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Revision 1.134 by root, Sat Mar 8 07:04:56 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.178 by root, Sat Sep 13 18:25:50 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
265The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
266C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
267for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your app you can either 303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
268create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
269can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
270C<ev_default_init>. 306C<ev_default_init>.
271 307
272The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
281The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right 317The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right
282thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
283 319
284=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
285 321
286If this flag bit is ored into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 322If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
287or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
288C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
289override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 325override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
290useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 326useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
291around bugs. 327around bugs.
297enabling this flag. 333enabling this flag.
298 334
299This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
300and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 336and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
301iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
302Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 338GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
303without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has 339without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
304C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
305 341
306The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 342The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
307forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
308flag. 344flag.
309 345
310This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 346This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
311environment variable. 347environment variable.
312 348
313=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
314 350
315This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
317but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 353but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
318using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its 354using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
319usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
320 356
321To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of 357To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
322parallelity (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are 358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
323writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many 359writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
324connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
325a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of 361a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
326readyness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
327 363
328=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 364=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
329 365
330And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
331than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
339For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 375For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
340but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
341like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 377like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
342epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number 378epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
343of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
344cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad 380cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad
345support for dup. 381support for dup.
346 382
347While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 383While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
348will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 384will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such incident
349(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 385(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
350best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work 386best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
351very well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
352 388
353Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
356 392
357Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
358watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e. 394watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e.
359keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
360 396
361While nominally embeddeble in other event loops, this feature is broken in 397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
362all kernel versions tested so far. 398all kernel versions tested so far.
363 399
364=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
365 401
366Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
367was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 403was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
368with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
369it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
370unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
371C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 407C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
372system like NetBSD. 408system like NetBSD.
373 409
374You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 410You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
376the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
377 413
378It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 414It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
379kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
380course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
381cause an extra syscall as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 417cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
382two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 418two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
383drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
384 420
385This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
386 422
401=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
402 438
403This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 439This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
404it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 440it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
405 441
406Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
407notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 443notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
408blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
409 445
410While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
411file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
412descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
413might perform better. 449might perform better.
414 450
415On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readyness notifications, this 451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
416backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
417embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
418 454
419=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
420 456
424 460
425It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
426 462
427=back 463=back
428 464
429If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 465If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these
430backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
431specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
432 468
433The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
434 470
435 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
436 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
437 473
438Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
439environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
440 476
441 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
442 478
443Use 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
444available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
445event 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):
446 482
447 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
448 484
449=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
450 486
451Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 487Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
452always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
453handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 489handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
454undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 490undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
455 491
492Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
495
456Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 496Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
457 497
458 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
459 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
460 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
461 501
462=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
463 503
464Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
465etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 505etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
466sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 506sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
467responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
468calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
469the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 509the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
470for example). 510for example).
471 511
472Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by 512Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
533received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 573received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
534change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 574change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
535time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 575time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
536event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 576event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
537 577
578=item ev_now_update (loop)
579
580Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
581returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
582is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>.
583
584This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
585very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
586the current time is a good idea.
587
588See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section.
589
538=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 590=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
539 591
540Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 592Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
541after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 593after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
542events. 594events.
553A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 605A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
554those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 606those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in
555case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 607case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop.
556 608
557A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 609A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
558neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 610necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
559your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 611your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after
560one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 612one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some
561external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 613external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
562libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 614libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
563usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 615usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
564 616
565Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 617Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
566 618
567 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 619 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
568 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 620 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
569 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers. 621 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
570 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 622 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
571 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 623 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
624 as to not disturb the other process.
572 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 625 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
573 - Update the "event loop time". 626 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
574 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 627 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
575 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 628 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
576 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 629 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
577 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 630 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
578 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 631 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
579 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 632 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
580 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 633 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
581 - Queue all outstanding timers. 634 - Queue all outstanding timers.
582 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 635 - Queue all outstanding periodics.
583 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 636 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
584 - Queue all check watchers. 637 - Queue all check watchers.
585 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 638 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
586 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 639 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
587 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 640 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
588 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 641 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
593anymore. 646anymore.
594 647
595 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 648 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
596 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 649 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
597 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 650 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
598 ... jobs done. yeah! 651 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
599 652
600=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 653=item ev_unloop (loop, how)
601 654
602Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 655Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
603has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 656has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
624respectively). 677respectively).
625 678
626Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 679Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
627running when nothing else is active. 680running when nothing else is active.
628 681
629 struct ev_signal exitsig; 682 struct ev_signal exitsig;
630 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 683 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
631 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 684 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
632 evf_unref (loop); 685 evf_unref (loop);
633 686
634Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 687Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
635 688
636 ev_ref (loop); 689 ev_ref (loop);
637 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 690 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
638 691
639=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 692=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
640 693
641=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 694=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
642 695
643These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting 696These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
644for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to 697for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
645invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency. 698will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
699latency.
646 700
647Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>) 701Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
648allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to 702allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
649increase efficiency of loop iterations. 703to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
704opportunities).
650 705
651The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to 706The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
652handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes 707handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
653the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new 708the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
654events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high 709events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
664to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 719to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
665latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 720latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
666will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 721will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
667any overhead in libev. 722any overhead in libev.
668 723
669Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect 724Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
670interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 725interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
671interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 726interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
672usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 727usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
673as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems. 728as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
729
730Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
731saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
732are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
733times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
734reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
735they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
736
737=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
738
739This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
740compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks
741them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print
742an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>.
743
744This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
745circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
746data structures consistent.
674 747
675=back 748=back
676 749
677 750
678=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 751=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
679 752
680A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 753A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
681interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 754interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
682become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 755become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
683 756
684 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 757 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
685 { 758 {
686 ev_io_stop (w); 759 ev_io_stop (w);
687 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 760 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
688 } 761 }
689 762
690 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 763 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
691 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 764 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
692 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 765 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
693 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 766 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
694 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 767 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
695 ev_loop (loop, 0); 768 ev_loop (loop, 0);
696 769
697As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 770As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
698watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 771watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
699although this can sometimes be quite valid). 772although this can sometimes be quite valid).
700 773
701Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 774Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
702(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 775(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
703callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 776callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
704watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 777watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
705is readable and/or writable). 778is readable and/or writable).
706 779
707Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 780Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
708with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 781with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
784 857
785The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 858The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
786 859
787=item C<EV_ERROR> 860=item C<EV_ERROR>
788 861
789An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 862An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
790happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 863happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
791ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 864ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
792problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 865problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
793with the watcher being stopped. 866with the watcher being stopped.
794 867
795Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 868Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
796for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 869for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if
797your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 870your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
798with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 871with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
799programs, though, so beware. 872programs, though, so beware.
800 873
801=back 874=back
802 875
803=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 876=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
833Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 906Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
834(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 907(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
835 908
836=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 909=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
837 910
838This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 911This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
839calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 912calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
840a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 913a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
841 914
842=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 915=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
843 916
844Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 917Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
927to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 1000to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
928don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 1001don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
929member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1002member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
930data: 1003data:
931 1004
932 struct my_io 1005 struct my_io
933 { 1006 {
934 struct ev_io io; 1007 struct ev_io io;
935 int otherfd; 1008 int otherfd;
936 void *somedata; 1009 void *somedata;
937 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1010 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
938 } 1011 };
1012
1013 ...
1014 struct my_io w;
1015 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
939 1016
940And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1017And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
941can cast it back to your own type: 1018can cast it back to your own type:
942 1019
943 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1020 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
944 { 1021 {
945 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1022 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
946 ... 1023 ...
947 } 1024 }
948 1025
949More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1026More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
950instead have been omitted. 1027instead have been omitted.
951 1028
952Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1029Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
953watchers: 1030embedded watchers:
954 1031
955 struct my_biggy 1032 struct my_biggy
956 { 1033 {
957 int some_data; 1034 int some_data;
958 ev_timer t1; 1035 ev_timer t1;
959 ev_timer t2; 1036 ev_timer t2;
960 } 1037 }
961 1038
962In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1039In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
963you need to use C<offsetof>: 1040complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1041in the C<data> member of the watcher, or you need to use some pointer
1042arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers:
964 1043
965 #include <stddef.h> 1044 #include <stddef.h>
966 1045
967 static void 1046 static void
968 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1047 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
969 { 1048 {
970 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1049 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
971 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1050 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
972 } 1051 }
973 1052
974 static void 1053 static void
975 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1054 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
976 { 1055 {
977 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1056 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
978 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1057 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
979 } 1058 }
980 1059
981 1060
982=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1061=head1 WATCHER TYPES
983 1062
984This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1063This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1013If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1092If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
1014(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1093(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
1015C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1094C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1016 1095
1017Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1096Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1018receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1097receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1019be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1098be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1020because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1099because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1021lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1100lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1022this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1101this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1023it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1102it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1024C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1103C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1025 1104
1026If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1105If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
1027play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1106play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test
1028whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1107whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
1029such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1108such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
1030its own, so its quite safe to use). 1109its own, so its quite safe to use).
1031 1110
1032=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1111=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1070To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1149To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1071C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1150C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1072enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1151enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1073C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1152C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1074 1153
1154=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1155
1156While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1157when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1158send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most programs
1159this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually undesirable.
1160
1161So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1162ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1163somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1164
1075 1165
1076=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1166=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1077 1167
1078=over 4 1168=over 4
1079 1169
1080=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1170=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1081 1171
1082=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1172=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1083 1173
1084Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1174Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1085rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1175receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1086C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1176C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
1087 1177
1088=item int fd [read-only] 1178=item int fd [read-only]
1089 1179
1090The file descriptor being watched. 1180The file descriptor being watched.
1099 1189
1100Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1190Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1101readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1191readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1102attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1192attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1103 1193
1104 static void 1194 static void
1105 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1195 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1106 { 1196 {
1107 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1197 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1108 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1198 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
1109 } 1199 }
1110 1200
1111 ... 1201 ...
1112 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1202 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1113 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1203 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1114 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1204 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1115 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1205 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1116 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1206 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1117 1207
1118 1208
1119=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1209=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1120 1210
1121Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1211Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1122given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1212given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1123 1213
1124The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1214The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1125times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1215times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1126time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1216year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
1127detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1217detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1128monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1218monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1219
1220The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
1221but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
1222order of execution is undefined.
1223
1224=head3 The special problem of time updates
1225
1226Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1227least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1228time only before and after C<ev_loop> polls for new events, which causes
1229a growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1230lots of events.
1129 1231
1130The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1232The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1131time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1233time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1132of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 1234of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1133you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1235you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1134on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1236timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1135 1237
1136 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1238 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1137 1239
1138The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1240If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1139but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1241update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1140order of execution is undefined. 1242()>.
1141 1243
1142=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1244=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1143 1245
1144=over 4 1246=over 4
1145 1247
1146=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1248=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1147 1249
1148=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1250=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1149 1251
1150Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1252Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
1151C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1253is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
1152timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1254reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
1153later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1255configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1256until stopped manually.
1154 1257
1155The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1258The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1156configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1259you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1157exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1260trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1158the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1261keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1159timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1262do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1160 1263
1161=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 1264=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1162 1265
1163This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1266This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
1164repeating. The exact semantics are: 1267repeating. The exact semantics are:
1165 1268
1166If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 1269If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1167 1270
1168If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1271If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1169 1272
1170If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1273If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1171C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1274C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1172 1275
1173This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1276This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
1174example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 1277example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle
1175timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 1278timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1176seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 1279seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1177configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call 1280configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1178C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1281C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1179you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1282you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1205 1308
1206=head3 Examples 1309=head3 Examples
1207 1310
1208Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1311Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1209 1312
1210 static void 1313 static void
1211 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1314 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1212 { 1315 {
1213 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1316 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1214 } 1317 }
1215 1318
1216 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1319 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1217 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1320 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1218 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1321 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1219 1322
1220Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1323Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1221inactivity. 1324inactivity.
1222 1325
1223 static void 1326 static void
1224 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1327 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1225 { 1328 {
1226 .. ten seconds without any activity 1329 .. ten seconds without any activity
1227 } 1330 }
1228 1331
1229 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1332 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1230 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1333 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1231 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1334 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1232 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1335 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1233 1336
1234 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1337 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1235 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1338 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1236 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1339 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1237 1340
1238 1341
1239=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1342=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1240 1343
1241Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1344Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1242(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1345(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1243 1346
1244Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1347Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
1245but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1348but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
1246to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1349to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
1247periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1350periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now ()
1248+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1351+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1352clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
1249take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1353to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1250roughly 10 seconds later). 1354roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1251 1355
1252They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1356C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1253triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated, 1357such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1254rules. 1358complicated, rules.
1255 1359
1256As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1360As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1257time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1361time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1258during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1362during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1259 1363
1260=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1364=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1261 1365
1262=over 4 1366=over 4
1270 1374
1271=over 4 1375=over 4
1272 1376
1273=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1377=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1274 1378
1275In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1379In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1276C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1380time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1277that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1381jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1278system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1382run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1279 1383
1280=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1384=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1281 1385
1282In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1386In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1283C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1387C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1284and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1388and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1285 1389
1286This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1390This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1287time: 1391time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1392the hour:
1288 1393
1289 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1394 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1290 1395
1291This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1396This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1292but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1397but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1293full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1398full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1294by 3600. 1399by 3600.
1295 1400
1296Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1401Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1297C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1402C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1298time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1403time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1299 1404
1300For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1405For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1301C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 1406C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1302this value. 1407this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1408
1409Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1410speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1411will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1412millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1303 1413
1304=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1414=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1305 1415
1306In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1416In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1307ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1417ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1308reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1418reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1309current time as second argument. 1419current time as second argument.
1310 1420
1311NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1421NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1312ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1422ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1313return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1314starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
1315 1423
1424If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1425it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1426only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1427
1316Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1428The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1317ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1429*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1318 1430
1319 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1431 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1320 { 1432 {
1321 return now + 60.; 1433 return now + 60.;
1322 } 1434 }
1324It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1436It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1325(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 1437(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1326will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1438will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1327might be called at other times, too. 1439might be called at other times, too.
1328 1440
1329NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1441NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1330passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1442equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1331 1443
1332This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1444This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1333triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 1445triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1334next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 1446next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1335you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 1447you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1336reason I omitted it as an example). 1448reason I omitted it as an example).
1337 1449
1338=back 1450=back
1342Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1454Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1343when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1455when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1344a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1456a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1345program when the crontabs have changed). 1457program when the crontabs have changed).
1346 1458
1459=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1460
1461When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1462trigger next.
1463
1347=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1464=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1348 1465
1349When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1466When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1350absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1467absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1351 1468
1362 1479
1363The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1480The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1364switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1481switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1365the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1482the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1366 1483
1367=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1368
1369When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1370trigger next.
1371
1372=back 1484=back
1373 1485
1374=head3 Examples 1486=head3 Examples
1375 1487
1376Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1488Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1377system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1489system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1378potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1490potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1379 1491
1380 static void 1492 static void
1381 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1493 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1382 { 1494 {
1383 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1495 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1384 } 1496 }
1385 1497
1386 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1498 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1387 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1499 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1388 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1500 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1389 1501
1390Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1502Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1391 1503
1392 #include <math.h> 1504 #include <math.h>
1393 1505
1394 static ev_tstamp 1506 static ev_tstamp
1395 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1507 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1396 { 1508 {
1397 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1509 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1398 } 1510 }
1399 1511
1400 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1512 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1401 1513
1402Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1514Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1403 1515
1404 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1516 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1405 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1517 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1406 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1518 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1407 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1519 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1408 1520
1409 1521
1410=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1522=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1411 1523
1412Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1524Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1419with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1531with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1420as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1532as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1421watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1533watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1422SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1534SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1423 1535
1536If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1537C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1538interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1539signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1540them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1541
1424=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1542=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1425 1543
1426=over 4 1544=over 4
1427 1545
1428=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1546=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1440 1558
1441=head3 Examples 1559=head3 Examples
1442 1560
1443Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1561Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1444 1562
1445 static void 1563 static void
1446 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1564 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1447 { 1565 {
1448 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1566 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1449 } 1567 }
1450 1568
1451 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1569 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1452 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1570 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1453 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1571 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1454 1572
1455 1573
1456=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1574=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1457 1575
1458Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1576Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1460is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1578is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1461forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 1579forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1462loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1580loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1463 1581
1464Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1582Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1465you can only rgeister child watchers in the default event loop. 1583you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1466 1584
1467=head3 Process Interaction 1585=head3 Process Interaction
1468 1586
1469Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 1587Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1470initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 1588initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1471the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurance 1589the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1472of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 1590of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1473synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 1591synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1474children, even ones not watched. 1592children, even ones not watched.
1475 1593
1476=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 1594=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1480handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for 1598handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1481C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the 1599C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1482default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an 1600default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1483event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for 1601event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1484that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely. 1602that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1603
1604=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
1605
1606Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
1607child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
1608callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
1609when a child exit is detected.
1485 1610
1486=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1611=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1487 1612
1488=over 4 1613=over 4
1489 1614
1518=head3 Examples 1643=head3 Examples
1519 1644
1520Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1645Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1521its completion. 1646its completion.
1522 1647
1523 ev_child cw; 1648 ev_child cw;
1524 1649
1525 static void 1650 static void
1526 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1651 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1527 { 1652 {
1528 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1653 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1529 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1654 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1530 } 1655 }
1531 1656
1532 pid_t pid = fork (); 1657 pid_t pid = fork ();
1533 1658
1534 if (pid < 0) 1659 if (pid < 0)
1535 // error 1660 // error
1536 else if (pid == 0) 1661 else if (pid == 0)
1537 { 1662 {
1538 // the forked child executes here 1663 // the forked child executes here
1539 exit (1); 1664 exit (1);
1540 } 1665 }
1541 else 1666 else
1542 { 1667 {
1543 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1668 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1544 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1669 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1545 } 1670 }
1546 1671
1547 1672
1548=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1673=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1549 1674
1550This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1675This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1551C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1676C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1552compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1677compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1553 1678
1554The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1679The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1555not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1680not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1573as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1698as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1574resource-intensive. 1699resource-intensive.
1575 1700
1576At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1701At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1577implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1702implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1703reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat
1578reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1704semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1579semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1705not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1580to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1706sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1581usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1707but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1582polling. 1708will be no polling.
1709
1710=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1711
1712Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1713compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1714support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1715structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1716use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1717compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1718obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1719most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1720
1721The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1722file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1723optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1724to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1725default compilation environment.
1583 1726
1584=head3 Inotify 1727=head3 Inotify
1585 1728
1586When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1729When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1587available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1730available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1588change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1731change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1589when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1732when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1590 1733
1591Inotify presense does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1734Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1592except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1735except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1593making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presense of inotify support 1736making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1594there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1737there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1595 1738
1596(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1739(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1597implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1740implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1598descriptor open on the object at all times). 1741descriptor open on the object at all times).
1599 1742
1600=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1743=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1601 1744
1602The C<stat ()> syscall only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1745The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1603even on systems where the resolution is higher, many filesystems still 1746even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1604only support whole seconds. 1747only support whole seconds.
1605 1748
1606That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you might 1749That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1607miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and calls 1750easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1608your callback, which does something. When there is another update within 1751calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1609the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it. 1752within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1753data does not change.
1610 1754
1611The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for a second (or till 1755The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1612the next second boundary), using a roughly one-second delay C<ev_timer> 1756than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1613(C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.01); ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). The C<.01> 1757a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1614is added to work around small timing inconsistencies of some operating 1758ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1615systems. 1759
1760The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1761of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1762might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1763C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1764a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1765update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1766the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1767the timer callback).
1616 1768
1617=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1769=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1618 1770
1619=over 4 1771=over 4
1620 1772
1626C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1778C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1627be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1779be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1628a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1780a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1629path for as long as the watcher is active. 1781path for as long as the watcher is active.
1630 1782
1631The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1783The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1632relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1784to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1633last change was detected). 1785was detected).
1634 1786
1635=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 1787=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1636 1788
1637Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1789Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1638watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1790watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1639detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1791detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1640useful simply to find out the new values. 1792the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1793new values.
1641 1794
1642=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1795=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1643 1796
1644The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1797The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1645C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1798C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1646suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1799suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1800members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1647was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1801some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1648 1802
1649=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1803=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1650 1804
1651The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1805The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1652C<prev> != C<attr>. 1806C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1807differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1808C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1653 1809
1654=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1810=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1655 1811
1656The specified interval. 1812The specified interval.
1657 1813
1658=item const char *path [read-only] 1814=item const char *path [read-only]
1659 1815
1660The filesystem path that is being watched. 1816The file system path that is being watched.
1661 1817
1662=back 1818=back
1663 1819
1664=head3 Examples 1820=head3 Examples
1665 1821
1666Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1822Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1667 1823
1668 static void 1824 static void
1669 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1825 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1670 { 1826 {
1671 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1827 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1672 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1828 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1673 { 1829 {
1674 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1830 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1675 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1831 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1676 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1832 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1677 } 1833 }
1678 else 1834 else
1679 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1835 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1680 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1836 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1681 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1837 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1682 } 1838 }
1683 1839
1684 ... 1840 ...
1685 ev_stat passwd; 1841 ev_stat passwd;
1686 1842
1687 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1843 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1688 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1844 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1689 1845
1690Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1846Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1691miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1847miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1692one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1848one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1693C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1849C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1694 1850
1695 static ev_stat passwd; 1851 static ev_stat passwd;
1696 static ev_timer timer; 1852 static ev_timer timer;
1697 1853
1698 static void 1854 static void
1699 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1855 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1700 { 1856 {
1701 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1857 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1702 1858
1703 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1859 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1704 } 1860 }
1705 1861
1706 static void 1862 static void
1707 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1863 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1708 { 1864 {
1709 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1865 /* reset the one-second timer */
1710 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1866 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1711 } 1867 }
1712 1868
1713 ... 1869 ...
1714 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1870 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1715 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1871 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1716 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.01); 1872 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1717 1873
1718 1874
1719=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1875=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1720 1876
1721Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1877Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1752=head3 Examples 1908=head3 Examples
1753 1909
1754Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1910Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1755callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1911callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1756 1912
1757 static void 1913 static void
1758 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1914 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1759 { 1915 {
1760 free (w); 1916 free (w);
1761 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1917 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1762 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1918 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1763 } 1919 }
1764 1920
1765 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1921 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1766 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1922 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1767 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1923 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1768 1924
1769 1925
1770=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1926=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1771 1927
1772Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1928Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1791 1947
1792This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1948This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1793to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1949to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1794them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1950them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1795provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1951provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1796any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1952any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1797and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1953and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1798callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1954callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1799because you never know, you know?). 1955because you never know, you know?).
1800 1956
1801As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1957As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1809 1965
1810It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 1966It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1811priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 1967priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1812after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 1968after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1813too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 1969too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1814supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers 1970supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1815did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 1971did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1816(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 1972(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1817state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 1973state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1818coexist peacefully with others). 1974coexist peacefully with others).
1819 1975
1834=head3 Examples 1990=head3 Examples
1835 1991
1836There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules 1992There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1837into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev 1993into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1838(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could 1994(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1839use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> 1995use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1840embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV 1996Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1841into the Glib event loop). 1997Glib event loop).
1842 1998
1843Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, 1999Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1844and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 2000and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1845is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 2001is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1846priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 2002priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1847the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 2003the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1848 2004
1849 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 2005 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1850 static ev_timer tw; 2006 static ev_timer tw;
1851 2007
1852 static void 2008 static void
1853 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2009 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1854 { 2010 {
1855 } 2011 }
1856 2012
1857 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2013 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1858 static void 2014 static void
1859 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2015 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1860 { 2016 {
1861 int timeout = 3600000; 2017 int timeout = 3600000;
1862 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2018 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1863 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2019 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1864 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2020 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1865 2021
1866 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 2022 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1867 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2023 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1868 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2024 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1869 2025
1870 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2026 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1871 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2027 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1872 { 2028 {
1873 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 2029 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1874 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 2030 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1875 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 2031 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1876 2032
1877 fds [i].revents = 0; 2033 fds [i].revents = 0;
1878 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 2034 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1879 } 2035 }
1880 } 2036 }
1881 2037
1882 // stop all watchers after blocking 2038 // stop all watchers after blocking
1883 static void 2039 static void
1884 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2040 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1885 { 2041 {
1886 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2042 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1887 2043
1888 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2044 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1889 { 2045 {
1890 // set the relevant poll flags 2046 // set the relevant poll flags
1891 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2047 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1892 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2048 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1893 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2049 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1894 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2050 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1895 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2051 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1896 2052
1897 // now stop the watcher 2053 // now stop the watcher
1898 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2054 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1899 } 2055 }
1900 2056
1901 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2057 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1902 } 2058 }
1903 2059
1904Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2060Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1905in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2061in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1906 2062
1907Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2063Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1908notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2064notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1909callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2065callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1910 2066
1911 static void 2067 static void
1912 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2068 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1913 { 2069 {
1914 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2070 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1915 update_now (EV_A); 2071 update_now (EV_A);
1916 2072
1917 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2073 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1918 } 2074 }
1919 2075
1920 static void 2076 static void
1921 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2077 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1922 { 2078 {
1923 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2079 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1924 update_now (EV_A); 2080 update_now (EV_A);
1925 2081
1926 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2082 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1927 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2083 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1928 } 2084 }
1929 2085
1930 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2086 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1931 2087
1932Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2088Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1933want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override 2089want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
1934their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2090their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1935loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2091loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1936this. 2092this.
1937 2093
1938 static gint 2094 static gint
1939 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2095 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1940 { 2096 {
1941 int got_events = 0; 2097 int got_events = 0;
1942 2098
1943 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2099 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1944 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2100 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1945 2101
1946 if (timeout >= 0) 2102 if (timeout >= 0)
1947 // create/start timer 2103 // create/start timer
1948 2104
1949 // poll 2105 // poll
1950 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2106 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1951 2107
1952 // stop timer again 2108 // stop timer again
1953 if (timeout >= 0) 2109 if (timeout >= 0)
1954 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2110 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1955 2111
1956 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2112 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1957 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2113 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1958 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2114 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1959 2115
1960 return got_events; 2116 return got_events;
1961 } 2117 }
1962 2118
1963 2119
1964=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2120=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1965 2121
1966This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2122This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2022 2178
2023Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2179Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2024embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2180embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2025invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2181invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2026to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2182to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2027if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2183if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2028 2184
2029=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2185=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2030 2186
2031Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2187Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2032similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2188similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
2033apropriate way for embedded loops. 2189appropriate way for embedded loops.
2034 2190
2035=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2191=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2036 2192
2037The embedded event loop. 2193The embedded event loop.
2038 2194
2040 2196
2041=head3 Examples 2197=head3 Examples
2042 2198
2043Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default 2199Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2044event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2200event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2045loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the mebeddable loop is stored in 2201loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2046C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the acse no embeddable loop can be 2202C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2047used). 2203used).
2048 2204
2049 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2205 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2050 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2206 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2051 struct ev_embed embed; 2207 struct ev_embed embed;
2052 2208
2053 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2209 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2054 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2210 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2055 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2211 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2056 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2212 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2057 : 0; 2213 : 0;
2058 2214
2059 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2215 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2060 if (loop_lo) 2216 if (loop_lo)
2061 { 2217 {
2062 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2218 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2063 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2219 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2064 } 2220 }
2065 else 2221 else
2066 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2222 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2067 2223
2068Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2224Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2069a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2225a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2070kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2226kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2071C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2227C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2072 2228
2073 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2229 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2074 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2230 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2075 struct ev_embed embed; 2231 struct ev_embed embed;
2076 2232
2077 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2233 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2078 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2234 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2079 { 2235 {
2080 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2236 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2081 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2237 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2082 } 2238 }
2083 2239
2084 if (!loop_socket) 2240 if (!loop_socket)
2085 loop_socket = loop; 2241 loop_socket = loop;
2086 2242
2087 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2243 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2088 2244
2089 2245
2090=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2246=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2091 2247
2092Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2248Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2145 2301
2146=item queueing from a signal handler context 2302=item queueing from a signal handler context
2147 2303
2148To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2304To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2149handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2305handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2150some fictitiuous SIGUSR1 handler: 2306some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2151 2307
2152 static ev_async mysig; 2308 static ev_async mysig;
2153 2309
2154 static void 2310 static void
2155 sigusr1_handler (void) 2311 sigusr1_handler (void)
2229=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2385=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2230 2386
2231Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2387Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2232an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2388an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2233C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2389C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2234similar contexts (see the dicusssion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2390similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2235section below on what exactly this means). 2391section below on what exactly this means).
2236 2392
2237This call incurs the overhead of a syscall only once per loop iteration, 2393This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2238so while the overhead might be noticable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2394so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2239calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2395calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2396
2397=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2398
2399Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2400watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2401event loop.
2402
2403C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2404the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2405it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2406quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2407
2408Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2409whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
2240 2410
2241=back 2411=back
2242 2412
2243 2413
2244=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2414=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2255or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2425or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2256more watchers yourself. 2426more watchers yourself.
2257 2427
2258If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2428If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
2259is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2429is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
2260C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2430C<events> set will be created and started.
2261 2431
2262If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2432If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2263started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2433started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2264repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2434repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
2265dubious value. 2435dubious value.
2267The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2437The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2268passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2438passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2269C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2439C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2270value passed to C<ev_once>: 2440value passed to C<ev_once>:
2271 2441
2272 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2442 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2273 { 2443 {
2274 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2444 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2275 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2445 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2276 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2446 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2277 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2447 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2278 } 2448 }
2279 2449
2280 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2450 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2281 2451
2282=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2452=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2283 2453
2284Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2454Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2285had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2455had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2290Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2460Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2291the given events it. 2461the given events it.
2292 2462
2293=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2463=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2294 2464
2295Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2465Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2296loop!). 2466loop!).
2297 2467
2298=back 2468=back
2299 2469
2300 2470
2316 2486
2317=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2487=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
2318will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2488will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
2319is an ev_pri field. 2489is an ev_pri field.
2320 2490
2491=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2492first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2493
2321=item * Other members are not supported. 2494=item * Other members are not supported.
2322 2495
2323=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2496=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
2324to use the libev header file and library. 2497to use the libev header file and library.
2325 2498
2326=back 2499=back
2327 2500
2328=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2501=head1 C++ SUPPORT
2329 2502
2330Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2503Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
2331you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2504you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2332the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2505the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2333 2506
2334To use it, 2507To use it,
2335 2508
2336 #include <ev++.h> 2509 #include <ev++.h>
2337 2510
2338This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2511This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2339of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2512of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2340put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2513put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2341options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2514options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2408your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2581your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2409thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2582thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2410 2583
2411Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2584Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2412 2585
2413 struct myclass 2586 struct myclass
2414 { 2587 {
2415 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2588 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2416 } 2589 }
2417 2590
2418 myclass obj; 2591 myclass obj;
2419 ev::io iow; 2592 ev::io iow;
2420 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2593 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2421 2594
2422=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2595=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2423 2596
2424Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2597Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2425callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2598callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2429 2602
2430See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2603See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2431 2604
2432Example: 2605Example:
2433 2606
2434 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2607 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2435 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2608 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2436 2609
2437=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2610=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2438 2611
2439Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2612Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2440do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2613do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2441 2614
2442=item w->set ([args]) 2615=item w->set ([arguments])
2443 2616
2444Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2617Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
2445called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2618called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
2446automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 2619automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2447method. 2620method.
2448 2621
2449=item w->start () 2622=item w->start ()
2473=back 2646=back
2474 2647
2475Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2648Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2476the constructor. 2649the constructor.
2477 2650
2478 class myclass 2651 class myclass
2479 { 2652 {
2480 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2653 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2481 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2654 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2482 2655
2483 myclass (int fd) 2656 myclass (int fd)
2484 { 2657 {
2485 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2658 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2486 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2659 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2487 2660
2488 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2661 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2489 } 2662 }
2490 }; 2663 };
2664
2665
2666=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2667
2668Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2669number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2670any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2671me a note.
2672
2673=over 4
2674
2675=item Perl
2676
2677The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2678libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2679there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2680to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2681C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2682
2683It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2684L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2685
2686=item Python
2687
2688Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2689seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2690patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2691for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2692libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2693libev).
2694
2695=item Ruby
2696
2697Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2698of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2699more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2700L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2701
2702=item D
2703
2704Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2705be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
2706
2707=back
2491 2708
2492 2709
2493=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2710=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2494 2711
2495Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal 2712Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
2496of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most) 2713of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
2497functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2714functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
2498 2715
2499To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2716To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
2500following macros are defined: 2717following macros are defined:
2505 2722
2506This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2723This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2507loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2724loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2508C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2725C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2509 2726
2510 ev_unref (EV_A); 2727 ev_unref (EV_A);
2511 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2728 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2512 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2729 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2513 2730
2514It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2731It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2515which is often provided by the following macro. 2732which is often provided by the following macro.
2516 2733
2517=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2734=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2518 2735
2519This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2736This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2520loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2737loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2521C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2738C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2522 2739
2523 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2740 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2524 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2741 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2525 2742
2526 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2743 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2527 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2744 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2528 2745
2529It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2746It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2530suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2747suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2531 2748
2532=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2749=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2533 2750
2534Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2751Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
2535loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2752loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
2753
2754=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2755
2756Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2757default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2758is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2759execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2760
2761It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2762watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2536 2763
2537=back 2764=back
2538 2765
2539Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2766Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2540macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2767macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2541or not. 2768or not.
2542 2769
2543 static void 2770 static void
2544 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2771 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2545 { 2772 {
2546 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2773 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2547 } 2774 }
2548 2775
2549 ev_check check; 2776 ev_check check;
2550 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2777 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2551 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2778 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2552 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2779 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2553 2780
2554=head1 EMBEDDING 2781=head1 EMBEDDING
2555 2782
2556Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2783Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2557applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2784applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2564libev somewhere in your source tree). 2791libev somewhere in your source tree).
2565 2792
2566=head2 FILESETS 2793=head2 FILESETS
2567 2794
2568Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2795Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
2569in your app. 2796in your application.
2570 2797
2571=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2798=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2572 2799
2573To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2800To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2574configuration (no autoconf): 2801configuration (no autoconf):
2575 2802
2576 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2803 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2577 #include "ev.c" 2804 #include "ev.c"
2578 2805
2579This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2806This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2580single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2807single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2581it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2808it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2582done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2809done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2583where you can put other configuration options): 2810where you can put other configuration options):
2584 2811
2585 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2812 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2586 #include "ev.h" 2813 #include "ev.h"
2587 2814
2588Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2815Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2589compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2816compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2590as a bug). 2817as a bug).
2591 2818
2592You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2819You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2593in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2820in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2594 2821
2595 ev.h 2822 ev.h
2596 ev.c 2823 ev.c
2597 ev_vars.h 2824 ev_vars.h
2598 ev_wrap.h 2825 ev_wrap.h
2599 2826
2600 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2827 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2601 2828
2602 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2829 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2603 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2830 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2604 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2831 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2605 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2832 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2606 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2833 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2607 2834
2608F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2835F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2609to compile this single file. 2836to compile this single file.
2610 2837
2611=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2838=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2612 2839
2613To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2840To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2614 2841
2615 #include "event.c" 2842 #include "event.c"
2616 2843
2617in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2844in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2618 2845
2619 #include "event.h" 2846 #include "event.h"
2620 2847
2621in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2848in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2622 2849
2623You need the following additional files for this: 2850You need the following additional files for this:
2624 2851
2625 event.h 2852 event.h
2626 event.c 2853 event.c
2627 2854
2628=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2855=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2629 2856
2630Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2857Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2631whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2858whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2632F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2859F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2633include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2860include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2634 2861
2635For this of course you need the m4 file: 2862For this of course you need the m4 file:
2636 2863
2637 libev.m4 2864 libev.m4
2638 2865
2639=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2866=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2640 2867
2641Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2868Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2642before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2869define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2643and only include the select backend. 2870autoconf is noted for every option.
2644 2871
2645=over 4 2872=over 4
2646 2873
2647=item EV_STANDALONE 2874=item EV_STANDALONE
2648 2875
2653F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2880F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2654 2881
2655=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2882=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2656 2883
2657If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2884If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2658monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2885monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
2659of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2886of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
2660usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2887usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
2661the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 2888the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2662to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2889to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2663function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2890function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
2664 2891
2665=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2892=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2666 2893
2667If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2894If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2668realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2895real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
2669runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2896runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
2670be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2897be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
2671(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 2898(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
2672note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2899note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2673 2900
2674=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 2901=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2675 2902
2676If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 2903If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2677and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 2904and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2678 2905
2906=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2907
2908If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2909available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2910C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2911If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
29122.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2913
2679=item EV_USE_SELECT 2914=item EV_USE_SELECT
2680 2915
2681If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2916If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
2682C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2917C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
2683other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2918other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
2684will not be compiled in. 2919will not be compiled in.
2685 2920
2686=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2921=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
2687 2922
2688If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2923If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
2689structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2924structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
2690C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2925C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
2691exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2926exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
2692low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2927low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
2693allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2928allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
2694influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2929influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
2695 2930
2719 2954
2720=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2955=item EV_USE_EPOLL
2721 2956
2722If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2957If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
2723C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2958C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2724otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2959otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2725preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2960backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2961headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2726 2962
2727=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2963=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2728 2964
2729If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2965If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2730C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2966C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2743otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2979otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2744backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2980backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2745 2981
2746=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2982=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2747 2983
2748reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2984Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2749 2985
2750=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2986=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2751 2987
2752If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2988If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2753interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2989interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2754be detected at runtime. 2990be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2991indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2755 2992
2756=item EV_ATOMIC_T 2993=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2757 2994
2758Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 2995Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2759access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 2996access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2760type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 2997type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2761that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 2998that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2762as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 2999as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2763 3000
2764In the absense of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 3001In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2765(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 3002(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2766 3003
2767=item EV_H 3004=item EV_H
2768 3005
2769The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 3006The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2808When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3045When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2809all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3046all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2810and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3047and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2811fine. 3048fine.
2812 3049
2813If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3050If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2814C<0> will save some memory and cpu. 3051C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
2815 3052
2816=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3053=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2817 3054
2818If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3055If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2819defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3056defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2846defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3083defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2847 3084
2848=item EV_MINIMAL 3085=item EV_MINIMAL
2849 3086
2850If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3087If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2851speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3088speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2852some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3089inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3090much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2853 3091
2854=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3092=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2855 3093
2856C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3094C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2857pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3095pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2864inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3102inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2865usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3103usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2866watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3104watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2867two). 3105two).
2868 3106
3107=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3108
3109Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3110timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3111to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3112noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3113
3114The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3115(disabled).
3116
3117=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3118
3119Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3120timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3121the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3122which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3123but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3124noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3125
3126The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3127(disabled).
3128
3129=item EV_VERIFY
3130
3131Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3132be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3133in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3134called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3135called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3136verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3137libev considerably.
3138
3139The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3140C<0.>
3141
2869=item EV_COMMON 3142=item EV_COMMON
2870 3143
2871By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3144By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2872this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3145this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2873members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3146members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2874though, and it must be identical each time. 3147though, and it must be identical each time.
2875 3148
2876For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3149For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2877 3150
2878 #define EV_COMMON \ 3151 #define EV_COMMON \
2879 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3152 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2880 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3153 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2881 3154
2882=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3155=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2883 3156
2884=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3157=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2885 3158
2892avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3165avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2893method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3166method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2894 3167
2895=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3168=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2896 3169
2897If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of 3170If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
2898exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3171exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2899all public symbols, one per line: 3172all public symbols, one per line:
2900 3173
2901 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3174 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2902 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3175 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2903 3176
2904This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3177This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2905multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3178multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2906itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this). 3179itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
2907 3180
2908A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to 3181A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2909include before including F<ev.h>: 3182include before including F<ev.h>:
2910 3183
2911 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h 3184 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2928file. 3201file.
2929 3202
2930The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3203The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2931that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3204that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2932 3205
2933 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3206 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2934 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3207 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2935 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3208 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2936 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3209 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2937 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3210 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2938 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3211 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2939 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3212 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2940 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3213 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2941 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3214 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2942 3215
2943 #include "ev++.h" 3216 #include "ev++.h"
2944 3217
2945And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3218And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2946 3219
2947 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3220 #include "ev_cpp.h"
2948 #include "ev.c" 3221 #include "ev.c"
3222
3223
3224=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3225
3226=head2 THREADS
3227
3228Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3229means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3230only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3231parameter.
3232
3233Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3234parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3235done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3236thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3237per loop).
3238
3239If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3240without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3241help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3242
3243=over 4
3244
3245=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3246in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3247
3248This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3249themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3250
3251=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3252
3253Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3254exists, but it is always a good start.
3255
3256=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3257loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3258
3259Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3260better than you currently do :-)
3261
3262=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3263event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3264threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3265
3266=back
3267
3268=head2 COROUTINES
3269
3270Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3271libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3272coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3273different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3274loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3275you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3276
3277Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3278state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3279switches.
2949 3280
2950 3281
2951=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3282=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2952 3283
2953In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3284In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2985correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3316correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2986have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal). 3317have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2987 3318
2988=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3319=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
2989 3320
2990By virtue of using a binary heap, the next timer is always found at the 3321By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
2991beginning of the storage array. 3322fixed position in the storage array.
2992 3323
2993=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3324=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2994 3325
2995A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3326A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2996libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending 3327libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
2997on backend and wether C<ev_io_set> was used). 3328on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
2998 3329
2999=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1) 3330=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3000 3331
3001=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities) 3332=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3002 3333
3009 3340
3010=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 3341=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3011 3342
3012=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 3343=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3013 3344
3014Sending involves a syscall I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 3345Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3015calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 3346calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3016involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3347involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3017 3348
3018=back 3349=back
3019 3350
3020 3351
3021=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3352=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3022 3353
3023Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3354Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3024requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3355requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3025model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3356model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3026the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3357the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3027descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 3358descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3028e.g. cygwin. 3359e.g. cygwin.
3029 3360
3361Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3362re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3363things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3364way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3365
3030There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3366There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3031embedding it into other applications. 3367embedding it into other applications.
3032 3368
3369Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3370accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3371either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3372so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3373megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3374available).
3375
3033Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and the 3376Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3034abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets is not 3377the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3035recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use more than 3378is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3036a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally different 3379more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3037implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX model, which cannot 3380different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3038be implemented efficiently on windows (microsoft monopoly games). 3381notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3382(Microsoft monopoly games).
3383
3384A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3385section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3386of F<ev.h>:
3387
3388 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3389 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3390
3391 #include "ev.h"
3392
3393And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3394you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3395
3396 #include "evwrap.h"
3397 #include "ev.c"
3039 3398
3040=over 4 3399=over 4
3041 3400
3042=item The winsocket select function 3401=item The winsocket select function
3043 3402
3044The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it requires 3403The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3045socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors>. This makes select 3404requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3046very inefficient, and also requires a mapping from file descriptors 3405also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3047to socket handles. See the discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, 3406requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3048C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor 3407C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3049symbols for more info. 3408discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3409C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3050 3410
3051The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the microsoft runtime 3411The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3052libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3412libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3053 3413
3054 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3414 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3055 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3415 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3056 3416
3057Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3417Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3058complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3418complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3059 3419
3060=item Limited number of file descriptors 3420=item Limited number of file descriptors
3061 3421
3062Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. Early versions 3422Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3063of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a max. of C<64> handles 3423
3424Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3064(probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels can only wait for 3425of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3065C<64> things at the same time internally; microsoft recommends spawning a 3426can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3066chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the previous thread in each). 3427recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3428previous thread in each. Great).
3067 3429
3068Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 3430Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3069to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 3431to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3070call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 3432call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3071select emulation on windows). 3433select emulation on windows).
3072 3434
3073Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the microsoft runtime 3435Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3074libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 3436libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3075or something like this inside microsoft). You can increase this by calling 3437or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3076C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 3438C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3077arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the microsoft runtime 3439arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3078libraries. 3440libraries.
3079 3441
3080This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 3442This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3081windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 3443windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3082wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3444wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3083calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3445calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3084 3446
3085=back 3447=back
3086 3448
3087 3449
3450=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3451
3452In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3453additional extensions:
3454
3455=over 4
3456
3457=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3458calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3459
3460Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3461structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3462assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3463callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3464calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3465
3466=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3467
3468The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3469C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3470threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3471believed to be sufficiently portable.
3472
3473=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3474
3475Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3476allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3477pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3478thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3479be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3480C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3481
3482The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3483except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3484well.
3485
3486=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3487
3488To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3489internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3490non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3491is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3492millions of watchers.
3493
3494=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3495
3496The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3497have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3498enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3499implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3500
3501=back
3502
3503If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3504
3505
3506=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3507
3508Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3509lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3510scared by this.
3511
3512However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3513has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3514warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3515targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3516
3517Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3518workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3519maintainable.
3520
3521And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3522wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3523seems to warn about).
3524
3525While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3526"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3527with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3528them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3529warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3530
3531
3532=head1 VALGRIND
3533
3534Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3535highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3536
3537If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3538in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3539
3540 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3541 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3542 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3543
3544Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3545valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3546might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3547
3548If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3549with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3550a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3551no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3552properly.
3553
3554If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3555I suggest using suppression lists.
3556
3557
3088=head1 AUTHOR 3558=head1 AUTHOR
3089 3559
3090Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3560Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
3091 3561

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