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Revision 1.322 by root, Sun Oct 24 17:58:41 2010 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 #include <stdio.h> // for puts
15
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct 16 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type> 17 // with the name ev_TYPE
16 ev_io stdin_watcher; 18 ev_io stdin_watcher;
17 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 19 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
18 20
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature 21 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin 22 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
21 static void 23 static void
22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 24 stdin_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
23 { 25 {
24 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
26 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28 30
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
31 } 33 }
32 34
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
34 static void 36 static void
35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
36 { 38 {
37 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
40 } 42 }
41 43
42 int 44 int
43 main (void) 45 main (void)
44 { 46 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
47 49
48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
52 54
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it 55 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
57 59
58 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
59 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
60 62
61 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
62 return 0; 64 return 0;
63 } 65 }
64 66
65=head1 DESCRIPTION 67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68
69This document documents the libev software package.
66 70
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted 71The 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 72web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
69time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>. 73time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>.
74
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev.
79
80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
70 84
71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 85Libev 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 86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
73these event sources and provide your program with events. 87these event sources and provide your program with events.
74 88
84=head2 FEATURES 98=head2 FEATURES
85 99
86Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 100Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
87BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 101BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
88for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 102for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
89(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 103(for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner
90with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals 104inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative
91(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event 105timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling
92watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, 106(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status
93C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as 107change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event
94file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events 108loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and
95(C<ev_fork>). 109C<ev_check> watchers) as well as file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even
110limited support for fork events (C<ev_fork>).
96 111
97It also is quite fast (see this 112It also is quite fast (see this
98L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 113L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
99for example). 114for example).
100 115
108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have 123name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument. 124this argument.
110 125
111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
112 127
113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 130somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 131ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 132too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
118it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name 133any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
134
119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 135Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
120throughout libev. 136time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
137
138=head1 ERROR HANDLING
139
140Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
141and internal errors (bugs).
142
143When libev catches an operating system error it cannot handle (for example
144a system call indicating a condition libev cannot fix), it calls the callback
145set via C<ev_set_syserr_cb>, which is supposed to fix the problem or
146abort. The default is to print a diagnostic message and to call C<abort
147()>.
148
149When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then
150it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism,
151so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in
152the libev caller and need to be fixed there.
153
154Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions, and also has
155extensive consistency checking code. These do not trigger under normal
156circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev or worse.
157
121 158
122=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 159=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
123 160
124These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 161These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
125library in any way. 162library in any way.
128 165
129=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 166=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
130 167
131Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 168Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
132C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 169C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
133you actually want to know. 170you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
171C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
134 172
135=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 173=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
136 174
137Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 175Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
138either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 176either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
139this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>. 177this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
140 178
141=item int ev_version_major () 179=item int ev_version_major ()
142 180
143=item int ev_version_minor () 181=item int ev_version_minor ()
144 182
155as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 193as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
156compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 194compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
157not a problem. 195not a problem.
158 196
159Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 197Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
160version. 198version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
199such as LFS or reentrancy).
161 200
162 assert (("libev version mismatch", 201 assert (("libev version mismatch",
163 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 202 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
164 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 203 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
165 204
166=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 205=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
167 206
168Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*> 207Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*>
169value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 208value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
171a description of the set values. 210a description of the set values.
172 211
173Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and 212Example: 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 213a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11
175 214
176 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 215 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
177 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 216 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
178 217
179=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 218=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
180 219
181Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 220Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
182recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 221also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
222descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
183returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 223C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
184most BSDs and will not be autodetected unless you explicitly request it 224and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
185(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 225you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
186libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 226probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
187 227
188=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 228=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
189 229
190Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 230Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
191is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 231value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
192might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 232current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
193C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 233the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
194recommended ones. 234& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
195 235
196See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 236See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
197 237
198=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 238=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT]
199 239
200Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 240Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
201semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to 241semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
202allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when 242used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
203memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some 243when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
204potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc 244or take some potentially destructive action.
205function. 245
246Since some systems (at least OpenBSD and Darwin) fail to implement
247correct C<realloc> semantics, libev will use a wrapper around the system
248C<realloc> and C<free> functions by default.
206 249
207You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 250You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
208free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 251free 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. 252or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
210 253
211Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 254Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
212retries). 255retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>).
213 256
214 static void * 257 static void *
215 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 258 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
216 { 259 {
217 for (;;) 260 for (;;)
226 } 269 }
227 270
228 ... 271 ...
229 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 272 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
230 273
231=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 274=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT]
232 275
233Set the callback function to call on a retryable syscall error (such 276Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
234as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 277as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
235indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 278indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
236callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 279callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
237matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 280matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
238requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 281requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
239(such as abort). 282(such as abort).
240 283
241Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too. 284Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
250 ... 293 ...
251 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 294 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
252 295
253=back 296=back
254 297
255=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 298=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
256 299
257An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 300An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
258types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 301I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
259events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 302libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
303
304The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
305supports signals and child events, and dynamically created event loops
306which do not.
260 307
261=over 4 308=over 4
262 309
263=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 310=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
264 311
265This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 312This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
266yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 313normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
267false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 314the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
268flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 315C<ev_loop_new>.
316
317If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
318returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
319C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
320flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
321one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
269 322
270If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 323If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
271function. 324function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
272 325
273Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 326Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
274from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 327from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
275as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway). 328that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
329threads anyway).
276 330
277The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 331The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
278C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 332and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
279for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your app you can either 333a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
280create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 334C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
281can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 335C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
282C<ev_default_init>. 336
337Example: This is the most typical usage.
338
339 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
340 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
341
342Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
343environment settings to be taken into account:
344
345 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
346
347Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
348used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
349private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
350fds):
351
352 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
353
354=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
355
356This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
357could not be initialised, returns false.
358
359Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
360libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
361default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
283 362
284The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 363The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
285backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 364backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
286 365
287The following flags are supported: 366The following flags are supported:
293The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right 372The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right
294thing, believe me). 373thing, believe me).
295 374
296=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 375=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
297 376
298If this flag bit is ored into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 377If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
299or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 378or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
300C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 379C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
301override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 380override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
302useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 381useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
303around bugs. 382around bugs.
304 383
305=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 384=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
306 385
307Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 386Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
308a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 387make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
309enabling this flag.
310 388
311This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 389This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
312and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 390and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
313iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 391iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
314GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 392GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
315without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 393without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
316C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 394C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
317 395
318The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 396The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
319forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 397forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
320flag. 398flag.
321 399
322This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 400This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
323environment variable. 401environment variable.
402
403=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
404
405When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
406I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
407testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
408otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
409
410=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
411
412When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
413I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
414delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
415it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
416handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
417threads that are not interested in handling them.
418
419Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
420there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
421example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
324 422
325=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 423=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
326 424
327This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 425This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
328libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 426libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
329but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 427but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
330using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its 428using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
331usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 429usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
332 430
333To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of 431To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
334parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 432parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
335writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many 433writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
336connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 434connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
337a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of 435a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
338readyness notifications you get per iteration. 436readiness notifications you get per iteration.
437
438This backend maps C<EV_READ> to the C<readfds> set and C<EV_WRITE> to the
439C<writefds> set (and to work around Microsoft Windows bugs, also onto the
440C<exceptfds> set on that platform).
339 441
340=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 442=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
341 443
342And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 444And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
343than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 445than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
344limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down 446limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down
345considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, 447considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select,
346i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for 448i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for
347performance tips. 449performance tips.
348 450
451This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
452C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
453
349=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 454=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
455
456Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
457kernels).
350 458
351For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 459For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
352but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 460but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
353like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 461like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
354epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number 462epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
355of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 463
356cases and requiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad 464The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
357support for dup. 465of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
466dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
467descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and
468so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then
469I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can
470take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course
471hard to detect.
472
473Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
474of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
475I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
476even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
477on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
478employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
479events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
480not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
481perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
358 482
359While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 483While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
360will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 484will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
361(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 485incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
362best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work 486I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
363very well if you register events for both fds. 487file descriptors might not work very well if you register events for both
364 488file descriptors.
365Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
366need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
367(or space) is available.
368 489
369Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 490Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
370watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e. 491watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible,
371keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 492i.e. keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. Stopping and
493starting a watcher (without re-setting it) also usually doesn't cause
494extra overhead. A fork can both result in spurious notifications as well
495as in libev having to destroy and recreate the epoll object, which can
496take considerable time and thus should be avoided.
372 497
498All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or
499faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on
500the usage. So sad.
501
373While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 502While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
374all kernel versions tested so far. 503all kernel versions tested so far.
504
505This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
506C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
375 507
376=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 508=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
377 509
378Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 510Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
379was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 511was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
380with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 512with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
381it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 513it's completely useless). Unlike epoll, however, whose brokenness
514is by design, these kqueue bugs can (and eventually will) be fixed
515without API changes to existing programs. For this reason it's not being
382unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 516"auto-detected" unless you explicitly specify it in the flags (i.e. using
383C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 517C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
384system like NetBSD. 518system like NetBSD.
385 519
386You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 520You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
387only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on 521only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
388the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 522the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
389 523
390It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 524It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
391kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 525kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
392course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 526course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
393cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 527cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
394two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 528two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but
395drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 529sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect
530cases
396 531
397This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 532This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
398 533
399While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 534While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
400everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 535everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
401almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets 536almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets
402(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop 537(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop
403(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and using it only for 538(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (but C<poll> is of course
404sockets. 539also broken on OS X)) and, did I mention it, using it only for sockets.
540
541This backend maps C<EV_READ> into an C<EVFILT_READ> kevent with
542C<NOTE_EOF>, and C<EV_WRITE> into an C<EVFILT_WRITE> kevent with
543C<NOTE_EOF>.
405 544
406=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 545=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
407 546
408This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an 547This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an
409implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets 548implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets
413=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 552=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
414 553
415This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 554This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
416it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 555it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
417 556
418Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 557Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
419notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 558notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
420blocking when no data (or space) is available. 559blocking when no data (or space) is available.
421 560
422While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 561While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
423file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 562file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
424descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 563descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
425might perform better. 564might perform better.
426 565
427On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this 566On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness
428backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 567notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
429embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 568in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the
569OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks).
570
571This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
572C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
430 573
431=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 574=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
432 575
433Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 576Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
434with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 577with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
436 579
437It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 580It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
438 581
439=back 582=back
440 583
441If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 584If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
442backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 585then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
443specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 586here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
444 587()> will be tried.
445The most typical usage is like this:
446
447 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
448 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
449
450Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
451environment settings to be taken into account:
452
453 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
454
455Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if
456available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
457event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds):
458
459 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
460
461=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
462
463Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
464always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
465handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
466undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
467
468Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
469libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
470default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
471 588
472Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 589Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
473 590
474 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 591 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
475 if (!epoller) 592 if (!epoller)
476 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 593 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
477 594
478=item ev_default_destroy () 595=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
479 596
480Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 597Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
481etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 598etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
482sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 599sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
483responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 600responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
484calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 601calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
485the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 602the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
486for example). 603for example).
487 604
488Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by 605Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
489this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers) 606handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
490would need to be stopped manually. 607as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
491 608
492In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 609This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
493rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 610C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
611C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
612
613Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
614except in the rare occasion where you really need to free it's resources.
494pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 615If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
495C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 616and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
496 617
497=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 618=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
498 619
499Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
500earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
501
502=item ev_default_fork ()
503
504This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 620This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
505to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 621reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
506name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 622name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
507the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 623the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
508sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 624child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
509functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 625
626Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
627a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
628because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
629during fork.
510 630
511On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 631On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
512process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 632process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
513you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 633you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
634call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
635difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
636costly reset of the backend).
514 637
515The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 638The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
516it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 639it just in case after a fork.
517quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
518 640
641Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
642using pthreads.
643
644 static void
645 post_fork_child (void)
646 {
647 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
648 }
649
650 ...
519 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 651 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
520
521=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
522
523Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
524C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
525after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
526 652
527=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 653=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
528 654
529Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise. 655Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
656otherwise.
530 657
531=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 658=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
532 659
533Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 660Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
534the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 661to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
535happily wraps around with enough iterations. 662and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
536 663
537This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 664This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
538"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 665"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
539C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 666C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
667prepare and check phases.
668
669=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
670
671Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
672times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
673
674Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
675C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
676in which case it is higher.
677
678Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
679etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
680ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
540 681
541=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 682=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
542 683
543Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 684Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
544use. 685use.
549received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 690received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
550change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 691change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
551time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 692time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
552event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 693event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
553 694
695=item ev_now_update (loop)
696
697Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
698returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
699is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
700
701This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
702very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
703the current time is a good idea.
704
705See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
706
707=item ev_suspend (loop)
708
709=item ev_resume (loop)
710
711These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
712loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
713
714A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
715the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
716would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
717the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
718in your C<SIGTSTP> handler, sending yourself a C<SIGSTOP> and calling
719C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
720
721Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
722between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
723will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
724occurred while suspended).
725
726After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
727given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
728without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
729
730Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
731event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
732
554=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 733=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
555 734
556Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 735Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
557after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 736after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
558events. 737handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
738the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
739is why event loops are called I<loops>.
559 740
560If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 741If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
561either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 742until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
743called.
562 744
563Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 745Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
564relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 746relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
565finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program that 747finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
566automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue of 748that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
567relying on its watchers stopping correctly is a thing of beauty. 749of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
750beauty.
568 751
569A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 752A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
570those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 753those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
571case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 754block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
755iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
756events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
572 757
573A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 758A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
574neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 759necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
575your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 760will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
576one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 761be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
577external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 762user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
763iteration of the loop.
764
765This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
766with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
578libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 767own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
579usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 768usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
580 769
581Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 770Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
582 771
772 - Increment loop depth.
773 - Reset the ev_break status.
583 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 774 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
775 LOOP:
584 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 776 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
585 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers. 777 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
586 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 778 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
779 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
587 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 780 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
781 as to not disturb the other process.
588 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 782 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
589 - Update the "event loop time". 783 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
590 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 784 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
591 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 785 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
592 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 786 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
593 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 787 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
788 - Increment loop iteration counter.
594 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 789 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
595 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 790 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
596 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 791 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
597 - Queue all outstanding timers. 792 - Queue all expired timers.
598 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 793 - Queue all expired periodics.
599 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 794 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
600 - Queue all check watchers. 795 - Queue all check watchers.
601 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 796 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
602 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 797 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
603 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 798 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
604 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 799 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
605 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 800 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
606 continue with step *. 801 continue with step LOOP.
802 FINISH:
803 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
804 - Decrement the loop depth.
805 - Return.
607 806
608Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 807Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
609anymore. 808anymore.
610 809
611 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 810 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
612 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 811 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
613 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 812 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
614 ... jobs done. yeah! 813 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
615 814
616=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 815=item ev_break (loop, how)
617 816
618Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 817Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
619has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 818has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
620C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 819C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
621C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 820C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
622 821
623This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 822This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
823
824It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO##
624 825
625=item ev_ref (loop) 826=item ev_ref (loop)
626 827
627=item ev_unref (loop) 828=item ev_unref (loop)
628 829
629Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 830Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
630loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 831loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
631count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. If you have 832count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
632a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> from 833
633returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For 834This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
835unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
836returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
837before stopping it.
838
634example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not 839As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
635visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 840is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
636no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 841exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
637way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 842excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
638libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop> 843third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
639(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before, 844before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
640respectively). 845before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
846(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
847in the callback).
641 848
642Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 849Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
643running when nothing else is active. 850running when nothing else is active.
644 851
645 struct ev_signal exitsig; 852 ev_signal exitsig;
646 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 853 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
647 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 854 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
648 evf_unref (loop); 855 evf_unref (loop);
649 856
650Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 857Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
651 858
652 ev_ref (loop); 859 ev_ref (loop);
653 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 860 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
654 861
655=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 862=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
656 863
657=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 864=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
658 865
659These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting 866These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
660for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to 867for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
661invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency. 868will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
869latency.
662 870
663Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>) 871Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
664allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to 872allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
665increase efficiency of loop iterations. 873to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
874opportunities).
666 875
667The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to 876The idea is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to handle
668handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes 877one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes the
669the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new 878program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
670events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high 879events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
671overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 880overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
672 881
673By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 882By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
674time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 883time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
675at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 884at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
676C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 885C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
677introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. 886introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
887sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
888once per this interval, on average.
678 889
679Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 890Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
680to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 891to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
681latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 892latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
682will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 893later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
683any overhead in libev. 894value will not introduce any overhead in libev.
684 895
685Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 896Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
686interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 897interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
687interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 898interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
688usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 899usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
689as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems. 900as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
901you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
902parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
903need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
904then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
905
906Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
907saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
908are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
909times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
910reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
911they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
912
913Example: we only need 0.1s timeout granularity, and we wish not to poll
914more often than 100 times per second:
915
916 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1);
917 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
918
919=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
920
921This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
922pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
923but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
924function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
925when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
926event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
927thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
928
929=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
930
931Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
932are pending.
933
934=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
935
936This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
937invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
938this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
939invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
940
941If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
942callback.
943
944=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P))
945
946Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
947can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
948each call to a libev function.
949
950However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
951to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
952loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
953I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
954
955When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
956suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
957afterwards.
958
959Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and
960C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again.
961
962While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
963C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
964modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
965have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
966waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
967to take note of any changes you made.
968
969In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
970invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
971
972See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
973document.
974
975=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
976
977=item ev_userdata (loop)
978
979Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
980C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
981C<0.>
982
983These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
984and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
985C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
986any other purpose as well.
987
988=item ev_verify (loop)
989
990This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
991compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
992through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
993is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
994error and call C<abort ()>.
995
996This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
997circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
998data structures consistent.
690 999
691=back 1000=back
692 1001
693 1002
694=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 1003=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
695 1004
1005In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
1006watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
1007watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
1008
696A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1009A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
697interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1010your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
698become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1011to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1012for that:
699 1013
700 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1014 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
701 { 1015 {
702 ev_io_stop (w); 1016 ev_io_stop (w);
703 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1017 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
704 } 1018 }
705 1019
706 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1020 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
1021
707 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 1022 ev_io stdin_watcher;
1023
708 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1024 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
709 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1025 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
710 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1026 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
1027
711 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1028 ev_run (loop, 0);
712 1029
713As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1030As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
714watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 1031watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
715although this can sometimes be quite valid). 1032stack).
716 1033
1034Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
1035or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
1036
717Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1037Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
718(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1038*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
719callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 1039invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
720watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1040time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
721is readable and/or writable). 1041and/or writable).
722 1042
723Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 1043Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
724with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 1044macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
725to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< ev_<type>_init 1045is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
726(watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1046ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
727 1047
728To make the watcher actually watch out for events, you have to start it 1048To make the watcher actually watch out for events, you have to start it
729with a watcher-specific start function (C<< ev_<type>_start (loop, watcher 1049with a watcher-specific start function (C<< ev_TYPE_start (loop, watcher
730*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the 1050*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the
731corresponding stop function (C<< ev_<type>_stop (loop, watcher *) >>. 1051corresponding stop function (C<< ev_TYPE_stop (loop, watcher *) >>.
732 1052
733As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you 1053As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you
734must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never 1054must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never
735reinitialise it or call its C<set> macro. 1055reinitialise it or call its C<ev_TYPE_set> macro.
736 1056
737Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the 1057Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the
738registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as 1058registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as
739third argument. 1059third argument.
740 1060
749=item C<EV_WRITE> 1069=item C<EV_WRITE>
750 1070
751The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1071The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
752writable. 1072writable.
753 1073
754=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1074=item C<EV_TIMER>
755 1075
756The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1076The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
757 1077
758=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1078=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
759 1079
777 1097
778=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1098=item C<EV_PREPARE>
779 1099
780=item C<EV_CHECK> 1100=item C<EV_CHECK>
781 1101
782All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1102All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
783to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1103to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
784C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1104C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
785received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1105received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
786many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1106many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
787(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1107(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
788C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1108C<ev_run> from blocking).
789 1109
790=item C<EV_EMBED> 1110=item C<EV_EMBED>
791 1111
792The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1112The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
793 1113
798 1118
799=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1119=item C<EV_ASYNC>
800 1120
801The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1121The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
802 1122
1123=item C<EV_CUSTOM>
1124
1125Not ever sent (or otherwise used) by libev itself, but can be freely used
1126by libev users to signal watchers (e.g. via C<ev_feed_event>).
1127
803=item C<EV_ERROR> 1128=item C<EV_ERROR>
804 1129
805An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 1130An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
806happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 1131happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
807ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 1132ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
1133problem. Libev considers these application bugs.
1134
808problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 1135You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping with the
809with the watcher being stopped. 1136watcher being stopped. Note that well-written programs should not receive
1137an error ever, so when your watcher receives it, this usually indicates a
1138bug in your program.
810 1139
811Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 1140Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for
812for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 1141example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your
813your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 1142callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with
814with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 1143the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
815programs, though, so beware. 1144programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1145thing, so beware.
816 1146
817=back 1147=back
818 1148
1149=head2 WATCHER STATES
1150
1151There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1152active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1153transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1154rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1155
1156=over 4
1157
1158=item initialiased
1159
1160Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1161initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1162C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1163
1164In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1165in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1166
1167=item started/running/active
1168
1169Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1170property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1171this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1172freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1173and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1174
1175=item pending
1176
1177If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1178in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1179stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1180about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1181callback.
1182
1183The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1184an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1185is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1186but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1187moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1188previous item still apply.
1189
1190It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1191via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1192active.
1193
1194=item stopped
1195
1196A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1197be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1198latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1199of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1200freeing it is often a good idea.
1201
1202While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1203initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1204you wish.
1205
1206=back
1207
819=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 1208=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
820
821In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type,
822e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers.
823 1209
824=over 4 1210=over 4
825 1211
826=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1212=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
827 1213
833which rolls both calls into one. 1219which rolls both calls into one.
834 1220
835You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped 1221You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
836(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding. 1222(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
837 1223
838The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, 1224The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
839int revents)>. 1225int revents)>.
840 1226
1227Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
1228
1229 ev_io w;
1230 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1231 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1232
841=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1233=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
842 1234
843This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1235This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
844call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1236call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
845call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1237call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
846macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1238macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
847difference to the C<ev_init> macro). 1239difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
848 1240
849Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 1241Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
850(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 1242(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
851 1243
1244See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
1245
852=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 1246=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
853 1247
854This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 1248This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
855calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 1249calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
856a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 1250a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
857 1251
1252Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1253
1254 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1255
858=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1256=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
859 1257
860Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1258Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
861events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1259events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
862 1260
1261Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1262whole section.
1263
1264 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1265
863=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1266=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
864 1267
865Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending 1268Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1269the watcher was active or not).
1270
866status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example, 1271It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
867non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending), but 1272non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
868C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor pending. If 1273calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
869you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is therefore a 1274pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
870good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. 1275therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
871 1276
872=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1277=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
873 1278
874Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started 1279Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
875and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify 1280and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
891=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1296=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
892 1297
893Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1298Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
894(modulo threads). 1299(modulo threads).
895 1300
896=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1301=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
897 1302
898=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1303=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
899 1304
900Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1305Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
901integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1306integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
902(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked 1307(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
903before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers 1308before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
904from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers). 1309from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
905 1310
906This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
907invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
908example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
909watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
910
911If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending 1311If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
912you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality. 1312you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
913 1313
914You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or 1314You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
915pending. 1315pending.
916 1316
1317Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1318fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1319or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1320
917The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is 1321The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
918always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :). 1322always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
919 1323
920Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is 1324See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
921fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might 1325priorities.
922or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
923 1326
924=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1327=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
925 1328
926Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1329Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
927C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback 1330C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
928can deal with that fact. 1331can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1332callback.
929 1333
930=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1334=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
931 1335
932If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status 1336If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
933and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the 1337returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
934watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1338watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
935 1339
1340Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1341callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1342
1343=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1344
1345Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1346had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1347initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1348not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1349
1350Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1351C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1352not started in the first place.
1353
1354See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1355functions that do not need a watcher.
1356
936=back 1357=back
937 1358
938 1359
939=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1360=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
940 1361
941Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1362Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
942and read at any time, libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1363and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
943to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 1364to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
944don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 1365don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
945member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1366member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
946data: 1367data:
947 1368
948 struct my_io 1369 struct my_io
949 { 1370 {
950 struct ev_io io; 1371 ev_io io;
951 int otherfd; 1372 int otherfd;
952 void *somedata; 1373 void *somedata;
953 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1374 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
954 } 1375 };
1376
1377 ...
1378 struct my_io w;
1379 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
955 1380
956And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1381And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
957can cast it back to your own type: 1382can cast it back to your own type:
958 1383
959 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1384 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
960 { 1385 {
961 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1386 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
962 ... 1387 ...
963 } 1388 }
964 1389
965More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1390More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
966instead have been omitted. 1391instead have been omitted.
967 1392
968Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1393Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
969watchers: 1394embedded watchers:
970 1395
971 struct my_biggy 1396 struct my_biggy
972 { 1397 {
973 int some_data; 1398 int some_data;
974 ev_timer t1; 1399 ev_timer t1;
975 ev_timer t2; 1400 ev_timer t2;
976 } 1401 }
977 1402
978In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1403In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
979you need to use C<offsetof>: 1404complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1405in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1406some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1407programmers):
980 1408
981 #include <stddef.h> 1409 #include <stddef.h>
982 1410
983 static void 1411 static void
984 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1412 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
985 { 1413 {
986 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1414 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
987 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1415 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
988 } 1416 }
989 1417
990 static void 1418 static void
991 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1419 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
992 { 1420 {
993 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1421 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
994 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1422 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
995 } 1423 }
1424
1425=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1426
1427Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1428integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1429between watchers in some way, all else being equal.
1430
1431In libev, Watcher priorities can be set using C<ev_set_priority>. See its
1432description for the more technical details such as the actual priority
1433range.
1434
1435There are two common ways how these these priorities are being interpreted
1436by event loops:
1437
1438In the more common lock-out model, higher priorities "lock out" invocation
1439of lower priority watchers, which means as long as higher priority
1440watchers receive events, lower priority watchers are not being invoked.
1441
1442The less common only-for-ordering model uses priorities solely to order
1443callback invocation within a single event loop iteration: Higher priority
1444watchers are invoked before lower priority ones, but they all get invoked
1445before polling for new events.
1446
1447Libev uses the second (only-for-ordering) model for all its watchers
1448except for idle watchers (which use the lock-out model).
1449
1450The rationale behind this is that implementing the lock-out model for
1451watchers is not well supported by most kernel interfaces, and most event
1452libraries will just poll for the same events again and again as long as
1453their callbacks have not been executed, which is very inefficient in the
1454common case of one high-priority watcher locking out a mass of lower
1455priority ones.
1456
1457Static (ordering) priorities are most useful when you have two or more
1458watchers handling the same resource: a typical usage example is having an
1459C<ev_io> watcher to receive data, and an associated C<ev_timer> to handle
1460timeouts. Under load, data might be received while the program handles
1461other jobs, but since timers normally get invoked first, the timeout
1462handler will be executed before checking for data. In that case, giving
1463the timer a lower priority than the I/O watcher ensures that I/O will be
1464handled first even under adverse conditions (which is usually, but not
1465always, what you want).
1466
1467Since idle watchers use the "lock-out" model, meaning that idle watchers
1468will only be executed when no same or higher priority watchers have
1469received events, they can be used to implement the "lock-out" model when
1470required.
1471
1472For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1473you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1474the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1475processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1476continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1477the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1478workable.
1479
1480Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1481miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1482it might be preferable to stop the real watcher before starting the
1483idle watcher, so the kernel will not have to process the event in case
1484the actual processing will be delayed for considerable time.
1485
1486Here is an example of an I/O watcher that should run at a strictly lower
1487priority than the default, and which should only process data when no
1488other events are pending:
1489
1490 ev_idle idle; // actual processing watcher
1491 ev_io io; // actual event watcher
1492
1493 static void
1494 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1495 {
1496 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1497 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1498 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1499
1500 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1501 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1502 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1503 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1504 }
1505
1506 static void
1507 idle_cb (EV_P_ ev_idle *w, int revents)
1508 {
1509 // actual processing
1510 read (STDIN_FILENO, ...);
1511
1512 // have to start the I/O watcher again, as
1513 // we have handled the event
1514 ev_io_start (EV_P_ &io);
1515 }
1516
1517 // initialisation
1518 ev_idle_init (&idle, idle_cb);
1519 ev_io_init (&io, io_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1520 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &io);
1521
1522In the "real" world, it might also be beneficial to start a timer, so that
1523low-priority connections can not be locked out forever under load. This
1524enables your program to keep a lower latency for important connections
1525during short periods of high load, while not completely locking out less
1526important ones.
996 1527
997 1528
998=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1529=head1 WATCHER TYPES
999 1530
1000This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1531This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1024In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1555In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1025fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1556fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1026descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1557descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1027required if you know what you are doing). 1558required if you know what you are doing).
1028 1559
1029If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1560If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1030(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1561known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1031C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1562C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1563descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1564files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1032 1565
1033Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1566Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1034receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1567receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1035be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1568be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1036because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1569because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1037lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1570lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1038this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1571this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1039it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1572it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1040C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1573C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1041 1574
1042If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1575If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1043play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1576not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1044whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1577re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1045such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1578interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already
1046its own, so its quite safe to use). 1579does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1580use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1581indefinitely.
1582
1583But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1047 1584
1048=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1585=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1049 1586
1050Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file 1587Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
1051descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means, 1588descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other means,
1052such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file 1589such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
1053descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop 1590descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
1054this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is 1591this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
1055registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in 1592registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
1056fact, a different file descriptor. 1593fact, a different file descriptor.
1057 1594
1088enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1625enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1089C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1626C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1090 1627
1091=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1628=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1092 1629
1093While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE: 1630While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1094when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program 1631when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1095gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most 1632sent a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most programs
1096programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually 1633this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually undesirable.
1097undesirable.
1098 1634
1099So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1635So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1100ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1636ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1101somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1637somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1102 1638
1639=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1640
1641Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1642found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1643connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1644
1645For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1646of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1647rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1648the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1649typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1650
1651Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1652operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1653situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1654cope with overload is known (to me).
1655
1656One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1657- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1658situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1659event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1660
1661A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1662C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1663messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1664what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1665the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1666usage.
1667
1668If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1669descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1670when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1671close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1672clients under typical overload conditions.
1673
1674The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1675is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1676opportunity for a DoS attack.
1103 1677
1104=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1678=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1105 1679
1106=over 4 1680=over 4
1107 1681
1108=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1682=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1109 1683
1110=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1684=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1111 1685
1112Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1686Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1113rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1687receive events for and C<events> is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1114C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1688C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE>, to express the desire to receive the given events.
1115 1689
1116=item int fd [read-only] 1690=item int fd [read-only]
1117 1691
1118The file descriptor being watched. 1692The file descriptor being watched.
1119 1693
1127 1701
1128Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1702Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1129readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1703readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1130attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1704attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1131 1705
1132 static void 1706 static void
1133 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1707 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1134 { 1708 {
1135 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1709 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1136 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1710 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors
1137 } 1711 }
1138 1712
1139 ... 1713 ...
1140 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1714 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1141 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1715 ev_io stdin_readable;
1142 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1716 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1143 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1717 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1144 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1718 ev_run (loop, 0);
1145 1719
1146 1720
1147=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1721=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1148 1722
1149Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1723Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1150given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1724given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1151 1725
1152The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1726The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1153times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1727times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1154time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1728year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because
1155detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1729detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1156monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1730monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1731
1732The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1733passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1734might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1735same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1736before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1737no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1738
1739=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1740
1741Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1742recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1743you want to raise some error after a while.
1744
1745What follows are some ways to handle this problem, from obvious and
1746inefficient to smart and efficient.
1747
1748In the following, a 60 second activity timeout is assumed - a timeout that
1749gets reset to 60 seconds each time there is activity (e.g. each time some
1750data or other life sign was received).
1751
1752=over 4
1753
1754=item 1. Use a timer and stop, reinitialise and start it on activity.
1755
1756This is the most obvious, but not the most simple way: In the beginning,
1757start the watcher:
1758
1759 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 60., 0.);
1760 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1761
1762Then, each time there is some activity, C<ev_timer_stop> it, initialise it
1763and start it again:
1764
1765 ev_timer_stop (loop, timer);
1766 ev_timer_set (timer, 60., 0.);
1767 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1768
1769This is relatively simple to implement, but means that each time there is
1770some activity, libev will first have to remove the timer from its internal
1771data structure and then add it again. Libev tries to be fast, but it's
1772still not a constant-time operation.
1773
1774=item 2. Use a timer and re-start it with C<ev_timer_again> inactivity.
1775
1776This is the easiest way, and involves using C<ev_timer_again> instead of
1777C<ev_timer_start>.
1778
1779To implement this, configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value
1780of C<60> and then call C<ev_timer_again> at start and each time you
1781successfully read or write some data. If you go into an idle state where
1782you do not expect data to travel on the socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop>
1783the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will automatically restart it if need be.
1784
1785That means you can ignore both the C<ev_timer_start> function and the
1786C<after> argument to C<ev_timer_set>, and only ever use the C<repeat>
1787member and C<ev_timer_again>.
1788
1789At start:
1790
1791 ev_init (timer, callback);
1792 timer->repeat = 60.;
1793 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1794
1795Each time there is some activity:
1796
1797 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1798
1799It is even possible to change the time-out on the fly, regardless of
1800whether the watcher is active or not:
1801
1802 timer->repeat = 30.;
1803 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1804
1805This is slightly more efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1806you want to modify its timeout value, as libev does not have to completely
1807remove and re-insert the timer from/into its internal data structure.
1808
1809It is, however, even simpler than the "obvious" way to do it.
1810
1811=item 3. Let the timer time out, but then re-arm it as required.
1812
1813This method is more tricky, but usually most efficient: Most timeouts are
1814relatively long compared to the intervals between other activity - in
1815our example, within 60 seconds, there are usually many I/O events with
1816associated activity resets.
1817
1818In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1819but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1820within the callback:
1821
1822 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1823
1824 static void
1825 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1826 {
1827 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A);
1828 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1829
1830 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1831 if (timeout < now)
1832 {
1833 // timeout occurred, take action
1834 }
1835 else
1836 {
1837 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1838 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1839 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive:
1840 w->repeat = timeout - now;
1841 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w);
1842 }
1843 }
1844
1845To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined
1846as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has
1847been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise
1848the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so
1849re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1850a timeout then.
1851
1852Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the
1853C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running.
1854
1855This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1856minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1857libev to change the timeout.
1858
1859To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity>
1860to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1861callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1862
1863 ev_init (timer, callback);
1864 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1865 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1866
1867And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1868C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1869
1870 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1871
1872This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1873time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1874
1875Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1876callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1877fix things for you.
1878
1879=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1880
1881If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1882employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1883do even better:
1884
1885When starting the timeout, calculate the timeout value and put the timeout
1886at the I<end> of the list.
1887
1888Then use an C<ev_timer> to fire when the timeout at the I<beginning> of
1889the list is expected to fire (for example, using the technique #3).
1890
1891When there is some activity, remove the timer from the list, recalculate
1892the timeout, append it to the end of the list again, and make sure to
1893update the C<ev_timer> if it was taken from the beginning of the list.
1894
1895This way, one can manage an unlimited number of timeouts in O(1) time for
1896starting, stopping and updating the timers, at the expense of a major
1897complication, and having to use a constant timeout. The constant timeout
1898ensures that the list stays sorted.
1899
1900=back
1901
1902So which method the best?
1903
1904Method #2 is a simple no-brain-required solution that is adequate in most
1905situations. Method #3 requires a bit more thinking, but handles many cases
1906better, and isn't very complicated either. In most case, choosing either
1907one is fine, with #3 being better in typical situations.
1908
1909Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1910rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1911off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1912overkill :)
1913
1914=head3 The special problem of time updates
1915
1916Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1917least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1918time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1919growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1920lots of events in one iteration.
1157 1921
1158The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1922The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1159time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1923time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1160of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 1924of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1161you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1925you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1162on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1926timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1163 1927
1164 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1928 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1165 1929
1166The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1930If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1167but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1931update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1168order of execution is undefined. 1932()>.
1933
1934=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1935
1936When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1937can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1938
1939Some quick tests made with a Linux 2.6.28 indicate that a suspend freezes
1940all processes, while the clocks (C<times>, C<CLOCK_MONOTONIC>) continue
1941to run until the system is suspended, but they will not advance while the
1942system is suspended. That means, on resume, it will be as if the program
1943was frozen for a few seconds, but the suspend time will not be counted
1944towards C<ev_timer> when a monotonic clock source is used. The real time
1945clock advanced as expected, but if it is used as sole clocksource, then a
1946long suspend would be detected as a time jump by libev, and timers would
1947be adjusted accordingly.
1948
1949I would not be surprised to see different behaviour in different between
1950operating systems, OS versions or even different hardware.
1951
1952The other form of suspend (job control, or sending a SIGSTOP) will see a
1953time jump in the monotonic clocks and the realtime clock. If the program
1954is suspended for a very long time, and monotonic clock sources are in use,
1955then you can expect C<ev_timer>s to expire as the full suspension time
1956will be counted towards the timers. When no monotonic clock source is in
1957use, then libev will again assume a timejump and adjust accordingly.
1958
1959It might be beneficial for this latter case to call C<ev_suspend>
1960and C<ev_resume> in code that handles C<SIGTSTP>, to at least get
1961deterministic behaviour in this case (you can do nothing against
1962C<SIGSTOP>).
1169 1963
1170=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1964=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1171 1965
1172=over 4 1966=over 4
1173 1967
1174=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1968=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1175 1969
1176=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1970=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1177 1971
1178Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1972Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1179C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1973is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1180timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1974reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1181later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1975configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1976until stopped manually.
1182 1977
1183The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1978The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1184configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1979you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1185exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1980trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1186the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1981keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1187timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1982do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1188 1983
1189=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 1984=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1190 1985
1191This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1986This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1192repeating. The exact semantics are: 1987repeating. The exact semantics are:
1193 1988
1194If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1989If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1195 1990
1196If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1991If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1197 1992
1198If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1993If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1199C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1994C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1200 1995
1201This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1996This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1202example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 1997usage example.
1203timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1204seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1205configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1206C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1207you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1208socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
1209automatically restart it if need be.
1210 1998
1211That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> 1999=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
1212altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
1213 2000
1214 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 2001Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
1215 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 2002then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
1216 ... 2003the timeout value currently configured.
1217 timer->again = 17.;
1218 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1219 ...
1220 timer->again = 10.;
1221 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1222 2004
1223This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time 2005That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
1224you want to modify its timeout value. 2006C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
2007will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
2008roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
2009too), and so on.
1225 2010
1226=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2011=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1227 2012
1228The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 2013The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1229or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 2014or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1230which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 2015which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
1231 2016
1232=back 2017=back
1233 2018
1234=head3 Examples 2019=head3 Examples
1235 2020
1236Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 2021Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1237 2022
1238 static void 2023 static void
1239 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 2024 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1240 { 2025 {
1241 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 2026 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1242 } 2027 }
1243 2028
1244 struct ev_timer mytimer; 2029 ev_timer mytimer;
1245 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 2030 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1246 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 2031 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1247 2032
1248Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 2033Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1249inactivity. 2034inactivity.
1250 2035
1251 static void 2036 static void
1252 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 2037 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1253 { 2038 {
1254 .. ten seconds without any activity 2039 .. ten seconds without any activity
1255 } 2040 }
1256 2041
1257 struct ev_timer mytimer; 2042 ev_timer mytimer;
1258 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2043 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1259 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2044 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1260 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2045 ev_run (loop, 0);
1261 2046
1262 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2047 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1263 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2048 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1264 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2049 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1265 2050
1266 2051
1267=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 2052=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1268 2053
1269Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 2054Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1270(and unfortunately a bit complex). 2055(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1271 2056
1272Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 2057Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or
1273but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 2058relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
1274to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 2059(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calender or clock). The
1275periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 2060difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real
1276+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 2061time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your
1277take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 2062wrist-watch).
1278roughly 10 seconds later).
1279 2063
1280They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 2064You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point
1281triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 2065in time: for example, if you tell a periodic watcher to trigger "in 10
1282rules. 2066seconds" (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now () + 10.>, that is, an absolute time
2067not a delay) and then reset your system clock to January of the previous
2068year, then it will take a year or more to trigger the event (unlike an
2069C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting
2070it, as it uses a relative timeout).
1283 2071
2072C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex
2073timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
2074other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as
2075those cannot react to time jumps.
2076
1284As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 2077As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1285time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 2078point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1286during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 2079timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
2080earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
2081(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1287 2082
1288=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2083=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1289 2084
1290=over 4 2085=over 4
1291 2086
1292=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 2087=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp offset, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1293 2088
1294=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 2089=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp offset, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1295 2090
1296Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 2091Lots of arguments, let's sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1297operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 2092operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex:
1298 2093
1299=over 4 2094=over 4
1300 2095
1301=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 2096=item * absolute timer (offset = absolute time, interval = 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1302 2097
1303In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 2098In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1304C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 2099time C<offset> has passed. It will not repeat and will not adjust when a
1305that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 2100time jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it
1306system time reaches or surpasses this time. 2101will be stopped and invoked when the system clock reaches or surpasses
2102this point in time.
1307 2103
1308=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 2104=item * repeating interval timer (offset = offset within interval, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1309 2105
1310In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 2106In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1311C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 2107C<offset + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be
1312and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 2108negative) and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. The C<offset>
2109argument is merely an offset into the C<interval> periods.
1313 2110
1314This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 2111This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to the
1315time: 2112system clock, for example, here is an C<ev_periodic> that triggers each
2113hour, on the hour (with respect to UTC):
1316 2114
1317 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 2115 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1318 2116
1319This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 2117This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1320but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 2118but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1321full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 2119full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1322by 3600. 2120by 3600.
1323 2121
1324Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 2122Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1325C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 2123C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1326time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 2124time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1327 2125
1328For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 2126For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near
1329C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 2127C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1330this value. 2128this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1331 2129
2130Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
2131speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
2132will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
2133millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
2134
1332=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 2135=item * manual reschedule mode (offset ignored, interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1333 2136
1334In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 2137In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<offset> are both being
1335ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 2138ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1336reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 2139reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1337current time as second argument. 2140current time as second argument.
1338 2141
1339NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 2142NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, ever,
1340ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 2143or make ANY other event loop modifications whatsoever, unless explicitly
1341return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by 2144allowed by documentation here>.
1342starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1343 2145
2146If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
2147it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
2148only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
2149
1344Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 2150The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic
1345ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 2151*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1346 2152
2153 static ev_tstamp
1347 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 2154 my_rescheduler (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1348 { 2155 {
1349 return now + 60.; 2156 return now + 60.;
1350 } 2157 }
1351 2158
1352It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 2159It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1353(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 2160(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1354will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 2161will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1355might be called at other times, too. 2162might be called at other times, too.
1356 2163
1357NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 2164NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1358passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 2165equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1359 2166
1360This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 2167This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1361triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 2168triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1362next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 2169next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1363you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 2170you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1364reason I omitted it as an example). 2171reason I omitted it as an example).
1365 2172
1366=back 2173=back
1370Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 2177Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1371when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 2178when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1372a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 2179a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1373program when the crontabs have changed). 2180program when the crontabs have changed).
1374 2181
2182=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
2183
2184When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed
2185to trigger next. This is not the same as the C<offset> argument to
2186C<ev_periodic_set>, but indeed works even in interval and manual
2187rescheduling modes.
2188
1375=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 2189=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1376 2190
1377When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 2191When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1378absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 2192absolute point in time (the C<offset> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>,
2193although libev might modify this value for better numerical stability).
1379 2194
1380Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic 2195Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1381timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 2196timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1382 2197
1383=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 2198=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1384 2199
1385The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 2200The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1386take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 2201take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1387called. 2202called.
1388 2203
1389=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write] 2204=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1390 2205
1391The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 2206The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1392switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 2207switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1393the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 2208the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1394 2209
1395=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1396
1397When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1398trigger next.
1399
1400=back 2210=back
1401 2211
1402=head3 Examples 2212=head3 Examples
1403 2213
1404Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2214Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1405system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2215system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1406potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 2216potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1407 2217
1408 static void 2218 static void
1409 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 2219 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
1410 { 2220 {
1411 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2221 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1412 } 2222 }
1413 2223
1414 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2224 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1415 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 2225 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1416 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2226 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1417 2227
1418Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 2228Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1419 2229
1420 #include <math.h> 2230 #include <math.h>
1421 2231
1422 static ev_tstamp 2232 static ev_tstamp
1423 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 2233 my_scheduler_cb (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1424 { 2234 {
1425 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 2235 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.));
1426 } 2236 }
1427 2237
1428 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 2238 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1429 2239
1430Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 2240Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1431 2241
1432 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2242 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1433 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 2243 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1434 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 2244 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1435 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2245 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1436 2246
1437 2247
1438=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2248=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1439 2249
1440Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2250Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1441signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2251signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
1442will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2252will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
1443normal event processing, like any other event. 2253normal event processing, like any other event.
1444 2254
2255If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2256C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2257the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2258synchronously wake up an event loop.
2259
1445You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 2260You can configure as many watchers as you like for the same signal, but
2261only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2262default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2263C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2264the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2265
1446first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal watcher 2266When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
1447with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 2267with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
1448as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 2268you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
1449watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1450SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1451 2269
1452If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2270If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1453C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly 2271C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
1454interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by 2272not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
1455signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 2273interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
1456them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2274and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2275
2276=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2277
2278Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2279(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2280stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2281and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2282
2283While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2284sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2285C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2286certain signals to be blocked.
2287
2288This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2289the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2290choice usually).
2291
2292The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2293to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2294catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2295
2296In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2297unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2298the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2299I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2300
2301So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2302you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2303is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
1457 2304
1458=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2305=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1459 2306
1460=over 4 2307=over 4
1461 2308
1472 2319
1473=back 2320=back
1474 2321
1475=head3 Examples 2322=head3 Examples
1476 2323
1477Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 2324Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
1478 2325
1479 static void 2326 static void
1480 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 2327 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
1481 { 2328 {
1482 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2329 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
1483 } 2330 }
1484 2331
1485 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 2332 ev_signal signal_watcher;
1486 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2333 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1487 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 2334 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
1488 2335
1489 2336
1490=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 2337=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1491 2338
1492Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 2339Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1493some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). It 2340some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies or
1494is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 2341exits). It is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child
1495forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 2342has been forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long
1496loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 2343as the event loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher), i.e.,
2344forking and then immediately registering a watcher for the child is fine,
2345but forking and registering a watcher a few event loop iterations later or
2346in the next callback invocation is not.
1497 2347
1498Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 2348Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1499you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 2349you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
2350
2351Due to some design glitches inside libev, child watchers will always be
2352handled at maximum priority (their priority is set to C<EV_MAXPRI> by
2353libev)
1500 2354
1501=head3 Process Interaction 2355=head3 Process Interaction
1502 2356
1503Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 2357Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1504initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 2358initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if the
1505the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 2359first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1506of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 2360of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1507synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 2361synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1508children, even ones not watched. 2362children, even ones not watched.
1509 2363
1510=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 2364=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1514handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for 2368handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1515C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the 2369C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1516default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an 2370default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1517event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for 2371event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1518that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely. 2372that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
2373
2374=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
2375
2376Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
2377child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
2378callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
2379when a child exit is detected (calling C<ev_child_stop> twice is not a
2380problem).
1519 2381
1520=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2382=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1521 2383
1522=over 4 2384=over 4
1523 2385
1552=head3 Examples 2414=head3 Examples
1553 2415
1554Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 2416Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1555its completion. 2417its completion.
1556 2418
1557 ev_child cw; 2419 ev_child cw;
1558 2420
1559 static void 2421 static void
1560 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 2422 child_cb (EV_P_ ev_child *w, int revents)
1561 { 2423 {
1562 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 2424 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1563 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 2425 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1564 } 2426 }
1565 2427
1566 pid_t pid = fork (); 2428 pid_t pid = fork ();
1567 2429
1568 if (pid < 0) 2430 if (pid < 0)
1569 // error 2431 // error
1570 else if (pid == 0) 2432 else if (pid == 0)
1571 { 2433 {
1572 // the forked child executes here 2434 // the forked child executes here
1573 exit (1); 2435 exit (1);
1574 } 2436 }
1575 else 2437 else
1576 { 2438 {
1577 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 2439 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1578 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 2440 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1579 } 2441 }
1580 2442
1581 2443
1582=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2444=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1583 2445
1584This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2446This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1585C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 2447C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
1586compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 2448and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if
2449it did.
1587 2450
1588The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2451The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1589not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 2452not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
1590not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 2453exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
1591otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 2454C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
1592the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 2455least one) and all the other fields of the stat buffer having unspecified
2456contents.
1593 2457
1594The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is 2458The path I<must not> end in a slash or contain special components such as
2459C<.> or C<..>. The path I<should> be absolute: If it is relative and
1595relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined. 2460your working directory changes, then the behaviour is undefined.
1596 2461
1597Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 2462Since there is no portable change notification interface available, the
1598calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 2463portable implementation simply calls C<stat(2)> regularly on the path
1599can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 2464to see if it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling
1600a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 2465interval for this case. If you specify a polling interval of C<0> (highly
1601unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around 2466recommended!) then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used
1602five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also 2467(which you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might
1603impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats 2468change dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is
1604usually overkill. 2469currently around C<0.1>, but that's usually overkill.
1605 2470
1606This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 2471This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1607as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 2472as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1608resource-intensive. 2473resource-intensive.
1609 2474
1610At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 2475At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented
1611implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 2476is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as an
1612reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 2477exercise for the reader. Note, however, that the author sees no way of
1613semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 2478implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue, except as a hint).
1614to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1615usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1616polling.
1617 2479
1618=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 2480=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1619 2481
1620Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 2482Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1621compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally 2483compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1622disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 2484support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1623structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 2485structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1624use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 2486use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1625compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 2487compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1626obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 2488obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1627most noticably with ev_stat and largefile support. 2489most noticeably displayed with ev_stat and large file support.
1628 2490
1629=head3 Inotify 2491The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
2492file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
2493optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
2494to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
2495default compilation environment.
1630 2496
2497=head3 Inotify and Kqueue
2498
1631When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 2499When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev and present at
1632available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 2500runtime, it will be used to speed up change detection where possible. The
1633change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 2501inotify descriptor will be created lazily when the first C<ev_stat>
1634when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 2502watcher is being started.
1635 2503
1636Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 2504Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1637except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 2505except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1638making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 2506making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1639there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 2507there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling,
2508but as long as kernel 2.6.25 or newer is used (2.6.24 and older have too
2509many bugs), the path exists (i.e. stat succeeds), and the path resides on
2510a local filesystem (libev currently assumes only ext2/3, jfs, reiserfs and
2511xfs are fully working) libev usually gets away without polling.
1640 2512
1641(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 2513There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1642implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 2514implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1643descriptor open on the object at all times). 2515descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks
2516etc. is difficult.
2517
2518=head3 C<stat ()> is a synchronous operation
2519
2520Libev doesn't normally do any kind of I/O itself, and so is not blocking
2521the process. The exception are C<ev_stat> watchers - those call C<stat
2522()>, which is a synchronous operation.
2523
2524For local paths, this usually doesn't matter: unless the system is very
2525busy or the intervals between stat's are large, a stat call will be fast,
2526as the path data is usually in memory already (except when starting the
2527watcher).
2528
2529For networked file systems, calling C<stat ()> can block an indefinite
2530time due to network issues, and even under good conditions, a stat call
2531often takes multiple milliseconds.
2532
2533Therefore, it is best to avoid using C<ev_stat> watchers on networked
2534paths, although this is fully supported by libev.
1644 2535
1645=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 2536=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1646 2537
1647The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 2538The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably,
1648even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 2539and even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems
1649only support whole seconds. 2540still only support whole seconds.
1650 2541
1651That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 2542That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1652miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 2543easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1653your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 2544calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1654the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 2545within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect unless the
2546stat data does change in other ways (e.g. file size).
1655 2547
1656The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 2548The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1657the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 2549than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1658(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 2550a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1659is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 2551ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1660systems. 2552
2553The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
2554of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
2555might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
2556C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
2557a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
2558update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
2559the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
2560the timer callback).
1661 2561
1662=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2562=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1663 2563
1664=over 4 2564=over 4
1665 2565
1671C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 2571C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1672be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 2572be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1673a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 2573a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1674path for as long as the watcher is active. 2574path for as long as the watcher is active.
1675 2575
1676The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 2576The callback will receive an C<EV_STAT> event when a change was detected,
1677relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 2577relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the
1678last change was detected). 2578last change was detected).
1679 2579
1680=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 2580=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1681 2581
1682Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 2582Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1683watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 2583watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1684detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 2584detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1685useful simply to find out the new values. 2585the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
2586new values.
1686 2587
1687=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 2588=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1688 2589
1689The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 2590The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1690C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 2591C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1691suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 2592suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
2593members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1692was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 2594some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1693 2595
1694=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 2596=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1695 2597
1696The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 2598The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1697C<prev> != C<attr>. 2599C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
2600differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
2601C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1698 2602
1699=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 2603=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1700 2604
1701The specified interval. 2605The specified interval.
1702 2606
1703=item const char *path [read-only] 2607=item const char *path [read-only]
1704 2608
1705The filesystem path that is being watched. 2609The file system path that is being watched.
1706 2610
1707=back 2611=back
1708 2612
1709=head3 Examples 2613=head3 Examples
1710 2614
1711Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 2615Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1712 2616
1713 static void 2617 static void
1714 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 2618 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1715 { 2619 {
1716 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 2620 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1717 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 2621 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1718 { 2622 {
1719 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 2623 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1720 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 2624 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1721 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 2625 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1722 } 2626 }
1723 else 2627 else
1724 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 2628 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1725 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 2629 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1726 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 2630 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1727 } 2631 }
1728 2632
1729 ... 2633 ...
1730 ev_stat passwd; 2634 ev_stat passwd;
1731 2635
1732 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 2636 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1733 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 2637 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1734 2638
1735Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 2639Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1736miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 2640miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1737one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 2641one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1738C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 2642C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1739 2643
1740 static ev_stat passwd; 2644 static ev_stat passwd;
1741 static ev_timer timer; 2645 static ev_timer timer;
1742 2646
1743 static void 2647 static void
1744 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2648 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1745 { 2649 {
1746 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 2650 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1747 2651
1748 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 2652 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1749 } 2653 }
1750 2654
1751 static void 2655 static void
1752 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 2656 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1753 { 2657 {
1754 /* reset the one-second timer */ 2658 /* reset the one-second timer */
1755 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 2659 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1756 } 2660 }
1757 2661
1758 ... 2662 ...
1759 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 2663 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1760 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 2664 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1761 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 2665 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1762 2666
1763 2667
1764=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 2668=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1765 2669
1766Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 2670Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1767priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not 2671priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count
1768count). 2672as receiving "events").
1769 2673
1770That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts 2674That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1771(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be 2675(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1772triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers 2676triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1773are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop 2677are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1784 2688
1785=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2689=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1786 2690
1787=over 4 2691=over 4
1788 2692
1789=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2693=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
1790 2694
1791Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 2695Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1792kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2696kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1793believe me. 2697believe me.
1794 2698
1797=head3 Examples 2701=head3 Examples
1798 2702
1799Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 2703Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1800callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2704callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1801 2705
1802 static void 2706 static void
1803 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 2707 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
1804 { 2708 {
1805 free (w); 2709 free (w);
1806 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2710 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1807 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2711 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1808 } 2712 }
1809 2713
1810 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 2714 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
1811 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 2715 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1812 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 2716 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
1813 2717
1814 2718
1815=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2719=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1816 2720
1817Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 2721Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
1818prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2722prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
1819afterwards. 2723afterwards.
1820 2724
1821You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2725You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
1822the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2726the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
1823watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2727watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
1824rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2728rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
1825those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2729those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
1826C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2730C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
1827called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 2731called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
1828 2732
1829Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 2733Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
1830their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track 2734their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
1831variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 2735variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
1832coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 2736coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
1833you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example, 2737you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example,
1834in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare> 2738in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare>
1835watcher). 2739watcher).
1836 2740
1837This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 2741This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors
1838to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 2742need to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers
1839them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 2743for them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many
1840provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 2744libraries provide exactly this functionality). Then, in the check watcher,
1841any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 2745you check for any events that occurred (by checking the pending status
1842and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 2746of all watchers and stopping them) and call back into the library. The
1843callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 2747I/O and timer callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid
1844because you never know, you know?). 2748nevertheless, because you never know, you know?).
1845 2749
1846As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 2750As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1847coroutines into libev programs, by yielding to other active coroutines 2751coroutines into libev programs, by yielding to other active coroutines
1848during each prepare and only letting the process block if no coroutines 2752during each prepare and only letting the process block if no coroutines
1849are ready to run (it's actually more complicated: it only runs coroutines 2753are ready to run (it's actually more complicated: it only runs coroutines
1852loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 2756loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1853low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 2757low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1854 2758
1855It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 2759It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1856priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 2760priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
2761after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers).
2762
1857after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 2763Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
1858too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 2764activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
1859supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 2765might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
1860did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 2766C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
1861(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 2767loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
1862state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 2768C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
1863coexist peacefully with others). 2769others).
1864 2770
1865=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2771=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1866 2772
1867=over 4 2773=over 4
1868 2774
1870 2776
1871=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 2777=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1872 2778
1873Initialises and configures the prepare or check watcher - they have no 2779Initialises and configures the prepare or check watcher - they have no
1874parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 2780parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1875macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 2781macros, but using them is utterly, utterly, utterly and completely
2782pointless.
1876 2783
1877=back 2784=back
1878 2785
1879=head3 Examples 2786=head3 Examples
1880 2787
1881There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 2788There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1882into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 2789into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1883(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 2790(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1884use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 2791use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1885embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 2792Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1886into the Glib event loop). 2793Glib event loop).
1887 2794
1888Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 2795Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1889and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 2796and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1890is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 2797is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1891priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 2798priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1892the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 2799the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1893 2800
1894 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 2801 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1895 static ev_timer tw; 2802 static ev_timer tw;
1896 2803
1897 static void 2804 static void
1898 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2805 io_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1899 { 2806 {
1900 } 2807 }
1901 2808
1902 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2809 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1903 static void 2810 static void
1904 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2811 adns_prepare_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1905 { 2812 {
1906 int timeout = 3600000; 2813 int timeout = 3600000;
1907 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2814 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1908 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2815 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1909 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2816 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1910 2817
1911 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 2818 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1912 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2819 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3, 0.);
1913 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2820 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1914 2821
1915 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2822 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1916 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2823 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1917 { 2824 {
1918 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 2825 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1919 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 2826 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1920 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 2827 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1921 2828
1922 fds [i].revents = 0; 2829 fds [i].revents = 0;
1923 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 2830 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1924 } 2831 }
1925 } 2832 }
1926 2833
1927 // stop all watchers after blocking 2834 // stop all watchers after blocking
1928 static void 2835 static void
1929 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2836 adns_check_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1930 { 2837 {
1931 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2838 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1932 2839
1933 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2840 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1934 { 2841 {
1935 // set the relevant poll flags 2842 // set the relevant poll flags
1936 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2843 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1937 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2844 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1938 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2845 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1939 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2846 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1940 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2847 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1941 2848
1942 // now stop the watcher 2849 // now stop the watcher
1943 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2850 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1944 } 2851 }
1945 2852
1946 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2853 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1947 } 2854 }
1948 2855
1949Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2856Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1950in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2857in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1951 2858
1952Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2859Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1953notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2860notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1954callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2861callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1955 2862
1956 static void 2863 static void
1957 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2864 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1958 { 2865 {
1959 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2866 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1960 update_now (EV_A); 2867 update_now (EV_A);
1961 2868
1962 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2869 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1963 } 2870 }
1964 2871
1965 static void 2872 static void
1966 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2873 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1967 { 2874 {
1968 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2875 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1969 update_now (EV_A); 2876 update_now (EV_A);
1970 2877
1971 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2878 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1972 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2879 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1973 } 2880 }
1974 2881
1975 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2882 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1976 2883
1977Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2884Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1978want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2885want to embed is not flexible enough to support it. Instead, you can
1979their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2886override their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the
1980loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2887main loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module uses
1981this. 2888this approach, effectively embedding EV as a client into the horrible
2889libglib event loop.
1982 2890
1983 static gint 2891 static gint
1984 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2892 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1985 { 2893 {
1986 int got_events = 0; 2894 int got_events = 0;
1987 2895
1988 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2896 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1989 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2897 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1990 2898
1991 if (timeout >= 0) 2899 if (timeout >= 0)
1992 // create/start timer 2900 // create/start timer
1993 2901
1994 // poll 2902 // poll
1995 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2903 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
1996 2904
1997 // stop timer again 2905 // stop timer again
1998 if (timeout >= 0) 2906 if (timeout >= 0)
1999 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2907 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2000 2908
2001 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2909 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2002 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2910 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2003 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2911 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2004 2912
2005 return got_events; 2913 return got_events;
2006 } 2914 }
2007 2915
2008 2916
2009=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2917=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
2010 2918
2011This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2919This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2017prioritise I/O. 2925prioritise I/O.
2018 2926
2019As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support 2927As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support
2020sockets on some platform, so it is unusable as generic backend, but you 2928sockets on some platform, so it is unusable as generic backend, but you
2021still want to make use of it because you have many sockets and it scales 2929still want to make use of it because you have many sockets and it scales
2022so nicely. In this case, you would create a kqueue-based loop and embed it 2930so nicely. In this case, you would create a kqueue-based loop and embed
2023into your default loop (which might use e.g. poll). Overall operation will 2931it into your default loop (which might use e.g. poll). Overall operation
2024be a bit slower because first libev has to poll and then call kevent, but 2932will be a bit slower because first libev has to call C<poll> and then
2025at least you can use both at what they are best. 2933C<kevent>, but at least you can use both mechanisms for what they are
2934best: C<kqueue> for scalable sockets and C<poll> if you want it to work :)
2026 2935
2027As for prioritising I/O: rarely you have the case where some fds have 2936As for prioritising I/O: under rare circumstances you have the case where
2028to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency), and even 2937some fds have to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency),
2029priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In this case 2938and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In
2030you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all the rest in 2939this case you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all
2031a second one, and embed the second one in the first. 2940the rest in a second one, and embed the second one in the first.
2032 2941
2033As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every time 2942As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every
2034there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then 2943time there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback
2035call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single sweep and invoke 2944must then call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single
2036their callbacks (you could also start an idle watcher to give the embedded 2945sweep and invoke their callbacks (the callback doesn't need to invoke the
2037loop strictly lower priority for example). You can also set the callback 2946C<ev_embed_sweep> function directly, it could also start an idle watcher
2038to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher will automatically execute the 2947to give the embedded loop strictly lower priority for example).
2039embedded loop sweep.
2040 2948
2041As long as the watcher is started it will automatically handle events. The 2949You can also set the callback to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher
2042callback will be invoked whenever some events have been handled. You can 2950will automatically execute the embedded loop sweep whenever necessary.
2043set the callback to C<0> to avoid having to specify one if you are not
2044interested in that.
2045 2951
2046Also, there have not currently been made special provisions for forking: 2952Fork detection will be handled transparently while the C<ev_embed> watcher
2047when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops, 2953is active, i.e., the embedded loop will automatically be forked when the
2048but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers 2954embedding loop forks. In other cases, the user is responsible for calling
2049yourself. 2955C<ev_loop_fork> on the embedded loop.
2050 2956
2051Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable, only the ones returned by 2957Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by
2052C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any 2958C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any
2053portable one. 2959portable one.
2054 2960
2055So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared 2961So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared
2056that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around 2962that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around
2057this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to 2963this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to
2058create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything. 2964create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything.
2059 2965
2966=head3 C<ev_embed> and fork
2967
2968While the C<ev_embed> watcher is running, forks in the embedding loop will
2969automatically be applied to the embedded loop as well, so no special
2970fork handling is required in that case. When the watcher is not running,
2971however, it is still the task of the libev user to call C<ev_loop_fork ()>
2972as applicable.
2973
2060=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2974=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2061 2975
2062=over 4 2976=over 4
2063 2977
2064=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 2978=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2067 2981
2068Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2982Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2069embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2983embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2070invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2984invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2071to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2985to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2072if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2986if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2073 2987
2074=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2988=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2075 2989
2076Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2990Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2077similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2991similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2078apropriate way for embedded loops. 2992appropriate way for embedded loops.
2079 2993
2080=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2994=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2081 2995
2082The embedded event loop. 2996The embedded event loop.
2083 2997
2085 2999
2086=head3 Examples 3000=head3 Examples
2087 3001
2088Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 3002Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2089event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 3003event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2090loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 3004loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2091C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 3005C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2092used). 3006used).
2093 3007
2094 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 3008 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2095 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 3009 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2096 struct ev_embed embed; 3010 ev_embed embed;
2097 3011
2098 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 3012 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2099 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 3013 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2100 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 3014 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2101 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 3015 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2102 : 0; 3016 : 0;
2103 3017
2104 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 3018 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2105 if (loop_lo) 3019 if (loop_lo)
2106 { 3020 {
2107 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 3021 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2108 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 3022 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2109 } 3023 }
2110 else 3024 else
2111 loop_lo = loop_hi; 3025 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2112 3026
2113Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 3027Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2114a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 3028a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2115kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 3029kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2116C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 3030C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2117 3031
2118 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 3032 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2119 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 3033 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2120 struct ev_embed embed; 3034 ev_embed embed;
2121 3035
2122 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 3036 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2123 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 3037 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2124 { 3038 {
2125 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 3039 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2126 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 3040 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2127 } 3041 }
2128 3042
2129 if (!loop_socket) 3043 if (!loop_socket)
2130 loop_socket = loop; 3044 loop_socket = loop;
2131 3045
2132 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 3046 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2133 3047
2134 3048
2135=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3049=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2136 3050
2137Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3051Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2140event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3054event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
2141and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3055and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
2142C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3056C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2143handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3057handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2144 3058
3059=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3060
3061Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3062up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3063sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
3064
3065This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
3066in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
3067fork.
3068
3069The default mode of operation (for libev, with application help to detect
3070forks) is to duplicate all the state in the child, as would be expected
3071when I<either> the parent I<or> the child process continues.
3072
3073When both processes want to continue using libev, then this is usually the
3074wrong result. In that case, usually one process (typically the parent) is
3075supposed to continue with all watchers in place as before, while the other
3076process typically wants to start fresh, i.e. without any active watchers.
3077
3078The cleanest and most efficient way to achieve that with libev is to
3079simply create a new event loop, which of course will be "empty", and
3080use that for new watchers. This has the advantage of not touching more
3081memory than necessary, and thus avoiding the copy-on-write, and the
3082disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
3083signal watchers).
3084
3085When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
3086other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
3087C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
3088Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
3089watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
3090those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3091signal watchers.
3092
2145=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3093=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2146 3094
2147=over 4 3095=over 4
2148 3096
2149=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3097=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
2153believe me. 3101believe me.
2154 3102
2155=back 3103=back
2156 3104
2157 3105
2158=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3106=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2159 3107
2160In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3108In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2161asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3109asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2162loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3110loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2163 3111
2164Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3112Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2165control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3113for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2166C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3114watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2167can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3115it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2168safe.
2169 3116
2170This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3117This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2171too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3118too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2172(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3119(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2173C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3120C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2178=head3 Queueing 3125=head3 Queueing
2179 3126
2180C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3127C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2181is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3128is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2182multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3129multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2183need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3130need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3131semantics.
2184 3132
2185That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3133That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2186queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your 3134queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2187queue: 3135queue:
2188 3136
2189=over 4 3137=over 4
2190 3138
2191=item queueing from a signal handler context 3139=item queueing from a signal handler context
2192 3140
2193To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 3141To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2194handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 3142handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is
2195some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 3143an example that does that for some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2196 3144
2197 static ev_async mysig; 3145 static ev_async mysig;
2198 3146
2199 static void 3147 static void
2200 sigusr1_handler (void) 3148 sigusr1_handler (void)
2266=over 4 3214=over 4
2267 3215
2268=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback) 3216=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2269 3217
2270Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any 3218Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2271kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3219kind. There is a C<ev_async_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2272believe me. 3220trust me.
2273 3221
2274=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 3222=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2275 3223
2276Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 3224Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2277an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 3225an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2278C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 3226C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or
2279similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 3227similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2280section below on what exactly this means). 3228section below on what exactly this means).
2281 3229
3230Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
3231compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this
3232is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>,
3233reset when the event loop detects that).
3234
2282This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 3235This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop
2283so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 3236iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to
2284calls to C<ev_async_send>. 3237repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop.
2285 3238
2286=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 3239=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2287 3240
2288Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 3241Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2289watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 3242watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2290event loop. 3243event loop.
2291 3244
2292C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When 3245C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2293the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active, 3246the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2294it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very 3247it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2295quickly check wether invoking the loop might be a good idea. 3248quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2296 3249
2297Not that this does I<not> check wether the watcher itself is pending, only 3250Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending,
2298wether it has been requested to make this watcher pending. 3251only whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending: there
3252is a time window between the event loop checking and resetting the async
3253notification, and the callback being invoked.
2299 3254
2300=back 3255=back
2301 3256
2302 3257
2303=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 3258=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2307=over 4 3262=over 4
2308 3263
2309=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback) 3264=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback)
2310 3265
2311This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your 3266This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your
2312callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stop both 3267callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both
2313watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd 3268watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd
2314or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 3269or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2315more watchers yourself. 3270more watchers yourself.
2316 3271
2317If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 3272If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and the
2318is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 3273C<events> argument is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for
2319C<events> set will be craeted and started. 3274the given C<fd> and C<events> set will be created and started.
2320 3275
2321If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3276If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2322started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3277started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2323repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 3278repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
2324dubious value.
2325 3279
2326The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3280The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
2327passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3281passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2328C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3282C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
2329value passed to C<ev_once>: 3283value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3284a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3285events precedence.
2330 3286
3287Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3288
2331 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3289 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2332 { 3290 {
2333 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2334 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2335 else if (revents & EV_READ) 3291 if (revents & EV_READ)
2336 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3292 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3293 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3294 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2337 } 3295 }
2338 3296
2339 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3297 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2340 3298
2341=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2342
2343Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2344had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2345initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2346
2347=item ev_feed_fd_event (ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3299=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
2348 3300
2349Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3301Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2350the given events it. 3302the given events it.
2351 3303
2352=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3304=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
2353 3305
2354Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 3306Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2355loop!). 3307loop!).
2356 3308
2357=back 3309=back
2358 3310
2359 3311
2375 3327
2376=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3328=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2377will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3329will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2378is an ev_pri field. 3330is an ev_pri field.
2379 3331
3332=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3333first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
3334
2380=item * Other members are not supported. 3335=item * Other members are not supported.
2381 3336
2382=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3337=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2383to use the libev header file and library. 3338to use the libev header file and library.
2384 3339
2385=back 3340=back
2386 3341
2387=head1 C++ SUPPORT 3342=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2388 3343
2389Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 3344Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2390you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 3345you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2391the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 3346the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2392 3347
2393To use it, 3348To use it,
2394 3349
2395 #include <ev++.h> 3350 #include <ev++.h>
2396 3351
2397This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 3352This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2398of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 3353of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2399put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 3354put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2400options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 3355options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2434 3389
2435=over 4 3390=over 4
2436 3391
2437=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3392=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
2438 3393
2439=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3394=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
2440 3395
2441=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3396=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
2442 3397
2443The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3398The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
2444with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3399with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
2467your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 3422your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2468thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 3423thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2469 3424
2470Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 3425Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2471 3426
2472 struct myclass 3427 struct myclass
2473 { 3428 {
2474 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3429 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2475 } 3430 }
2476 3431
2477 myclass obj; 3432 myclass obj;
2478 ev::io iow; 3433 ev::io iow;
2479 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3434 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3435
3436=item w->set (object *)
3437
3438This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3439will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3440functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3441the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3442list.
3443
3444The C<operator ()> method prototype must be C<void operator ()(watcher &w,
3445int revents)>.
3446
3447See the method-C<set> above for more details.
3448
3449Example: use a functor object as callback.
3450
3451 struct myfunctor
3452 {
3453 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
3454 {
3455 ...
3456 }
3457 }
3458
3459 myfunctor f;
3460
3461 ev::io w;
3462 w.set (&f);
2480 3463
2481=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 3464=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2482 3465
2483Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 3466Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2484callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 3467callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2486 3469
2487The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>. 3470The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2488 3471
2489See the method-C<set> above for more details. 3472See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2490 3473
2491Example: 3474Example: Use a plain function as callback.
2492 3475
2493 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3476 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2494 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3477 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2495 3478
2496=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3479=item w->set (loop)
2497 3480
2498Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3481Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2499do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3482do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2500 3483
2501=item w->set ([args]) 3484=item w->set ([arguments])
2502 3485
2503Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 3486Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
2504called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3487method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
2505automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3488C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
2506method. 3489when reconfiguring it with this method.
2507 3490
2508=item w->start () 3491=item w->start ()
2509 3492
2510Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3493Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
2511constructor already stores the event loop. 3494constructor already stores the event loop.
2512 3495
3496=item w->start ([arguments])
3497
3498Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3499convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3500the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3501
2513=item w->stop () 3502=item w->stop ()
2514 3503
2515Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3504Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
2516 3505
2517=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3506=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
2529 3518
2530=back 3519=back
2531 3520
2532=back 3521=back
2533 3522
2534Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3523Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
2535the constructor. 3524watchers in the constructor.
2536 3525
2537 class myclass 3526 class myclass
2538 { 3527 {
2539 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3528 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3529 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2540 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3530 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2541 3531
2542 myclass (int fd) 3532 myclass (int fd)
2543 { 3533 {
2544 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3534 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3535 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
2545 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3536 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2546 3537
2547 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3538 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3539 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3540
3541 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
2548 } 3542 }
2549 }; 3543 };
2550 3544
2551 3545
2552=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3546=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2553 3547
2554Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 3548Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2555numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know 3549number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2556any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop 3550any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2557me a note. 3551me a note.
2558 3552
2559=over 4 3553=over 4
2560 3554
2561=item Perl 3555=item Perl
2562 3556
2563The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test 3557The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2564libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 3558libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2565there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 3559there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2566to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 3560to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>, but C<AnyEvent::DNS> is preferred nowadays),
2567C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 3561C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV>
3562and C<EV::Glib>).
2568 3563
2569It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 3564It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2570L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 3565L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2571 3566
3567=item Python
3568
3569Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
3570seems to be quite complete and well-documented.
3571
2572=item Ruby 3572=item Ruby
2573 3573
2574Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 3574Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2575of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 3575of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2576more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 3576more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2577L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 3577L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2578 3578
3579Roger Pack reports that using the link order C<-lws2_32 -lmsvcrt-ruby-190>
3580makes rev work even on mingw.
3581
3582=item Haskell
3583
3584A haskell binding to libev is available at
3585L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3586
2579=item D 3587=item D
2580 3588
2581Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 3589Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2582be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>. 3590be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
3591
3592=item Ocaml
3593
3594Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3595L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3596
3597=item Lua
3598
3599Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3600time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3601L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
2583 3602
2584=back 3603=back
2585 3604
2586 3605
2587=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3606=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2588 3607
2589Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 3608Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2590of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 3609of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2591functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 3610functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2592 3611
2593To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 3612To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2594following macros are defined: 3613following macros are defined:
2599 3618
2600This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 3619This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2601loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3620loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2602C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3621C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2603 3622
2604 ev_unref (EV_A); 3623 ev_unref (EV_A);
2605 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3624 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2606 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3625 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2607 3626
2608It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3627It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2609which is often provided by the following macro. 3628which is often provided by the following macro.
2610 3629
2611=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3630=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2612 3631
2613This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 3632This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2614loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 3633loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2615C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 3634C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2616 3635
2617 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 3636 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2618 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 3637 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2619 3638
2620 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 3639 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2621 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 3640 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2622 3641
2623It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 3642It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2624suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 3643suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2625 3644
2626=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 3645=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2642 3661
2643Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 3662Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2644macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 3663macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2645or not. 3664or not.
2646 3665
2647 static void 3666 static void
2648 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 3667 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2649 { 3668 {
2650 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 3669 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2651 } 3670 }
2652 3671
2653 ev_check check; 3672 ev_check check;
2654 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3673 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2655 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3674 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2656 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3675 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2657 3676
2658=head1 EMBEDDING 3677=head1 EMBEDDING
2659 3678
2660Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3679Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2661applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3680applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2668libev somewhere in your source tree). 3687libev somewhere in your source tree).
2669 3688
2670=head2 FILESETS 3689=head2 FILESETS
2671 3690
2672Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 3691Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2673in your app. 3692in your application.
2674 3693
2675=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 3694=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2676 3695
2677To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 3696To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2678configuration (no autoconf): 3697configuration (no autoconf):
2679 3698
2680 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 3699 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2681 #include "ev.c" 3700 #include "ev.c"
2682 3701
2683This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 3702This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2684single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 3703single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2685it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 3704it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2686done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 3705done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2687where you can put other configuration options): 3706where you can put other configuration options):
2688 3707
2689 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 3708 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2690 #include "ev.h" 3709 #include "ev.h"
2691 3710
2692Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 3711Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2693compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 3712compiler (at least, that's a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2694as a bug). 3713as a bug).
2695 3714
2696You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 3715You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2697in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 3716in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2698 3717
2699 ev.h 3718 ev.h
2700 ev.c 3719 ev.c
2701 ev_vars.h 3720 ev_vars.h
2702 ev_wrap.h 3721 ev_wrap.h
2703 3722
2704 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 3723 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2705 3724
2706 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 3725 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2707 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 3726 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2708 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 3727 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2709 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 3728 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2710 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 3729 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2711 3730
2712F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 3731F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2713to compile this single file. 3732to compile this single file.
2714 3733
2715=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 3734=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2716 3735
2717To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 3736To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2718 3737
2719 #include "event.c" 3738 #include "event.c"
2720 3739
2721in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 3740in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2722 3741
2723 #include "event.h" 3742 #include "event.h"
2724 3743
2725in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 3744in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2726 3745
2727You need the following additional files for this: 3746You need the following additional files for this:
2728 3747
2729 event.h 3748 event.h
2730 event.c 3749 event.c
2731 3750
2732=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 3751=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2733 3752
2734Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 3753Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2735whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 3754whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2736F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 3755F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2737include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 3756include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2738 3757
2739For this of course you need the m4 file: 3758For this of course you need the m4 file:
2740 3759
2741 libev.m4 3760 libev.m4
2742 3761
2743=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3762=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2744 3763
2745Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3764Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2746define before including any of its files. The default in the absense of 3765define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
2747autoconf is noted for every option. 3766the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3767
3768Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3769values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3770to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3771to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3772users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3773settings.
2748 3774
2749=over 4 3775=over 4
2750 3776
3777=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3778
3779Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3780release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3781have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3782
3783You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3784versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3785sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3786from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3787typedef in that case.
3788
3789In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3790and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3791removed completely.
3792
2751=item EV_STANDALONE 3793=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
2752 3794
2753Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3795Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
2754keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3796keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
2755implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3797implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
2756supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3798supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
2757F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3799F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2758 3800
3801In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3802configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3803
2759=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3804=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2760 3805
2761If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3806If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2762monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 3807monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
2763of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 3808use of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this,
2764usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 3809you usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it
2765the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 3810when the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2766to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 3811to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2767function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 3812function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). See also C<EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL>.
2768 3813
2769=item EV_USE_REALTIME 3814=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2770 3815
2771If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3816If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2772realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 3817real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability
2773runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 3818at runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock
2774be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 3819option will be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday>
2775(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 3820by C<clock_get (CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect
2776note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 3821correctness. See the note about libraries in the description of
3822C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. Defaults to the opposite value of
3823C<EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL>.
3824
3825=item EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL
3826
3827If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to use a direct syscall instead
3828of calling the system-provided C<clock_gettime> function. This option
3829exists because on GNU/Linux, C<clock_gettime> is in C<librt>, but C<librt>
3830unconditionally pulls in C<libpthread>, slowing down single-threaded
3831programs needlessly. Using a direct syscall is slightly slower (in
3832theory), because no optimised vdso implementation can be used, but avoids
3833the pthread dependency. Defaults to C<1> on GNU/Linux with glibc 2.x or
3834higher, as it simplifies linking (no need for C<-lrt>).
2777 3835
2778=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 3836=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2779 3837
2780If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 3838If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2781and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 3839and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
27892.7 or newer, otherwise disabled. 38472.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2790 3848
2791=item EV_USE_SELECT 3849=item EV_USE_SELECT
2792 3850
2793If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 3851If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2794C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 3852C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2795other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 3853other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2796will not be compiled in. 3854will not be compiled in.
2797 3855
2798=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 3856=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2799 3857
2800If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 3858If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2801structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 3859structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2802C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 3860C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout
2803exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 3861on exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to
2804low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 3862some low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket
2805allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 3863only allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation,
2806influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 3864configures the maximum size of the C<fd_set>.
2807 3865
2808=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 3866=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET
2809 3867
2810When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that 3868When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that
2811select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but 3869select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but
2813be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3871be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
2814C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3872C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
2815it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3873it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
2816on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3874on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
2817 3875
2818=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3876=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
2819 3877
2820If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3878If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
2821file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3879file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
2822default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3880default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
2823correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3881correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
2824in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3882in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3883
3884=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3885
3886If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3887using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3888their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3889to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3890
3891=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3892
3893If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3894macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3895file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3896the underlying OS handle.
2825 3897
2826=item EV_USE_POLL 3898=item EV_USE_POLL
2827 3899
2828If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3900If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
2829backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3901backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
2856otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 3928otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2857backend for Solaris 10 systems. 3929backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2858 3930
2859=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 3931=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2860 3932
2861reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 3933Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2862 3934
2863=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 3935=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2864 3936
2865If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 3937If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2866interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 3938interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2873access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 3945access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2874type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 3946type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2875that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 3947that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2876as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 3948as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2877 3949
2878In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 3950In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2879(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 3951(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2880 3952
2881=item EV_H 3953=item EV_H (h)
2882 3954
2883The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 3955The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2884undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 3956undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
2885used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 3957used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
2886 3958
2887=item EV_CONFIG_H 3959=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
2888 3960
2889If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 3961If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
2890F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 3962F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
2891C<EV_H>, above. 3963C<EV_H>, above.
2892 3964
2893=item EV_EVENT_H 3965=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
2894 3966
2895Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 3967Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
2896of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 3968of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
2897 3969
2898=item EV_PROTOTYPES 3970=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
2899 3971
2900If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 3972If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
2901prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 3973prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
2902occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 3974occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
2903around libev functions. 3975around libev functions.
2922When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3994When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2923all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3995all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2924and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3996and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2925fine. 3997fine.
2926 3998
2927If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3999If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
2928C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 4000both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2929 4001
2930=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4002=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4003EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4004EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
2931 4005
2932If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4006If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
2933defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4007the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
2934code. 4008is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
2935 4009
2936=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4010=item EV_FEATURES
2937
2938If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2939defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2940code.
2941
2942=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2943
2944If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
2945defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2946
2947=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
2948
2949If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
2950defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2951
2952=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2953
2954If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2955defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2956
2957=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
2958
2959If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
2960defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2961
2962=item EV_MINIMAL
2963 4011
2964If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4012If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2965speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 4013speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
2966some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 4014certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
4015that can be enabled on the platform.
4016
4017A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
4018with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
4019additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4020but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4021backend, use this:
4022
4023 #define EV_FEATURES 0
4024 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
4025 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4026 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4027 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4028
4029The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4030values:
4031
4032=over 4
4033
4034=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4035
4036Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4037
4038Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4039code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4040
4041When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4042gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4043assertions.
4044
4045=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4046
4047Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4048hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4049and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4050runtime.
4051
4052=item C<4> - full API configuration
4053
4054This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4055enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4056
4057=item C<8> - full API
4058
4059This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4060details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4061feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4062
4063=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4064
4065Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4066only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4067embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4068C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4069
4070=item C<32> - enable all backends
4071
4072This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4073least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4074
4075=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4076
4077Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4078default.
4079
4080=back
4081
4082Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4083reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4084code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4085watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4086
4087With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4088when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4089your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4090I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4091
4092=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4093
4094If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4095functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4096somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4097libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4098big.
4099
4100Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4101enabled.
4102
4103=item EV_NSIG
4104
4105The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
4106signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
4107automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
4108specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
4109good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
4110statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
2967 4111
2968=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4112=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2969 4113
2970C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4114C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2971pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4115pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
2972than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4116usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
2973increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4117might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2974 4118
2975=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4119=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2976 4120
2977C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4121C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2978inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4122inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
2979usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4123disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
2980watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4124C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
2981two). 4125power of two).
4126
4127=item EV_USE_4HEAP
4128
4129Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
4130timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
4131to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
4132faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
4133
4134The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4135will be C<0>.
4136
4137=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
4138
4139Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
4140timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
4141the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
4142which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
4143but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
4144noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
4145
4146The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4147will be C<0>.
4148
4149=item EV_VERIFY
4150
4151Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4152be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4153in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4154called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4155called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4156verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4157libev considerably.
4158
4159The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4160will be C<0>.
2982 4161
2983=item EV_COMMON 4162=item EV_COMMON
2984 4163
2985By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4164By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2986this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4165this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
2987members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4166members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2988though, and it must be identical each time. 4167though, and it must be identical each time.
2989 4168
2990For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4169For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2991 4170
2992 #define EV_COMMON \ 4171 #define EV_COMMON \
2993 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 4172 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2994 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 4173 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2995 4174
2996=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 4175=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2997 4176
2998=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 4177=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2999 4178
3004definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for 4183definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
3005their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 4184their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
3006avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 4185avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
3007method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 4186method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
3008 4187
4188=back
4189
3009=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 4190=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
3010 4191
3011If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 4192If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
3012exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 4193exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3013all public symbols, one per line: 4194all public symbols, one per line:
3014 4195
3015 Symbols.ev for libev proper 4196 Symbols.ev for libev proper
3016 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 4197 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
3017 4198
3018This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 4199This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
3019multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 4200multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
3020itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 4201itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
3021 4202
3022A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 4203A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
3023include before including F<ev.h>: 4204include before including F<ev.h>:
3024 4205
3025 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 4206 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
3042file. 4223file.
3043 4224
3044The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4225The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3045that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4226that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3046 4227
3047 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4228 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3048 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4229 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3049 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3050 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4230 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4231 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3051 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4232 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3052 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4233 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4234 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3053 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4235 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3054 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3055 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3056 4236
3057 #include "ev++.h" 4237 #include "ev++.h"
3058 4238
3059And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4239And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3060 4240
3061 #include "ev_cpp.h" 4241 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3062 #include "ev.c" 4242 #include "ev.c"
3063 4243
4244=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES
3064 4245
3065=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES 4246=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3066 4247
3067=head2 THREADS 4248=head3 THREADS
3068 4249
3069Libev itself is completely threadsafe, but it uses no locking. This 4250All libev functions are reentrant and thread-safe unless explicitly
4251documented otherwise, but libev implements no locking itself. This means
3070means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as 4252that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as there
3071only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop 4253are no concurrent calls into any libev function with the same loop
3072parameter. 4254parameter (C<ev_default_*> calls have an implicit default loop parameter,
4255of course): libev guarantees that different event loops share no data
4256structures that need any locking.
3073 4257
3074Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in 4258Or to put it differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done
3075parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be 4259concurrently from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter
3076done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one 4260must be done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as
3077thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex 4261only one thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using
3078per loop). 4262a mutex per loop).
3079 4263
3080If you want to know which design is best for your problem, then I cannot 4264Specifically to support threads (and signal handlers), libev implements
4265so-called C<ev_async> watchers, which allow some limited form of
4266concurrency on the same event loop, namely waking it up "from the
4267outside".
4268
4269If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
4270without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3081help you but by giving some generic advice: 4271help you, but here is some generic advice:
3082 4272
3083=over 4 4273=over 4
3084 4274
3085=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop 4275=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3086in that thread, or create a seperate thread running only the default loop. 4276in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3087 4277
3088This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev 4278This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3089themselves and don't care/know about threading. 4279themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3090 4280
3091=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model. 4281=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3092 4282
3093Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model 4283Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3094exists, but it is always a good start. 4284exists, but it is always a good start.
3095 4285
3096=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one 4286=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3097loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robbin fashion. 4287loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3098 4288
3099Chosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you cna do 4289Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3100better than you currently do :-) 4290better than you currently do :-)
3101 4291
3102=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the 4292=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
4293event loop.
4294
3103event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other 4295C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other threads safely
3104threads safely (or from signal contexts...). 4296(or from signal contexts...).
4297
4298An example use would be to communicate signals or other events that only
4299work in the default loop by registering the signal watcher with the
4300default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
4301watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3105 4302
3106=back 4303=back
3107 4304
4305=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
4306
4307Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4308thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4309created/added/removed.
4310
4311For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4312which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4313languages).
4314
4315The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4316variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4317event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4318
4319First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4320
4321 typedef struct {
4322 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4323 ev_async async_w;
4324 thread_t tid;
4325 cond_t invoke_cv;
4326 } userdata;
4327
4328 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4329 {
4330 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4331 static userdata u;
4332
4333 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4334 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4335
4336 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4337 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4338
4339 // now associate this with the loop
4340 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4341 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4342 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4343
4344 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4345 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4346 }
4347
4348The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4349solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4350that might have been added:
4351
4352 static void
4353 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4354 {
4355 // just used for the side effects
4356 }
4357
4358The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4359protecting the loop data, respectively.
4360
4361 static void
4362 l_release (EV_P)
4363 {
4364 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4365 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4366 }
4367
4368 static void
4369 l_acquire (EV_P)
4370 {
4371 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4372 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4373 }
4374
4375The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4376into C<ev_run>:
4377
4378 void *
4379 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4380 {
4381 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4382
4383 l_acquire (EV_A);
4384 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4385 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4386 l_release (EV_A);
4387
4388 return 0;
4389 }
4390
4391Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4392signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4393writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4394have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4395and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4396watchers is very beneficial):
4397
4398 static void
4399 l_invoke (EV_P)
4400 {
4401 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4402
4403 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4404 {
4405 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4406 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4407 }
4408 }
4409
4410Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4411will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4412thread to continue:
4413
4414 static void
4415 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4416 {
4417 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4418
4419 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4420 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4421 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4422 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4423 }
4424
4425Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4426event loop, you will now have to lock:
4427
4428 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4429 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4430
4431 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4432
4433 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4434 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4435 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4436 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4437
4438Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4439an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4440about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4441watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4442
3108=head2 COROUTINES 4443=head3 COROUTINES
3109 4444
3110Libev is much more accomodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4445Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3111libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different 4446libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3112coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4447coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
3113different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the 4448different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
3114loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 4449the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
3115you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4450that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3116 4451
3117Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local 4452Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3118state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine 4453C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3119switches. 4454they do not call any callbacks.
3120 4455
4456=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3121 4457
3122=head1 COMPLEXITIES 4458Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4459lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
4460scared by this.
3123 4461
3124In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 4462However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3125libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 4463has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3126documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 4464warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
4465targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3127 4466
3128All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be 4467Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3129extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this 4468workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3130happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might 4469maintainable.
3131mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
3132it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
3133 4470
3134=over 4 4471And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4472wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4473seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4474warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4475been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4476such buggy versions.
3135 4477
3136=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 4478While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4479"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4480with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
4481them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
4482warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3137 4483
3138This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
3139there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
3140have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
3141 4484
3142=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 4485=head2 VALGRIND
3143 4486
3144That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them 4487Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3145as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for. 4488highly useful. Unfortunately, valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3146 4489
3147=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1) 4490If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
4491in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3148 4492
3149These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list. 4493 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
4494 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
4495 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3150 4496
3151=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1) 4497Then there is no memory leak, just as memory accounted to global variables
4498is not a memleak - the memory is still being referenced, and didn't leak.
3152 4499
3153=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 4500Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs
4501as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend,
4502although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be
4503confused.
3154 4504
3155These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the 4505Keep in mind that valgrind is a very good tool, but only a tool. Don't
3156correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 4506make it into some kind of religion.
3157have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3158 4507
3159=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 4508If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
4509with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this
4510is a bug in libev (best check the archives, too :). However, don't be
4511annoyed when you get a brisk "this is no bug" answer and take the chance
4512of learning how to interpret valgrind properly.
3160 4513
3161By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 4514If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3162beginning of the storage array. 4515I suggest using suppression lists.
3163 4516
3164=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3165 4517
3166A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 4518=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
3167libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3168on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3169 4519
3170=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 4520=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
3171 4521
3172=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 4522GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4523interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
3173 4524
3174Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each 4525That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
3175priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to 4526files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
3176linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
3177watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. priority handling.
3178 4527
3179=item Sending an ev_async: O(1) 4528Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4529by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4530standard libev compiled for their system.
3180 4531
3181=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 4532Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4533suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4534i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
3182 4535
3183=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 4536=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
3184 4537
3185Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 4538The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
3186calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 4539you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
3187involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4540OpenGL drivers.
3188 4541
3189=back 4542=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
3190 4543
4544The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4545only sockets, many support pipes.
3191 4546
3192=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 4547Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4548rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4549loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4550probably going to work well.
4551
4552=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4553
4554Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4555implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4556release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4557
4558Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4559this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4560a loop.
4561
4562=head3 C<select> is buggy
4563
4564All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4565one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4566descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4567you use more.
4568
4569There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4570C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4571work on OS/X.
4572
4573=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4574
4575=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4576
4577The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4578thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4579without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4580defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4581
4582If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4583it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4584
4585=head3 Event port backend
4586
4587The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4588ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4589releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4590a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4591and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4592are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4593great.
4594
4595If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4596the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4597C<select> backends.
4598
4599=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4600
4601AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4602this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4603compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4604with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4605
4606=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4607
4608=head3 General issues
3193 4609
3194Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4610Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3195requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4611requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3196model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4612model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3197the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4613the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3198descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4614descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3199e.g. cygwin. 4615e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4616as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4617environment.
4618
4619Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4620re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4621then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4622also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3200 4623
3201There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4624There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3202embedding it into other applications. 4625embedding it into other applications.
3203 4626
4627Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4628tries its best, but under most conditions, signals will simply not work.
4629
4630Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
4631accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
4632either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
4633so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
4634megabyte seems safe, but this apparently depends on the amount of memory
4635available).
4636
3204Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 4637Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3205abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 4638the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3206recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 4639is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3207a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 4640more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3208implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 4641different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3209be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 4642notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
4643(due to Microsoft monopoly games).
3210 4644
3211=over 4 4645A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
4646section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
4647of F<ev.h>:
3212 4648
4649 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
4650 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
4651
4652 #include "ev.h"
4653
4654And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
4655you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4656
4657 #include "evwrap.h"
4658 #include "ev.c"
4659
3213=item The winsocket select function 4660=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
3214 4661
3215The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 4662The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3216socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 4663requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3217very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 4664also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3218to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 4665requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3219C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 4666C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3220symbols for more info. 4667discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
4668C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3221 4669
3222The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 4670The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3223libraries and raw winsocket select is: 4671libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3224 4672
3225 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 4673 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3226 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4674 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3227 4675
3228Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4676Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3229complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4677complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3230 4678
3231=item Limited number of file descriptors 4679=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
3232 4680
3233Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 4681Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3234of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 4682
4683Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3235(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 4684of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3236C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 4685can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3237chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 4686recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
4687previous thread in each. Sounds great!).
3238 4688
3239Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 4689Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3240to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 4690to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3241call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 4691call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl and many
3242select emulation on windows). 4692other interpreters do their own select emulation on windows).
3243 4693
3244Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 4694Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3245libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 4695libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64>
3246or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 4696fetish or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this
3247C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 4697by calling C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048>
3248arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 4698(another arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft
3249libraries.
3250
3251This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 4699runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
3252windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 4700(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
3253wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 4701you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
3254calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4702the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4703
4704=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4705
4706In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4707backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4708
4709=over 4
4710
4711=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
4712calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
4713
4714Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4715structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4716assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4717callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4718calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4719
4720=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4721
4722The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4723C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4724threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
4725believed to be sufficiently portable.
4726
4727=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
4728
4729Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
4730allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
4731pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
4732thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
4733be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
4734C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
4735
4736The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
4737except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
4738well.
4739
4740=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
4741
4742To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
4743instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
4744systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but is still at
4745least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of millions of
4746watchers.
4747
4748=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4749
4750The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4751have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4752good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4753(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4754implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4755IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
3255 4756
3256=back 4757=back
3257 4758
4759If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4760
4761
4762=head1 ALGORITHMIC COMPLEXITIES
4763
4764In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
4765libev will be documented. For complexity discussions about backends see
4766the documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
4767
4768All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
4769extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
4770happens asymptotically rarer with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
4771mean that libev does a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on
4772average it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
4773
4774=over 4
4775
4776=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
4777
4778This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
4779there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that, then inserting will
4780have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
4781
4782=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
4783
4784That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them,
4785as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
4786
4787=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1)
4788
4789These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
4790
4791=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
4792
4793=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
4794
4795These watchers are stored in lists, so they need to be walked to find the
4796correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
4797have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal: one is typical, two
4798is rare).
4799
4800=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
4801
4802By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
4803fixed position in the storage array.
4804
4805=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
4806
4807A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
4808libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
4809on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
4810
4811=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
4812
4813=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
4814
4815Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
4816priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
4817linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
4818watchers becomes O(1) with respect to priority handling.
4819
4820=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
4821
4822=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
4823
4824=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
4825
4826Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
4827calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
4828involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4829
4830=back
4831
4832
4833=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4834
4835The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API.
4836
4837At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial
4838compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be
4839removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late.
4840
4841=over 4
4842
4843=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4844
4845These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4846
4847 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT);
4848 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4849
4850=item function/symbol renames
4851
4852A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4853
4854 ev_loop => ev_run
4855 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4856 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4857
4858 ev_unloop => ev_break
4859 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4860 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4861 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4862
4863 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4864
4865 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4866 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4867 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4868
4869Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4870C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4871associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4872ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4873as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4874C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4875typedef.
4876
4877=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4878
4879The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4880C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4881section.
4882
4883=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4884
4885The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4886mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4887and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4888
4889=back
4890
4891
4892=head1 GLOSSARY
4893
4894=over 4
4895
4896=item active
4897
4898A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4899See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4900
4901=item application
4902
4903In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4904
4905=item backend
4906
4907The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4908
4909=item callback
4910
4911The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4912detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4913received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4914
4915=item callback/watcher invocation
4916
4917The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4918
4919=item event
4920
4921A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4922for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4923any other events happening anymore.
4924
4925In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4926C<EV_TIMER>).
4927
4928=item event library
4929
4930A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4931
4932=item event loop
4933
4934An entity that handles and processes external events and converts them
4935into callback invocations.
4936
4937=item event model
4938
4939The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4940watchers and events.
4941
4942=item pending
4943
4944A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4945detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4946
4947=item real time
4948
4949The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4950
4951=item wall-clock time
4952
4953The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
4954be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your
4955clock.
4956
4957=item watcher
4958
4959A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4960to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4961
4962=back
3258 4963
3259=head1 AUTHOR 4964=head1 AUTHOR
3260 4965
3261Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 4966Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson.
3262 4967

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