589Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2472do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2590do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2473 2591
2474=item w->set ([args]) 2592=item w->set ([arguments])
2475 2593
2476Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2594Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
2477called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2595called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2478automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2596automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2479method. 2597method.
2480 2598
2481=item w->start () 2599=item w->start ()
2505=back 2623=back
2506 2624
2507Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2625Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2508the constructor. 2626the constructor.
2509 2627
2510 class myclass 2628 class myclass
2511 { 2629 {
2512 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2630 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2513 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2631 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2514 2632
2515 myclass (int fd) 2633 myclass (int fd)
2516 { 2634 {
2517 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2635 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2518 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2636 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2519 2637
2520 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2638 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2521 } 2639 }
2522 }; 2640 };
2523 2641
2524 2642
2525=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 2643=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2526 2644
2527Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 2645Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2528numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know 2646number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2529any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop 2647any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2530me a note. 2648me a note.
2531 2649
2532=over 4 2650=over 4
2533 2651
2537libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2655libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2538there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2656there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2539to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2657to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2540C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2658C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2541 2659
2542It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 2660It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2543L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2661L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2544 2662
2663=item Python
2664
2665Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2666seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2667patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2668for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2669libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2670libev).
2671
2545=item Ruby 2672=item Ruby
2546 2673
2547Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 2674Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2548of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 2675of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2549more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 2676more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2550L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 2677L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2551 2678
2552=item D 2679=item D
2553 2680
2554Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 2681Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2555be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>. 2682be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
2556 2683
2557=back 2684=back
2558 2685
2559 2686
2560=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2687=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2561 2688
2562Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2689Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2563of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2690of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2564functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2691functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2565 2692
2566To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2693To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2567following macros are defined: 2694following macros are defined:
2572 2699
2573This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2700This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2574loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2701loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2575C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2702C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2576 2703
2577 ev_unref (EV_A); 2704 ev_unref (EV_A);
2578 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2705 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2579 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2706 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2580 2707
2581It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2708It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2582which is often provided by the following macro. 2709which is often provided by the following macro.
2583 2710
2584=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2711=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2585 2712
2586This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2713This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2587loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2714loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2588C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2715C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2589 2716
2590 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2717 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2591 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2718 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2592 2719
2593 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2720 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2594 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2721 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2595 2722
2596It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2723It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2597suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2724suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2598 2725
2599=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2726=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2600 2727
2601Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2728Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2602loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2729loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2730
2731=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2732
2733Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2734default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2735is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2736execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2737
2738It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2739watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2603 2740
2604=back 2741=back
2605 2742
2606Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2743Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2607macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2744macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2608or not. 2745or not.
2609 2746
2610 static void 2747 static void
2611 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2748 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2612 { 2749 {
2613 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2750 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2614 } 2751 }
2615 2752
2616 ev_check check; 2753 ev_check check;
2617 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2754 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2618 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2755 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2619 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2756 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2620 2757
2621=head1 EMBEDDING 2758=head1 EMBEDDING
2622 2759
2623Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2760Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2624applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2761applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2631libev somewhere in your source tree). 2768libev somewhere in your source tree).
2632 2769
2633=head2 FILESETS 2770=head2 FILESETS
2634 2771
2635Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2772Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2636in your app. 2773in your application.
2637 2774
2638=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2775=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2639 2776
2640To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2777To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2641configuration (no autoconf): 2778configuration (no autoconf):
2642 2779
2643 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2780 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2644 #include "ev.c" 2781 #include "ev.c"
2645 2782
2646This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2783This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2647single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2784single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2648it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2785it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2649done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2786done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2650where you can put other configuration options): 2787where you can put other configuration options):
2651 2788
2652 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2789 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2653 #include "ev.h" 2790 #include "ev.h"
2654 2791
2655Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2792Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2656compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2793compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2657as a bug). 2794as a bug).
2658 2795
2659You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2796You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2660in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2797in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2661 2798
2662 ev.h 2799 ev.h
2663 ev.c 2800 ev.c
2664 ev_vars.h 2801 ev_vars.h
2665 ev_wrap.h 2802 ev_wrap.h
2666 2803
2667 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2804 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2668 2805
2669 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2806 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2670 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2807 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2671 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2808 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2672 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2809 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2673 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2810 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2674 2811
2675F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2812F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2676to compile this single file. 2813to compile this single file.
2677 2814
2678=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2815=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2679 2816
2680To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2817To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2681 2818
2682 #include "event.c" 2819 #include "event.c"
2683 2820
2684in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2821in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2685 2822
2686 #include "event.h" 2823 #include "event.h"
2687 2824
2688in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2825in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2689 2826
2690You need the following additional files for this: 2827You need the following additional files for this:
2691 2828
2692 event.h 2829 event.h
2693 event.c 2830 event.c
2694 2831
2695=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2832=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2696 2833
2697Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2834Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2698whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2835whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2699F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2836F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2700include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2837include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2701 2838
2702For this of course you need the m4 file: 2839For this of course you need the m4 file:
2703 2840
2704 libev.m4 2841 libev.m4
2705 2842
2706=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2843=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2707 2844
2708Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2845Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2709before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2846define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2710and only include the select backend. 2847autoconf is noted for every option.
2711 2848
2712=over 4 2849=over 4
2713 2850
2714=item EV_STANDALONE 2851=item EV_STANDALONE
2715 2852
2720F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2857F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2721 2858
2722=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2859=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2723 2860
2724If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2861If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2725monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2862monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2726of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2863of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2727usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2864usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2728the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2865the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2729to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2866to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2730function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2867function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2731 2868
2732=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2869=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2733 2870
2734If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2871If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2735realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2872real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2736runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2873runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2737be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2874be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2738(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2875(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2739note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2876note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2740 2877
2741=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2878=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2742 2879
2743If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 2880If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2744and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2881and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2745 2882
2883=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2884
2885If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2886available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2887C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2888If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
28892.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2890
2746=item EV_USE_SELECT 2891=item EV_USE_SELECT
2747 2892
2748If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2893If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2749C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2894C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2750other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2895other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2751will not be compiled in. 2896will not be compiled in.
2752 2897
2753=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2898=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2754 2899
2755If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2900If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2756structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2901structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2757C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2902C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2758exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2903exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2759low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2904low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2760allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2905allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2761influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2906influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2762 2907
2786 2931
2787=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2932=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2788 2933
2789If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2934If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
2790C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2935C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2791otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2936otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2792preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2937backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2938headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2793 2939
2794=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2940=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2795 2941
2796If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2942If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2797C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2943C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2810otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2956otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2811backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2957backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2812 2958
2813=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2959=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2814 2960
2815reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2961Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2816 2962
2817=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2963=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2818 2964
2819If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2965If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2820interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2966interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2821be detected at runtime. 2967be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2968indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2822 2969
2823=item EV_ATOMIC_T 2970=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2824 2971
2825Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 2972Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2826access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2973access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2827type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2974type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2828that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 2975that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2829as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 2976as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2830 2977
2831In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 2978In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2832(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 2979(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2833 2980
2834=item EV_H 2981=item EV_H
2835 2982
2836The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2983The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2875When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3022When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2876all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3023all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2877and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3024and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2878fine. 3025fine.
2879 3026
2880If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3027If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2881C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 3028C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2882 3029
2883=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3030=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2884 3031
2885If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3032If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2886defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3033defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2913defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3060defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2914 3061
2915=item EV_MINIMAL 3062=item EV_MINIMAL
2916 3063
2917If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3064If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2918speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3065speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2919some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3066inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3067much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2920 3068
2921=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3069=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2922 3070
2923C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3071C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2924pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3072pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2931inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3079inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2932usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3080usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2933watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3081watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2934two). 3082two).
2935 3083
3084=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3085
3086Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3087timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3088to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3089noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3090
3091The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3092(disabled).
3093
3094=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3095
3096Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3097timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3098the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3099which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3100but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3101noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3102
3103The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3104(disabled).
3105
3106=item EV_VERIFY
3107
3108Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3109be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3110in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3111called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3112called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3113verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3114libev considerably.
3115
3116The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3117C<0.>
3118
2936=item EV_COMMON 3119=item EV_COMMON
2937 3120
2938By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3121By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2939this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3122this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2940members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3123members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2941though, and it must be identical each time. 3124though, and it must be identical each time.
2942 3125
2943For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3126For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2944 3127
2945 #define EV_COMMON \ 3128 #define EV_COMMON \
2946 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3129 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2947 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3130 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2948 3131
2949=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3132=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2950 3133
2951=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3134=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2952 3135
2959avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3142avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2960method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3143method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2961 3144
2962=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3145=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2963 3146
2964If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3147If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
2965exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3148exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2966all public symbols, one per line: 3149all public symbols, one per line:
2967 3150
2968 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3151 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2969 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3152 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2970 3153
2971This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3154This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2972multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3155multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2973itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3156itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2974 3157
2975A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3158A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2976include before including F<ev.h>: 3159include before including F<ev.h>:
2977 3160
2978 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3161 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2995file. 3178file.
2996 3179
2997The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3180The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2998that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3181that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2999 3182
3000 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3183 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
3001 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3184 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
3002 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3185 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3003 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3186 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3004 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3187 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3005 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3188 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
3006 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3189 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3007 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3190 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3008 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3191 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3009 3192
3010 #include "ev++.h" 3193 #include "ev++.h"
3011 3194
3012And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3195And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3013 3196
3014 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3197 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3015 #include "ev.c" 3198 #include "ev.c"
3199
3200
3201=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3202
3203=head2 THREADS
3204
3205Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3206means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3207only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3208parameter.
3209
3210Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3211parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3212done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3213thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3214per loop).
3215
3216If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3217without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3218help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3219
3220=over 4
3221
3222=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3223in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3224
3225This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3226themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3227
3228=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3229
3230Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3231exists, but it is always a good start.
3232
3233=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3234loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3235
3236Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3237better than you currently do :-)
3238
3239=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3240event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3241threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3242
3243=back
3244
3245=head2 COROUTINES
3246
3247Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3248libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3249coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3250different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3251loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3252you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3253
3254Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3255state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3256switches.
3016 3257
3017 3258
3018=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3259=head1 COMPLEXITIES
3019 3260
3020In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3261In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
3052correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3293correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3053have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3294have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3054 3295
3055=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3296=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3056 3297
3057By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 3298By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
3058beginning of the storage array. 3299fixed position in the storage array.
3059 3300
3060=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3301=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3061 3302
3062A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3303A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3063libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3304libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3064on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3305on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3065 3306
3066=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3307=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3067 3308
3068=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3309=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3069 3310
3076 3317
3077=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 3318=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3078 3319
3079=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 3320=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3080 3321
3081Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 3322Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3082calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 3323calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3083involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3324involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3084 3325
3085=back 3326=back
3086 3327
3087 3328
3088=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3329=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3089 3330
3090Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3331Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3091requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3332requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3092model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3333model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3093the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3334the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3094descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3335descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3095e.g. cygwin. 3336e.g. cygwin.
3096 3337
3338Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3339re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3340things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3341way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3342
3097There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3343There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3098embedding it into other applications. 3344embedding it into other applications.
3099 3345
3346Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3347accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3348either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3349so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3350megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3351available).
3352
3100Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 3353Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3101abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3354the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3102recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3355is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3103a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 3356more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3104implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3357different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3105be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3358notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3359(Microsoft monopoly games).
3360
3361A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3362section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3363of F<ev.h>:
3364
3365 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3366 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3367
3368 #include "ev.h"
3369
3370And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3371you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3372
3373 #include "evwrap.h"
3374 #include "ev.c"
3106 3375
3107=over 4 3376=over 4
3108 3377
3109=item The winsocket select function 3378=item The winsocket select function
3110 3379
3111The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3380The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3112socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3381requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3113very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3382also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3114to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3383requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3115C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3384C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3116symbols for more info. 3385discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3386C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3117 3387
3118The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3388The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3119libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3389libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3120 3390
3121 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3391 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3122 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3392 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3123 3393
3124Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3394Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3125complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3395complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3126 3396
3127=item Limited number of file descriptors 3397=item Limited number of file descriptors
3128 3398
3129Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3399Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3130of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 3400
3401Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3131(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 3402of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3132C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3403can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3133chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 3404recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3405previous thread in each. Great).
3134 3406
3135Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3407Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3136to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3408to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3137call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3409call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3138select emulation on windows). 3410select emulation on windows).
3139 3411
3140Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3412Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3141libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3413libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3142or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3414or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3143C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3415C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3144arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3416arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3145libraries. 3417libraries.
3146 3418
3147This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3419This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3148windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3420windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3149wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3421wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3150calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3422calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3151 3423
3152=back 3424=back
3153 3425
3154 3426
3427=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3428
3429In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3430additional extensions:
3431
3432=over 4
3433
3434=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3435calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3436
3437Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3438structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3439assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3440callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3441calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3442
3443=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3444
3445The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3446C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3447threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3448believed to be sufficiently portable.
3449
3450=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3451
3452Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3453allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3454pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3455thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3456be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3457C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3458
3459The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3460except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3461well.
3462
3463=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3464
3465To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3466internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3467non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3468is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3469millions of watchers.
3470
3471=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3472
3473The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3474have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3475enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3476implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3477
3478=back
3479
3480If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3481
3482
3483=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3484
3485Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3486lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3487scared by this.
3488
3489However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3490has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3491warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3492targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3493
3494Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3495workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3496maintainable.
3497
3498And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3499wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3500seems to warn about).
3501
3502While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3503"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3504with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3505them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3506warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3507
3508
3509=head1 VALGRIND
3510
3511Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3512highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3513
3514If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3515in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3516
3517 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3518 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3519 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3520
3521Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3522valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3523might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3524
3525If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3526with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3527a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3528no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3529properly.
3530
3531If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3532I suggest using suppression lists.
3533
3534
3155=head1 AUTHOR 3535=head1 AUTHOR
3156 3536
3157Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3537Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
3158 3538

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