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Revision 1.161 by root, Sat May 24 03:08:03 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.183 by root, Tue Sep 23 08:37:38 2008 UTC

2 2
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required 11 // a single header file is required
12 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
13 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct 14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type> 15 // with the name ev_<type>
16 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
17 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
18 18
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature 19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin 20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
21 static void 21 static void
22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
23 { 23 {
24 puts ("stdin ready"); 24 puts ("stdin ready");
25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
26 // with its corresponding stop function. 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28 28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
31 } 31 }
32 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out 33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
34 static void 34 static void
35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
36 { 36 {
37 puts ("timeout"); 37 puts ("timeout");
38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
40 } 40 }
41 41
42 int 42 int
43 main (void) 43 main (void)
44 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
47 47
48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
52 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it 53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
57 57
58 // now wait for events to arrive 58 // now wait for events to arrive
59 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
60 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit 61 // unloop was called, so exit
62 return 0; 62 return 0;
63 } 63 }
64 64
65=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
66 66
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted 67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first 68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
178not a problem. 178not a problem.
179 179
180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
181version. 181version.
182 182
183 assert (("libev version mismatch", 183 assert (("libev version mismatch",
184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
186 186
187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
188 188
189Return 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_*>
190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
192a description of the set values. 192a description of the set values.
193 193
194Example: 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
195a 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
196 196
197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
199 199
200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
201 201
202Return 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
203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one
359writing 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
360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have 360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
361a 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
362readiness notifications you get per iteration. 362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
363 363
364This backend maps C<EV_READ> to the C<readfds> set and C<EV_WRITE> to the
365C<writefds> set (and to work around Microsoft Windows bugs, also onto the
366C<exceptfds> set on that platform).
367
364=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 368=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
365 369
366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated 370And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial 371than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
368limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down 372limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down
369considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, 373considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select,
370i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for 374i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for
371performance tips. 375performance tips.
376
377This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
378C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
372 379
373=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 380=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
374 381
375For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 382For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 383but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 396Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
390need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 397need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
391(or space) is available. 398(or space) is available.
392 399
393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 400Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
394watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e. 401watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible,
395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. 402i.e. keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. Stopping and
403starting a watcher (without re-setting it) also usually doesn't cause
404extra overhead.
396 405
397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in 406While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
398all kernel versions tested so far. 407all kernel versions tested so far.
399 408
409This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
410C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
411
400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 412=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
401 413
402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 414Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it was
403was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 415broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably with
404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 416anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course it's
405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected" 417completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected" unless
406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 418you explicitly specify it in the flags (i.e. using C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or
407C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 419libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) system like NetBSD.
408system like NetBSD.
409 420
410You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 421You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
411only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on 422only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 423the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
413 424
414It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 425It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 426kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 427course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
417cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 428cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
418two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 429two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 430drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
420 431
421This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 432This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
422 433
423While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 434While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
424everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 435everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
425almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets 436almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets
426(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop 437(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop
427(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and using it only for 438(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and, did I mention it,
428sockets. 439using it only for sockets.
440
441This backend maps C<EV_READ> into an C<EVFILT_READ> kevent with
442C<NOTE_EOF>, and C<EV_WRITE> into an C<EVFILT_WRITE> kevent with
443C<NOTE_EOF>.
429 444
430=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 445=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
431 446
432This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an 447This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an
433implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets 448implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets
446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 461While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 462file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 463descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
449might perform better. 464might perform better.
450 465
451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this 466On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness
452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully 467notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends. 468in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the
469OS-specific backends.
470
471This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
472C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
454 473
455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 474=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
456 475
457Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 476Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
458with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 477with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
464 483
465If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these 484If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these
466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 485backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 486specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
468 487
469The most typical usage is like this: 488Example: This is the most typical usage.
470 489
471 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 490 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 491 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
473 492
474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 493Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
475environment settings to be taken into account: 494environment settings to be taken into account:
476 495
477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 496 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
478 497
479Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if 498Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 499used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
481event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds): 500private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
501fds):
482 502
483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 503 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
484 504
485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 505=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
486 506
487Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 507Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 508always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the 513libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread. 514default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
495 515
496Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 516Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
497 517
498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 518 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
499 if (!epoller) 519 if (!epoller)
500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 520 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
501 521
502=item ev_default_destroy () 522=item ev_default_destroy ()
503 523
504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 524Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
505etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 525etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
544 564
545=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 565=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
546 566
547Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 567Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
548C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 568C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
549after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 569after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
570entirely your own problem.
550 571
551=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 572=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
552 573
553Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise. 574Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
575otherwise.
554 576
555=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 577=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
556 578
557Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 579Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
558the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 580the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
573received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 595received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
574change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 596change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
575time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 597time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
576event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 598event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
577 599
600=item ev_now_update (loop)
601
602Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
603returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
604is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>.
605
606This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
607very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
608the current time is a good idea.
609
610See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section.
611
578=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 612=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
579 613
580Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 614Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
581after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 615after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
582events. 616events.
584If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 618If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until
585either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 619either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called.
586 620
587Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 621Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than
588relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 622relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
589finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program that 623finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
590automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue of 624that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
591relying on its watchers stopping correctly is a thing of beauty. 625of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
626beauty.
592 627
593A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 628A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
594those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 629those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your
595case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 630process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of
631the loop.
596 632
597A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 633A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 634necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
599your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 635will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
600one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 636be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarentee that a
601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 637user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
638iteration of the loop.
639
640This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
641with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
602libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 642own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
603usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 643usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
604 644
605Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 645Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
606 646
607 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 647 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
608 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 648 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
609 - If a fork was detected, queue and call all fork watchers. 649 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
610 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 650 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
611 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 651 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
652 as to not disturb the other process.
612 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 653 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
613 - Update the "event loop time". 654 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
614 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 655 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
615 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 656 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
616 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 657 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
617 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 658 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
618 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 659 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
619 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 660 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
620 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 661 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
621 - Queue all outstanding timers. 662 - Queue all expired timers.
622 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 663 - Queue all expired periodics.
623 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 664 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
624 - Queue all check watchers. 665 - Queue all check watchers.
625 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 666 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
626 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 667 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
627 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 668 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
628 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 669 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
633anymore. 674anymore.
634 675
635 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 676 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
636 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 677 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
637 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 678 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
638 ... jobs done. yeah! 679 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
639 680
640=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 681=item ev_unloop (loop, how)
641 682
642Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 683Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
643has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 684has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
650 691
651=item ev_unref (loop) 692=item ev_unref (loop)
652 693
653Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 694Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
654loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 695loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
655count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. If you have 696count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own.
697
656a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> from 698If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop>
657returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For 699from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before
700stopping it.
701
658example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not 702As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is
659visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 703not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting
660no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 704if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
661way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 705way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
662libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop> 706libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>
663(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before, 707(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before,
664respectively). 708respectively).
665 709
666Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 710Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
667running when nothing else is active. 711running when nothing else is active.
668 712
669 struct ev_signal exitsig; 713 struct ev_signal exitsig;
670 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 714 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
671 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 715 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
672 evf_unref (loop); 716 evf_unref (loop);
673 717
674Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 718Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
675 719
676 ev_ref (loop); 720 ev_ref (loop);
677 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 721 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
678 722
679=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 723=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
680 724
681=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval) 725=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
682 726
683These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting 727These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
684for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to 728for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
685invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency. 729will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
730latency.
686 731
687Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>) 732Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
688allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to 733allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
689increase efficiency of loop iterations. 734to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
735opportunities).
690 736
691The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to 737The idea is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to handle
692handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes 738one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes the
693the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new 739program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
694events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high 740events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
695overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 741overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
696 742
697By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 743By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
698time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 744time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
700C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 746C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
701introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. 747introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations.
702 748
703Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 749Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
704to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 750to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
705latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers 751latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
706will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce 752later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
707any overhead in libev. 753value will not introduce any overhead in libev.
708 754
709Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect 755Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
710interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 756interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
711interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 757interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
712usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 758usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
713as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. 759as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
714 760
761Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
762saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
763are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
764times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
765reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
766they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
767
715=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 768=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
716 769
717This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 770This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
718compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks 771compiled in. which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
719them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print 772through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
720an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>. 773is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
774error and call C<abort ()>.
721 775
722This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal 776This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
723circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its 777circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
724data structures consistent. 778data structures consistent.
725 779
730 784
731A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 785A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
732interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 786interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
733become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 787become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
734 788
735 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 789 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
736 { 790 {
737 ev_io_stop (w); 791 ev_io_stop (w);
738 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 792 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
739 } 793 }
740 794
741 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 795 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
742 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 796 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
743 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 797 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
744 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 798 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
745 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 799 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
746 ev_loop (loop, 0); 800 ev_loop (loop, 0);
747 801
748As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 802As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
749watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 803watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
750although this can sometimes be quite valid). 804although this can sometimes be quite valid).
751 805
841happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 895happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
842ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 896ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
843problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 897problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
844with the watcher being stopped. 898with the watcher being stopped.
845 899
846Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 900Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for
847for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 901example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your
848your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 902callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with
849with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded 903the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
850programs, though, so beware. 904programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
905thing, so beware.
851 906
852=back 907=back
853 908
854=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 909=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
855 910
871(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding. 926(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
872 927
873The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, 928The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
874int revents)>. 929int revents)>.
875 930
931Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
932
933 ev_io w;
934 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
935 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
936
876=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 937=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args])
877 938
878This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 939This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
879call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 940call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
880call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 941call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
882difference to the C<ev_init> macro). 943difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
883 944
884Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 945Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
885(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 946(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
886 947
948See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
949
887=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 950=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
888 951
889This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 952This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
890calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise 953calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
891a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 954a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
892 955
956Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
957
958 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
959
893=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 960=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
894 961
895Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 962Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
896events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 963events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
964
965Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
966whole section.
967
968 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
897 969
898=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 970=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
899 971
900Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending 972Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending
901status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example, 973status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example,
958 1030
959=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1031=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
960 1032
961Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1033Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
962C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback 1034C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
963can deal with that fact. 1035can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1036callback.
964 1037
965=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1038=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
966 1039
967If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status 1040If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
968and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the 1041returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
969watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1042watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
970 1043
1044Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1045callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1046
971=back 1047=back
972 1048
973 1049
974=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1050=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
975 1051
976Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1052Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
977and read at any time, libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1053and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
978to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 1054to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
979don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 1055don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
980member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1056member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
981data: 1057data:
982 1058
983 struct my_io 1059 struct my_io
984 { 1060 {
985 struct ev_io io; 1061 struct ev_io io;
986 int otherfd; 1062 int otherfd;
987 void *somedata; 1063 void *somedata;
988 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1064 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
989 } 1065 };
1066
1067 ...
1068 struct my_io w;
1069 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
990 1070
991And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1071And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
992can cast it back to your own type: 1072can cast it back to your own type:
993 1073
994 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1074 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
995 { 1075 {
996 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1076 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
997 ... 1077 ...
998 } 1078 }
999 1079
1000More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1080More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
1001instead have been omitted. 1081instead have been omitted.
1002 1082
1003Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1083Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
1004watchers: 1084embedded watchers:
1005 1085
1006 struct my_biggy 1086 struct my_biggy
1007 { 1087 {
1008 int some_data; 1088 int some_data;
1009 ev_timer t1; 1089 ev_timer t1;
1010 ev_timer t2; 1090 ev_timer t2;
1011 } 1091 }
1012 1092
1013In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1093In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
1014you need to use C<offsetof>: 1094complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1095in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1096some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1097programmers):
1015 1098
1016 #include <stddef.h> 1099 #include <stddef.h>
1017 1100
1018 static void 1101 static void
1019 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1102 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1020 { 1103 {
1021 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1104 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1022 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1105 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1023 } 1106 }
1024 1107
1025 static void 1108 static void
1026 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1109 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1027 { 1110 {
1028 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1111 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1029 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1112 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1030 } 1113 }
1031 1114
1032 1115
1033=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1116=head1 WATCHER TYPES
1034 1117
1035This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1118This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1059In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1142In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1060fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1143fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1061descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1144descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1062required if you know what you are doing). 1145required if you know what you are doing).
1063 1146
1064If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1147If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1065(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1148known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1066C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1149C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
1067 1150
1068Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1151Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1069receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1152receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1070be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1153be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1071because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1154because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1072lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1155lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
1073this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1156this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
1074it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1157it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1075C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1158C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1076 1159
1077If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1160If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1078play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test 1161not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1079whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1162re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1080such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1163interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already
1081its own, so its quite safe to use). 1164does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1165use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1166indefinitely.
1167
1168But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1082 1169
1083=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1170=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1084 1171
1085Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file 1172Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
1086descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means, 1173descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other means,
1087such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file 1174such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
1088descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop 1175descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
1089this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is 1176this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
1090registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in 1177registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
1091fact, a different file descriptor. 1178fact, a different file descriptor.
1092 1179
1123enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1210enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1124C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1211C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1125 1212
1126=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1213=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1127 1214
1128While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE: 1215While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1129when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program 1216when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1130gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most 1217sent a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most programs
1131programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually 1218this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually undesirable.
1132undesirable.
1133 1219
1134So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1220So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1135ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1221ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1136somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1222somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1137 1223
1143=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1229=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
1144 1230
1145=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1231=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
1146 1232
1147Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1233Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
1148receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1234receive events for and C<events> is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
1149C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1235C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE>, to express the desire to receive the given events.
1150 1236
1151=item int fd [read-only] 1237=item int fd [read-only]
1152 1238
1153The file descriptor being watched. 1239The file descriptor being watched.
1154 1240
1162 1248
1163Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1249Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1164readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1250readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1165attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1251attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1166 1252
1167 static void 1253 static void
1168 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1254 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1169 { 1255 {
1170 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1256 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1171 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1257 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors
1172 } 1258 }
1173 1259
1174 ... 1260 ...
1175 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1261 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1176 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1262 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
1177 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1263 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1178 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1264 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1179 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1265 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1180 1266
1181 1267
1182=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1268=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1183 1269
1184Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1270Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1185given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1271given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
1186 1272
1187The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1273The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
1188times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last 1274times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
1189year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1275year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because
1190detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1276detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1191monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1277monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1278
1279The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1280passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration
1281then order of execution is undefined.
1282
1283=head3 The special problem of time updates
1284
1285Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1286least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1287time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a
1288growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1289lots of events in one iteration.
1192 1290
1193The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1291The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1194time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1292time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1195of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 1293of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1196you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1294you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1197on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1295timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
1198 1296
1199 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1297 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1200 1298
1201The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed, 1299If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1202but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1300update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1203order of execution is undefined. 1301()>.
1204 1302
1205=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1303=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1206 1304
1207=over 4 1305=over 4
1208 1306
1257 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1355 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1258 1356
1259This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time 1357This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1260you want to modify its timeout value. 1358you want to modify its timeout value.
1261 1359
1360Note, however, that it is often even more efficient to remember the
1361time of the last activity and let the timer time-out naturally. In the
1362callback, you then check whether the time-out is real, or, if there was
1363some activity, you reschedule the watcher to time-out in "last_activity +
1364timeout - ev_now ()" seconds.
1365
1262=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1366=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1263 1367
1264The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1368The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1265or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1369or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1266which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 1370which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
1267 1371
1268=back 1372=back
1269 1373
1270=head3 Examples 1374=head3 Examples
1271 1375
1272Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1376Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1273 1377
1274 static void 1378 static void
1275 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1379 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1276 { 1380 {
1277 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1381 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1278 } 1382 }
1279 1383
1280 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1384 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1281 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1385 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1282 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1386 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1283 1387
1284Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1388Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1285inactivity. 1389inactivity.
1286 1390
1287 static void 1391 static void
1288 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1392 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
1289 { 1393 {
1290 .. ten seconds without any activity 1394 .. ten seconds without any activity
1291 } 1395 }
1292 1396
1293 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1397 struct ev_timer mytimer;
1294 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1398 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1295 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1399 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1296 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1400 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1297 1401
1298 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1402 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1299 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1403 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1300 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1404 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1301 1405
1302 1406
1303=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1407=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1304 1408
1305Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1409Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1314to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger 1418to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1315roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout). 1419roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1316 1420
1317C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, 1421C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1318such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other 1422such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1319complicated, rules. 1423complicated rules.
1320 1424
1321As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 1425As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1322time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1426time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1323during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1427during the same loop iteration, then order of execution is undefined.
1324 1428
1325=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1429=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1326 1430
1327=over 4 1431=over 4
1328 1432
1329=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1433=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1330 1434
1331=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1435=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb)
1332 1436
1333Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1437Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1334operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1438operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex:
1335 1439
1336=over 4 1440=over 4
1337 1441
1338=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1442=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1339 1443
1340In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock 1444In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1341time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time 1445time C<at> has passed. It will not repeat and will not adjust when a time
1342jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will 1446jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1343run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1447only run when the system clock reaches or surpasses this time.
1344 1448
1345=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1449=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1346 1450
1347In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1451In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1348C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1452C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1349and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1453and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1350 1454
1351This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1455This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to the
1352time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on 1456system clock, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each
1353the hour: 1457hour, on the hour:
1354 1458
1355 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1459 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1356 1460
1357This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1461This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1358but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1462but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1445=back 1549=back
1446 1550
1447=head3 Examples 1551=head3 Examples
1448 1552
1449Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1553Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1450system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1554system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1451potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 1555potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1452 1556
1453 static void 1557 static void
1454 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1558 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1455 { 1559 {
1456 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1560 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1457 } 1561 }
1458 1562
1459 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1563 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1460 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1564 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1461 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1565 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1462 1566
1463Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1567Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1464 1568
1465 #include <math.h> 1569 #include <math.h>
1466 1570
1467 static ev_tstamp 1571 static ev_tstamp
1468 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1572 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1469 { 1573 {
1470 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1574 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.));
1471 } 1575 }
1472 1576
1473 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1577 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1474 1578
1475Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1579Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1476 1580
1477 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1581 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1478 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1582 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1479 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1583 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1480 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1584 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1481 1585
1482 1586
1483=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1587=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1484 1588
1485Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1589Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1486signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 1590signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
1487will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 1591will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
1488normal event processing, like any other event. 1592normal event processing, like any other event.
1489 1593
1594If you want signals asynchronously, just use C<sigaction> as you would
1595do without libev and forget about sharing the signal. You can even use
1596C<ev_async> from a signal handler to synchronously wake up an event loop.
1597
1490You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 1598You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the
1491first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal watcher 1599first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal handler
1492with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1600with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
1493as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1601you don't register any with libev for the same signal). Similarly, when
1494watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1602the last signal watcher for a signal is stopped, libev will reset the
1495SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1603signal handler to SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1496 1604
1497If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 1605If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1498C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly 1606C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1499interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by 1607interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1500signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 1608signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1519 1627
1520=head3 Examples 1628=head3 Examples
1521 1629
1522Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1630Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1523 1631
1524 static void 1632 static void
1525 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1633 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1526 { 1634 {
1527 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1635 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1528 } 1636 }
1529 1637
1530 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1638 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1531 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1639 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1532 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1640 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1533 1641
1534 1642
1535=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1643=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1536 1644
1537Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1645Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1538some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). It 1646some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies or
1539is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been 1647exits). It is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child
1540forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event 1648has been forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long
1541loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher). 1649as the event loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher), i.e.,
1650forking and then immediately registering a watcher for the child is fine,
1651but forking and registering a watcher a few event loop iterations later is
1652not.
1542 1653
1543Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 1654Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1544you can only register child watchers in the default event loop. 1655you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1545 1656
1546=head3 Process Interaction 1657=head3 Process Interaction
1559handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for 1670handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1560C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the 1671C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1561default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an 1672default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1562event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for 1673event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1563that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely. 1674that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1675
1676=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
1677
1678Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
1679child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
1680callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
1681when a child exit is detected.
1564 1682
1565=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1683=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1566 1684
1567=over 4 1685=over 4
1568 1686
1597=head3 Examples 1715=head3 Examples
1598 1716
1599Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for 1717Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1600its completion. 1718its completion.
1601 1719
1602 ev_child cw; 1720 ev_child cw;
1603 1721
1604 static void 1722 static void
1605 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1723 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1606 { 1724 {
1607 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1725 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1608 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1726 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1609 } 1727 }
1610 1728
1611 pid_t pid = fork (); 1729 pid_t pid = fork ();
1612 1730
1613 if (pid < 0) 1731 if (pid < 0)
1614 // error 1732 // error
1615 else if (pid == 0) 1733 else if (pid == 0)
1616 { 1734 {
1617 // the forked child executes here 1735 // the forked child executes here
1618 exit (1); 1736 exit (1);
1619 } 1737 }
1620 else 1738 else
1621 { 1739 {
1622 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0); 1740 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1623 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw); 1741 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1624 } 1742 }
1625 1743
1626 1744
1627=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1745=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1628 1746
1629This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1747This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1637the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1755the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1638 1756
1639The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is 1757The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is
1640relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined. 1758relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined.
1641 1759
1642Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 1760Since there is no standard kernel interface to do this, the portable
1643calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 1761implementation simply calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if
1644can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 1762it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling interval for
1645a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 1763this case. If you specify a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!)
1646unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around 1764then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used (which
1647five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also 1765you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might change
1648impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats 1766dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is currently
1649usually overkill. 1767around C<0.1>, but thats usually overkill.
1650 1768
1651This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 1769This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1652as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1770as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1653resource-intensive. 1771resource-intensive.
1654 1772
1655At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1773At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented
1656implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1774is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as
1657reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat 1775an exercise for the reader. Note, however, that the author sees no way
1658semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should 1776of implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue).
1659not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1660sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1661but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1662will be no polling.
1663 1777
1664=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 1778=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1665 1779
1666Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 1780Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1667compilation environment, which means that on systems with optionally 1781compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1668disabled large file support, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 1782support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1669structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 1783structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1670use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 1784use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1671compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 1785compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1672obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 1786obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1673most noticeably with ev_stat and large file support. 1787most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1674 1788
1675=head3 Inotify 1789The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1790file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1791optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1792to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1793default compilation environment.
1794
1795=head3 Inotify and Kqueue
1676 1796
1677When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1797When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1678available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1798available with Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1679change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1799change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1680when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1800when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1681 1801
1682Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1802Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1683except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1803except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1684making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support 1804making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1685there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling. 1805there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling,
1806but as long as the path exists, libev usually gets away without polling.
1686 1807
1687(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 1808There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1688implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 1809implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1689descriptor open on the object at all times). 1810descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks
1811etc. is difficult.
1690 1812
1691=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 1813=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1692 1814
1693The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and 1815The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1694even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still 1816even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems still
1695only support whole seconds. 1817only support whole seconds.
1696 1818
1697That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can 1819That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1698easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and 1820easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1699calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update 1821calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1700within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat 1822within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect unless the
1701data does not change. 1823stat data does change in other ways (e.g. file size).
1702 1824
1703The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more 1825The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1704than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using 1826than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1705a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02); 1827a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1706ev_timer_again (loop, w)>). 1828ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1726C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1848C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1727be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1849be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1728a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1850a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1729path for as long as the watcher is active. 1851path for as long as the watcher is active.
1730 1852
1731The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative 1853The callback will receive an C<EV_STAT> event when a change was detected,
1732to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change 1854relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the
1733was detected). 1855last change was detected).
1734 1856
1735=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *) 1857=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1736 1858
1737Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1859Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1738watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid 1860watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1767 1889
1768=head3 Examples 1890=head3 Examples
1769 1891
1770Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1892Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1771 1893
1772 static void 1894 static void
1773 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1895 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1774 { 1896 {
1775 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1897 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1776 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1898 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1777 { 1899 {
1778 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1900 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1779 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1901 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1780 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1902 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1781 } 1903 }
1782 else 1904 else
1783 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1905 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1784 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1906 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1785 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1907 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1786 } 1908 }
1787 1909
1788 ... 1910 ...
1789 ev_stat passwd; 1911 ev_stat passwd;
1790 1912
1791 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1913 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1792 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1914 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1793 1915
1794Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not 1916Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1795miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so 1917miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1796one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on 1918one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1797C<ev_timer> callback invocation). 1919C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1798 1920
1799 static ev_stat passwd; 1921 static ev_stat passwd;
1800 static ev_timer timer; 1922 static ev_timer timer;
1801 1923
1802 static void 1924 static void
1803 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1925 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1804 { 1926 {
1805 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w); 1927 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1806 1928
1807 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */ 1929 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1808 } 1930 }
1809 1931
1810 static void 1932 static void
1811 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents) 1933 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1812 { 1934 {
1813 /* reset the one-second timer */ 1935 /* reset the one-second timer */
1814 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer); 1936 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1815 } 1937 }
1816 1938
1817 ... 1939 ...
1818 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.); 1940 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1819 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1941 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1820 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02); 1942 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1821 1943
1822 1944
1823=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1945=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1824 1946
1825Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher 1947Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1826priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not 1948priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count
1827count). 1949as receiving "events").
1828 1950
1829That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts 1951That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1830(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be 1952(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1831triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers 1953triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1832are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop 1954are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1856=head3 Examples 1978=head3 Examples
1857 1979
1858Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1980Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1859callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1981callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1860 1982
1861 static void 1983 static void
1862 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1984 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1863 { 1985 {
1864 free (w); 1986 free (w);
1865 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1987 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1866 // no longer anything immediate to do. 1988 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1867 } 1989 }
1868 1990
1869 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1991 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1870 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1992 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1871 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1993 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1872 1994
1873 1995
1874=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1996=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1875 1997
1876Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1998Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
1877prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 1999prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
1878afterwards. 2000afterwards.
1879 2001
1880You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2002You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter
1881the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2003the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
1884those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2006those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
1885C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2007C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
1886called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 2008called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
1887 2009
1888Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 2010Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
1889their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track 2011their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
1890variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 2012variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
1891coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 2013coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
1892you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example, 2014you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example,
1893in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare> 2015in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare>
1894watcher). 2016watcher).
1895 2017
1896This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 2018This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors
1897to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 2019need to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers
1898them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 2020for them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many
1899provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 2021libraries provide exactly this functionality). Then, in the check watcher,
1900any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers 2022you check for any events that occurred (by checking the pending status
1901and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 2023of all watchers and stopping them) and call back into the library. The
1902callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 2024I/O and timer callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid
1903because you never know, you know?). 2025nevertheless, because you never know, you know?).
1904 2026
1905As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 2027As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1906coroutines into libev programs, by yielding to other active coroutines 2028coroutines into libev programs, by yielding to other active coroutines
1907during each prepare and only letting the process block if no coroutines 2029during each prepare and only letting the process block if no coroutines
1908are ready to run (it's actually more complicated: it only runs coroutines 2030are ready to run (it's actually more complicated: it only runs coroutines
1911loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 2033loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1912low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 2034low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1913 2035
1914It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 2036It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1915priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 2037priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
2038after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers).
2039
1916after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, 2040Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
1917too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully 2041activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
1918supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers 2042might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
1919did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other 2043C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
1920(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable 2044loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
1921state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to 2045C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
1922coexist peacefully with others). 2046others).
1923 2047
1924=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2048=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1925 2049
1926=over 4 2050=over 4
1927 2051
1929 2053
1930=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 2054=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1931 2055
1932Initialises and configures the prepare or check watcher - they have no 2056Initialises and configures the prepare or check watcher - they have no
1933parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 2057parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1934macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 2058macros, but using them is utterly, utterly, utterly and completely
2059pointless.
1935 2060
1936=back 2061=back
1937 2062
1938=head3 Examples 2063=head3 Examples
1939 2064
1948and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows 2073and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1949is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low 2074is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1950priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as 2075priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1951the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet. 2076the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1952 2077
1953 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 2078 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1954 static ev_timer tw; 2079 static ev_timer tw;
1955 2080
1956 static void 2081 static void
1957 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2082 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1958 { 2083 {
1959 } 2084 }
1960 2085
1961 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2086 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1962 static void 2087 static void
1963 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2088 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1964 { 2089 {
1965 int timeout = 3600000; 2090 int timeout = 3600000;
1966 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2091 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1967 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2092 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1968 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2093 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1969 2094
1970 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 2095 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1971 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2096 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1972 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2097 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1973 2098
1974 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2099 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1975 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2100 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1976 { 2101 {
1977 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 2102 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1978 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 2103 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1979 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 2104 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1980 2105
1981 fds [i].revents = 0; 2106 fds [i].revents = 0;
1982 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 2107 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1983 } 2108 }
1984 } 2109 }
1985 2110
1986 // stop all watchers after blocking 2111 // stop all watchers after blocking
1987 static void 2112 static void
1988 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2113 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1989 { 2114 {
1990 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2115 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1991 2116
1992 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2117 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1993 { 2118 {
1994 // set the relevant poll flags 2119 // set the relevant poll flags
1995 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here 2120 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1996 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i; 2121 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1997 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i); 2122 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1998 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN; 2123 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1999 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT; 2124 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
2000 2125
2001 // now stop the watcher 2126 // now stop the watcher
2002 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2127 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
2003 } 2128 }
2004 2129
2005 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2130 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
2006 } 2131 }
2007 2132
2008Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll> 2133Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
2009in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher. 2134in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
2010 2135
2011Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event 2136Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
2012notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher 2137notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
2013callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher. 2138callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
2014 2139
2015 static void 2140 static void
2016 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2141 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2017 { 2142 {
2018 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2143 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
2019 update_now (EV_A); 2144 update_now (EV_A);
2020 2145
2021 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now); 2146 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
2022 } 2147 }
2023 2148
2024 static void 2149 static void
2025 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents) 2150 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
2026 { 2151 {
2027 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data; 2152 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
2028 update_now (EV_A); 2153 update_now (EV_A);
2029 2154
2030 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2155 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
2031 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now); 2156 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
2032 } 2157 }
2033 2158
2034 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll 2159 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
2035 2160
2036Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you 2161Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
2037want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override 2162want to embed is not flexible enough to support it. Instead, you can
2038their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main 2163override their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the
2039loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does 2164main loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module uses
2040this. 2165this approach, effectively embedding EV as a client into the horrible
2166libglib event loop.
2041 2167
2042 static gint 2168 static gint
2043 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout) 2169 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
2044 { 2170 {
2045 int got_events = 0; 2171 int got_events = 0;
2046 2172
2047 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2173 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2048 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events 2174 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
2049 2175
2050 if (timeout >= 0) 2176 if (timeout >= 0)
2051 // create/start timer 2177 // create/start timer
2052 2178
2053 // poll 2179 // poll
2054 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2180 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2055 2181
2056 // stop timer again 2182 // stop timer again
2057 if (timeout >= 0) 2183 if (timeout >= 0)
2058 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2184 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2059 2185
2060 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set 2186 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2061 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n) 2187 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2062 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]); 2188 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2063 2189
2064 return got_events; 2190 return got_events;
2065 } 2191 }
2066 2192
2067 2193
2068=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2194=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
2069 2195
2070This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2196This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
2076prioritise I/O. 2202prioritise I/O.
2077 2203
2078As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support 2204As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support
2079sockets on some platform, so it is unusable as generic backend, but you 2205sockets on some platform, so it is unusable as generic backend, but you
2080still want to make use of it because you have many sockets and it scales 2206still want to make use of it because you have many sockets and it scales
2081so nicely. In this case, you would create a kqueue-based loop and embed it 2207so nicely. In this case, you would create a kqueue-based loop and embed
2082into your default loop (which might use e.g. poll). Overall operation will 2208it into your default loop (which might use e.g. poll). Overall operation
2083be a bit slower because first libev has to poll and then call kevent, but 2209will be a bit slower because first libev has to call C<poll> and then
2084at least you can use both at what they are best. 2210C<kevent>, but at least you can use both mechanisms for what they are
2211best: C<kqueue> for scalable sockets and C<poll> if you want it to work :)
2085 2212
2086As for prioritising I/O: rarely you have the case where some fds have 2213As for prioritising I/O: under rare circumstances you have the case where
2087to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency), and even 2214some fds have to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency),
2088priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In this case 2215and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In
2089you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all the rest in 2216this case you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all
2090a second one, and embed the second one in the first. 2217the rest in a second one, and embed the second one in the first.
2091 2218
2092As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every time 2219As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every time
2093there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then 2220there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then
2094call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single sweep and invoke 2221call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single sweep and invoke
2095their callbacks (you could also start an idle watcher to give the embedded 2222their callbacks (you could also start an idle watcher to give the embedded
2103interested in that. 2230interested in that.
2104 2231
2105Also, there have not currently been made special provisions for forking: 2232Also, there have not currently been made special provisions for forking:
2106when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops, 2233when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops,
2107but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers 2234but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers
2108yourself. 2235yourself - but you can use a fork watcher to handle this automatically,
2236and future versions of libev might do just that.
2109 2237
2110Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable, only the ones returned by 2238Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable, only the ones returned by
2111C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any 2239C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any
2112portable one. 2240portable one.
2113 2241
2148event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default 2276event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2149loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in 2277loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2150C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be 2278C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2151used). 2279used).
2152 2280
2153 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2281 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2154 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2282 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2155 struct ev_embed embed; 2283 struct ev_embed embed;
2156 2284
2157 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2285 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2158 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2286 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2159 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2287 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2160 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2288 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2161 : 0; 2289 : 0;
2162 2290
2163 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi 2291 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2164 if (loop_lo) 2292 if (loop_lo)
2165 { 2293 {
2166 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo); 2294 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2167 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 2295 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2168 } 2296 }
2169 else 2297 else
2170 loop_lo = loop_hi; 2298 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2171 2299
2172Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create 2300Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2173a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any 2301a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2174kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2302kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2175C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2303C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2176 2304
2177 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2305 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2178 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2306 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2179 struct ev_embed embed; 2307 struct ev_embed embed;
2180 2308
2181 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2309 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2182 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2310 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2183 { 2311 {
2184 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2312 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2185 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 2313 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2186 } 2314 }
2187 2315
2188 if (!loop_socket) 2316 if (!loop_socket)
2189 loop_socket = loop; 2317 loop_socket = loop;
2190 2318
2191 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else 2319 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
2192 2320
2193 2321
2194=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2322=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
2195 2323
2196Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2324Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
2385The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2513The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2386passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2514passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2387C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2515C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2388value passed to C<ev_once>: 2516value passed to C<ev_once>:
2389 2517
2390 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2518 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2391 { 2519 {
2392 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2520 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2393 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2521 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2394 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2522 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2395 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2523 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2396 } 2524 }
2397 2525
2398 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2526 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2399 2527
2400=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2528=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2401 2529
2402Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2530Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2403had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2531had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2452you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2580you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
2453the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2581the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
2454 2582
2455To use it, 2583To use it,
2456 2584
2457 #include <ev++.h> 2585 #include <ev++.h>
2458 2586
2459This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 2587This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
2460of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 2588of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
2461put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 2589put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2462options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2590options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
2529your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the 2657your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2530thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback. 2658thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2531 2659
2532Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation 2660Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2533 2661
2534 struct myclass 2662 struct myclass
2535 { 2663 {
2536 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2664 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2537 } 2665 }
2538 2666
2539 myclass obj; 2667 myclass obj;
2540 ev::io iow; 2668 ev::io iow;
2541 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2669 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2542 2670
2543=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2671=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2544 2672
2545Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2673Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2546callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2674callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2550 2678
2551See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2679See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2552 2680
2553Example: 2681Example:
2554 2682
2555 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2683 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2556 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2684 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2557 2685
2558=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2686=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2559 2687
2560Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2688Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
2561do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2689do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
2594=back 2722=back
2595 2723
2596Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2724Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2597the constructor. 2725the constructor.
2598 2726
2599 class myclass 2727 class myclass
2600 { 2728 {
2601 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2729 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2602 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2730 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2603 2731
2604 myclass (int fd) 2732 myclass (int fd)
2605 { 2733 {
2606 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2734 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2607 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2735 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2608 2736
2609 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2737 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2610 } 2738 }
2611 }; 2739 };
2612 2740
2613 2741
2614=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 2742=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2615 2743
2616Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a 2744Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2626libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2754libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2627there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2755there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2628to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2756to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2629C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2757C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2630 2758
2631It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is found at 2759It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2632L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2760L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2761
2762=item Python
2763
2764Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2765seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2766patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2767for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2768libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2769libev).
2633 2770
2634=item Ruby 2771=item Ruby
2635 2772
2636Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 2773Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2637of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 2774of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2639L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 2776L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2640 2777
2641=item D 2778=item D
2642 2779
2643Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 2780Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2644be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>. 2781be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
2645 2782
2646=back 2783=back
2647 2784
2648 2785
2649=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2786=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2661 2798
2662This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2799This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2663loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2800loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
2664C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2801C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
2665 2802
2666 ev_unref (EV_A); 2803 ev_unref (EV_A);
2667 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2804 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
2668 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2805 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2669 2806
2670It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2807It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
2671which is often provided by the following macro. 2808which is often provided by the following macro.
2672 2809
2673=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2810=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
2674 2811
2675This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2812This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
2676loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2813loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
2677C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2814C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
2678 2815
2679 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2816 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
2680 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2817 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
2681 2818
2682 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2819 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
2683 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2820 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2684 2821
2685It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2822It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
2686suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2823suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
2687 2824
2688=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2825=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
2704 2841
2705Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above 2842Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
2706macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported 2843macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2707or not. 2844or not.
2708 2845
2709 static void 2846 static void
2710 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2847 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2711 { 2848 {
2712 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2849 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
2713 } 2850 }
2714 2851
2715 ev_check check; 2852 ev_check check;
2716 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2853 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
2717 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2854 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
2718 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2855 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
2719 2856
2720=head1 EMBEDDING 2857=head1 EMBEDDING
2721 2858
2722Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2859Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
2723applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2860applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
2737=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2874=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
2738 2875
2739To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2876To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
2740configuration (no autoconf): 2877configuration (no autoconf):
2741 2878
2742 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2879 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2743 #include "ev.c" 2880 #include "ev.c"
2744 2881
2745This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2882This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
2746single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2883single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
2747it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2884it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
2748done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2885done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
2749where you can put other configuration options): 2886where you can put other configuration options):
2750 2887
2751 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2888 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2752 #include "ev.h" 2889 #include "ev.h"
2753 2890
2754Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2891Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2755compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2892compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2756as a bug). 2893as a bug).
2757 2894
2758You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2895You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2759in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2896in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2760 2897
2761 ev.h 2898 ev.h
2762 ev.c 2899 ev.c
2763 ev_vars.h 2900 ev_vars.h
2764 ev_wrap.h 2901 ev_wrap.h
2765 2902
2766 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2903 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
2767 2904
2768 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 2905 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
2769 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2906 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2770 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2907 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2771 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2908 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2772 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2909 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
2773 2910
2774F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2911F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
2775to compile this single file. 2912to compile this single file.
2776 2913
2777=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2914=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
2778 2915
2779To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2916To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
2780 2917
2781 #include "event.c" 2918 #include "event.c"
2782 2919
2783in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2920in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
2784 2921
2785 #include "event.h" 2922 #include "event.h"
2786 2923
2787in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2924in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
2788 2925
2789You need the following additional files for this: 2926You need the following additional files for this:
2790 2927
2791 event.h 2928 event.h
2792 event.c 2929 event.c
2793 2930
2794=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2931=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
2795 2932
2796Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in 2933Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
2797whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2934whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
2798F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2935F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
2799include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2936include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
2800 2937
2801For this of course you need the m4 file: 2938For this of course you need the m4 file:
2802 2939
2803 libev.m4 2940 libev.m4
2804 2941
2805=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2942=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2806 2943
2807Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 2944Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2808define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 2945define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
3085members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3222members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3086though, and it must be identical each time. 3223though, and it must be identical each time.
3087 3224
3088For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3225For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3089 3226
3090 #define EV_COMMON \ 3227 #define EV_COMMON \
3091 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3228 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
3092 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3229 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
3093 3230
3094=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3231=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
3095 3232
3096=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3233=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
3097 3234
3108 3245
3109If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of 3246If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
3110exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3247exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3111all public symbols, one per line: 3248all public symbols, one per line:
3112 3249
3113 Symbols.ev for libev proper 3250 Symbols.ev for libev proper
3114 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation 3251 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
3115 3252
3116This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with 3253This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
3117multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in 3254multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
3118itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this). 3255itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
3119 3256
3140file. 3277file.
3141 3278
3142The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3279The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3143that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 3280that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3144 3281
3145 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 3282 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
3146 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3283 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
3147 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3284 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3148 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 3285 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3149 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 3286 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3150 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 3287 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
3151 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3288 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3152 #define EV_MINPRI 0 3289 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3153 #define EV_MAXPRI 0 3290 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3154 3291
3155 #include "ev++.h" 3292 #include "ev++.h"
3156 3293
3157And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3294And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3158 3295
3159 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3296 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3160 #include "ev.c" 3297 #include "ev.c"
3161 3298
3162 3299
3163=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES 3300=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3164 3301
3165=head2 THREADS 3302=head2 THREADS
3166 3303
3167Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This 3304Libev itself is thread-safe (unless the opposite is specifically
3305documented for a function), but it uses no locking itself. This means that
3168means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as 3306you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as only one
3169only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop 3307thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop parameter:
3170parameter. 3308libev guarentees that different event loops share no data structures that
3309need locking.
3171 3310
3172Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in 3311Or to put it differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done
3173parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be 3312concurrently from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter
3174done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one 3313must be done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as
3175thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex 3314only one thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using
3176per loop). 3315a mutex per loop).
3177 3316
3178If you want to know which design is best for your problem, then I cannot 3317Specifically to support threads (and signal handlers), libev implements
3179help you but by giving some generic advice: 3318so-called C<ev_async> watchers, which allow some limited form of
3319concurrency on the same event loop.
3320
3321If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3322without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3323help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3180 3324
3181=over 4 3325=over 4
3182 3326
3183=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop 3327=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3184in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop. 3328in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3196 3340
3197Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do 3341Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3198better than you currently do :-) 3342better than you currently do :-)
3199 3343
3200=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the 3344=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3345event loop.
3346
3201event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other 3347C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other threads safely
3202threads safely (or from signal contexts...). 3348(or from signal contexts...).
3349
3350An example use would be to communicate signals or other events that only
3351work in the default loop by registering the signal watcher with the
3352default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
3353watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3203 3354
3204=back 3355=back
3205 3356
3206=head2 COROUTINES 3357=head2 COROUTINES
3207 3358
3210coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 3361coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3211different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the 3362different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3212loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 3363loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3213you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 3364you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3214 3365
3215Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local 3366Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3216state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine 3367C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine switches.
3217switches.
3218 3368
3219 3369
3220=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3370=head1 COMPLEXITIES
3221 3371
3222In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3372In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
3285involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 3435involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3286 3436
3287=back 3437=back
3288 3438
3289 3439
3290=head1 Win32 platform limitations and workarounds 3440=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3291 3441
3292Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3442Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3293requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3443requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3294model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3444model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3295the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3445the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3301things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 3451things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3302way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 3452way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3303 3453
3304There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 3454There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3305embedding it into other applications. 3455embedding it into other applications.
3456
3457Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3458accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3459either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3460so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3461megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3462available).
3306 3463
3307Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and 3464Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3308the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets 3465the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3309is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use 3466is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3310more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally 3467more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3311different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness 3468different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3312notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows 3469notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3313(Microsoft monopoly games). 3470(Microsoft monopoly games).
3314 3471
3472A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3473section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3474of F<ev.h>:
3475
3476 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3477 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3478
3479 #include "ev.h"
3480
3481And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3482you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3483
3484 #include "evwrap.h"
3485 #include "ev.c"
3486
3315=over 4 3487=over 4
3316 3488
3317=item The winsocket select function 3489=item The winsocket select function
3318 3490
3319The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 3491The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3320requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 3492requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3321also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 3493also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3322requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles. See the 3494requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3495C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3323discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and 3496discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3324C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info. 3497C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3325 3498
3326The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime 3499The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3327libraries and raw winsocket select is: 3500libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3328 3501
3329 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1 3502 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3330 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 3503 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3331 3504
3332Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 3505Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3333complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 3506complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3334 3507
3335=item Limited number of file descriptors 3508=item Limited number of file descriptors
3367In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few 3540In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3368additional extensions: 3541additional extensions:
3369 3542
3370=over 4 3543=over 4
3371 3544
3545=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3546calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3547
3548Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3549structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3550assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3551callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3552calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3553
3372=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 3554=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3373 3555
3374The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 3556The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3375C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different 3557C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3376threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is 3558threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is

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