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Revision 1.139 by root, Wed Apr 2 05:51:40 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.176 by root, Mon Sep 8 17:24:39 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
281from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
282as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway). 299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
283 300
284The 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
285C<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
286for 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
287create 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
288can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
289C<ev_default_init>. 306C<ev_default_init>.
290 307
291The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
300The 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
301thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
302 319
303=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
304 321
305If 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
306or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
307C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
308override 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
309useful 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
310around bugs. 327around bugs.
317 334
318This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
319and 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
320iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
321GNU/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
322without 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
323C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
324 341
325The 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
326forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
327flag. 344flag.
328 345
329This 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>
330environment variable. 347environment variable.
331 348
332=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
333 350
334This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
336but 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
337using 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
338usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
339 356
340To 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
341parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
342writing 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
343connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
344a 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
345readyness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
346 363
347=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)
348 365
349And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
350than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
358For 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,
359but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
360like 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),
361epoll 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
362of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
363cases 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
364support for dup. 381support for dup.
365 382
366While 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
367will 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
368(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
369best 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
370very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
371 388
372Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
375 392
376Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
377watchers 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.
378keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
379 396
380While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
381all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
382 399
383=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
384 401
385Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
386was 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
387with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
388it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
389unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
390C<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)
391system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
392 409
393You 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
395the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
396 413
397It 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
398kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
399course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
400cause 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
401two 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
402drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
403 420
404This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
405 422
420=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
421 438
422This 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,
423it'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)).
424 441
425Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
426notifications, 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
427blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
428 445
429While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
430file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
431descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
432might perform better. 449might perform better.
433 450
434On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this 451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
435backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
436embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
437 454
438=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
439 456
443 460
444It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
445 462
446=back 463=back
447 464
448If 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
449backends 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
450specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
451 468
452The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
453 470
454 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
455 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
456 473
457Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
458environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
459 476
460 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
461 478
462Use 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
463available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
464event 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):
465 482
466 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
467 484
468=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
469 486
470Similar 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
471always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
476libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the 493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
477default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread. 494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
478 495
479Example: 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.
480 497
481 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
482 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
483 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
484 501
485=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
486 503
487Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
488etc.). 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
489sense, 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
490responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
491calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
492the 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
493for example). 510for example).
494 511
495Note 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
556received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 573received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
557change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 574change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
558time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 575time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
559event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 576event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
560 577
578=item ev_now_update (loop)
579
580Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
581returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
582is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>.
583
584This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
585very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
586the current time is a good idea.
587
588See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section.
589
561=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 590=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
562 591
563Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 592Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
564after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 593after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
565events. 594events.
576A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 605A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
577those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 606those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in
578case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 607case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop.
579 608
580A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 609A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
581neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 610necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
582your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 611your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after
583one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 612one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some
584external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 613external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
585libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 614libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
586usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 615usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
587 616
588Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 617Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
589 618
590 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 619 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
591 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 620 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
592 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers. 621 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
593 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 622 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
594 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 623 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
624 as to not disturb the other process.
595 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 625 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
596 - Update the "event loop time". 626 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
597 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 627 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
598 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 628 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
599 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 629 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
600 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 630 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
601 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 631 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
602 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 632 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
603 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 633 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
604 - Queue all outstanding timers. 634 - Queue all outstanding timers.
605 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 635 - Queue all outstanding periodics.
606 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 636 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
607 - Queue all check watchers. 637 - Queue all check watchers.
608 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 638 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
609 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 639 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
610 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 640 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
611 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 641 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
616anymore. 646anymore.
617 647
618 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 648 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
619 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 649 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
620 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 650 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
621 ... jobs done. yeah! 651 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
622 652
623=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 653=item ev_unloop (loop, how)
624 654
625Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 655Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
626has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 656has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
647respectively). 677respectively).
648 678
649Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 679Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
650running when nothing else is active. 680running when nothing else is active.
651 681
652 struct ev_signal exitsig; 682 struct ev_signal exitsig;
653 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 683 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
654 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 684 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
655 evf_unref (loop); 685 evf_unref (loop);
656 686
657Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 687Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
658 688
659 ev_ref (loop); 689 ev_ref (loop);
660 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 690 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
661 691
662=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 692=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
663 693
664=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 694=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
665 695
666These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting 696These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
667for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to 697for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
668invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency. 698will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
699latency.
669 700
670Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>) 701Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
671allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to 702allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
672increase efficiency of loop iterations. 703to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
704opportunities).
673 705
674The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to 706The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
675handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes 707handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
676the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new 708the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
677events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high 709events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
687to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 719to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
688latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 720latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
689will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 721will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
690any overhead in libev. 722any overhead in libev.
691 723
692Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 724Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
693interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 725interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
694interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 726interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
695usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 727usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
696as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems. 728as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
729
730Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
731saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
732are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
733times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
734reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
735they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
736
737=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
738
739This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
740compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks
741them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print
742an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>.
743
744This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
745circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
746data structures consistent.
697 747
698=back 748=back
699 749
700 750
701=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 751=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
702 752
703A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 753A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
704interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 754interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
705become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 755become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
706 756
707 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 757 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
708 { 758 {
709 ev_io_stop (w); 759 ev_io_stop (w);
710 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 760 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
711 } 761 }
712 762
713 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 763 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
714 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 764 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
715 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 765 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
716 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 766 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
717 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 767 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
718 ev_loop (loop, 0); 768 ev_loop (loop, 0);
719 769
720As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 770As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
721watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 771watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
722although this can sometimes be quite valid). 772although this can sometimes be quite valid).
723 773
724Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 774Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
725(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 775(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
726callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 776callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
727watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 777watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
728is readable and/or writable). 778is readable and/or writable).
729 779
730Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 780Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
731with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 781with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
807 857
808The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 858The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
809 859
810=item C<EV_ERROR> 860=item C<EV_ERROR>
811 861
812An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 862An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
813happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 863happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
814ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 864ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
815problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 865problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
816with the watcher being stopped. 866with the watcher being stopped.
817 867
818Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 868Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
819for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 869for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if
820your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 870your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
821with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 871with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
822programs, though, so beware. 872programs, though, so beware.
823 873
824=back 874=back
825 875
826=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 876=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
856Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 906Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
857(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 907(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
858 908
859=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 909=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
860 910
861This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 911This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
862calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 912calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
863a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 913a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
864 914
865=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 915=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
866 916
867Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 917Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
950to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 1000to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
951don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 1001don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
952member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1002member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
953data: 1003data:
954 1004
955 struct my_io 1005 struct my_io
956 { 1006 {
957 struct ev_io io; 1007 struct ev_io io;
958 int otherfd; 1008 int otherfd;
959 void *somedata; 1009 void *somedata;
960 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1010 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
961 } 1011 }
962 1012
963And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1013And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
964can cast it back to your own type: 1014can cast it back to your own type:
965 1015
966 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1016 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
967 { 1017 {
968 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1018 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
969 ... 1019 ...
970 } 1020 }
971 1021
972More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1022More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
973instead have been omitted. 1023instead have been omitted.
974 1024
975Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1025Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
976watchers: 1026watchers:
977 1027
978 struct my_biggy 1028 struct my_biggy
979 { 1029 {
980 int some_data; 1030 int some_data;
981 ev_timer t1; 1031 ev_timer t1;
982 ev_timer t2; 1032 ev_timer t2;
983 } 1033 }
984 1034
985In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1035In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
986you need to use C<offsetof>: 1036you need to use C<offsetof>:
987 1037
988 #include <stddef.h> 1038 #include <stddef.h>
989 1039
990 static void 1040 static void
991 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1041 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
992 { 1042 {
993 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1043 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
994 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1044 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
995 } 1045 }
996 1046
997 static void 1047 static void
998 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1048 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
999 { 1049 {
1000 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1050 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1001 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1051 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1002 } 1052 }
1003 1053
1004 1054
1005=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1055=head1 WATCHER TYPES
1006 1056
1007This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1057This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1036If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1086If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
1037(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1087(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
1038C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1088C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1039 1089
1040Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1090Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1041receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1091receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1042be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1092be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1043because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1093because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1044lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1094lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1045this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1095this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1046it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1096it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1047C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1097C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1048 1098
1049If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1099If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
1050play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1100play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test
1051whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1101whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
1052such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1102such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
1053its own, so its quite safe to use). 1103its own, so its quite safe to use).
1054 1104
1055=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1105=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1096C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1146C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1097 1147
1098=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1148=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1099 1149
1100While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE: 1150While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1101when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program 1151when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1102gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most 1152send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most programs
1103programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually 1153this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually undesirable.
1104undesirable.
1105 1154
1106So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1155So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1107ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1156ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1108somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1157somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1109 1158
1115=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1164=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1116 1165
1117=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1166=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1118 1167
1119Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1168Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1120rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1169receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1121C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1170C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1122 1171
1123=item int fd [read-only] 1172=item int fd [read-only]
1124 1173
1125The file descriptor being watched. 1174The file descriptor being watched.
1134 1183
1135Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1184Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1136readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1185readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1137attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1186attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1138 1187
1139 static void 1188 static void
1140 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1189 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1141 { 1190 {
1142 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1191 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1143 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1192 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1144 } 1193 }
1145 1194
1146 ... 1195 ...
1147 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1196 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1148 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1197 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1149 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1198 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1150 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1199 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1151 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1200 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1152 1201
1153 1202
1154=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1203=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1155 1204
1156Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1205Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1157given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1206given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1158 1207
1159The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1208The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1160times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1209times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1161time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1210year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1162detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1211detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1163monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1212monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1213
1214The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1215but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1216order of execution is undefined.
1217
1218=head3 The special problem of time updates
1219
1220Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1221least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1222time only before and after C<ev_loop> polls for new events, which causes
1223a growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1224lots of events.
1164 1225
1165The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1226The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1166time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1227time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1167of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 1228of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1168you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1229you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1169on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1230timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1170 1231
1171 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1232 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1172 1233
1173The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1234If the event loop is suspended for a long time, one can also force an
1174but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1235update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1175order of execution is undefined. 1236()>.
1176 1237
1177=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1238=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1178 1239
1179=over 4 1240=over 4
1180 1241
1181=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1242=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1182 1243
1183=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1244=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1184 1245
1185Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1246Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1186C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1247is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1187timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1248reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1188later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1249configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1250until stopped manually.
1189 1251
1190The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1252The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1191configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1253you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1192exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1254trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1193the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1255keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1194timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1256do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1195 1257
1196=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 1258=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1197 1259
1198This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1260This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1199repeating. The exact semantics are: 1261repeating. The exact semantics are:
1200 1262
1201If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1263If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1202 1264
1203If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1265If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1204 1266
1205If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1267If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1206C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1268C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1207 1269
1208This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1270This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1209example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 1271example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle
1210timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 1272timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1211seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 1273seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1212configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call 1274configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1213C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1275C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1214you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1276you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1240 1302
1241=head3 Examples 1303=head3 Examples
1242 1304
1243Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1305Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1244 1306
1245 static void 1307 static void
1246 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1308 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1247 { 1309 {
1248 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1310 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1249 } 1311 }
1250 1312
1251 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1313 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1252 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1314 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1253 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1315 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1254 1316
1255Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1317Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1256inactivity. 1318inactivity.
1257 1319
1258 static void 1320 static void
1259 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1321 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1260 { 1322 {
1261 .. ten seconds without any activity 1323 .. ten seconds without any activity
1262 } 1324 }
1263 1325
1264 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1326 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1265 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1327 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1266 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1328 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1267 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1329 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1268 1330
1269 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1331 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1270 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1332 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1271 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1333 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1272 1334
1273 1335
1274=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1336=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1275 1337
1276Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1338Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1277(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1339(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1278 1340
1279Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1341Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
1280but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1342but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1281to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1343to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1282periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1344periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1283+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1345+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1346clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
1284take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1347to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1285roughly 10 seconds later). 1348roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1286 1349
1287They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1350C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1288triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1351such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1289rules. 1352complicated, rules.
1290 1353
1291As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1354As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1292time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1355time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1293during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1356during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1294 1357
1295=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1358=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1296 1359
1297=over 4 1360=over 4
1305 1368
1306=over 4 1369=over 4
1307 1370
1308=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1371=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1309 1372
1310In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1373In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1311C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1374time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1312that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1375jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1313system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1376run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1314 1377
1315=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1378=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1316 1379
1317In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1380In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1318C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1381C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1319and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1382and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1320 1383
1321This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1384This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1322time: 1385time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1386the hour:
1323 1387
1324 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1388 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1325 1389
1326This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1390This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1327but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1391but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1328full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1392full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1329by 3600. 1393by 3600.
1330 1394
1331Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1395Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1332C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1396C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1333time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1397time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1334 1398
1335For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1399For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1336C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 1400C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1337this value. 1401this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1402
1403Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1404speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1405will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1406millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1338 1407
1339=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1408=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1340 1409
1341In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1410In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1342ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1411ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1343reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1412reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1344current time as second argument. 1413current time as second argument.
1345 1414
1346NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1415NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1347ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1416ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1348return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1349starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1350 1417
1418If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1419it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1420only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1421
1351Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1422The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1352ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1423*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1353 1424
1354 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1425 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1355 { 1426 {
1356 return now + 60.; 1427 return now + 60.;
1357 } 1428 }
1359It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1430It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1360(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 1431(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1361will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1432will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1362might be called at other times, too. 1433might be called at other times, too.
1363 1434
1364NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1435NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1365passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1436equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1366 1437
1367This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1438This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1368triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 1439triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1369next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 1440next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1370you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 1441you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1371reason I omitted it as an example). 1442reason I omitted it as an example).
1372 1443
1373=back 1444=back
1377Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1448Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1378when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1449when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1379a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1450a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1380program when the crontabs have changed). 1451program when the crontabs have changed).
1381 1452
1453=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1454
1455When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1456trigger next.
1457
1382=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1458=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1383 1459
1384When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1460When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1385absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1461absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1386 1462
1397 1473
1398The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1474The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1399switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1475switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1400the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1476the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1401 1477
1402=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1403
1404When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1405trigger next.
1406
1407=back 1478=back
1408 1479
1409=head3 Examples 1480=head3 Examples
1410 1481
1411Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1482Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1412system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1483system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1413potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1484potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1414 1485
1415 static void 1486 static void
1416 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1487 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1417 { 1488 {
1418 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1489 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1419 } 1490 }
1420 1491
1421 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1492 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1422 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1493 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1423 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1494 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1424 1495
1425Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1496Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1426 1497
1427 #include <math.h> 1498 #include <math.h>
1428 1499
1429 static ev_tstamp 1500 static ev_tstamp
1430 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1501 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1431 { 1502 {
1432 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1503 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1433 } 1504 }
1434 1505
1435 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1506 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1436 1507
1437Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1508Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1438 1509
1439 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1510 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1440 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1511 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1441 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1512 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1442 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1513 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1443 1514
1444 1515
1445=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1516=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1446 1517
1447Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1518Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1455as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1526as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1456watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1527watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1457SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1528SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1458 1529
1459If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 1530If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1460C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly 1531C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1461interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by 1532interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1462signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 1533signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1463them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 1534them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1464 1535
1465=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1536=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1466 1537
1481 1552
1482=head3 Examples 1553=head3 Examples
1483 1554
1484Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1555Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1485 1556
1486 static void 1557 static void
1487 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1558 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1488 { 1559 {
1489 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1560 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1490 } 1561 }
1491 1562
1492 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1563 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1493 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1564 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1494 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1565 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1495 1566
1496 1567
1497=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1568=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1498 1569
1499Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1570Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1501is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1572is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1502forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 1573forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1503loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1574loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1504 1575
1505Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1576Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1506you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 1577you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1507 1578
1508=head3 Process Interaction 1579=head3 Process Interaction
1509 1580
1510Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 1581Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1511initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 1582initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1512the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 1583the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1513of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 1584of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1514synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 1585synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1515children, even ones not watched. 1586children, even ones not watched.
1516 1587
1517=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 1588=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1521handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for 1592handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1522C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the 1593C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1523default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an 1594default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1524event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for 1595event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1525that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely. 1596that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1597
1598=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
1599
1600Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
1601child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
1602callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
1603when a child exit is detected.
1526 1604
1527=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1605=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1528 1606
1529=over 4 1607=over 4
1530 1608
1559=head3 Examples 1637=head3 Examples
1560 1638
1561Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1639Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1562its completion. 1640its completion.
1563 1641
1564 ev_child cw; 1642 ev_child cw;
1565 1643
1566 static void 1644 static void
1567 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1645 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1568 { 1646 {
1569 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1647 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1570 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1648 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1571 } 1649 }
1572 1650
1573 pid_t pid = fork (); 1651 pid_t pid = fork ();
1574 1652
1575 if (pid < 0) 1653 if (pid < 0)
1576 // error 1654 // error
1577 else if (pid == 0) 1655 else if (pid == 0)
1578 { 1656 {
1579 // the forked child executes here 1657 // the forked child executes here
1580 exit (1); 1658 exit (1);
1581 } 1659 }
1582 else 1660 else
1583 { 1661 {
1584 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1662 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1585 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1663 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1586 } 1664 }
1587 1665
1588 1666
1589=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1667=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1590 1668
1591This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1669This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1592C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1670C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1593compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1671compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1594 1672
1595The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1673The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1596not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1674not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1614as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1692as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1615resource-intensive. 1693resource-intensive.
1616 1694
1617At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1695At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1618implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1696implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1697reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat
1619reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1698semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1620semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1699not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1621to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1700sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1622usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1701but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1623polling. 1702will be no polling.
1624 1703
1625=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 1704=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1626 1705
1627Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 1706Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1628compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally 1707compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1629disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 1708support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1630structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 1709structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1631use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 1710use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1632compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 1711compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1633obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 1712obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1634most noticably with ev_stat and largefile support. 1713most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1714
1715The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1716file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1717optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1718to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1719default compilation environment.
1635 1720
1636=head3 Inotify 1721=head3 Inotify
1637 1722
1638When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1723When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1639available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1724available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1640change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1725change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1641when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1726when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1642 1727
1643Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1728Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1644except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1729except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1645making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1730making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1646there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1731there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1647 1732
1648(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1733(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1649implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1734implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1650descriptor open on the object at all times). 1735descriptor open on the object at all times).
1651 1736
1652=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1737=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1653 1738
1654The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1739The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1655even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1740even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1656only support whole seconds. 1741only support whole seconds.
1657 1742
1658That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 1743That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1659miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 1744easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1660your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1745calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1661the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 1746within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1747data does not change.
1662 1748
1663The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 1749The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1664the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 1750than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1665(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 1751a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1666is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1752ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1667systems. 1753
1754The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1755of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1756might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1757C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1758a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1759update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1760the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1761the timer callback).
1668 1762
1669=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1763=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1670 1764
1671=over 4 1765=over 4
1672 1766
1678C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1772C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1679be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1773be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1680a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1774a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1681path for as long as the watcher is active. 1775path for as long as the watcher is active.
1682 1776
1683The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1777The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1684relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1778to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1685last change was detected). 1779was detected).
1686 1780
1687=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 1781=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1688 1782
1689Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1783Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1690watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1784watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1691detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1785detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1692useful simply to find out the new values. 1786the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1787new values.
1693 1788
1694=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1789=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1695 1790
1696The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1791The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1697C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1792C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1698suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1793suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1794members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1699was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1795some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1700 1796
1701=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1797=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1702 1798
1703The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1799The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1704C<prev> != C<attr>. 1800C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1801differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1802C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1705 1803
1706=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1804=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1707 1805
1708The specified interval. 1806The specified interval.
1709 1807
1710=item const char *path [read-only] 1808=item const char *path [read-only]
1711 1809
1712The filesystem path that is being watched. 1810The file system path that is being watched.
1713 1811
1714=back 1812=back
1715 1813
1716=head3 Examples 1814=head3 Examples
1717 1815
1718Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1816Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1719 1817
1720 static void 1818 static void
1721 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1819 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1722 { 1820 {
1723 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1821 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1724 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1822 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1725 { 1823 {
1726 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1824 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1727 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1825 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1728 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1826 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1729 } 1827 }
1730 else 1828 else
1731 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1829 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1732 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1830 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1733 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1831 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1734 } 1832 }
1735 1833
1736 ... 1834 ...
1737 ev_stat passwd; 1835 ev_stat passwd;
1738 1836
1739 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1837 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1740 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1838 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1741 1839
1742Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1840Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1743miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1841miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1744one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1842one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1745C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1843C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1746 1844
1747 static ev_stat passwd; 1845 static ev_stat passwd;
1748 static ev_timer timer; 1846 static ev_timer timer;
1749 1847
1750 static void 1848 static void
1751 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1849 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1752 { 1850 {
1753 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1851 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1754 1852
1755 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1853 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1756 } 1854 }
1757 1855
1758 static void 1856 static void
1759 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1857 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1760 { 1858 {
1761 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1859 /* reset the one-second timer */
1762 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1860 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1763 } 1861 }
1764 1862
1765 ... 1863 ...
1766 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1864 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1767 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1865 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1768 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1866 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1769 1867
1770 1868
1771=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1869=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1772 1870
1773Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1871Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1804=head3 Examples 1902=head3 Examples
1805 1903
1806Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1904Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1807callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1905callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1808 1906
1809 static void 1907 static void
1810 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1908 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1811 { 1909 {
1812 free (w); 1910 free (w);
1813 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1911 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1814 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1912 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1815 } 1913 }
1816 1914
1817 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1915 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1818 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1916 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1819 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1917 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1820 1918
1821 1919
1822=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1920=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1823 1921
1824Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1922Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1843 1941
1844This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1942This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1845to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1943to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1846them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1944them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1847provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1945provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1848any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1946any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1849and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1947and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1850callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1948callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1851because you never know, you know?). 1949because you never know, you know?).
1852 1950
1853As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1951As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1861 1959
1862It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 1960It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1863priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1961priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1864after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 1962after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1865too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1963too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1866supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1964supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1867did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 1965did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1868(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 1966(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1869state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1967state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1870coexist peacefully with others). 1968coexist peacefully with others).
1871 1969
1886=head3 Examples 1984=head3 Examples
1887 1985
1888There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 1986There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1889into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 1987into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1890(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 1988(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1891use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 1989use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1892embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 1990Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1893into the Glib event loop). 1991Glib event loop).
1894 1992
1895Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 1993Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1896and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 1994and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1897is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 1995is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1898priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 1996priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1899the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 1997the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1900 1998
1901 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1999 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1902 static ev_timer tw; 2000 static ev_timer tw;
1903 2001
1904 static void 2002 static void
1905 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2003 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1906 { 2004 {
1907 } 2005 }
1908 2006
1909 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2007 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1910 static void 2008 static void
1911 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2009 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1912 { 2010 {
1913 int timeout = 3600000; 2011 int timeout = 3600000;
1914 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2012 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1915 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2013 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1916 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2014 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1917 2015
1918 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 2016 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1919 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2017 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1920 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2018 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1921 2019
1922 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2020 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1923 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2021 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1924 { 2022 {
1925 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 2023 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1926 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 2024 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1927 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 2025 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1928 2026
1929 fds [i].revents = 0; 2027 fds [i].revents = 0;
1930 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 2028 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1931 } 2029 }
1932 } 2030 }
1933 2031
1934 // stop all watchers after blocking 2032 // stop all watchers after blocking
1935 static void 2033 static void
1936 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2034 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1937 { 2035 {
1938 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2036 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1939 2037
1940 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2038 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1941 { 2039 {
1942 // set the relevant poll flags 2040 // set the relevant poll flags
1943 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2041 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1944 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2042 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1945 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2043 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1946 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2044 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1947 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2045 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1948 2046
1949 // now stop the watcher 2047 // now stop the watcher
1950 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2048 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1951 } 2049 }
1952 2050
1953 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2051 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1954 } 2052 }
1955 2053
1956Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2054Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1957in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2055in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1958 2056
1959Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2057Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1960notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2058notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1961callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2059callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1962 2060
1963 static void 2061 static void
1964 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2062 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1965 { 2063 {
1966 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2064 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1967 update_now (EV_A); 2065 update_now (EV_A);
1968 2066
1969 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2067 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1970 } 2068 }
1971 2069
1972 static void 2070 static void
1973 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2071 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1974 { 2072 {
1975 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2073 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1976 update_now (EV_A); 2074 update_now (EV_A);
1977 2075
1978 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2076 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1979 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2077 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1980 } 2078 }
1981 2079
1982 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2080 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1983 2081
1984Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2082Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1985want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2083want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
1986their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2084their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1987loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2085loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1988this. 2086this.
1989 2087
1990 static gint 2088 static gint
1991 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2089 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1992 { 2090 {
1993 int got_events = 0; 2091 int got_events = 0;
1994 2092
1995 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2093 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1996 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2094 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1997 2095
1998 if (timeout >= 0) 2096 if (timeout >= 0)
1999 // create/start timer 2097 // create/start timer
2000 2098
2001 // poll 2099 // poll
2002 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2100 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2003 2101
2004 // stop timer again 2102 // stop timer again
2005 if (timeout >= 0) 2103 if (timeout >= 0)
2006 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2104 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2007 2105
2008 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2106 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2009 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2107 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2010 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2108 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2011 2109
2012 return got_events; 2110 return got_events;
2013 } 2111 }
2014 2112
2015 2113
2016=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2114=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
2017 2115
2018This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2116This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2074 2172
2075Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2173Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2076embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2174embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2077invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2175invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2078to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2176to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2079if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2177if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2080 2178
2081=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2179=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2082 2180
2083Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2181Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2084similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2182similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2085apropriate way for embedded loops. 2183appropriate way for embedded loops.
2086 2184
2087=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2185=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2088 2186
2089The embedded event loop. 2187The embedded event loop.
2090 2188
2092 2190
2093=head3 Examples 2191=head3 Examples
2094 2192
2095Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 2193Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2096event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2194event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2097loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 2195loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2098C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 2196C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2099used). 2197used).
2100 2198
2101 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2199 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2102 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2200 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2103 struct ev_embed embed; 2201 struct ev_embed embed;
2104 2202
2105 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2203 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2106 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2204 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2107 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2205 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2108 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2206 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2109 : 0; 2207 : 0;
2110 2208
2111 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2209 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2112 if (loop_lo) 2210 if (loop_lo)
2113 { 2211 {
2114 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2212 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2115 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2213 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2116 } 2214 }
2117 else 2215 else
2118 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2216 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2119 2217
2120Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2218Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2121a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2219a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2122kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2220kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2123C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2221C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2124 2222
2125 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2223 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2126 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2224 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2127 struct ev_embed embed; 2225 struct ev_embed embed;
2128 2226
2129 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2227 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2130 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2228 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2131 { 2229 {
2132 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2230 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2133 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2231 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2134 } 2232 }
2135 2233
2136 if (!loop_socket) 2234 if (!loop_socket)
2137 loop_socket = loop; 2235 loop_socket = loop;
2138 2236
2139 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2237 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2140 2238
2141 2239
2142=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2240=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2143 2241
2144Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2242Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2197 2295
2198=item queueing from a signal handler context 2296=item queueing from a signal handler context
2199 2297
2200To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2298To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2201handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2299handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2202some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2300some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2203 2301
2204 static ev_async mysig; 2302 static ev_async mysig;
2205 2303
2206 static void 2304 static void
2207 sigusr1_handler (void) 2305 sigusr1_handler (void)
2281=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2379=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2282 2380
2283Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2381Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2284an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2382an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2285C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2383C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2286similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2384similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2287section below on what exactly this means). 2385section below on what exactly this means).
2288 2386
2289This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 2387This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2290so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2388so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2291calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2389calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2390
2391=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2392
2393Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2394watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2395event loop.
2396
2397C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2398the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2399it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2400quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2401
2402Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2403whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2292 2404
2293=back 2405=back
2294 2406
2295 2407
2296=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2408=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2307or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2419or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2308more watchers yourself. 2420more watchers yourself.
2309 2421
2310If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2422If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
2311is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2423is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
2312C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2424C<events> set will be created and started.
2313 2425
2314If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2426If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2315started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2427started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2316repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2428repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
2317dubious value. 2429dubious value.
2319The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2431The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2320passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2432passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2321C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2433C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2322value passed to C<ev_once>: 2434value passed to C<ev_once>:
2323 2435
2324 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2436 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2325 { 2437 {
2326 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2438 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2327 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2439 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2328 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2440 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2329 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2441 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2330 } 2442 }
2331 2443
2332 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2444 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2333 2445
2334=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2446=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2335 2447
2336Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2448Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2337had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2449had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2342Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2454Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2343the given events it. 2455the given events it.
2344 2456
2345=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2457=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2346 2458
2347Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2459Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2348loop!). 2460loop!).
2349 2461
2350=back 2462=back
2351 2463
2352 2464
2368 2480
2369=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2481=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2370will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2482will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2371is an ev_pri field. 2483is an ev_pri field.
2372 2484
2485=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2486first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2487
2373=item * Other members are not supported. 2488=item * Other members are not supported.
2374 2489
2375=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2490=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2376to use the libev header file and library. 2491to use the libev header file and library.
2377 2492
2378=back 2493=back
2379 2494
2380=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2495=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2381 2496
2382Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2497Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2383you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2498you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2384the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2499the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2385 2500
2386To use it, 2501To use it,
2387 2502
2388 #include <ev++.h> 2503 #include <ev++.h>
2389 2504
2390This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2505This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2391of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2506of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2392put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2507put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2393options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2508options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2460your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2575your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2461thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2576thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2462 2577
2463Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2578Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2464 2579
2465 struct myclass 2580 struct myclass
2466 { 2581 {
2467 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2582 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2468 } 2583 }
2469 2584
2470 myclass obj; 2585 myclass obj;
2471 ev::io iow; 2586 ev::io iow;
2472 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2587 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2473 2588
2474=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2589=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2475 2590
2476Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2591Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2477callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2592callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2481 2596
2482See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2597See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2483 2598
2484Example: 2599Example:
2485 2600
2486 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2601 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2487 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2602 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2488 2603
2489=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2604=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2490 2605
2491Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2606Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2492do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2607do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2493 2608
2494=item w->set ([args]) 2609=item w->set ([arguments])
2495 2610
2496Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2611Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
2497called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2612called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2498automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2613automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2499method. 2614method.
2500 2615
2501=item w->start () 2616=item w->start ()
2525=back 2640=back
2526 2641
2527Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2642Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2528the constructor. 2643the constructor.
2529 2644
2530 class myclass 2645 class myclass
2531 { 2646 {
2532 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2647 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2533 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2648 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2534 2649
2535 myclass (int fd) 2650 myclass (int fd)
2536 { 2651 {
2537 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2652 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2538 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2653 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2539 2654
2540 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2655 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2541 } 2656 }
2542 }; 2657 };
2543 2658
2544 2659
2545=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 2660=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2546 2661
2547Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 2662Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2548numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know 2663number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2549any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop 2664any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2550me a note. 2665me a note.
2551 2666
2552=over 4 2667=over 4
2553 2668
2557libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2672libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2558there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2673there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2559to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2674to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2560C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2675C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2561 2676
2562It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 2677It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2563L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2678L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2564 2679
2680=item Python
2681
2682Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2683seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2684patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2685for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2686libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2687libev).
2688
2565=item Ruby 2689=item Ruby
2566 2690
2567Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 2691Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2568of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 2692of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2569more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 2693more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2570L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 2694L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2571 2695
2572=item D 2696=item D
2573 2697
2574Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 2698Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2575be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>. 2699be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
2576 2700
2577=back 2701=back
2578 2702
2579 2703
2580=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2704=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2581 2705
2582Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2706Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2583of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2707of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2584functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2708functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2585 2709
2586To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2710To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2587following macros are defined: 2711following macros are defined:
2592 2716
2593This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2717This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2594loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2718loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2595C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2719C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2596 2720
2597 ev_unref (EV_A); 2721 ev_unref (EV_A);
2598 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2722 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2599 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2723 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2600 2724
2601It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2725It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2602which is often provided by the following macro. 2726which is often provided by the following macro.
2603 2727
2604=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2728=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2605 2729
2606This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2730This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2607loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2731loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2608C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2732C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2609 2733
2610 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2734 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2611 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2735 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2612 2736
2613 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2737 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2614 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2738 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2615 2739
2616It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2740It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2617suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2741suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2618 2742
2619=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2743=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2620 2744
2621Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2745Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2622loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2746loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2747
2748=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2749
2750Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2751default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2752is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2753execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2754
2755It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2756watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2623 2757
2624=back 2758=back
2625 2759
2626Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2760Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2627macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2761macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2628or not. 2762or not.
2629 2763
2630 static void 2764 static void
2631 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2765 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2632 { 2766 {
2633 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2767 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2634 } 2768 }
2635 2769
2636 ev_check check; 2770 ev_check check;
2637 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2771 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2638 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2772 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2639 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2773 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2640 2774
2641=head1 EMBEDDING 2775=head1 EMBEDDING
2642 2776
2643Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2777Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2644applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2778applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2651libev somewhere in your source tree). 2785libev somewhere in your source tree).
2652 2786
2653=head2 FILESETS 2787=head2 FILESETS
2654 2788
2655Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2789Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2656in your app. 2790in your application.
2657 2791
2658=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2792=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2659 2793
2660To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2794To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2661configuration (no autoconf): 2795configuration (no autoconf):
2662 2796
2663 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2797 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2664 #include "ev.c" 2798 #include "ev.c"
2665 2799
2666This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2800This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2667single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2801single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2668it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2802it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2669done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2803done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2670where you can put other configuration options): 2804where you can put other configuration options):
2671 2805
2672 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2806 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2673 #include "ev.h" 2807 #include "ev.h"
2674 2808
2675Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2809Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2676compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2810compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2677as a bug). 2811as a bug).
2678 2812
2679You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2813You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2680in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2814in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2681 2815
2682 ev.h 2816 ev.h
2683 ev.c 2817 ev.c
2684 ev_vars.h 2818 ev_vars.h
2685 ev_wrap.h 2819 ev_wrap.h
2686 2820
2687 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2821 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2688 2822
2689 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2823 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2690 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2824 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2691 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2825 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2692 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2826 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2693 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2827 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2694 2828
2695F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2829F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2696to compile this single file. 2830to compile this single file.
2697 2831
2698=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2832=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2699 2833
2700To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2834To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2701 2835
2702 #include "event.c" 2836 #include "event.c"
2703 2837
2704in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2838in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2705 2839
2706 #include "event.h" 2840 #include "event.h"
2707 2841
2708in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2842in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2709 2843
2710You need the following additional files for this: 2844You need the following additional files for this:
2711 2845
2712 event.h 2846 event.h
2713 event.c 2847 event.c
2714 2848
2715=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2849=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2716 2850
2717Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2851Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2718whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2852whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2719F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2853F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2720include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2854include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2721 2855
2722For this of course you need the m4 file: 2856For this of course you need the m4 file:
2723 2857
2724 libev.m4 2858 libev.m4
2725 2859
2726=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2860=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2727 2861
2728Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2862Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2729before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2863define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2730and only include the select backend. 2864autoconf is noted for every option.
2731 2865
2732=over 4 2866=over 4
2733 2867
2734=item EV_STANDALONE 2868=item EV_STANDALONE
2735 2869
2740F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2874F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2741 2875
2742=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2876=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2743 2877
2744If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2878If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2745monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2879monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2746of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2880of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2747usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2881usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2748the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2882the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2749to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2883to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2750function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2884function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2751 2885
2752=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2886=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2753 2887
2754If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2888If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2755realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2889real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2756runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2890runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2757be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2891be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2758(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2892(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2759note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2893note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2760 2894
2761=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2895=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2762 2896
2763If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 2897If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2764and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2898and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2765 2899
2900=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2901
2902If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2903available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2904C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2905If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
29062.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2907
2766=item EV_USE_SELECT 2908=item EV_USE_SELECT
2767 2909
2768If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2910If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2769C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2911C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2770other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2912other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2771will not be compiled in. 2913will not be compiled in.
2772 2914
2773=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2915=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2774 2916
2775If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2917If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2776structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2918structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2777C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2919C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2778exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2920exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2779low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2921low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2780allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2922allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2781influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2923influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2782 2924
2806 2948
2807=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2949=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2808 2950
2809If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2951If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
2810C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2952C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2811otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2953otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2812preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2954backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2955headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2813 2956
2814=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2957=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2815 2958
2816If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2959If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2817C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2960C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2830otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2973otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2831backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2974backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2832 2975
2833=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2976=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2834 2977
2835reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2978Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2836 2979
2837=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2980=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2838 2981
2839If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2982If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2840interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2983interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2841be detected at runtime. 2984be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2985indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2842 2986
2843=item EV_ATOMIC_T 2987=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2844 2988
2845Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 2989Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2846access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2990access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2847type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2991type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2848that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 2992that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2849as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 2993as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2850 2994
2851In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 2995In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2852(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 2996(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2853 2997
2854=item EV_H 2998=item EV_H
2855 2999
2856The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 3000The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2895When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3039When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2896all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3040all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2897and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3041and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2898fine. 3042fine.
2899 3043
2900If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3044If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2901C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 3045C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2902 3046
2903=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3047=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2904 3048
2905If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3049If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2906defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3050defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2933defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3077defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2934 3078
2935=item EV_MINIMAL 3079=item EV_MINIMAL
2936 3080
2937If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3081If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2938speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3082speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2939some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3083inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3084much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2940 3085
2941=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3086=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2942 3087
2943C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3088C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2944pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3089pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2951inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3096inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2952usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3097usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2953watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3098watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2954two). 3099two).
2955 3100
3101=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3102
3103Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3104timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3105to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3106noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3107
3108The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3109(disabled).
3110
3111=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3112
3113Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3114timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3115the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3116which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3117but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3118noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3119
3120The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3121(disabled).
3122
3123=item EV_VERIFY
3124
3125Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3126be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3127in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3128called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3129called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3130verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3131libev considerably.
3132
3133The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3134C<0.>
3135
2956=item EV_COMMON 3136=item EV_COMMON
2957 3137
2958By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3138By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2959this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3139this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2960members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3140members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2961though, and it must be identical each time. 3141though, and it must be identical each time.
2962 3142
2963For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3143For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2964 3144
2965 #define EV_COMMON \ 3145 #define EV_COMMON \
2966 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3146 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2967 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3147 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2968 3148
2969=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3149=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2970 3150
2971=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3151=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2972 3152
2979avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3159avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2980method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3160method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2981 3161
2982=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3162=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2983 3163
2984If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3164If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
2985exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3165exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2986all public symbols, one per line: 3166all public symbols, one per line:
2987 3167
2988 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3168 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2989 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3169 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2990 3170
2991This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3171This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2992multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3172multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2993itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3173itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2994 3174
2995A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3175A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2996include before including F<ev.h>: 3176include before including F<ev.h>:
2997 3177
2998 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3178 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
3015file. 3195file.
3016 3196
3017The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3197The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3018that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3198that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3019 3199
3020 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3200 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
3021 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3201 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
3022 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3202 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3023 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3203 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3024 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3204 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3025 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3205 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
3026 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3206 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3027 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3207 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3028 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3208 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3029 3209
3030 #include "ev++.h" 3210 #include "ev++.h"
3031 3211
3032And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3212And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3033 3213
3034 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3214 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3035 #include "ev.c" 3215 #include "ev.c"
3216
3217
3218=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3219
3220=head2 THREADS
3221
3222Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3223means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3224only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3225parameter.
3226
3227Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3228parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3229done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3230thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3231per loop).
3232
3233If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3234without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3235help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3236
3237=over 4
3238
3239=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3240in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3241
3242This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3243themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3244
3245=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3246
3247Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3248exists, but it is always a good start.
3249
3250=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3251loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3252
3253Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3254better than you currently do :-)
3255
3256=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3257event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3258threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3259
3260=back
3261
3262=head2 COROUTINES
3263
3264Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3265libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3266coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3267different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3268loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3269you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3270
3271Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3272state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3273switches.
3036 3274
3037 3275
3038=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3276=head1 COMPLEXITIES
3039 3277
3040In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3278In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
3072correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3310correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3073have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3311have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3074 3312
3075=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3313=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3076 3314
3077By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 3315By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
3078beginning of the storage array. 3316fixed position in the storage array.
3079 3317
3080=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3318=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3081 3319
3082A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3320A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3083libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3321libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3084on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3322on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3085 3323
3086=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3324=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3087 3325
3088=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3326=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3089 3327
3096 3334
3097=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 3335=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3098 3336
3099=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 3337=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3100 3338
3101Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 3339Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3102calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 3340calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3103involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3341involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3104 3342
3105=back 3343=back
3106 3344
3107 3345
3108=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3346=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3109 3347
3110Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3348Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3111requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3349requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3112model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3350model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3113the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3351the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3114descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3352descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3115e.g. cygwin. 3353e.g. cygwin.
3116 3354
3355Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3356re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3357things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3358way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3359
3117There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3360There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3118embedding it into other applications. 3361embedding it into other applications.
3119 3362
3363Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3364accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3365either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3366so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3367megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3368available).
3369
3120Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 3370Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3121abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3371the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3122recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3372is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3123a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 3373more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3124implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3374different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3125be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3375notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3376(Microsoft monopoly games).
3377
3378A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3379section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3380of F<ev.h>:
3381
3382 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3383 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3384
3385 #include "ev.h"
3386
3387And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3388you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3389
3390 #include "evwrap.h"
3391 #include "ev.c"
3126 3392
3127=over 4 3393=over 4
3128 3394
3129=item The winsocket select function 3395=item The winsocket select function
3130 3396
3131The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3397The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3132socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3398requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3133very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3399also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3134to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3400requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3135C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3401C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3136symbols for more info. 3402discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3403C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3137 3404
3138The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3405The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3139libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3406libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3140 3407
3141 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3408 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3142 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3409 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3143 3410
3144Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3411Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3145complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3412complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3146 3413
3147=item Limited number of file descriptors 3414=item Limited number of file descriptors
3148 3415
3149Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3416Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3150of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 3417
3418Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3151(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 3419of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3152C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3420can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3153chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 3421recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3422previous thread in each. Great).
3154 3423
3155Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3424Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3156to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3425to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3157call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3426call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3158select emulation on windows). 3427select emulation on windows).
3159 3428
3160Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3429Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3161libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3430libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3162or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3431or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3163C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3432C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3164arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3433arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3165libraries. 3434libraries.
3166 3435
3167This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3436This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3168windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3437windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3169wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3438wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3170calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3439calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3171 3440
3172=back 3441=back
3173 3442
3174 3443
3444=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3445
3446In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3447additional extensions:
3448
3449=over 4
3450
3451=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3452calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3453
3454Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3455structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3456assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3457callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3458calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3459
3460=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3461
3462The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3463C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3464threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3465believed to be sufficiently portable.
3466
3467=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3468
3469Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3470allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3471pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3472thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3473be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3474C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3475
3476The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3477except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3478well.
3479
3480=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3481
3482To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3483internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3484non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3485is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3486millions of watchers.
3487
3488=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3489
3490The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3491have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3492enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3493implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3494
3495=back
3496
3497If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3498
3499
3500=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3501
3502Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3503lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3504scared by this.
3505
3506However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3507has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3508warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3509targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3510
3511Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3512workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3513maintainable.
3514
3515And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3516wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3517seems to warn about).
3518
3519While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3520"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3521with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3522them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3523warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3524
3525
3526=head1 VALGRIND
3527
3528Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3529highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3530
3531If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3532in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3533
3534 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3535 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3536 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3537
3538Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3539valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3540might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3541
3542If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3543with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3544a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3545no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3546properly.
3547
3548If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3549I suggest using suppression lists.
3550
3551
3175=head1 AUTHOR 3552=head1 AUTHOR
3176 3553
3177Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3554Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
3178 3555

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