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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 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
12 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type>
13 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15 18
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */ 20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
17 static void 21 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 { 23 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */ 24 puts ("stdin ready");
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */ 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */ 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
23 } 31 }
24 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
25 static void 34 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 { 36 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */ 37 puts ("timeout");
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */ 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
30 } 40 }
31 41
32 int 42 int
33 main (void) 43 main (void)
34 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36 47
37 /* 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
38 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);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */ 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44 57
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */ 58 // now wait for events to arrive
46 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit
48 return 0; 62 return 0;
49 } 63 }
50 64
51=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
52 66
53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted 67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
54web 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
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>. 69time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>.
56 70
57Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 72file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
59these event sources and provide your program with events. 73these event sources and provide your program with events.
60 74
84L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 98L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
85for example). 99for example).
86 100
87=head2 CONVENTIONS 101=head2 CONVENTIONS
88 102
89Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will 103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
90be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about 104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
91various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in 105more info about various configuration options please have a look at
92this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event 106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
93loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop> 107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
94(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument. 108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument.
95 110
96=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
97 112
98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
100the 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
101called 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
102to 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
103it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name 118it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name
104component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
105throughout 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
106 142
107=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 143=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
108 144
109These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 145These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
110library in any way. 146library in any way.
119 155
120=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 156=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
121 157
122Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 158Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
123either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 159either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
124this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>. 160this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
125 161
126=item int ev_version_major () 162=item int ev_version_major ()
127 163
128=item int ev_version_minor () 164=item int ev_version_minor ()
129 165
164=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
165 201
166Return 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
167recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one
168returned 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
169most BSDs and will not be autodetected unless you explicitly request it 205most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it
170(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
171libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 207libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
172 208
173=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 209=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
174 210
181See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 217See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
182 218
183=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 219=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
184 220
185Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 221Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
186semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to 222semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
187allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when 223used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
188memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some 224when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
189potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc 225or take some potentially destructive action.
190function. 226
227Since some systems (at least OpenBSD and Darwin) fail to implement
228correct C<realloc> semantics, libev will use a wrapper around the system
229C<realloc> and C<free> functions by default.
191 230
192You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 231You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
193free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 232free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
194or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 233or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
195 234
196Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 235Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
197retries). 236retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>).
198 237
199 static void * 238 static void *
200 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 239 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
201 { 240 {
202 for (;;) 241 for (;;)
213 ... 252 ...
214 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
215 254
216=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg));
217 256
218Set the callback function to call on a retryable syscall error (such 257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
219as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
220indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
221callback 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
222matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 261matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
223requested 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
224(such as abort). 263(such as abort).
225 264
226Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too. 265Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
241 280
242An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 281An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two
243types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child
244events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 283events, and dynamically created loops which do not.
245 284
246If you use threads, a common model is to run the default event loop
247in your main thread (or in a separate thread) and for each thread you
248create, you also create another event loop. Libev itself does no locking
249whatsoever, so if you mix calls to the same event loop in different
250threads, make sure you lock (this is usually a bad idea, though, even if
251done correctly, because it's hideous and inefficient).
252
253=over 4 285=over 4
254 286
255=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 287=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
256 288
257This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 289This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised
260flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 292flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards).
261 293
262If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 294If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
263function. 295function.
264 296
297Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
300
265The 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
266C<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
267for 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
268create 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
269can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
270C<ev_default_init>. 306C<ev_default_init>.
271 307
272The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
281The 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
282thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
283 319
284=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
285 321
286If 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
287or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
288C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
289override 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
290useful 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
291around bugs. 327around bugs.
297enabling this flag. 333enabling this flag.
298 334
299This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
300and 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
301iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
302Linux 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
303without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has 339without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
304C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
305 341
306The 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
307forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
308flag. 344flag.
309 345
310This 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>
311environment variable. 347environment variable.
312 348
313=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
314 350
315This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
317but 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
318using 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
319usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
320 356
321To 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
322parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
323writing 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
324connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
325a 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
326readyness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
327 363
328=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 364=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
329 365
330And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
331than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
339For 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,
340but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
341like 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),
342epoll 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
343of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
344cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad 380cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad
345support for dup. 381support for dup.
346 382
347While 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
348will 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
349(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
350best 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
351very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
352 388
353Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
356 392
357Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
358watchers 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.
359keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
360 396
361While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
362all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
363 399
364=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
365 401
366Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
367was 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
368with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
369it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
370unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
371C<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)
372system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
373 409
374You 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
376the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
377 413
378It 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
379kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
380course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
381cause 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
382two 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
383drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
384 420
385This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
386 422
401=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
402 438
403This 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,
404it'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)).
405 441
406Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
407notifications, 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
408blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
409 445
410While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
411file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
412descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
413might perform better. 449might perform better.
414 450
415On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this 451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
416backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
417embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
418 454
419=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
420 456
424 460
425It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
426 462
427=back 463=back
428 464
429If 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
430backends 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
431specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
432 468
433The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
434 470
451Similar 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
452always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
453handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 489handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
454undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 490undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
455 491
492Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
495
456Example: 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.
457 497
458 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
459 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
460 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
462=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
463 503
464Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
465etc.). 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
466sense, 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
467responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
468calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
469the 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
470for example). 510for example).
471 511
472Note 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
506 546
507Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 547Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
508C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 548C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
509after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 549after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
510 550
551=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
552
553Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise.
554
511=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 555=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
512 556
513Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 557Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
514the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 558the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
515happily wraps around with enough iterations. 559happily wraps around with enough iterations.
549A 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
550those 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
551case 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.
552 596
553A 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
554neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
555your 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
556one 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
557external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
558libev 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
559usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 603usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
660to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 704to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
661latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 705latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
662will 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
663any overhead in libev. 707any overhead in libev.
664 708
665Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 709Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
666interval 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
667interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 711interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
668usually 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>,
669as 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.
670 725
671=back 726=back
672 727
673 728
674=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 729=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
694watcher 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,
695although this can sometimes be quite valid). 750although this can sometimes be quite valid).
696 751
697Each 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
698(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 753(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
699callback 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
700watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 755watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
701is readable and/or writable). 756is readable and/or writable).
702 757
703Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 758Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
704with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 759with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
780 835
781The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 836The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
782 837
783=item C<EV_ERROR> 838=item C<EV_ERROR>
784 839
785An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 840An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
786happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 841happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
787ran 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
788problem. 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
789with the watcher being stopped. 844with the watcher being stopped.
790 845
791Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 846Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
792for 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
793your 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
794with 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
795programs, though, so beware. 850programs, though, so beware.
796 851
797=back 852=back
798 853
799=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 854=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
829Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 884Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
830(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.
831 886
832=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 887=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
833 888
834This 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
835calls 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
836a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 891a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
837 892
838=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 893=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
839 894
840Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 895Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1009If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1064If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
1010(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1065(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
1011C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1066C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1012 1067
1013Another 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
1014receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1069receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1015be 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
1016because 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
1017lot 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
1018this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1073this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1019it 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
1020C<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.
1021 1076
1022If 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
1023play 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
1024whether 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
1025such 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
1026its own, so its quite safe to use). 1081its own, so its quite safe to use).
1027 1082
1028=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1083=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1066To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1121To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1067C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1122C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1068enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1123enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1069C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1124C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1070 1125
1126=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1127
1128While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1129when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program
1130gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most
1131programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually
1132undesirable.
1133
1134So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1135ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1136somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1137
1071 1138
1072=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1139=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1073 1140
1074=over 4 1141=over 4
1075 1142
1076=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1143=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1077 1144
1078=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1145=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1079 1146
1080Configures 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
1081rceeive 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
1082C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1149C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1083 1150
1084=item int fd [read-only] 1151=item int fd [read-only]
1085 1152
1086The file descriptor being watched. 1153The file descriptor being watched.
1116 1183
1117Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1184Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1118given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1185given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1119 1186
1120The 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
1121times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1188times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1122time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1189year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1123detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1190detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1124monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1191monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1125 1192
1126The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1193The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1127time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1194time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1129you 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
1130on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1197on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1131 1198
1132 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1199 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1133 1200
1134The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1201The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1135but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1202but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1136order of execution is undefined. 1203order of execution is undefined.
1137 1204
1138=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1205=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1139 1206
1141 1208
1142=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1209=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1143 1210
1144=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1211=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1145 1212
1146Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1213Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1147C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1214is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1148timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1215reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1149later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1216configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1217until stopped manually.
1150 1218
1151The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1219The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1152configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1220you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1153exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1221trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1154the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1222keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1155timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1223do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1156 1224
1157=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1225=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1158 1226
1159This 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
1160repeating. The exact semantics are: 1228repeating. The exact semantics are:
1161 1229
1162If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1230If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1163 1231
1164If 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).
1165 1233
1166If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1234If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1167C<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.
1168 1236
1169This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1237This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1170example: 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
1171timeout, 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
1172seconds 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
1173configure 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
1174C<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
1175you 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
1236 1304
1237Periodic 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
1238(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1306(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1239 1307
1240Unlike 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)
1241but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1309but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1242to trigger "at" 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
1243periodic 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 ()
1244+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1312+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1313clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
1245take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1314to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1246roughly 10 seconds later). 1315roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1247 1316
1248They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1317C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1249triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1318such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1250rules. 1319complicated, rules.
1251 1320
1252As 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
1253time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1322time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1254during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1323during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1255 1324
1256=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1325=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1257 1326
1258=over 4 1327=over 4
1266 1335
1267=over 4 1336=over 4
1268 1337
1269=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1338=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1270 1339
1271In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1340In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1272C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1341time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1273that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1342jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1274system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1343run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1275 1344
1276=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1345=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1277 1346
1278In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1347In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1279C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1348C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1280and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1349and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1281 1350
1282This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1351This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1283time: 1352time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1353the hour:
1284 1354
1285 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1355 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1286 1356
1287This 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,
1288but 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
1289full 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
1290by 3600. 1360by 3600.
1291 1361
1292Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1362Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1293C<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
1294time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1364time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1295 1365
1296For 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
1297C<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
1298this value. 1368this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1369
1370Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1371speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1372will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1373millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1299 1374
1300=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1375=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1301 1376
1302In 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
1303ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1378ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1304reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1379reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1305current time as second argument. 1380current time as second argument.
1306 1381
1307NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1382NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1308ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1383ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1309return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1310starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1311 1384
1385If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1386it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1387only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1388
1312Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1389The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1313ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1390*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1314 1391
1315 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1392 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1316 { 1393 {
1317 return now + 60.; 1394 return now + 60.;
1318 } 1395 }
1320It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1397It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1321(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 1398(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1322will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1399will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1323might be called at other times, too. 1400might be called at other times, too.
1324 1401
1325NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1402NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1326passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1403equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1327 1404
1328This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1405This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1329triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 1406triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1330next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 1407next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1331you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 1408you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1332reason I omitted it as an example). 1409reason I omitted it as an example).
1333 1410
1334=back 1411=back
1338Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1415Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1339when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1416when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1340a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1417a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1341program when the crontabs have changed). 1418program when the crontabs have changed).
1342 1419
1420=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1421
1422When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1423trigger next.
1424
1343=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1425=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1344 1426
1345When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1427When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1346absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1428absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1347 1429
1358 1440
1359The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1441The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1360switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1442switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1361the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1443the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1362 1444
1363=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1364
1365When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1366trigger next.
1367
1368=back 1445=back
1369 1446
1370=head3 Examples 1447=head3 Examples
1371 1448
1372Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1449Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1373system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1450system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1374potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1451potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1375 1452
1376 static void 1453 static void
1377 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)
1378 { 1455 {
1379 ... 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)
1415with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1492with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1416as 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
1417watcher 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
1418SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1495SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1419 1496
1497If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1498C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1499interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1500signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1501them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1502
1420=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1503=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1421 1504
1422=over 4 1505=over 4
1423 1506
1424=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1507=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1432 1515
1433The signal the watcher watches out for. 1516The signal the watcher watches out for.
1434 1517
1435=back 1518=back
1436 1519
1520=head3 Examples
1521
1522Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1523
1524 static void
1525 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1526 {
1527 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1528 }
1529
1530 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1531 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1532 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1533
1437 1534
1438=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1535=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1439 1536
1440Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1537Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1441some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1538some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). It
1539is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1540forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1541loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1542
1543Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1544you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1545
1546=head3 Process Interaction
1547
1548Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1549initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1550the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1551of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1552synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1553children, even ones not watched.
1554
1555=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1556
1557Libev offers no special support for overriding the built-in child
1558processing, but if your application collides with libev's default child
1559handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1560C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1561default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1562event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1563that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1442 1564
1443=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1565=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1444 1566
1445=over 4 1567=over 4
1446 1568
1472 1594
1473=back 1595=back
1474 1596
1475=head3 Examples 1597=head3 Examples
1476 1598
1477Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1599Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1600its completion.
1601
1602 ev_child cw;
1478 1603
1479 static void 1604 static void
1480 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1605 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1481 { 1606 {
1482 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1607 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1608 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1483 } 1609 }
1484 1610
1485 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1611 pid_t pid = fork ();
1486 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1612
1487 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1613 if (pid < 0)
1614 // error
1615 else if (pid == 0)
1616 {
1617 // the forked child executes here
1618 exit (1);
1619 }
1620 else
1621 {
1622 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1623 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1624 }
1488 1625
1489 1626
1490=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1627=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1491 1628
1492This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1629This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1493C<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
1494compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1631compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1495 1632
1496The 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
1497not 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
1515as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1652as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1516resource-intensive. 1653resource-intensive.
1517 1654
1518At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1655At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1519implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1656implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1657reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat
1520reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1658semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1521semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1659not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1522to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1660sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1523usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1661but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1524polling. 1662will be no polling.
1663
1664=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1665
1666Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1667compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally
1668disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1669structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1670use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1671compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1672obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1673most noticeably with ev_stat and large file support.
1525 1674
1526=head3 Inotify 1675=head3 Inotify
1527 1676
1528When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1677When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1529available 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
1530change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1679change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1531when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1680when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1532 1681
1533Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1682Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1534except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1683except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1535making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1684making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1536there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1685there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1537 1686
1538(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1687(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1539implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1688implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1540descriptor open on the object at all times). 1689descriptor open on the object at all times).
1541 1690
1542=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1691=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1543 1692
1544The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1693The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1545even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1694even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1546only support whole seconds. 1695only support whole seconds.
1547 1696
1548That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 1697That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1549miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 1698easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1550your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1699calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1551the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 1700within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1701data does not change.
1552 1702
1553The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 1703The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1554the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 1704than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1555(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 1705a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1556is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1706ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1557systems. 1707
1708The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1709of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1710might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1711C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1712a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1713update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1714the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1715the timer callback).
1558 1716
1559=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1717=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1560 1718
1561=over 4 1719=over 4
1562 1720
1568C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1726C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1569be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1727be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1570a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1728a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1571path for as long as the watcher is active. 1729path for as long as the watcher is active.
1572 1730
1573The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1731The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1574relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1732to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1575last change was detected). 1733was detected).
1576 1734
1577=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *) 1735=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1578 1736
1579Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1737Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1580watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1738watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1581detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1739detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1582useful simply to find out the new values. 1740the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1741new values.
1583 1742
1584=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1743=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1585 1744
1586The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1745The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1587C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1746C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1588suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1747suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1748members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1589was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1749some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1590 1750
1591=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1751=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1592 1752
1593The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1753The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1594C<prev> != C<attr>. 1754C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1755differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1756C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1595 1757
1596=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1758=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1597 1759
1598The specified interval. 1760The specified interval.
1599 1761
1600=item const char *path [read-only] 1762=item const char *path [read-only]
1601 1763
1602The filesystem path that is being watched. 1764The file system path that is being watched.
1603 1765
1604=back 1766=back
1605 1767
1606=head3 Examples 1768=head3 Examples
1607 1769
1653 } 1815 }
1654 1816
1655 ... 1817 ...
1656 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1818 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1657 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1819 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1658 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1820 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1659 1821
1660 1822
1661=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...
1662 1824
1663Idle 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
1733 1895
1734This 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
1735to 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
1736them 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
1737provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1899provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1738any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1900any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1739and 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
1740callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1902callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1741because you never know, you know?). 1903because you never know, you know?).
1742 1904
1743As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1905As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1751 1913
1752It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 1914It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1753priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1915priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1754after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 1916after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1755too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1917too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1756supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1918supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1757did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 1919did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1758(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 1920(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1759state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1921state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1760coexist peacefully with others). 1922coexist peacefully with others).
1761 1923
1776=head3 Examples 1938=head3 Examples
1777 1939
1778There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 1940There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1779into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 1941into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1780(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 1942(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1781use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 1943use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1782embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 1944Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1783into the Glib event loop). 1945Glib event loop).
1784 1946
1785Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 1947Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1786and 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
1787is 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
1788priority 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
1845 2007
1846Method 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>
1847in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2009in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1848 2010
1849Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2011Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1850notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2012notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1851callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2013callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1852 2014
1853 static void 2015 static void
1854 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2016 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1855 { 2017 {
1870 } 2032 }
1871 2033
1872 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2034 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1873 2035
1874Method 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
1875want 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
1876their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2038their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1877loop 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
1878this. 2040this.
1879 2041
1880 static gint 2042 static gint
1964 2126
1965Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2127Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
1966embeddable. 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
1967invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2129invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
1968to 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,
1969if 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).
1970 2132
1971=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2133=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
1972 2134
1973Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2135Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1974similarly 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
1975apropriate way for embedded loops. 2137appropriate way for embedded loops.
1976 2138
1977=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2139=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1978 2140
1979The embedded event loop. 2141The embedded event loop.
1980 2142
1982 2144
1983=head3 Examples 2145=head3 Examples
1984 2146
1985Example: 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
1986event 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
1987loop 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
1988C<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
1989used). 2151used).
1990 2152
1991 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2153 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
1992 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2154 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
1993 struct ev_embed embed; 2155 struct ev_embed embed;
2078is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 2240is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2079multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 2241multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2080need elaborate support such as pthreads. 2242need elaborate support such as pthreads.
2081 2243
2082That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 2244That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2083queue. And here is how you would implement locking: 2245queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your
2246queue:
2084 2247
2085=over 4 2248=over 4
2086 2249
2087=item queueing from a signal handler context 2250=item queueing from a signal handler context
2088 2251
2089To 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
2090handler 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
2091some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2254some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2092 2255
2093 static ev_async mysig; 2256 static ev_async mysig;
2094 2257
2095 static void 2258 static void
2096 sigusr1_handler (void) 2259 sigusr1_handler (void)
2097 { 2260 {
2098 sometype data; 2261 sometype data;
2099 2262
2100 // no locking etc. 2263 // no locking etc.
2101 queue_put (data); 2264 queue_put (data);
2102 ev_async_send (DEFAULT_ &mysig); 2265 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2103 } 2266 }
2104 2267
2105 static void 2268 static void
2106 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents) 2269 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2107 { 2270 {
2125 2288
2126=item queueing from a thread context 2289=item queueing from a thread context
2127 2290
2128The strategy for threads is different, as you cannot (easily) block 2291The strategy for threads is different, as you cannot (easily) block
2129threads but you can easily preempt them, so to queue safely you need to 2292threads but you can easily preempt them, so to queue safely you need to
2130emply a traditional mutex lock, such as in this pthread example: 2293employ a traditional mutex lock, such as in this pthread example:
2131 2294
2132 static ev_async mysig; 2295 static ev_async mysig;
2133 static pthread_mutex_t mymutex = PTHREAD_MUTEX_INITIALIZER; 2296 static pthread_mutex_t mymutex = PTHREAD_MUTEX_INITIALIZER;
2134 2297
2135 static void 2298 static void
2138 // only need to lock the actual queueing operation 2301 // only need to lock the actual queueing operation
2139 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex); 2302 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2140 queue_put (data); 2303 queue_put (data);
2141 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex); 2304 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2142 2305
2143 ev_async_send (DEFAULT_ &mysig); 2306 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2144 } 2307 }
2145 2308
2146 static void 2309 static void
2147 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents) 2310 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2148 { 2311 {
2170=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2333=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2171 2334
2172Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2335Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2173an 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
2174C<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
2175similar 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
2176section below on what exactly this means). 2339section below on what exactly this means).
2177 2340
2178This 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,
2179so 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
2180calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2343calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2344
2345=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2346
2347Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2348watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2349event loop.
2350
2351C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2352the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2353it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2354quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2355
2356Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2357whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2181 2358
2182=back 2359=back
2183 2360
2184 2361
2185=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2362=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2196or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2373or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2197more watchers yourself. 2374more watchers yourself.
2198 2375
2199If 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
2200is 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
2201C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2378C<events> set will be created and started.
2202 2379
2203If 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
2204started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2381started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2205repeat = 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
2206dubious value. 2383dubious value.
2231Feed 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
2232the given events it. 2409the given events it.
2233 2410
2234=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2411=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2235 2412
2236Feed 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
2237loop!). 2414loop!).
2238 2415
2239=back 2416=back
2240 2417
2241 2418
2257 2434
2258=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2435=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2259will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2436will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2260is an ev_pri field. 2437is an ev_pri field.
2261 2438
2439=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2440first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2441
2262=item * Other members are not supported. 2442=item * Other members are not supported.
2263 2443
2264=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2444=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2265to use the libev header file and library. 2445to use the libev header file and library.
2266 2446
2267=back 2447=back
2268 2448
2269=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2449=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2270 2450
2271Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2451Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2272you 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
2273the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2453the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2274 2454
2275To use it, 2455To use it,
2276 2456
2277 #include <ev++.h> 2457 #include <ev++.h>
2378=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2558=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2379 2559
2380Associates 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
2381do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2561do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2382 2562
2383=item w->set ([args]) 2563=item w->set ([arguments])
2384 2564
2385Basically 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
2386called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2566called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2387automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2567automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2388method. 2568method.
2389 2569
2390=item w->start () 2570=item w->start ()
2429 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2609 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2430 } 2610 }
2431 }; 2611 };
2432 2612
2433 2613
2614=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2615
2616Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2617number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2618any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2619me a note.
2620
2621=over 4
2622
2623=item Perl
2624
2625The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2626libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2627there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2628to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2629C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2630
2631It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at
2632L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2633
2634=item Ruby
2635
2636Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2637of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2638more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2639L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2640
2641=item D
2642
2643Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2644be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>.
2645
2646=back
2647
2648
2434=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2649=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2435 2650
2436Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2651Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2437of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2652of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2438functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2653functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2439 2654
2440To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2655To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2441following macros are defined: 2656following macros are defined:
2472 2687
2473=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2688=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2474 2689
2475Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2690Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2476loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2691loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2692
2693=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2694
2695Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2696default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2697is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2698execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2699
2700It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2701watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2477 2702
2478=back 2703=back
2479 2704
2480Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2705Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2481macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2706macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2505libev somewhere in your source tree). 2730libev somewhere in your source tree).
2506 2731
2507=head2 FILESETS 2732=head2 FILESETS
2508 2733
2509Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2734Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2510in your app. 2735in your application.
2511 2736
2512=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2737=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2513 2738
2514To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2739To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2515configuration (no autoconf): 2740configuration (no autoconf):
2566 event.h 2791 event.h
2567 event.c 2792 event.c
2568 2793
2569=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2794=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2570 2795
2571Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2796Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2572whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2797whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2573F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2798F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2574include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2799include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2575 2800
2576For this of course you need the m4 file: 2801For this of course you need the m4 file:
2577 2802
2578 libev.m4 2803 libev.m4
2579 2804
2580=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2805=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2581 2806
2582Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2807Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2583before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2808define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2584and only include the select backend. 2809autoconf is noted for every option.
2585 2810
2586=over 4 2811=over 4
2587 2812
2588=item EV_STANDALONE 2813=item EV_STANDALONE
2589 2814
2594F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2819F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2595 2820
2596=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2821=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2597 2822
2598If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2823If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2599monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2824monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2600of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2825of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2601usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2826usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2602the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2827the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2603to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2828to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2604function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2829function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2605 2830
2606=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2831=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2607 2832
2608If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2833If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2609realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2834real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2610runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2835runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2611be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2836be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2612(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2837(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2613note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2838note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2614 2839
2615=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2840=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2616 2841
2617If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 2842If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2618and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2843and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2619 2844
2845=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2846
2847If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2848available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2849C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2850If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
28512.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2852
2620=item EV_USE_SELECT 2853=item EV_USE_SELECT
2621 2854
2622If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2855If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2623C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2856C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2624other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2857other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2625will not be compiled in. 2858will not be compiled in.
2626 2859
2627=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2860=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2628 2861
2629If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2862If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2630structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2863structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2631C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2864C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2632exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2865exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2633low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2866low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2634allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2867allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2635influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2868influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2636 2869
2660 2893
2661=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2894=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2662 2895
2663If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2896If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
2664C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2897C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2665otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2898otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2666preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2899backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2900headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2667 2901
2668=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2902=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2669 2903
2670If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2904If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2671C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2905C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2684otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2918otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2685backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2919backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2686 2920
2687=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2921=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2688 2922
2689reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2923Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2690 2924
2691=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2925=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2692 2926
2693If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2927If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2694interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2928interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2695be detected at runtime. 2929be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2930indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2696 2931
2697=item EV_ATOMIC_T 2932=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2698 2933
2699Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 2934Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2700access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2935access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2701type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2936type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2702that you know is safe for your purposes. 2937that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2938as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2703 2939
2704In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 2940In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2705(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 2941(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2706 2942
2707=item EV_H 2943=item EV_H
2708 2944
2709The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2945The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2748When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 2984When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2749all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 2985all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2750and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 2986and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2751fine. 2987fine.
2752 2988
2753If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 2989If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2754C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 2990C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2755 2991
2756=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2992=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2757 2993
2758If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2994If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2759defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2995defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2786defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3022defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2787 3023
2788=item EV_MINIMAL 3024=item EV_MINIMAL
2789 3025
2790If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3026If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2791speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3027speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2792some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3028inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3029much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2793 3030
2794=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3031=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2795 3032
2796C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3033C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2797pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3034pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2803C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3040C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2804inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3041inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2805usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3042usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2806watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3043watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2807two). 3044two).
3045
3046=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3047
3048Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3049timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3050to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3051noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3052
3053The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3054(disabled).
3055
3056=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3057
3058Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3059timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3060the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3061which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3062but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3063noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3064
3065The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3066(disabled).
3067
3068=item EV_VERIFY
3069
3070Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3071be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3072in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3073called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3074called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3075verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3076libev considerably.
3077
3078The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3079C<0.>
2808 3080
2809=item EV_COMMON 3081=item EV_COMMON
2810 3082
2811By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3083By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2812this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3084this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2832avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3104avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2833method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3105method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2834 3106
2835=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3107=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2836 3108
2837If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3109If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
2838exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3110exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2839all public symbols, one per line: 3111all public symbols, one per line:
2840 3112
2841 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3113 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2842 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3114 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2843 3115
2844This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3116This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2845multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3117multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2846itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3118itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2847 3119
2848A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3120A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2849include before including F<ev.h>: 3121include before including F<ev.h>:
2850 3122
2851 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3123 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2886 3158
2887 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3159 #include "ev_cpp.h"
2888 #include "ev.c" 3160 #include "ev.c"
2889 3161
2890 3162
3163=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3164
3165=head2 THREADS
3166
3167Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3168means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3169only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3170parameter.
3171
3172Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3173parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3174done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3175thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3176per loop).
3177
3178If you want to know which design is best for your problem, then I cannot
3179help you but by giving some generic advice:
3180
3181=over 4
3182
3183=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3184in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3185
3186This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3187themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3188
3189=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3190
3191Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3192exists, but it is always a good start.
3193
3194=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3195loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3196
3197Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3198better than you currently do :-)
3199
3200=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3201event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3202threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3203
3204=back
3205
3206=head2 COROUTINES
3207
3208Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3209libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3210coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3211different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3212loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3213you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3214
3215Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3216state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3217switches.
3218
3219
2891=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3220=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2892 3221
2893In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3222In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2894libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 3223libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2895documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 3224documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2911=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 3240=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2912 3241
2913That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them 3242That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2914as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for. 3243as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
2915 3244
2916=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 3245=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2917 3246
2918These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list. 3247These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
2919 3248
2920=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 3249=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2921 3250
2922=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 3251=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2923 3252
2924These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the 3253These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
2925correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3254correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2926have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3255have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2927 3256
2928=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3257=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
2929 3258
2930By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 3259By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
2931beginning of the storage array. 3260fixed position in the storage array.
2932 3261
2933=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3262=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2934 3263
2935A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3264A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2936libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3265libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
2937on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3266on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
2938 3267
2939=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3268=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
2940 3269
2941=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3270=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2942 3271
2943Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each 3272Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2944priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to 3273priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2945linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating 3274linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
2946watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. prioritiy handling. 3275watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. priority handling.
3276
3277=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
3278
3279=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3280
3281=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3282
3283Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3284calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3285involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
2947 3286
2948=back 3287=back
2949 3288
2950 3289
2951=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3290=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
2952 3291
2953Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3292Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
2954requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3293requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
2955model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3294model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
2956the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3295the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
2957descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3296descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
2958e.g. cygwin. 3297e.g. cygwin.
2959 3298
3299Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3300re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3301things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3302way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3303
2960There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3304There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
2961embedding it into other applications. 3305embedding it into other applications.
2962 3306
3307Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3308accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3309either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3310so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3311megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3312available).
3313
2963Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 3314Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
2964abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3315the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
2965recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3316is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
2966a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 3317more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
2967implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3318different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
2968be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3319notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3320(Microsoft monopoly games).
2969 3321
2970=over 4 3322=over 4
2971 3323
2972=item The winsocket select function 3324=item The winsocket select function
2973 3325
2974The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3326The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
2975socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3327requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
2976very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3328also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
2977to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3329requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles. See the
2978C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3330discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
2979symbols for more info. 3331C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
2980 3332
2981The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3333The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
2982libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3334libraries and raw winsocket select is:
2983 3335
2984 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3336 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
2985 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3337 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
2986 3338
2987Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3339Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
2988complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3340complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
2989 3341
2990=item Limited number of file descriptors 3342=item Limited number of file descriptors
2991 3343
2992Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3344Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
2993of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 3345
3346Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
2994(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 3347of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
2995C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3348can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
2996chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 3349recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3350previous thread in each. Great).
2997 3351
2998Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3352Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
2999to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3353to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3000call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3354call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3001select emulation on windows). 3355select emulation on windows).
3002 3356
3003Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3357Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3004libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3358libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3005or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3359or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3006C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3360C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3007arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3361arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3008libraries. 3362libraries.
3009 3363
3010This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3364This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3011windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3365windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3012wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3366wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3013calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3367calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3014 3368
3015=back 3369=back
3016 3370
3017 3371
3372=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3373
3374In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3375additional extensions:
3376
3377=over 4
3378
3379=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3380
3381The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3382C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3383threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3384believed to be sufficiently portable.
3385
3386=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3387
3388Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3389allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3390pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3391thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3392be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3393C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3394
3395The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3396except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3397well.
3398
3399=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3400
3401To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3402internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3403non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3404is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3405millions of watchers.
3406
3407=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3408
3409The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3410have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3411enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3412implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3413
3414=back
3415
3416If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3417
3418
3419=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3420
3421Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3422lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3423scared by this.
3424
3425However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3426has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3427warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3428targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3429
3430Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3431workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3432maintainable.
3433
3434And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3435wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3436seems to warn about).
3437
3438While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3439"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3440with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3441them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3442warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3443
3444
3445=head1 VALGRIND
3446
3447Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3448highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3449
3450If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3451in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3452
3453 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3454 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3455 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3456
3457Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3458valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3459might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3460
3461If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3462with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3463a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3464no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3465properly.
3466
3467If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3468I suggest using suppression lists.
3469
3470
3018=head1 AUTHOR 3471=head1 AUTHOR
3019 3472
3020Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3473Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
3021 3474

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