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Revision 1.116 by root, Mon Dec 31 01:34:09 2007 UTC vs.
Revision 1.164 by root, Sat May 31 23:22:23 2008 UTC

2 2
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required
11 #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
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */ 19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
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
142not a problem. 178not a problem.
143 179
144Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
145version. 181version.
146 182
147 assert (("libev version mismatch", 183 assert (("libev version mismatch",
148 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
149 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
150 186
151=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
152 188
153Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*> 189Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*>
154value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
156a description of the set values. 192a description of the set values.
157 193
158Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and 194Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and
159a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11 195a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11
160 196
161 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
162 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
163 199
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.
240=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP
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
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).
252 284
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
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
301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
306C<ev_default_init>.
307
265The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
266backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 309backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
267 310
268The following flags are supported: 311The following flags are supported:
269 312
274The 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
275thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
276 319
277=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
278 321
279If 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
280or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
281C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
282override 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
283useful 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
284around bugs. 327around bugs.
290enabling this flag. 333enabling this flag.
291 334
292This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
293and 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
294iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
295Linux 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
296without 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
297C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
298 341
299The 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
300forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
301flag. 344flag.
302 345
303This 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>
304environment variable. 347environment variable.
305 348
306=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
307 350
308This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
310but 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
311using 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
312usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
313 356
314To 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
315parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
316writing 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
317connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
318a 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
319readyness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
320 363
321=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)
322 365
323And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
324than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
332For 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,
333but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
334like 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),
335epoll 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
336of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
337cases 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
338support for dup. 381support for dup.
339 382
340While 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
341will 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
342(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
343best 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
344very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
345 388
346Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
349 392
350Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
351watchers 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.
352keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
353 396
354While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
355all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
356 399
357=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
358 401
359Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
360was 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
361with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
362it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
363unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
364C<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)
365system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
366 409
367You 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
369the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
370 413
371It 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
372kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
373course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
374cause 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
375two 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
376drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
377 420
378This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
379 422
394=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
395 438
396This 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,
397it'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)).
398 441
399Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
400notifications, 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
401blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
402 445
403While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
404file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
405descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
406might perform better. 449might perform better.
407 450
451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
454
408=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
409 456
410Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 457Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
411with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 458with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
412C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 459C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
413 460
414It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
415 462
416=back 463=back
417 464
418If 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
419backends will be tried (in the reverse order as given here). If none are 466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
420specified, most compiled-in backend will be tried, usually in reverse 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
421order of their flag values :)
422 468
423The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
424 470
425 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
426 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
427 473
428Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
429environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
430 476
431 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
432 478
433Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if 479Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if
434available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
435event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds): 481event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds):
436 482
437 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
438 484
439=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
440 486
441Similar 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
442always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
443handle 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
444undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 490undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
445 491
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
446Example: 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.
447 497
448 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
449 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
450 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
451 501
452=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
453 503
454Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
455etc.). 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
456sense, 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
457responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
458calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
459the 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
460for example). 510for example).
461 511
462Note 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
473Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 523Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
474earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 524earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
475 525
476=item ev_default_fork () 526=item ev_default_fork ()
477 527
528This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations
478This function reinitialises the kernel state for backends that have 529to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
479one. Despite the name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense 530name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
480after forking, in either the parent or child process (or both, but that 531the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little
481again makes little sense). 532sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev
533functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
482 534
483You I<must> call this function in the child process after forking if and 535On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
484only if you want to use the event library in both processes. If you just 536process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If
485fork+exec, you don't have to call it. 537you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all.
486 538
487The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 539The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
488it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 540it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in
489quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>: 541quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
490 542
491 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 543 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork);
492 544
493At the moment, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL> are safe to use
494without calling this function, so if you force one of those backends you
495do not need to care.
496
497=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 545=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
498 546
499Like 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
500C<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
501after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 549after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
550
551=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
552
553Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise.
502 554
503=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 555=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
504 556
505Returns 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
506the 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
541A 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
542those 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
543case 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.
544 596
545A 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
546neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
547your 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
548one 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
549external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
550libev 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
551usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 603usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
612respectively). 664respectively).
613 665
614Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 666Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
615running when nothing else is active. 667running when nothing else is active.
616 668
617 struct ev_signal exitsig; 669 struct ev_signal exitsig;
618 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 670 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
619 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 671 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
620 evf_unref (loop); 672 evf_unref (loop);
621 673
622Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 674Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
623 675
624 ev_ref (loop); 676 ev_ref (loop);
625 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 677 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
626 678
627=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 679=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
628 680
629=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 681=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
630 682
652to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 704to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
653latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 705latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
654will 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
655any overhead in libev. 707any overhead in libev.
656 708
657Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 709Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
658interval 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
659interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 711interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
660usually 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>,
661as 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.
662 725
663=back 726=back
664 727
665 728
666=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 729=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
667 730
668A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 731A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
669interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 732interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
670become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 733become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
671 734
672 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 735 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
673 { 736 {
674 ev_io_stop (w); 737 ev_io_stop (w);
675 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 738 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
676 } 739 }
677 740
678 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 741 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
679 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 742 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
680 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 743 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
681 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 744 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
682 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 745 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
683 ev_loop (loop, 0); 746 ev_loop (loop, 0);
684 747
685As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 748As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
686watcher 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,
687although this can sometimes be quite valid). 750although this can sometimes be quite valid).
688 751
689Each 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
690(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 753(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
691callback 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
692watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 755watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
693is readable and/or writable). 756is readable and/or writable).
694 757
695Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 758Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
696with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 759with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
766=item C<EV_FORK> 829=item C<EV_FORK>
767 830
768The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 831The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
769C<ev_fork>). 832C<ev_fork>).
770 833
834=item C<EV_ASYNC>
835
836The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
837
771=item C<EV_ERROR> 838=item C<EV_ERROR>
772 839
773An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 840An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
774happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 841happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
775ran 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
776problem. 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
777with the watcher being stopped. 844with the watcher being stopped.
778 845
779Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 846Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
780for 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
781your 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
782with 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
783programs, though, so beware. 850programs, though, so beware.
784 851
785=back 852=back
786 853
787=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 854=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
817Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 884Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
818(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.
819 886
820=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 887=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
821 888
822This 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
823calls 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
824a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 891a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
825 892
826=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 893=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
827 894
828Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 895Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
911to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 978to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
912don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 979don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
913member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 980member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
914data: 981data:
915 982
916 struct my_io 983 struct my_io
917 { 984 {
918 struct ev_io io; 985 struct ev_io io;
919 int otherfd; 986 int otherfd;
920 void *somedata; 987 void *somedata;
921 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 988 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
922 } 989 }
923 990
924And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 991And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
925can cast it back to your own type: 992can cast it back to your own type:
926 993
927 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 994 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
928 { 995 {
929 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 996 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
930 ... 997 ...
931 } 998 }
932 999
933More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1000More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
934instead have been omitted. 1001instead have been omitted.
935 1002
936Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1003Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
937watchers: 1004watchers:
938 1005
939 struct my_biggy 1006 struct my_biggy
940 { 1007 {
941 int some_data; 1008 int some_data;
942 ev_timer t1; 1009 ev_timer t1;
943 ev_timer t2; 1010 ev_timer t2;
944 } 1011 }
945 1012
946In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1013In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
947you need to use C<offsetof>: 1014you need to use C<offsetof>:
948 1015
949 #include <stddef.h> 1016 #include <stddef.h>
950 1017
951 static void 1018 static void
952 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1019 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
953 { 1020 {
954 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1021 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
955 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1022 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
956 } 1023 }
957 1024
958 static void 1025 static void
959 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1026 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
960 { 1027 {
961 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1028 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
962 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1029 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
963 } 1030 }
964 1031
965 1032
966=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1033=head1 WATCHER TYPES
967 1034
968This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1035This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
997If 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
998(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
999C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1066C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1000 1067
1001Another 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
1002receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1069receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1003be 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
1004because 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
1005lot 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
1006this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1073this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1007it 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
1008C<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.
1009 1076
1010If 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
1011play 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
1012whether 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
1013such 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
1014its own, so its quite safe to use). 1081its own, so its quite safe to use).
1015 1082
1016=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1083=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1054To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1121To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1055C<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,
1056enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1123enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1057C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1124C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1058 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
1059 1138
1060=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1139=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1061 1140
1062=over 4 1141=over 4
1063 1142
1064=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1143=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1065 1144
1066=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1145=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1067 1146
1068Configures 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
1069rceeive 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
1070C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1149C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1071 1150
1072=item int fd [read-only] 1151=item int fd [read-only]
1073 1152
1074The file descriptor being watched. 1153The file descriptor being watched.
1083 1162
1084Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1163Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1085readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1164readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1086attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1165attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1087 1166
1088 static void 1167 static void
1089 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1168 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1090 { 1169 {
1091 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1170 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1092 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1171 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1093 } 1172 }
1094 1173
1095 ... 1174 ...
1096 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1175 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1097 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1176 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1098 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1177 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1099 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1178 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1100 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1179 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1101 1180
1102 1181
1103=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1182=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1104 1183
1105Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1184Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1106given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1185given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1107 1186
1108The 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
1109times 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
1110time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1189year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1111detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1190detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1112monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1191monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1113 1192
1114The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1193The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1115time. 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
1117you 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
1118on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1197on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1119 1198
1120 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1199 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1121 1200
1122The 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,
1123but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1202but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1124order of execution is undefined. 1203order of execution is undefined.
1125 1204
1126=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1205=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1127 1206
1129 1208
1130=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)
1131 1210
1132=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)
1133 1212
1134Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1213Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1135C<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
1136timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1215reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1137later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1216configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1217until stopped manually.
1138 1218
1139The 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
1140configure 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
1141exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1221trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1142the 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
1143timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1223do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1144 1224
1145=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1225=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1146 1226
1147This 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
1148repeating. The exact semantics are: 1228repeating. The exact semantics are:
1149 1229
1150If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1230If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1151 1231
1152If 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).
1153 1233
1154If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1234If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1155C<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.
1156 1236
1157This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1237This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1158example: 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
1159timeout, 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
1160seconds 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
1161configure 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
1162C<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
1163you 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
1189 1269
1190=head3 Examples 1270=head3 Examples
1191 1271
1192Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1272Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1193 1273
1194 static void 1274 static void
1195 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1275 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1196 { 1276 {
1197 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1277 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1198 } 1278 }
1199 1279
1200 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1280 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1201 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1281 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1202 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1282 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1203 1283
1204Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1284Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1205inactivity. 1285inactivity.
1206 1286
1207 static void 1287 static void
1208 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1288 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1209 { 1289 {
1210 .. ten seconds without any activity 1290 .. ten seconds without any activity
1211 } 1291 }
1212 1292
1213 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1293 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1214 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1294 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1215 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1295 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1216 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1296 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1217 1297
1218 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1298 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1219 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1299 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1220 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1300 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1221 1301
1222 1302
1223=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1303=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1224 1304
1225Periodic 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
1226(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1306(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1227 1307
1228Unlike 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)
1229but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1309but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1230to 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
1231periodic 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 ()
1232+ 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
1233take 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
1234roughly 10 seconds later). 1315roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1235 1316
1236They 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,
1237triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1318such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1238rules. 1319complicated, rules.
1239 1320
1240As 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
1241time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1322time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1242during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1323during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1243 1324
1244=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1325=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1245 1326
1246=over 4 1327=over 4
1254 1335
1255=over 4 1336=over 4
1256 1337
1257=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1338=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1258 1339
1259In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1340In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1260C<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
1261that 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
1262system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1343run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1263 1344
1264=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1345=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1265 1346
1266In 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
1267C<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)
1268and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1349and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1269 1350
1270This 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
1271time: 1352time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1353the hour:
1272 1354
1273 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1355 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1274 1356
1275This 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,
1276but 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
1277full 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
1278by 3600. 1360by 3600.
1279 1361
1280Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1362Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1281C<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
1282time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1364time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1283 1365
1284For 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
1285C<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
1286this 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).
1287 1374
1288=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1375=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1289 1376
1290In 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
1291ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1378ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1292reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1379reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1293current time as second argument. 1380current time as second argument.
1294 1381
1295NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1382NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1296ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1383ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1297return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1298starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1299 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
1300Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1389The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1301ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1390*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1302 1391
1303 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)
1304 { 1393 {
1305 return now + 60.; 1394 return now + 60.;
1306 } 1395 }
1308It 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
1309(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
1310will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1399will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1311might be called at other times, too. 1400might be called at other times, too.
1312 1401
1313NOTE: 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
1314passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1403equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1315 1404
1316This 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
1317triggers 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
1318next 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
1319you 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
1320reason I omitted it as an example). 1409reason I omitted it as an example).
1321 1410
1322=back 1411=back
1326Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1415Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1327when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1416when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1328a 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
1329program when the crontabs have changed). 1418program when the crontabs have changed).
1330 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
1331=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1425=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1332 1426
1333When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1427When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1334absolute 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>).
1335 1429
1346 1440
1347The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1441The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1348switched 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
1349the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1443the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1350 1444
1351=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1352
1353When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1354trigger next.
1355
1356=back 1445=back
1357 1446
1358=head3 Examples 1447=head3 Examples
1359 1448
1360Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1449Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1361system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1450system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1362potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1451potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1363 1452
1364 static void 1453 static void
1365 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)
1366 { 1455 {
1367 ... 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)
1368 } 1457 }
1369 1458
1370 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1459 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1371 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1460 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1372 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1461 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1373 1462
1374Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1463Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1375 1464
1376 #include <math.h> 1465 #include <math.h>
1377 1466
1378 static ev_tstamp 1467 static ev_tstamp
1379 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1468 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1380 { 1469 {
1381 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1470 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1382 } 1471 }
1383 1472
1384 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1473 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1385 1474
1386Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1475Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1387 1476
1388 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1477 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1389 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1478 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1390 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1479 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1391 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1480 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1392 1481
1393 1482
1394=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1483=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1395 1484
1396Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1485Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1403with 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
1404as 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
1405watcher 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
1406SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1495SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1407 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
1408=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1503=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1409 1504
1410=over 4 1505=over 4
1411 1506
1412=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1507=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1420 1515
1421The signal the watcher watches out for. 1516The signal the watcher watches out for.
1422 1517
1423=back 1518=back
1424 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
1425 1534
1426=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1535=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1427 1536
1428Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1537Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1429some 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.
1430 1564
1431=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1565=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1432 1566
1433=over 4 1567=over 4
1434 1568
1435=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1569=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid, int trace)
1436 1570
1437=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid) 1571=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid, int trace)
1438 1572
1439Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or 1573Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or
1440I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look 1574I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look
1441at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see 1575at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see
1442the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems 1576the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems
1443C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the 1577C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the
1444process causing the status change. 1578process causing the status change. C<trace> must be either C<0> (only
1579activate the watcher when the process terminates) or C<1> (additionally
1580activate the watcher when the process is stopped or continued).
1445 1581
1446=item int pid [read-only] 1582=item int pid [read-only]
1447 1583
1448The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id. 1584The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id.
1449 1585
1458 1594
1459=back 1595=back
1460 1596
1461=head3 Examples 1597=head3 Examples
1462 1598
1463Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1599Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1600its completion.
1464 1601
1602 ev_child cw;
1603
1465 static void 1604 static void
1466 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1605 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1467 { 1606 {
1468 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);
1469 } 1609 }
1470 1610
1471 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1611 pid_t pid = fork ();
1472 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1612
1473 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 }
1474 1625
1475 1626
1476=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1627=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1477 1628
1478This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1629This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1479C<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
1480compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1631compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1481 1632
1482The 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
1483not 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
1501as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1652as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1502resource-intensive. 1653resource-intensive.
1503 1654
1504At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1655At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1505implemented (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
1506reader). 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
1507semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1659not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1508to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1660sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1509usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1661but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1510polling. 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.
1511 1674
1512=head3 Inotify 1675=head3 Inotify
1513 1676
1514When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1677When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1515available 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
1516change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1679change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1517when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1680when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1518 1681
1519Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1682Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1520except 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
1521making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1684making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1522there 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.
1523 1686
1524(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
1525implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1688implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1526descriptor open on the object at all times). 1689descriptor open on the object at all times).
1527 1690
1528=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1691=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1529 1692
1530The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1693The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1531even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1694even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1532only support whole seconds. 1695only support whole seconds.
1533 1696
1534That 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
1535miss 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
1536your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1699calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1537the 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.
1538 1702
1539The 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
1540the 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
1541(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);
1542is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1706ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1543systems. 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).
1544 1716
1545=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1717=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1546 1718
1547=over 4 1719=over 4
1548 1720
1554C<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
1555be 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
1556a 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
1557path for as long as the watcher is active. 1729path for as long as the watcher is active.
1558 1730
1559The 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
1560relative 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
1561last change was detected). 1733was detected).
1562 1734
1563=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *) 1735=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1564 1736
1565Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1737Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1566watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1738watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1567detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1739detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1568useful simply to find out the new values. 1740the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1741new values.
1569 1742
1570=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1743=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1571 1744
1572The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1745The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1573C<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
1574suitable 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
1575was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1749some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1576 1750
1577=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1751=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1578 1752
1579The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1753The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1580C<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>.
1581 1757
1582=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1758=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1583 1759
1584The specified interval. 1760The specified interval.
1585 1761
1586=item const char *path [read-only] 1762=item const char *path [read-only]
1587 1763
1588The filesystem path that is being watched. 1764The file system path that is being watched.
1589 1765
1590=back 1766=back
1591 1767
1592=head3 Examples 1768=head3 Examples
1593 1769
1594Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1770Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1595 1771
1596 static void 1772 static void
1597 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1773 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1598 { 1774 {
1599 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1775 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1600 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1776 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1601 { 1777 {
1602 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1778 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1603 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1779 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1604 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1780 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1605 } 1781 }
1606 else 1782 else
1607 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1783 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1608 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1784 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1609 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1785 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1610 } 1786 }
1611 1787
1612 ... 1788 ...
1613 ev_stat passwd; 1789 ev_stat passwd;
1614 1790
1615 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1791 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1616 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1792 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1617 1793
1618Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1794Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1619miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1795miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1620one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1796one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1621C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1797C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1622 1798
1623 static ev_stat passwd; 1799 static ev_stat passwd;
1624 static ev_timer timer; 1800 static ev_timer timer;
1625 1801
1626 static void 1802 static void
1627 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1803 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1628 { 1804 {
1629 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1805 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1630 1806
1631 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1807 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1632 } 1808 }
1633 1809
1634 static void 1810 static void
1635 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1811 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1636 { 1812 {
1637 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1813 /* reset the one-second timer */
1638 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1814 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1639 } 1815 }
1640 1816
1641 ... 1817 ...
1642 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1818 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1643 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1819 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1644 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1820 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1645 1821
1646 1822
1647=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...
1648 1824
1649Idle 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
1680=head3 Examples 1856=head3 Examples
1681 1857
1682Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1858Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1683callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1859callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1684 1860
1685 static void 1861 static void
1686 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1862 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1687 { 1863 {
1688 free (w); 1864 free (w);
1689 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1865 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1690 // no longer asnything immediate to do. 1866 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1691 } 1867 }
1692 1868
1693 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1869 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1694 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1870 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1695 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1871 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1696 1872
1697 1873
1698=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1874=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1699 1875
1700Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1876Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1719 1895
1720This 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
1721to 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
1722them 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
1723provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1899provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1724any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1900any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1725and 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
1726callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1902callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1727because you never know, you know?). 1903because you never know, you know?).
1728 1904
1729As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1905As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1737 1913
1738It 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>)
1739priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1915priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1740after 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,
1741too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1917too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1742supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1918supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1743did 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
1744(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
1745state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1921state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1746coexist peacefully with others). 1922coexist peacefully with others).
1747 1923
1762=head3 Examples 1938=head3 Examples
1763 1939
1764There 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
1765into 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
1766(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
1767use 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
1768embeds 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
1769into the Glib event loop). 1945Glib event loop).
1770 1946
1771Method 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,
1772and 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
1773is 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
1774priority 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
1775the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 1951the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1776 1952
1777 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1953 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1778 static ev_timer tw; 1954 static ev_timer tw;
1779 1955
1780 static void 1956 static void
1781 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1957 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1782 { 1958 {
1783 } 1959 }
1784 1960
1785 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1961 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1786 static void 1962 static void
1787 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1963 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1788 { 1964 {
1789 int timeout = 3600000; 1965 int timeout = 3600000;
1790 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1966 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1791 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1967 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1792 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1968 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1793 1969
1794 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1970 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1795 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1971 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1796 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1972 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1797 1973
1798 // create one ev_io per pollfd 1974 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1799 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1975 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1800 { 1976 {
1801 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1977 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1802 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1978 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1803 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1979 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1804 1980
1805 fds [i].revents = 0; 1981 fds [i].revents = 0;
1806 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1982 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1807 } 1983 }
1808 } 1984 }
1809 1985
1810 // stop all watchers after blocking 1986 // stop all watchers after blocking
1811 static void 1987 static void
1812 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1988 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1813 { 1989 {
1814 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1990 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1815 1991
1816 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1992 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1817 { 1993 {
1818 // set the relevant poll flags 1994 // set the relevant poll flags
1819 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 1995 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1820 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 1996 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1821 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 1997 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1822 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 1998 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1823 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 1999 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1824 2000
1825 // now stop the watcher 2001 // now stop the watcher
1826 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2002 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1827 } 2003 }
1828 2004
1829 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2005 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1830 } 2006 }
1831 2007
1832Method 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>
1833in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2009in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1834 2010
1835Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2011Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1836notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2012notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1837callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2013callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1838 2014
1839 static void 2015 static void
1840 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2016 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1841 { 2017 {
1842 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2018 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1843 update_now (EV_A); 2019 update_now (EV_A);
1844 2020
1845 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2021 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1846 } 2022 }
1847 2023
1848 static void 2024 static void
1849 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2025 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1850 { 2026 {
1851 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2027 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1852 update_now (EV_A); 2028 update_now (EV_A);
1853 2029
1854 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2030 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1855 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2031 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1856 } 2032 }
1857 2033
1858 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2034 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1859 2035
1860Method 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
1861want 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
1862their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2038their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1863loop 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
1864this. 2040this.
1865 2041
1866 static gint 2042 static gint
1867 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2043 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1868 { 2044 {
1869 int got_events = 0; 2045 int got_events = 0;
1870 2046
1871 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2047 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1872 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2048 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1873 2049
1874 if (timeout >= 0) 2050 if (timeout >= 0)
1875 // create/start timer 2051 // create/start timer
1876 2052
1877 // poll 2053 // poll
1878 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2054 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1879 2055
1880 // stop timer again 2056 // stop timer again
1881 if (timeout >= 0) 2057 if (timeout >= 0)
1882 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2058 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1883 2059
1884 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2060 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1885 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2061 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1886 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2062 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1887 2063
1888 return got_events; 2064 return got_events;
1889 } 2065 }
1890 2066
1891 2067
1892=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2068=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1893 2069
1894This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2070This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1950 2126
1951Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2127Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
1952embeddable. 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
1953invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2129invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
1954to 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,
1955if 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).
1956 2132
1957=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2133=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
1958 2134
1959Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2135Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1960similarly 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
1961apropriate way for embedded loops. 2137appropriate way for embedded loops.
1962 2138
1963=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2139=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1964 2140
1965The embedded event loop. 2141The embedded event loop.
1966 2142
1968 2144
1969=head3 Examples 2145=head3 Examples
1970 2146
1971Example: 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
1972event 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
1973loop 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
1974C<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
1975used). 2151used).
1976 2152
1977 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2153 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
1978 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2154 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
1979 struct ev_embed embed; 2155 struct ev_embed embed;
1980 2156
1981 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2157 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
1982 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2158 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
1983 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2159 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
1984 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2160 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
1985 : 0; 2161 : 0;
1986 2162
1987 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2163 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
1988 if (loop_lo) 2164 if (loop_lo)
1989 { 2165 {
1990 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2166 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
1991 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2167 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1992 } 2168 }
1993 else 2169 else
1994 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2170 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1995 2171
1996Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2172Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
1997a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2173a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
1998kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2174kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
1999C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2175C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2000 2176
2001 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2177 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2002 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2178 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2003 struct ev_embed embed; 2179 struct ev_embed embed;
2004 2180
2005 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2181 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2006 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2182 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2007 { 2183 {
2008 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2184 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2009 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2185 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2010 } 2186 }
2011 2187
2012 if (!loop_socket) 2188 if (!loop_socket)
2013 loop_socket = loop; 2189 loop_socket = loop;
2014 2190
2015 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2191 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2016 2192
2017 2193
2018=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2194=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2019 2195
2020Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2196Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2036believe me. 2212believe me.
2037 2213
2038=back 2214=back
2039 2215
2040 2216
2217=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop
2218
2219In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
2220asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2221loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2222
2223Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not
2224control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what
2225C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you
2226can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal
2227safe.
2228
2229This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2230too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2231(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2232C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2233
2234Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
2235just the default loop.
2236
2237=head3 Queueing
2238
2239C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2240is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2241multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2242need elaborate support such as pthreads.
2243
2244That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2245queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your
2246queue:
2247
2248=over 4
2249
2250=item queueing from a signal handler context
2251
2252To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2253handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2254some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2255
2256 static ev_async mysig;
2257
2258 static void
2259 sigusr1_handler (void)
2260 {
2261 sometype data;
2262
2263 // no locking etc.
2264 queue_put (data);
2265 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2266 }
2267
2268 static void
2269 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2270 {
2271 sometype data;
2272 sigset_t block, prev;
2273
2274 sigemptyset (&block);
2275 sigaddset (&block, SIGUSR1);
2276 sigprocmask (SIG_BLOCK, &block, &prev);
2277
2278 while (queue_get (&data))
2279 process (data);
2280
2281 if (sigismember (&prev, SIGUSR1)
2282 sigprocmask (SIG_UNBLOCK, &block, 0);
2283 }
2284
2285(Note: pthreads in theory requires you to use C<pthread_setmask>
2286instead of C<sigprocmask> when you use threads, but libev doesn't do it
2287either...).
2288
2289=item queueing from a thread context
2290
2291The strategy for threads is different, as you cannot (easily) block
2292threads but you can easily preempt them, so to queue safely you need to
2293employ a traditional mutex lock, such as in this pthread example:
2294
2295 static ev_async mysig;
2296 static pthread_mutex_t mymutex = PTHREAD_MUTEX_INITIALIZER;
2297
2298 static void
2299 otherthread (void)
2300 {
2301 // only need to lock the actual queueing operation
2302 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2303 queue_put (data);
2304 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2305
2306 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2307 }
2308
2309 static void
2310 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2311 {
2312 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2313
2314 while (queue_get (&data))
2315 process (data);
2316
2317 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2318 }
2319
2320=back
2321
2322
2323=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2324
2325=over 4
2326
2327=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2328
2329Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2330kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2331believe me.
2332
2333=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2334
2335Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2336an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2337C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2338similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2339section below on what exactly this means).
2340
2341This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2342so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
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.
2358
2359=back
2360
2361
2041=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2362=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2042 2363
2043There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now. 2364There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now.
2044 2365
2045=over 4 2366=over 4
2052or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2373or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2053more watchers yourself. 2374more watchers yourself.
2054 2375
2055If 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
2056is 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
2057C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2378C<events> set will be created and started.
2058 2379
2059If 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
2060started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2381started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2061repeat = 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
2062dubious value. 2383dubious value.
2064The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2385The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2065passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2386passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2066C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2387C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2067value passed to C<ev_once>: 2388value passed to C<ev_once>:
2068 2389
2069 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2390 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2070 { 2391 {
2071 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2392 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2072 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2393 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2073 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2394 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2074 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2395 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2075 } 2396 }
2076 2397
2077 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2398 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2078 2399
2079=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2400=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2080 2401
2081Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2402Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2082had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2403had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2087Feed 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
2088the given events it. 2409the given events it.
2089 2410
2090=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2411=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2091 2412
2092Feed 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
2093loop!). 2414loop!).
2094 2415
2095=back 2416=back
2096 2417
2097 2418
2113 2434
2114=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2435=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2115will 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
2116is an ev_pri field. 2437is an ev_pri field.
2117 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
2118=item * Other members are not supported. 2442=item * Other members are not supported.
2119 2443
2120=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
2121to use the libev header file and library. 2445to use the libev header file and library.
2122 2446
2123=back 2447=back
2124 2448
2125=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2449=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2126 2450
2127Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2451Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2128you 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
2129the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2453the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2130 2454
2131To use it, 2455To use it,
2132 2456
2133 #include <ev++.h> 2457 #include <ev++.h>
2134 2458
2135This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2459This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2136of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2460of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2137put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2461put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2138options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2462options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2205your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2529your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2206thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2530thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2207 2531
2208Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2532Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2209 2533
2210 struct myclass 2534 struct myclass
2211 { 2535 {
2212 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2536 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2213 } 2537 }
2214 2538
2215 myclass obj; 2539 myclass obj;
2216 ev::io iow; 2540 ev::io iow;
2217 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2541 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2218 2542
2219=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2543=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2220 2544
2221Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2545Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2222callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2546callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2226 2550
2227See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2551See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2228 2552
2229Example: 2553Example:
2230 2554
2231 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2555 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2232 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2556 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2233 2557
2234=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2558=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2235 2559
2236Associates 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
2237do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2561do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2238 2562
2239=item w->set ([args]) 2563=item w->set ([arguments])
2240 2564
2241Basically 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
2242called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2566called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2243automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2567automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2244method. 2568method.
2245 2569
2246=item w->start () 2570=item w->start ()
2270=back 2594=back
2271 2595
2272Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2596Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2273the constructor. 2597the constructor.
2274 2598
2275 class myclass 2599 class myclass
2276 { 2600 {
2277 ev_io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2601 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2278 ev_idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2602 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2279 2603
2280 myclass (); 2604 myclass (int fd)
2281 } 2605 {
2282
2283 myclass::myclass (int fd)
2284 {
2285 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2606 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2286 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2607 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2287 2608
2288 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2609 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2610 }
2289 } 2611 };
2612
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
2290 2647
2291 2648
2292=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2649=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2293 2650
2294Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2651Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2295of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2652of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2296functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2653functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2297 2654
2298To 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
2299following macros are defined: 2656following macros are defined:
2304 2661
2305This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2662This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2306loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2663loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2307C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2664C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2308 2665
2309 ev_unref (EV_A); 2666 ev_unref (EV_A);
2310 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2667 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2311 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2668 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2312 2669
2313It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2670It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2314which is often provided by the following macro. 2671which is often provided by the following macro.
2315 2672
2316=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2673=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2317 2674
2318This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2675This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2319loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2676loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2320C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2677C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2321 2678
2322 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2679 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2323 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2680 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2324 2681
2325 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2682 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2326 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2683 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2327 2684
2328It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2685It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2329suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2686suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2330 2687
2331=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2688=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2332 2689
2333Similar 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
2334loop, 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.
2335 2702
2336=back 2703=back
2337 2704
2338Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2705Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2339macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2706macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2340or not. 2707or not.
2341 2708
2342 static void 2709 static void
2343 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2710 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2344 { 2711 {
2345 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2712 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2346 } 2713 }
2347 2714
2348 ev_check check; 2715 ev_check check;
2349 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2716 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2350 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2717 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2351 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2718 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2352 2719
2353=head1 EMBEDDING 2720=head1 EMBEDDING
2354 2721
2355Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2722Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2356applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2723applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2363libev somewhere in your source tree). 2730libev somewhere in your source tree).
2364 2731
2365=head2 FILESETS 2732=head2 FILESETS
2366 2733
2367Depending 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
2368in your app. 2735in your application.
2369 2736
2370=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2737=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2371 2738
2372To 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
2373configuration (no autoconf): 2740configuration (no autoconf):
2374 2741
2375 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2742 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2376 #include "ev.c" 2743 #include "ev.c"
2377 2744
2378This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2745This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2379single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2746single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2380it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2747it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2381done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2748done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2382where you can put other configuration options): 2749where you can put other configuration options):
2383 2750
2384 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2751 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2385 #include "ev.h" 2752 #include "ev.h"
2386 2753
2387Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2754Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2388compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2755compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2389as a bug). 2756as a bug).
2390 2757
2391You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2758You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2392in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2759in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2393 2760
2394 ev.h 2761 ev.h
2395 ev.c 2762 ev.c
2396 ev_vars.h 2763 ev_vars.h
2397 ev_wrap.h 2764 ev_wrap.h
2398 2765
2399 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2766 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2400 2767
2401 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2768 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2402 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2769 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2403 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2770 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2404 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2771 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2405 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2772 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2406 2773
2407F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2774F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2408to compile this single file. 2775to compile this single file.
2409 2776
2410=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2777=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2411 2778
2412To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2779To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2413 2780
2414 #include "event.c" 2781 #include "event.c"
2415 2782
2416in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2783in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2417 2784
2418 #include "event.h" 2785 #include "event.h"
2419 2786
2420in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2787in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2421 2788
2422You need the following additional files for this: 2789You need the following additional files for this:
2423 2790
2424 event.h 2791 event.h
2425 event.c 2792 event.c
2426 2793
2427=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2794=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2428 2795
2429Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2796Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2430whatever 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
2431F<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
2432include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2799include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2433 2800
2434For this of course you need the m4 file: 2801For this of course you need the m4 file:
2435 2802
2436 libev.m4 2803 libev.m4
2437 2804
2438=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2805=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2439 2806
2440Libev 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
2441before 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
2442and only include the select backend. 2809autoconf is noted for every option.
2443 2810
2444=over 4 2811=over 4
2445 2812
2446=item EV_STANDALONE 2813=item EV_STANDALONE
2447 2814
2452F<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.
2453 2820
2454=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2821=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2455 2822
2456If 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
2457monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2824monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2458of 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
2459usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2826usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2460the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2827the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2461to 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>
2462function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2829function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2463 2830
2464=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2831=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2465 2832
2466If 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
2467realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2834real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2468runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2835runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2469be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2836be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2470(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2837(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2471note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2838note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2472 2839
2473=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2840=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2474 2841
2475If 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
2476and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2843and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2477 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
2478=item EV_USE_SELECT 2853=item EV_USE_SELECT
2479 2854
2480If 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
2481C<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
2482other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2857other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2483will not be compiled in. 2858will not be compiled in.
2484 2859
2485=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2860=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2486 2861
2487If 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>
2488structure. 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
2489C<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
2490exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2865exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2491low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2866low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2492allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2867allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2493influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2868influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2494 2869
2518 2893
2519=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2894=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2520 2895
2521If 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
2522C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2897C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2523otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2898otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2524preferred 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.
2525 2901
2526=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2902=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2527 2903
2528If 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
2529C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2905C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2542otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2918otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2543backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2919backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2544 2920
2545=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2921=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2546 2922
2547reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2923Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2548 2924
2549=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2925=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2550 2926
2551If 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
2552interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2928interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2553be 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.
2931
2932=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2933
2934Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2935access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2936type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
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.
2939
2940In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2941(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2554 2942
2555=item EV_H 2943=item EV_H
2556 2944
2557The 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
2558undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h> and F<ev.c>. This can be used to 2946undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
2559virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2947used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
2560 2948
2561=item EV_CONFIG_H 2949=item EV_CONFIG_H
2562 2950
2563If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 2951If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
2564F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 2952F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
2565C<EV_H>, above. 2953C<EV_H>, above.
2566 2954
2567=item EV_EVENT_H 2955=item EV_EVENT_H
2568 2956
2569Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 2957Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
2570of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the dfeault is C<"event.h">. 2958of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
2571 2959
2572=item EV_PROTOTYPES 2960=item EV_PROTOTYPES
2573 2961
2574If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 2962If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
2575prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 2963prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
2596When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 2984When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2597all 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
2598and 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
2599fine. 2987fine.
2600 2988
2601If 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
2602C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 2990C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2603 2991
2604=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2992=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2605 2993
2606If 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
2607defined 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
2626=item EV_FORK_ENABLE 3014=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2627 3015
2628If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If 3016If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2629defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3017defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2630 3018
3019=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3020
3021If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3022defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3023
2631=item EV_MINIMAL 3024=item EV_MINIMAL
2632 3025
2633If 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
2634speed, 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
2635some 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.
2636 3030
2637=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3031=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2638 3032
2639C<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
2640pid. 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
2647inotify 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>),
2648usually 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>
2649watchers 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
2650two). 3044two).
2651 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.>
3080
2652=item EV_COMMON 3081=item EV_COMMON
2653 3082
2654By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3083By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2655this 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
2656members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3085members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2657though, and it must be identical each time. 3086though, and it must be identical each time.
2658 3087
2659For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3088For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2660 3089
2661 #define EV_COMMON \ 3090 #define EV_COMMON \
2662 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3091 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2663 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3092 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2664 3093
2665=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3094=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2666 3095
2667=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3096=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2668 3097
2675avoid 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
2676method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3105method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2677 3106
2678=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3107=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2679 3108
2680If 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
2681exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3110exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2682all public symbols, one per line: 3111all public symbols, one per line:
2683 3112
2684 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3113 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2685 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3114 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2686 3115
2687This 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
2688multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3117multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2689itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3118itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2690 3119
2691A 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
2692include before including F<ev.h>: 3121include before including F<ev.h>:
2693 3122
2694 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3123 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2711file. 3140file.
2712 3141
2713The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3142The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2714that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3143that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2715 3144
2716 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3145 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2717 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3146 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2718 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3147 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2719 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3148 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2720 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3149 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2721 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3150 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2722 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3151 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2723 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3152 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2724 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3153 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2725 3154
2726 #include "ev++.h" 3155 #include "ev++.h"
2727 3156
2728And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3157And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2729 3158
2730 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3159 #include "ev_cpp.h"
2731 #include "ev.c" 3160 #include "ev.c"
3161
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.
2732 3218
2733 3219
2734=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3220=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2735 3221
2736In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3222In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2754=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)
2755 3241
2756That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them 3242That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2757as 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.
2758 3244
2759=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)
2760 3246
2761These 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.
2762 3248
2763=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 3249=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2764 3250
2765=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))
2766 3252
2767These 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
2768correct 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
2769have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3255have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2770 3256
2771=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3257=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
2772 3258
2773By 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
2774beginning of the storage array. 3260fixed position in the storage array.
2775 3261
2776=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)
2777 3263
2778A 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
2779libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3265libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
2780on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3266on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
2781 3267
2782=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)
2783 3269
2784=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3270=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2785 3271
2786Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each 3272Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2787priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to 3273priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2788linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating 3274linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
2789watchers 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.
2790 3286
2791=back 3287=back
2792 3288
2793 3289
2794=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3290=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
2795 3291
2796Win32 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
2797requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3293requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
2798model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3294model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
2799the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3295the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
2800descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3296descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
2801e.g. cygwin. 3297e.g. cygwin.
2802 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
2803There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3304There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
2804embedding it into other applications. 3305embedding it into other applications.
2805 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
2806Due 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
2807abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3315the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
2808recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3316is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
2809a 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
2810implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3318different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
2811be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3319notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3320(Microsoft monopoly games).
2812 3321
2813=over 4 3322=over 4
2814 3323
2815=item The winsocket select function 3324=item The winsocket select function
2816 3325
2817The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3326The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
2818socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3327requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
2819very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3328also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
2820to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3329requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles. See the
2821C<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
2822symbols for more info. 3331C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
2823 3332
2824The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3333The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
2825libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3334libraries and raw winsocket select is:
2826 3335
2827 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3336 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
2828 #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 */
2829 3338
2830Note 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
2831complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3340complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
2832 3341
2833=item Limited number of file descriptors 3342=item Limited number of file descriptors
2834 3343
2835Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3344Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
2836of 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
2837(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
2838C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3348can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
2839chain 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).
2840 3351
2841Newer 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>
2842to 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
2843call (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
2844select emulation on windows). 3355select emulation on windows).
2845 3356
2846Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3357Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
2847libraries, 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
2848or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3359or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
2849C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3360C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
2850arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3361arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
2851libraries. 3362libraries.
2852 3363
2853This 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
2854windows 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
2855wrap 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
2856calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3367calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
2857 3368
2858=back 3369=back
2859 3370
2860 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
2861=head1 AUTHOR 3471=head1 AUTHOR
2862 3472
2863Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3473Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
2864 3474

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