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Revision 1.158 by root, Wed May 21 12:51:38 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.168 by root, Mon Jun 9 14:31:36 2008 UTC

2 2
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required 11 // a single header file is required
12 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
13 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct 14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type> 15 // with the name ev_<type>
16 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
17 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
18 18
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature 19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin 20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
21 static void 21 static void
22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
23 { 23 {
24 puts ("stdin ready"); 24 puts ("stdin ready");
25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
26 // with its corresponding stop function. 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28 28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
31 } 31 }
32 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out 33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
34 static void 34 static void
35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
36 { 36 {
37 puts ("timeout"); 37 puts ("timeout");
38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
40 } 40 }
41 41
42 int 42 int
43 main (void) 43 main (void)
44 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
47 47
48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
52 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it 53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
57 57
58 // now wait for events to arrive 58 // now wait for events to arrive
59 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
60 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit 61 // unloop was called, so exit
62 return 0; 62 return 0;
63 } 63 }
64 64
65=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
66 66
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted 67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first 68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
118it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name 118it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name
119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
120throughout libev. 120throughout libev.
121
122=head1 ERROR HANDLING
123
124Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
125and internal errors (bugs).
126
127When libev catches an operating system error it cannot handle (for example
128a system call indicating a condition libev cannot fix), it calls the callback
129set via C<ev_set_syserr_cb>, which is supposed to fix the problem or
130abort. The default is to print a diagnostic message and to call C<abort
131()>.
132
133When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then
134it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism,
135so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in
136the libev caller and need to be fixed there.
137
138Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions, and also has
139extensive consistency checking code. These do not trigger under normal
140circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev or worse.
141
121 142
122=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 143=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
123 144
124These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 145These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
125library in any way. 146library in any way.
134 155
135=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 156=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
136 157
137Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 158Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
138either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 159either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
139this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>. 160this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
140 161
141=item int ev_version_major () 162=item int ev_version_major ()
142 163
143=item int ev_version_minor () 164=item int ev_version_minor ()
144 165
157not a problem. 178not a problem.
158 179
159Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
160version. 181version.
161 182
162 assert (("libev version mismatch", 183 assert (("libev version mismatch",
163 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
164 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
165 186
166=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
167 188
168Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*> 189Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*>
169value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
171a description of the set values. 192a description of the set values.
172 193
173Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and 194Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and
174a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11 195a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11
175 196
176 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
177 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
178 199
179=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
180 201
181Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 202Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also
182recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one
183returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 204returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on
184most BSDs and will not be autodetected unless you explicitly request it 205most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it
185(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 206(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that
186libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 207libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
187 208
188=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 209=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
189 210
231 ... 252 ...
232 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
233 254
234=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg));
235 256
236Set the callback function to call on a retryable syscall error (such 257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
237as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
238indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
239callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 260callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
240matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 261matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
241requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 262requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
242(such as abort). 263(such as abort).
243 264
244Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too. 265Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
277from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
278as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway). 299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
279 300
280The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
281C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
282for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your app you can either 303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
283create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
284can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
285C<ev_default_init>. 306C<ev_default_init>.
286 307
287The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
296The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right 317The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right
297thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
298 319
299=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
300 321
301If this flag bit is ored into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 322If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
302or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
303C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
304override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 325override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
305useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 326useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
306around bugs. 327around bugs.
313 334
314This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
315and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 336and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
316iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
317GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 338GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
318without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 339without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
319C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
320 341
321The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 342The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
322forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
323flag. 344flag.
324 345
325This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 346This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
326environment variable. 347environment variable.
327 348
328=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
329 350
330This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
332but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 353but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
333using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its 354using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
334usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
335 356
336To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of 357To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
337parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
338writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many 359writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
339connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
340a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of 361a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
341readiness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
342 363
354For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 375For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
355but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
356like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 377like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
357epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number 378epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
358of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
359cases and requiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad 380cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad
360support for dup. 381support for dup.
361 382
362While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 383While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
363will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 384will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such incident
364(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 385(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
365best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work 386best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
366very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
367 388
368Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
371 392
372Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
373watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e. 394watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e.
374keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
375 396
376While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
377all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
378 399
379=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
380 401
381Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
382was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 403was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
383with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
384it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
385unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
386C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 407C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
387system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
388 409
389You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 410You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
391the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
392 413
393It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 414It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
394kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
395course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
396cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 417cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
397two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 418two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
398drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
399 420
400This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
401 422
416=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
417 438
418This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 439This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
419it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 440it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
420 441
421Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
422notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 443notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
423blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
424 445
425While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
426file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
439 460
440It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
441 462
442=back 463=back
443 464
444If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 465If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these
445backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
446specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
447 468
448The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
449 470
450 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
451 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
452 473
453Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
454environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
455 476
456 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
457 478
458Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if 479Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if
459available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
460event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds): 481event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds):
461 482
462 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
463 484
464=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
465 486
466Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 487Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
467always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
472libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the 493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
473default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread. 494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
474 495
475Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 496Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
476 497
477 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
478 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
479 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
480 501
481=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
482 503
483Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
484etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 505etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
485sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 506sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
486responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
487calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
488the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 509the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
489for example). 510for example).
490 511
491Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by 512Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
572A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 593A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
573those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 594those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in
574case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 595case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop.
575 596
576A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 597A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
577neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
578your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 599your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after
579one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 600one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some
580external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
581libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 602libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
582usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 603usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
643respectively). 664respectively).
644 665
645Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 666Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
646running when nothing else is active. 667running when nothing else is active.
647 668
648 struct ev_signal exitsig; 669 struct ev_signal exitsig;
649 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 670 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
650 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 671 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
651 evf_unref (loop); 672 evf_unref (loop);
652 673
653Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 674Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
654 675
655 ev_ref (loop); 676 ev_ref (loop);
656 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 677 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
657 678
658=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 679=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
659 680
660=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 681=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
661 682
683to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 704to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
684latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 705latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
685will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 706will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
686any overhead in libev. 707any overhead in libev.
687 708
688Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 709Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
689interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 710interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
690interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 711interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
691usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 712usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
692as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems. 713as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
714
715=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
716
717This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
718compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks
719them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print
720an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>.
721
722This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
723circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
724data structures consistent.
693 725
694=back 726=back
695 727
696 728
697=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 729=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
698 730
699A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 731A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
700interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 732interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
701become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 733become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
702 734
703 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 735 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
704 { 736 {
705 ev_io_stop (w); 737 ev_io_stop (w);
706 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 738 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
707 } 739 }
708 740
709 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 741 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
710 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 742 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
711 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 743 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
712 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 744 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
713 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 745 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
714 ev_loop (loop, 0); 746 ev_loop (loop, 0);
715 747
716As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 748As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
717watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 749watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
718although this can sometimes be quite valid). 750although this can sometimes be quite valid).
719 751
720Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 752Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
721(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 753(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
722callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 754callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
723watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 755watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
724is readable and/or writable). 756is readable and/or writable).
725 757
726Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 758Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
727with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 759with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
803 835
804The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 836The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
805 837
806=item C<EV_ERROR> 838=item C<EV_ERROR>
807 839
808An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 840An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
809happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 841happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
810ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 842ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
811problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 843problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
812with the watcher being stopped. 844with the watcher being stopped.
813 845
814Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 846Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
815for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 847for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if
816your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 848your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
817with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 849with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
818programs, though, so beware. 850programs, though, so beware.
819 851
820=back 852=back
821 853
822=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 854=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
852Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 884Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
853(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 885(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
854 886
855=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 887=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
856 888
857This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 889This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
858calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 890calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
859a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 891a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
860 892
861=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 893=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
862 894
863Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 895Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
946to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 978to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
947don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 979don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
948member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 980member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
949data: 981data:
950 982
951 struct my_io 983 struct my_io
952 { 984 {
953 struct ev_io io; 985 struct ev_io io;
954 int otherfd; 986 int otherfd;
955 void *somedata; 987 void *somedata;
956 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 988 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
957 } 989 }
958 990
959And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 991And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
960can cast it back to your own type: 992can cast it back to your own type:
961 993
962 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 994 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
963 { 995 {
964 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 996 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
965 ... 997 ...
966 } 998 }
967 999
968More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1000More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
969instead have been omitted. 1001instead have been omitted.
970 1002
971Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1003Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
972watchers: 1004watchers:
973 1005
974 struct my_biggy 1006 struct my_biggy
975 { 1007 {
976 int some_data; 1008 int some_data;
977 ev_timer t1; 1009 ev_timer t1;
978 ev_timer t2; 1010 ev_timer t2;
979 } 1011 }
980 1012
981In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1013In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
982you need to use C<offsetof>: 1014you need to use C<offsetof>:
983 1015
984 #include <stddef.h> 1016 #include <stddef.h>
985 1017
986 static void 1018 static void
987 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1019 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
988 { 1020 {
989 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1021 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
990 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1022 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
991 } 1023 }
992 1024
993 static void 1025 static void
994 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1026 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
995 { 1027 {
996 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1028 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
997 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1029 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
998 } 1030 }
999 1031
1000 1032
1001=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1033=head1 WATCHER TYPES
1002 1034
1003This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1035This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1035 1067
1036Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1068Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1037receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1069receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1038be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1070be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1039because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1071because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1040lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1072lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1041this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1073this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1042it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1074it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1043C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1075C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1044 1076
1045If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1077If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
1046play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1078play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test
1047whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1079whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
1048such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1080such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
1049its own, so its quite safe to use). 1081its own, so its quite safe to use).
1050 1082
1051=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1083=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1111=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1143=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1112 1144
1113=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1145=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1114 1146
1115Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1147Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1116rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1148receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1117C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1149C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1118 1150
1119=item int fd [read-only] 1151=item int fd [read-only]
1120 1152
1121The file descriptor being watched. 1153The file descriptor being watched.
1130 1162
1131Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1163Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1132readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1164readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1133attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1165attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1134 1166
1135 static void 1167 static void
1136 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1168 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1137 { 1169 {
1138 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1170 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1139 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1171 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1140 } 1172 }
1141 1173
1142 ... 1174 ...
1143 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1175 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1144 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1176 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1145 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1177 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1146 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1178 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1147 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1179 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1148 1180
1149 1181
1150=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1182=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1151 1183
1152Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1184Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1153given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1185given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1154 1186
1155The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1187The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1156times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to january last 1188times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1157year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1189year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1158detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1190detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1159monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1191monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1160 1192
1161The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1193The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1164you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1196you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout
1165on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1197on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1166 1198
1167 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1199 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1168 1200
1169The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed, 1201The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1170but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1202but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1171order of execution is undefined. 1203order of execution is undefined.
1172 1204
1173=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1205=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1174 1206
1195This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1227This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1196repeating. The exact semantics are: 1228repeating. The exact semantics are:
1197 1229
1198If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1230If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1199 1231
1200If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1232If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1201 1233
1202If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1234If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1203C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1235C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1204 1236
1205This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1237This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1206example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 1238example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle
1207timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 1239timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1208seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 1240seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1209configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call 1241configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1210C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1242C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1211you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1243you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1237 1269
1238=head3 Examples 1270=head3 Examples
1239 1271
1240Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1272Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1241 1273
1242 static void 1274 static void
1243 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1275 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1244 { 1276 {
1245 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1277 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1246 } 1278 }
1247 1279
1248 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1280 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1249 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1281 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1250 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1282 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1251 1283
1252Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1284Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1253inactivity. 1285inactivity.
1254 1286
1255 static void 1287 static void
1256 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1288 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1257 { 1289 {
1258 .. ten seconds without any activity 1290 .. ten seconds without any activity
1259 } 1291 }
1260 1292
1261 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1293 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1262 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1294 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1263 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1295 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1264 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1296 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1265 1297
1266 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1298 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1267 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1299 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1268 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1300 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1269 1301
1270 1302
1271=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1303=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1272 1304
1273Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1305Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1274(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1306(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1275 1307
1276Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1308Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
1277but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1309but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1278to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1310to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1279periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1311periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1280+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system 1312+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1281clock to january of the previous year, then it will take more than year 1313clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
1282to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger 1314to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1283roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout). 1315roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1284 1316
1285C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, 1317C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1286such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other 1318such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1287complicated, rules. 1319complicated, rules.
1288 1320
1289As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1321As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1290time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1322time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1291during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1323during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1292 1324
1293=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1325=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1294 1326
1303 1335
1304=over 4 1336=over 4
1305 1337
1306=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1338=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1307 1339
1308In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wallclock 1340In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1309time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time 1341time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1310jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will 1342jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1311run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1343run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1312 1344
1313=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1345=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1321the hour: 1353the hour:
1322 1354
1323 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1355 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1324 1356
1325This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1357This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1326but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1358but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1327full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1359full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1328by 3600. 1360by 3600.
1329 1361
1330Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1362Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1331C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1363C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1333 1365
1334For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1366For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1335C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 1367C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1336this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 1368this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1337 1369
1338Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (cpu 1370Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1339speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 1371speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1340will of course detoriate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 1372will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1341millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 1373millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1342 1374
1343=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1375=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1344 1376
1345In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1377In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1414 1446
1415=head3 Examples 1447=head3 Examples
1416 1448
1417Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1449Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1418system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1450system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1419potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1451potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1420 1452
1421 static void 1453 static void
1422 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1454 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1423 { 1455 {
1424 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1456 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1425 } 1457 }
1426 1458
1427 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1459 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1428 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1460 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1429 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1461 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1430 1462
1431Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1463Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1432 1464
1433 #include <math.h> 1465 #include <math.h>
1434 1466
1435 static ev_tstamp 1467 static ev_tstamp
1436 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1468 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1437 { 1469 {
1438 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1470 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1439 } 1471 }
1440 1472
1441 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1473 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1442 1474
1443Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1475Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1444 1476
1445 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1477 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1446 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1478 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1447 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1479 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1448 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1480 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1449 1481
1450 1482
1451=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1483=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1452 1484
1453Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1485Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1461as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1493as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1462watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1494watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1463SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1495SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1464 1496
1465If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 1497If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1466C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so syscalls should not be unduly 1498C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1467interrupted. If you have a problem with syscalls getting interrupted by 1499interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1468signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 1500signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1469them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 1501them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1470 1502
1471=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1503=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1472 1504
1487 1519
1488=head3 Examples 1520=head3 Examples
1489 1521
1490Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1522Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1491 1523
1492 static void 1524 static void
1493 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1525 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1494 { 1526 {
1495 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1527 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1496 } 1528 }
1497 1529
1498 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1530 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1499 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1531 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1500 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1532 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1501 1533
1502 1534
1503=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1535=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1504 1536
1505Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1537Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1507is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1539is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1508forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 1540forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1509loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1541loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1510 1542
1511Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1543Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1512you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 1544you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1513 1545
1514=head3 Process Interaction 1546=head3 Process Interaction
1515 1547
1516Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 1548Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1517initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 1549initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1518the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 1550the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1519of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 1551of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1520synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 1552synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1521children, even ones not watched. 1553children, even ones not watched.
1522 1554
1523=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 1555=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1565=head3 Examples 1597=head3 Examples
1566 1598
1567Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1599Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1568its completion. 1600its completion.
1569 1601
1570 ev_child cw; 1602 ev_child cw;
1571 1603
1572 static void 1604 static void
1573 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1605 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1574 { 1606 {
1575 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1607 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1576 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1608 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1577 } 1609 }
1578 1610
1579 pid_t pid = fork (); 1611 pid_t pid = fork ();
1580 1612
1581 if (pid < 0) 1613 if (pid < 0)
1582 // error 1614 // error
1583 else if (pid == 0) 1615 else if (pid == 0)
1584 { 1616 {
1585 // the forked child executes here 1617 // the forked child executes here
1586 exit (1); 1618 exit (1);
1587 } 1619 }
1588 else 1620 else
1589 { 1621 {
1590 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1622 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1591 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1623 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1592 } 1624 }
1593 1625
1594 1626
1595=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1627=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1596 1628
1597This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1629This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1598C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1630C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1599compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1631compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1600 1632
1601The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1633The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1602not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1634not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1636disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 1668disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1637structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 1669structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1638use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 1670use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1639compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 1671compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1640obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 1672obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1641most noticably with ev_stat and largefile support. 1673most noticeably with ev_stat and large file support.
1642 1674
1643=head3 Inotify 1675=head3 Inotify
1644 1676
1645When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1677When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1646available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1678available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1656implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1688implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1657descriptor open on the object at all times). 1689descriptor open on the object at all times).
1658 1690
1659=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1691=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1660 1692
1661The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1693The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1662even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1694even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1663only support whole seconds. 1695only support whole seconds.
1664 1696
1665That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can 1697That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1666easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and 1698easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1667calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update 1699calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1727 1759
1728The specified interval. 1760The specified interval.
1729 1761
1730=item const char *path [read-only] 1762=item const char *path [read-only]
1731 1763
1732The filesystem path that is being watched. 1764The file system path that is being watched.
1733 1765
1734=back 1766=back
1735 1767
1736=head3 Examples 1768=head3 Examples
1737 1769
1738Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1770Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1739 1771
1740 static void 1772 static void
1741 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1773 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1742 { 1774 {
1743 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1775 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1744 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1776 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1745 { 1777 {
1746 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1778 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1747 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1779 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1748 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1780 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1749 } 1781 }
1750 else 1782 else
1751 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1783 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1752 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1784 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1753 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1785 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1754 } 1786 }
1755 1787
1756 ... 1788 ...
1757 ev_stat passwd; 1789 ev_stat passwd;
1758 1790
1759 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1791 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1760 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1792 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1761 1793
1762Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1794Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1763miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1795miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1764one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1796one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1765C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1797C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1766 1798
1767 static ev_stat passwd; 1799 static ev_stat passwd;
1768 static ev_timer timer; 1800 static ev_timer timer;
1769 1801
1770 static void 1802 static void
1771 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1803 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1772 { 1804 {
1773 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1805 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1774 1806
1775 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1807 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1776 } 1808 }
1777 1809
1778 static void 1810 static void
1779 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1811 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1780 { 1812 {
1781 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1813 /* reset the one-second timer */
1782 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1814 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1783 } 1815 }
1784 1816
1785 ... 1817 ...
1786 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1818 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1787 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1819 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1788 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02); 1820 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1789 1821
1790 1822
1791=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1823=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1792 1824
1793Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1825Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1824=head3 Examples 1856=head3 Examples
1825 1857
1826Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1858Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1827callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1859callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1828 1860
1829 static void 1861 static void
1830 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1862 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1831 { 1863 {
1832 free (w); 1864 free (w);
1833 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1865 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1834 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1866 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1835 } 1867 }
1836 1868
1837 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1869 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1838 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1870 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1839 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1871 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1840 1872
1841 1873
1842=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1874=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1843 1875
1844Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1876Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1863 1895
1864This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1896This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1865to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1897to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1866them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1898them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1867provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1899provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1868any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1900any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1869and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1901and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1870callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1902callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1871because you never know, you know?). 1903because you never know, you know?).
1872 1904
1873As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1905As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1916and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 1948and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1917is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 1949is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1918priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 1950priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1919the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 1951the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1920 1952
1921 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1953 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1922 static ev_timer tw; 1954 static ev_timer tw;
1923 1955
1924 static void 1956 static void
1925 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1957 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1926 { 1958 {
1927 } 1959 }
1928 1960
1929 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1961 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1930 static void 1962 static void
1931 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1963 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1932 { 1964 {
1933 int timeout = 3600000; 1965 int timeout = 3600000;
1934 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1966 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1935 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1967 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1936 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1968 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1937 1969
1938 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1970 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1939 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1971 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1940 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1972 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1941 1973
1942 // create one ev_io per pollfd 1974 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1943 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1975 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1944 { 1976 {
1945 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1977 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1946 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1978 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1947 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1979 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1948 1980
1949 fds [i].revents = 0; 1981 fds [i].revents = 0;
1950 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1982 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1951 } 1983 }
1952 } 1984 }
1953 1985
1954 // stop all watchers after blocking 1986 // stop all watchers after blocking
1955 static void 1987 static void
1956 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1988 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1957 { 1989 {
1958 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1990 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1959 1991
1960 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1992 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1961 { 1993 {
1962 // set the relevant poll flags 1994 // set the relevant poll flags
1963 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 1995 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1964 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 1996 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1965 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 1997 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1966 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 1998 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1967 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 1999 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1968 2000
1969 // now stop the watcher 2001 // now stop the watcher
1970 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2002 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1971 } 2003 }
1972 2004
1973 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2005 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1974 } 2006 }
1975 2007
1976Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2008Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1977in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2009in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1978 2010
1979Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2011Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1980notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2012notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1981callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2013callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1982 2014
1983 static void 2015 static void
1984 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2016 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1985 { 2017 {
1986 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2018 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1987 update_now (EV_A); 2019 update_now (EV_A);
1988 2020
1989 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2021 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1990 } 2022 }
1991 2023
1992 static void 2024 static void
1993 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2025 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1994 { 2026 {
1995 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2027 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1996 update_now (EV_A); 2028 update_now (EV_A);
1997 2029
1998 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2030 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1999 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2031 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
2000 } 2032 }
2001 2033
2002 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2034 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
2003 2035
2004Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2036Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
2005want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2037want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
2006their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2038their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
2007loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2039loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
2008this. 2040this.
2009 2041
2010 static gint 2042 static gint
2011 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2043 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
2012 { 2044 {
2013 int got_events = 0; 2045 int got_events = 0;
2014 2046
2015 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2047 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2016 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2048 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
2017 2049
2018 if (timeout >= 0) 2050 if (timeout >= 0)
2019 // create/start timer 2051 // create/start timer
2020 2052
2021 // poll 2053 // poll
2022 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2054 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2023 2055
2024 // stop timer again 2056 // stop timer again
2025 if (timeout >= 0) 2057 if (timeout >= 0)
2026 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2058 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2027 2059
2028 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2060 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2029 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2061 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2030 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2062 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2031 2063
2032 return got_events; 2064 return got_events;
2033 } 2065 }
2034 2066
2035 2067
2036=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2068=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
2037 2069
2038This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2070This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2094 2126
2095Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2127Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2096embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2128embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2097invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2129invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2098to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2130to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2099if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2131if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2100 2132
2101=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2133=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2102 2134
2103Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2135Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2104similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2136similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2105apropriate way for embedded loops. 2137appropriate way for embedded loops.
2106 2138
2107=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2139=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2108 2140
2109The embedded event loop. 2141The embedded event loop.
2110 2142
2112 2144
2113=head3 Examples 2145=head3 Examples
2114 2146
2115Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 2147Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2116event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2148event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2117loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 2149loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2118C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 2150C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2119used). 2151used).
2120 2152
2121 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2153 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2122 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2154 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2123 struct ev_embed embed; 2155 struct ev_embed embed;
2124 2156
2125 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2157 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2126 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2158 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2127 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2159 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2128 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2160 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2129 : 0; 2161 : 0;
2130 2162
2131 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2163 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2132 if (loop_lo) 2164 if (loop_lo)
2133 { 2165 {
2134 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2166 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2135 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2167 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2136 } 2168 }
2137 else 2169 else
2138 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2170 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2139 2171
2140Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2172Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2141a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2173a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2142kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2174kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2143C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2175C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2144 2176
2145 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2177 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2146 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2178 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2147 struct ev_embed embed; 2179 struct ev_embed embed;
2148 2180
2149 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2181 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2150 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2182 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2151 { 2183 {
2152 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2184 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2153 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2185 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2154 } 2186 }
2155 2187
2156 if (!loop_socket) 2188 if (!loop_socket)
2157 loop_socket = loop; 2189 loop_socket = loop;
2158 2190
2159 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2191 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2160 2192
2161 2193
2162=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2194=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2163 2195
2164Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2196Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2217 2249
2218=item queueing from a signal handler context 2250=item queueing from a signal handler context
2219 2251
2220To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2252To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2221handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2253handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2222some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2254some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2223 2255
2224 static ev_async mysig; 2256 static ev_async mysig;
2225 2257
2226 static void 2258 static void
2227 sigusr1_handler (void) 2259 sigusr1_handler (void)
2301=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2333=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2302 2334
2303Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2335Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2304an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2336an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2305C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2337C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2306similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2338similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2307section below on what exactly this means). 2339section below on what exactly this means).
2308 2340
2309This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 2341This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2310so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2342so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2311calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2343calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2312 2344
2313=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 2345=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2314 2346
2315Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 2347Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2317event loop. 2349event loop.
2318 2350
2319C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When 2351C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2320the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active, 2352the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2321it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very 2353it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2322quickly check wether invoking the loop might be a good idea. 2354quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2323 2355
2324Not that this does I<not> check wether the watcher itself is pending, only 2356Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2325wether it has been requested to make this watcher pending. 2357whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2326 2358
2327=back 2359=back
2328 2360
2329 2361
2330=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2362=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2341or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2373or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2342more watchers yourself. 2374more watchers yourself.
2343 2375
2344If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2376If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
2345is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2377is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
2346C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2378C<events> set will be created and started.
2347 2379
2348If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2380If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2349started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2381started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2350repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2382repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
2351dubious value. 2383dubious value.
2353The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2385The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2354passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2386passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2355C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2387C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2356value passed to C<ev_once>: 2388value passed to C<ev_once>:
2357 2389
2358 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2390 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2359 { 2391 {
2360 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2392 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2361 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2393 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2362 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2394 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2363 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2395 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2364 } 2396 }
2365 2397
2366 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2398 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2367 2399
2368=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2400=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2369 2401
2370Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2402Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2371had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2403had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2376Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2408Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2377the given events it. 2409the given events it.
2378 2410
2379=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2411=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2380 2412
2381Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2413Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2382loop!). 2414loop!).
2383 2415
2384=back 2416=back
2385 2417
2386 2418
2415=back 2447=back
2416 2448
2417=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2449=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2418 2450
2419Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2451Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2420you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2452you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2421the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2453the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2422 2454
2423To use it, 2455To use it,
2424 2456
2425 #include <ev++.h> 2457 #include <ev++.h>
2426 2458
2427This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2459This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2428of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2460of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2429put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2461put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2430options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2462options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2497your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2529your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2498thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2530thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2499 2531
2500Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2532Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2501 2533
2502 struct myclass 2534 struct myclass
2503 { 2535 {
2504 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2536 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2505 } 2537 }
2506 2538
2507 myclass obj; 2539 myclass obj;
2508 ev::io iow; 2540 ev::io iow;
2509 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2541 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2510 2542
2511=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2543=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2512 2544
2513Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2545Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2514callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2546callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2518 2550
2519See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2551See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2520 2552
2521Example: 2553Example:
2522 2554
2523 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2555 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2524 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2556 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2525 2557
2526=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2558=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2527 2559
2528Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2560Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2529do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2561do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2530 2562
2531=item w->set ([args]) 2563=item w->set ([arguments])
2532 2564
2533Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2565Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
2534called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2566called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2535automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2567automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2536method. 2568method.
2537 2569
2538=item w->start () 2570=item w->start ()
2562=back 2594=back
2563 2595
2564Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2596Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2565the constructor. 2597the constructor.
2566 2598
2567 class myclass 2599 class myclass
2568 { 2600 {
2569 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2601 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2570 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2602 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2571 2603
2572 myclass (int fd) 2604 myclass (int fd)
2573 { 2605 {
2574 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2606 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2575 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2607 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2576 2608
2577 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2609 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2578 } 2610 }
2579 }; 2611 };
2580 2612
2581 2613
2582=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 2614=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2583 2615
2584Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 2616Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2585numbe rof languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know 2617number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2586any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop 2618any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2587me a note. 2619me a note.
2588 2620
2589=over 4 2621=over 4
2590 2622
2594libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2626libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2595there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2627there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2596to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2628to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2597C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2629C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2598 2630
2599It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 2631It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2600L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2632L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2601 2633
2634=item Python
2635
2636Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2637seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2638patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2639for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2640libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2641libev).
2642
2602=item Ruby 2643=item Ruby
2603 2644
2604Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 2645Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2605of the libev API and adds filehandle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 2646of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2606more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 2647more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2607L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 2648L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2608 2649
2609=item D 2650=item D
2610 2651
2614=back 2655=back
2615 2656
2616 2657
2617=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2658=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2618 2659
2619Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2660Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2620of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2661of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2621functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2662functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2622 2663
2623To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2664To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2624following macros are defined: 2665following macros are defined:
2629 2670
2630This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2671This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2631loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2672loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2632C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2673C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2633 2674
2634 ev_unref (EV_A); 2675 ev_unref (EV_A);
2635 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2676 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2636 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2677 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2637 2678
2638It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2679It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2639which is often provided by the following macro. 2680which is often provided by the following macro.
2640 2681
2641=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2682=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2642 2683
2643This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2684This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2644loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2685loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2645C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2686C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2646 2687
2647 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2688 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2648 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2689 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2649 2690
2650 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2691 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2651 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2692 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2652 2693
2653It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2694It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2654suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2695suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2655 2696
2656=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2697=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2672 2713
2673Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2714Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2674macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2715macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2675or not. 2716or not.
2676 2717
2677 static void 2718 static void
2678 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2719 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2679 { 2720 {
2680 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2721 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2681 } 2722 }
2682 2723
2683 ev_check check; 2724 ev_check check;
2684 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2725 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2685 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2726 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2686 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2727 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2687 2728
2688=head1 EMBEDDING 2729=head1 EMBEDDING
2689 2730
2690Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2731Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2691applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2732applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2698libev somewhere in your source tree). 2739libev somewhere in your source tree).
2699 2740
2700=head2 FILESETS 2741=head2 FILESETS
2701 2742
2702Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2743Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2703in your app. 2744in your application.
2704 2745
2705=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2746=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2706 2747
2707To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2748To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2708configuration (no autoconf): 2749configuration (no autoconf):
2709 2750
2710 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2751 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2711 #include "ev.c" 2752 #include "ev.c"
2712 2753
2713This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2754This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2714single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2755single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2715it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2756it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2716done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2757done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2717where you can put other configuration options): 2758where you can put other configuration options):
2718 2759
2719 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2760 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2720 #include "ev.h" 2761 #include "ev.h"
2721 2762
2722Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2763Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2723compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2764compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2724as a bug). 2765as a bug).
2725 2766
2726You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2767You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2727in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2768in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2728 2769
2729 ev.h 2770 ev.h
2730 ev.c 2771 ev.c
2731 ev_vars.h 2772 ev_vars.h
2732 ev_wrap.h 2773 ev_wrap.h
2733 2774
2734 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2775 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2735 2776
2736 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2777 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2737 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2778 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2738 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2779 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2739 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2780 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2740 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2781 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2741 2782
2742F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2783F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2743to compile this single file. 2784to compile this single file.
2744 2785
2745=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2786=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2746 2787
2747To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2788To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2748 2789
2749 #include "event.c" 2790 #include "event.c"
2750 2791
2751in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2792in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2752 2793
2753 #include "event.h" 2794 #include "event.h"
2754 2795
2755in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2796in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2756 2797
2757You need the following additional files for this: 2798You need the following additional files for this:
2758 2799
2759 event.h 2800 event.h
2760 event.c 2801 event.c
2761 2802
2762=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2803=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2763 2804
2764Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2805Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2765whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2806whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2766F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2807F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2767include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2808include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2768 2809
2769For this of course you need the m4 file: 2810For this of course you need the m4 file:
2770 2811
2771 libev.m4 2812 libev.m4
2772 2813
2773=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2814=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2774 2815
2775Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 2816Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2776define before including any of its files. The default in the absense of 2817define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2777autoconf is noted for every option. 2818autoconf is noted for every option.
2778 2819
2779=over 4 2820=over 4
2780 2821
2781=item EV_STANDALONE 2822=item EV_STANDALONE
2787F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2828F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2788 2829
2789=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2830=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2790 2831
2791If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2832If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2792monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2833monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2793of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2834of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2794usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2835usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2795the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2836the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2796to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2837to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2797function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2838function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2798 2839
2799=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2840=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2800 2841
2801If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2842If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2802realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2843real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2803runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2844runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2804be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2845be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2805(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2846(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2806note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2847note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2807 2848
2808=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2849=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
28192.7 or newer, otherwise disabled. 28602.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2820 2861
2821=item EV_USE_SELECT 2862=item EV_USE_SELECT
2822 2863
2823If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2864If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2824C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2865C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2825other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2866other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2826will not be compiled in. 2867will not be compiled in.
2827 2868
2828=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2869=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2829 2870
2830If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2871If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2831structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2872structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2832C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2873C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2833exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2874exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2834low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2875low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2835allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2876allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2836influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2877influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2837 2878
2886otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2927otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2887backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2928backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2888 2929
2889=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2930=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2890 2931
2891reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2932Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2892 2933
2893=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2934=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2894 2935
2895If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2936If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2896interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2937interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2903access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2944access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2904type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2945type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2905that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 2946that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2906as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 2947as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2907 2948
2908In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 2949In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2909(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 2950(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2910 2951
2911=item EV_H 2952=item EV_H
2912 2953
2913The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2954The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2952When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 2993When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2953all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 2994all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2954and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 2995and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2955fine. 2996fine.
2956 2997
2957If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 2998If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2958C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 2999C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2959 3000
2960=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3001=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2961 3002
2962If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3003If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2963defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3004defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2991 3032
2992=item EV_MINIMAL 3033=item EV_MINIMAL
2993 3034
2994If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3035If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2995speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some 3036speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2996inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. It also selects a 3037inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
2997much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap. 3038much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2998 3039
2999=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3040=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3000 3041
3001C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3042C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3014=item EV_USE_4HEAP 3055=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3015 3056
3016Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 3057Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3017timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 3058timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3018to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has 3059to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3019noticably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 3060noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3020 3061
3021The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 3062The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3022(disabled). 3063(disabled).
3023 3064
3024=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 3065=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3026Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 3067Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3027timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 3068timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3028the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 3069the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3029which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 3070which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3030but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 3071but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3031noticably with with many (hundreds) of watchers. 3072noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3032 3073
3033The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 3074The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3034(disabled). 3075(disabled).
3076
3077=item EV_VERIFY
3078
3079Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3080be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3081in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3082called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3083called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3084verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3085libev considerably.
3086
3087The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3088C<0.>
3035 3089
3036=item EV_COMMON 3090=item EV_COMMON
3037 3091
3038By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3092By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3039this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3093this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
3040members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3094members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3041though, and it must be identical each time. 3095though, and it must be identical each time.
3042 3096
3043For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3097For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3044 3098
3045 #define EV_COMMON \ 3099 #define EV_COMMON \
3046 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3100 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
3047 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3101 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
3048 3102
3049=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3103=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
3050 3104
3051=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3105=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
3052 3106
3059avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3113avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
3060method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3114method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
3061 3115
3062=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3116=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
3063 3117
3064If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3118If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
3065exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3119exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3066all public symbols, one per line: 3120all public symbols, one per line:
3067 3121
3068 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3122 Symbols.ev for libev proper
3069 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3123 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
3070 3124
3071This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3125This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
3072multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3126multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
3073itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3127itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
3074 3128
3075A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3129A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
3076include before including F<ev.h>: 3130include before including F<ev.h>:
3077 3131
3078 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3132 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
3095file. 3149file.
3096 3150
3097The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3151The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3098that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3152that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3099 3153
3100 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3154 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
3101 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3155 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
3102 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3156 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3103 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3157 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3104 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3158 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3105 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3159 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
3106 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3160 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3107 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3161 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3108 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3162 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3109 3163
3110 #include "ev++.h" 3164 #include "ev++.h"
3111 3165
3112And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3166And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3113 3167
3114 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3168 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3115 #include "ev.c" 3169 #include "ev.c"
3116 3170
3117 3171
3118=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES 3172=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3119 3173
3120=head2 THREADS 3174=head2 THREADS
3121 3175
3122Libev itself is completely threadsafe, but it uses no locking. This 3176Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3123means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as 3177means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3124only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop 3178only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3125parameter. 3179parameter.
3126 3180
3127Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in 3181Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3134help you but by giving some generic advice: 3188help you but by giving some generic advice:
3135 3189
3136=over 4 3190=over 4
3137 3191
3138=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop 3192=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3139in that thread, or create a seperate thread running only the default loop. 3193in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3140 3194
3141This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev 3195This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3142themselves and don't care/know about threading. 3196themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3143 3197
3144=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model. 3198=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3145 3199
3146Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model 3200Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3147exists, but it is always a good start. 3201exists, but it is always a good start.
3148 3202
3149=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one 3203=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3150loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robbin fashion. 3204loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3151 3205
3152Chosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you cna do 3206Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3153better than you currently do :-) 3207better than you currently do :-)
3154 3208
3155=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the 3209=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3156event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other 3210event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3157threads safely (or from signal contexts...). 3211threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3158 3212
3159=back 3213=back
3160 3214
3161=head2 COROUTINES 3215=head2 COROUTINES
3162 3216
3163Libev is much more accomodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 3217Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3164libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different 3218libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3165coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 3219coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3166different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the 3220different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3167loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 3221loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3168you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 3222you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3216 3270
3217=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3271=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3218 3272
3219A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3273A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3220libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3274libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3221on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3275on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3222 3276
3223=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3277=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3224 3278
3225=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3279=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3226 3280
3233 3287
3234=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 3288=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3235 3289
3236=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 3290=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3237 3291
3238Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 3292Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3239calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 3293calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3240involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3294involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3241 3295
3242=back 3296=back
3243 3297
3244 3298
3245=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3299=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3246 3300
3247Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3301Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3248requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3302requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3249model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3303model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3250the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3304the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3257way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 3311way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3258 3312
3259There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3313There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3260embedding it into other applications. 3314embedding it into other applications.
3261 3315
3316Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3317accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3318either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3319so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3320megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3321available).
3322
3262Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and 3323Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3263the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets 3324the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3264is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use 3325is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3265more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally 3326more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3266different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness 3327different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3267notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows 3328notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3268(microsoft monopoly games). 3329(Microsoft monopoly games).
3330
3331A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3332section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3333of F<ev.h>:
3334
3335 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3336 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3337
3338 #include "ev.h"
3339
3340And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3341you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3342
3343 #include "evwrap.h"
3344 #include "ev.c"
3269 3345
3270=over 4 3346=over 4
3271 3347
3272=item The winsocket select function 3348=item The winsocket select function
3273 3349
3274The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3350The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3275socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3351requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3276very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3352also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3277to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3353requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3278C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3354C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3279symbols for more info. 3355discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3356C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3280 3357
3281The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3358The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3282libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3359libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3283 3360
3284 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3361 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3285 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3362 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3286 3363
3287Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3364Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3288complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3365complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3289 3366
3290=item Limited number of file descriptors 3367=item Limited number of file descriptors
3291 3368
3292Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 3369Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3293 3370
3294Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 3371Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3295of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 3372of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3296can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft 3373can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3297recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the 3374recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3298previous thread in each. Great). 3375previous thread in each. Great).
3299 3376
3300Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3377Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3301to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3378to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3302call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3379call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3303select emulation on windows). 3380select emulation on windows).
3304 3381
3305Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3382Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3306libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3383libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3307or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3384or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3308C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3385C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3309arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3386arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3310libraries. 3387libraries.
3311 3388
3312This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3389This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3313windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3390windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3314wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3391wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3321 3398
3322In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few 3399In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3323additional extensions: 3400additional extensions:
3324 3401
3325=over 4 3402=over 4
3403
3404=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3405calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3406
3407Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3408structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3409assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3410callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3411calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3326 3412
3327=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 3413=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3328 3414
3329The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 3415The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3330C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different 3416C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3362=back 3448=back
3363 3449
3364If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 3450If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3365 3451
3366 3452
3453=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3454
3455Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3456lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3457scared by this.
3458
3459However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3460has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3461warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3462targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3463
3464Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3465workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3466maintainable.
3467
3468And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3469wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3470seems to warn about).
3471
3472While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3473"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3474with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3475them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3476warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3477
3478
3367=head1 VALGRIND 3479=head1 VALGRIND
3368 3480
3369Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is 3481Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3370highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret. 3482highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3371 3483
3374 3486
3375 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3487 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3376 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3488 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3377 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks. 3489 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3378 3490
3379then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances, 3491Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3380valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it 3492valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3381might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool). 3493might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3382 3494
3383If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list 3495If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3384with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is 3496with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is

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