ViewVC Help
View File | Revision Log | Show Annotations | Download File
/cvs/libev/ev.pod
(Generate patch)

Comparing libev/ev.pod (file contents):
Revision 1.183 by root, Tue Sep 23 08:37:38 2008 UTC vs.
Revision 1.198 by root, Thu Oct 23 06:30:48 2008 UTC

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_ 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);
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_ 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 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);
103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common) 103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For 104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
105more info about various configuration options please have a look at 105more info about various configuration options please have a look at
106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support 106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of 107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have 108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument. 109this argument.
110 110
111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
112 112
113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
214C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 214C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for
215recommended ones. 215recommended ones.
216 216
217See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 217See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
218 218
219=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 219=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT]
220 220
221Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 221Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
222semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 222semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
223used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 223used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
224when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 224when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
250 } 250 }
251 251
252 ... 252 ...
253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
254 254
255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT]
256 256
257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
260callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 260callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
276 276
277=back 277=back
278 278
279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP
280 280
281An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 281An event loop is described by a C<ev_loop *>. The library knows two
282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child
283events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 283events, and dynamically created loops which do not.
284 284
285=over 4 285=over 4
286 286
685C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 685C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or
686C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 686C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return.
687 687
688This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 688This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again.
689 689
690It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls.
691
690=item ev_ref (loop) 692=item ev_ref (loop)
691 693
692=item ev_unref (loop) 694=item ev_unref (loop)
693 695
694Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 696Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
708respectively). 710respectively).
709 711
710Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 712Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
711running when nothing else is active. 713running when nothing else is active.
712 714
713 struct ev_signal exitsig; 715 ev_signal exitsig;
714 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 716 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
715 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 717 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
716 evf_unref (loop); 718 evf_unref (loop);
717 719
718Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 720Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
784 786
785A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 787A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
786interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 788interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
787become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 789become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
788 790
789 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 791 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
790 { 792 {
791 ev_io_stop (w); 793 ev_io_stop (w);
792 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 794 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
793 } 795 }
794 796
795 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 797 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
796 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 798 ev_io stdin_watcher;
797 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 799 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
798 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 800 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
799 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 801 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
800 ev_loop (loop, 0); 802 ev_loop (loop, 0);
801 803
892=item C<EV_ERROR> 894=item C<EV_ERROR>
893 895
894An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might 896An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
895happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 897happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
896ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 898ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
899problem. Libev considers these application bugs.
900
897problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 901You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping with the
898with the watcher being stopped. 902watcher being stopped. Note that well-written programs should not receive
903an error ever, so when your watcher receives it, this usually indicates a
904bug in your program.
899 905
900Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for 906Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for
901example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your 907example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your
902callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with 908callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with
903the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded 909the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
923which rolls both calls into one. 929which rolls both calls into one.
924 930
925You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped 931You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
926(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding. 932(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
927 933
928The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, 934The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
929int revents)>. 935int revents)>.
930 936
931Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps. 937Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
932 938
933 ev_io w; 939 ev_io w;
967 973
968 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 974 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
969 975
970=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 976=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
971 977
972Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending 978Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
979the watcher was active or not).
980
973status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example, 981It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
974non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending), but 982non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
975C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor pending. If 983calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
976you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is therefore a 984pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
977good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. 985therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
978 986
979=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher) 987=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
980 988
981Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started 989Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
982and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify 990and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1056member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1064member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1057data: 1065data:
1058 1066
1059 struct my_io 1067 struct my_io
1060 { 1068 {
1061 struct ev_io io; 1069 ev_io io;
1062 int otherfd; 1070 int otherfd;
1063 void *somedata; 1071 void *somedata;
1064 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1072 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1065 }; 1073 };
1066 1074
1069 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ); 1077 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1070 1078
1071And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1079And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1072can cast it back to your own type: 1080can cast it back to your own type:
1073 1081
1074 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1082 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1075 { 1083 {
1076 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1084 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1077 ... 1085 ...
1078 } 1086 }
1079 1087
1097programmers): 1105programmers):
1098 1106
1099 #include <stddef.h> 1107 #include <stddef.h>
1100 1108
1101 static void 1109 static void
1102 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1110 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1103 { 1111 {
1104 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1112 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1105 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1113 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1106 } 1114 }
1107 1115
1108 static void 1116 static void
1109 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1117 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1110 { 1118 {
1111 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1119 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1112 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1120 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1113 } 1121 }
1114 1122
1249Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1257Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1250readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1258readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1251attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1259attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1252 1260
1253 static void 1261 static void
1254 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1262 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1255 { 1263 {
1256 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1264 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1257 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors 1265 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors
1258 } 1266 }
1259 1267
1260 ... 1268 ...
1261 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1269 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1262 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1270 ev_io stdin_readable;
1263 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1271 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1264 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1272 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1265 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1273 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1266 1274
1267 1275
1278 1286
1279The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1287The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1280passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration 1288passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration
1281then order of execution is undefined. 1289then order of execution is undefined.
1282 1290
1291=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1292
1293Many real-world problems invole some kind of time-out, usually for error
1294recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1295you want to raise some error after a while.
1296
1297Here are some ways on how to handle this problem, from simple and
1298inefficient to very efficient.
1299
1300In the following examples a 60 second activity timeout is assumed - a
1301timeout that gets reset to 60 seconds each time some data ("a lifesign")
1302was received.
1303
1304=over 4
1305
1306=item 1. Use a timer and stop, reinitialise, start it on activity.
1307
1308This is the most obvious, but not the most simple way: In the beginning,
1309start the watcher:
1310
1311 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 60., 0.);
1312 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1313
1314Then, each time there is some activity, C<ev_timer_stop> the timer,
1315initialise it again, and start it:
1316
1317 ev_timer_stop (loop, timer);
1318 ev_timer_set (timer, 60., 0.);
1319 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1320
1321This is relatively simple to implement, but means that each time there
1322is some activity, libev will first have to remove the timer from it's
1323internal data strcuture and then add it again.
1324
1325=item 2. Use a timer and re-start it with C<ev_timer_again> inactivity.
1326
1327This is the easiest way, and involves using C<ev_timer_again> instead of
1328C<ev_timer_start>.
1329
1330For this, configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and
1331then call C<ev_timer_again> at start and each time you successfully read
1332or write some data. If you go into an idle state where you do not expect
1333data to travel on the socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and
1334C<ev_timer_again> will automatically restart it if need be.
1335
1336That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
1337altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>.
1338
1339At start:
1340
1341 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 60.);
1342 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1343
1344Each time you receive some data:
1345
1346 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1347
1348It is even possible to change the time-out on the fly:
1349
1350 timer->repeat = 30.;
1351 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1352
1353This is slightly more efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1354you want to modify its timeout value, as libev does not have to completely
1355remove and re-insert the timer from/into it's internal data structure.
1356
1357=item 3. Let the timer time out, but then re-arm it as required.
1358
1359This method is more tricky, but usually most efficient: Most timeouts are
1360relatively long compared to the loop iteration time - in our example,
1361within 60 seconds, there are usually many I/O events with associated
1362activity resets.
1363
1364In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1365but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1366within the callback:
1367
1368 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1369
1370 static void
1371 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1372 {
1373 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A);
1374 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1375
1376 // if last_activity is older than now - timeout, we did time out
1377 if (timeout < now)
1378 {
1379 // timeout occured, take action
1380 }
1381 else
1382 {
1383 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1384 // to fire in last_activity + 60.
1385 w->again = timeout - now;
1386 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w);
1387 }
1388 }
1389
1390To summarise the callback: first calculate the real time-out (defined as
1391"60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has been
1392reached, which means there was a real timeout. Otherwise the callback was
1393invoked too early (timeout is in the future), so re-schedule the timer to
1394fire at that future time.
1395
1396Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the
1397C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running.
1398
1399This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds),
1400but virtually no calls to libev to change the timeout.
1401
1402To start the timer, simply intiialise the watcher and C<last_activity>,
1403then call the callback:
1404
1405 ev_timer_init (timer, callback);
1406 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1407 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT);
1408
1409And when there is some activity, simply remember the time in
1410C<last_activity>:
1411
1412 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop);
1413
1414This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1415time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1416
1417=back
1418
1283=head3 The special problem of time updates 1419=head3 The special problem of time updates
1284 1420
1285Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1421Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1286least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1422least 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 1423time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a
1330If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1466If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1331 1467
1332If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1468If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1333C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1469C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1334 1470
1335This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1471This sounds a bit complicated, see "Be smart about timeouts", above, for a
1336example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle 1472usage example.
1337timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1338seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1339configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1340C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1341you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1342socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
1343automatically restart it if need be.
1344
1345That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
1346altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
1347
1348 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
1349 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1350 ...
1351 timer->again = 17.;
1352 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1353 ...
1354 timer->again = 10.;
1355 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1356
1357This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1358you want to modify its timeout value.
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 1473
1366=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1474=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1367 1475
1368The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1476The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1369or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 1477or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1374=head3 Examples 1482=head3 Examples
1375 1483
1376Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1484Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1377 1485
1378 static void 1486 static void
1379 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1487 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1380 { 1488 {
1381 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1489 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1382 } 1490 }
1383 1491
1384 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1492 ev_timer mytimer;
1385 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1493 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1386 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1494 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1387 1495
1388Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1496Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1389inactivity. 1497inactivity.
1390 1498
1391 static void 1499 static void
1392 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1500 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1393 { 1501 {
1394 .. ten seconds without any activity 1502 .. ten seconds without any activity
1395 } 1503 }
1396 1504
1397 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1505 ev_timer mytimer;
1398 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1506 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1399 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1507 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1400 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1508 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1401 1509
1402 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1510 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1488 1596
1489If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop 1597If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1490it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the 1598it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1491only event loop modification you are allowed to do). 1599only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1492 1600
1493The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic 1601The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic
1494*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1602*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1495 1603
1604 static ev_tstamp
1496 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1605 my_rescheduler (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1497 { 1606 {
1498 return now + 60.; 1607 return now + 60.;
1499 } 1608 }
1500 1609
1501It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1610It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1538 1647
1539The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1648The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1540take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1649take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1541called. 1650called.
1542 1651
1543=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write] 1652=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1544 1653
1545The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1654The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1546switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1655switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1547the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1656the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1548 1657
1553Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1662Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1554system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1663system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1555potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 1664potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1556 1665
1557 static void 1666 static void
1558 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1667 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1559 { 1668 {
1560 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1669 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1561 } 1670 }
1562 1671
1563 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1672 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1564 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1673 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1565 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1674 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1566 1675
1567Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1676Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1568 1677
1569 #include <math.h> 1678 #include <math.h>
1570 1679
1571 static ev_tstamp 1680 static ev_tstamp
1572 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1681 my_scheduler_cb (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1573 { 1682 {
1574 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.)); 1683 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.));
1575 } 1684 }
1576 1685
1577 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1686 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1578 1687
1579Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1688Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1580 1689
1581 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1690 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1582 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1691 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1583 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1692 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1584 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1693 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1585 1694
1586 1695
1625 1734
1626=back 1735=back
1627 1736
1628=head3 Examples 1737=head3 Examples
1629 1738
1630Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1739Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
1631 1740
1632 static void 1741 static void
1633 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1742 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
1634 { 1743 {
1635 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1744 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1636 } 1745 }
1637 1746
1638 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1747 ev_signal signal_watcher;
1639 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1748 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1640 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1749 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
1641 1750
1642 1751
1643=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1752=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1644 1753
1645Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1754Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1718its completion. 1827its completion.
1719 1828
1720 ev_child cw; 1829 ev_child cw;
1721 1830
1722 static void 1831 static void
1723 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1832 child_cb (EV_P_ ev_child *w, int revents)
1724 { 1833 {
1725 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1834 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1726 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1835 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1727 } 1836 }
1728 1837
1792to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the 1901to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1793default compilation environment. 1902default compilation environment.
1794 1903
1795=head3 Inotify and Kqueue 1904=head3 Inotify and Kqueue
1796 1905
1797When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 1906When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally
1907only available with Linux 2.6.25 or above due to bugs in earlier
1798available with Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 1908implementations) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1799change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 1909change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created
1800when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 1910lazily when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1801 1911
1802Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 1912Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1803except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 1913except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1804making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support 1914making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1805there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling, 1915there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling,
1979 2089
1980Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 2090Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1981callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2091callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1982 2092
1983 static void 2093 static void
1984 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 2094 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
1985 { 2095 {
1986 free (w); 2096 free (w);
1987 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2097 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1988 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2098 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1989 } 2099 }
1990 2100
1991 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 2101 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
1992 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 2102 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1993 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 2103 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1994 2104
1995 2105
1996=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2106=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2077 2187
2078 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 2188 static ev_io iow [nfd];
2079 static ev_timer tw; 2189 static ev_timer tw;
2080 2190
2081 static void 2191 static void
2082 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2192 io_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
2083 { 2193 {
2084 } 2194 }
2085 2195
2086 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2196 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
2087 static void 2197 static void
2088 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2198 adns_prepare_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
2089 { 2199 {
2090 int timeout = 3600000; 2200 int timeout = 3600000;
2091 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2201 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
2092 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2202 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
2093 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2203 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
2108 } 2218 }
2109 } 2219 }
2110 2220
2111 // stop all watchers after blocking 2221 // stop all watchers after blocking
2112 static void 2222 static void
2113 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2223 adns_check_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
2114 { 2224 {
2115 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2225 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
2116 2226
2117 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2227 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
2118 { 2228 {
2233when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops, 2343when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops,
2234but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers 2344but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers
2235yourself - but you can use a fork watcher to handle this automatically, 2345yourself - but you can use a fork watcher to handle this automatically,
2236and future versions of libev might do just that. 2346and future versions of libev might do just that.
2237 2347
2238Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable, only the ones returned by 2348Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by
2239C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any 2349C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any
2240portable one. 2350portable one.
2241 2351
2242So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared 2352So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared
2243that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around 2353that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around
2244this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to 2354this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to
2245create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything. 2355create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything.
2356
2357=head3 C<ev_embed> and fork
2358
2359While the C<ev_embed> watcher is running, forks in the embedding loop will
2360automatically be applied to the embedded loop as well, so no special
2361fork handling is required in that case. When the watcher is not running,
2362however, it is still the task of the libev user to call C<ev_loop_fork ()>
2363as applicable.
2246 2364
2247=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2365=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2248 2366
2249=over 4 2367=over 4
2250 2368
2278C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be 2396C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2279used). 2397used).
2280 2398
2281 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2399 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2282 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2400 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2283 struct ev_embed embed; 2401 ev_embed embed;
2284 2402
2285 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2403 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2286 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2404 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2287 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2405 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2288 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2406 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2302kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2420kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2303C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2421C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2304 2422
2305 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2423 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2306 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2424 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2307 struct ev_embed embed; 2425 ev_embed embed;
2308 2426
2309 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2427 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2310 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2428 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2311 { 2429 {
2312 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2430 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2368is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 2486is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2369multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 2487multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2370need elaborate support such as pthreads. 2488need elaborate support such as pthreads.
2371 2489
2372That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 2490That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2373queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your 2491queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2374queue: 2492queue:
2375 2493
2376=over 4 2494=over 4
2377 2495
2378=item queueing from a signal handler context 2496=item queueing from a signal handler context
2379 2497
2380To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal 2498To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2381handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for 2499handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is
2382some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler: 2500an example that does that for some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2383 2501
2384 static ev_async mysig; 2502 static ev_async mysig;
2385 2503
2386 static void 2504 static void
2387 sigusr1_handler (void) 2505 sigusr1_handler (void)
2454 2572
2455=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback) 2573=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2456 2574
2457Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any 2575Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2458kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2576kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2459believe me. 2577trust me.
2460 2578
2461=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2579=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2462 2580
2463Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2581Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2464an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2582an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2465C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or 2583C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or
2466similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2584similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2467section below on what exactly this means). 2585section below on what exactly this means).
2468 2586
2469This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration, 2587This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2470so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2588so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2494=over 4 2612=over 4
2495 2613
2496=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback) 2614=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback)
2497 2615
2498This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your 2616This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your
2499callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stop both 2617callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both
2500watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd 2618watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd
2501or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2619or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
2502more watchers yourself. 2620more watchers yourself.
2503 2621
2504If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2622If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and the
2505is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2623C<events> argument is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for
2506C<events> set will be created and started. 2624the given C<fd> and C<events> set will be created and started.
2507 2625
2508If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2626If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2509started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2627started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2510repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2628repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
2511dubious value.
2512 2629
2513The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2630The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
2514passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2631passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2515C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2632C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
2516value passed to C<ev_once>: 2633value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
2634a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
2635events precedence.
2636
2637Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
2517 2638
2518 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2639 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2519 { 2640 {
2641 if (revents & EV_READ)
2642 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2520 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2643 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2521 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2644 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2522 else if (revents & EV_READ)
2523 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2524 } 2645 }
2525 2646
2526 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2647 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2527 2648
2528=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2649=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2529 2650
2530Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2651Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2531had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2652had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2532initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). 2653initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2533 2654
2534=item ev_feed_fd_event (ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 2655=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents)
2535 2656
2536Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2657Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2537the given events it. 2658the given events it.
2538 2659
2539=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2660=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2540 2661
2541Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 2662Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2542loop!). 2663loop!).
2543 2664
2544=back 2665=back
2676 2797
2677The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>. 2798The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2678 2799
2679See the method-C<set> above for more details. 2800See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2680 2801
2681Example: 2802Example: Use a plain function as callback.
2682 2803
2683 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 2804 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2684 iow.set <io_cb> (); 2805 iow.set <io_cb> ();
2685 2806
2686=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2807=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
2724Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2845Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
2725the constructor. 2846the constructor.
2726 2847
2727 class myclass 2848 class myclass
2728 { 2849 {
2729 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2850 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
2730 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2851 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
2731 2852
2732 myclass (int fd) 2853 myclass (int fd)
2733 { 2854 {
2734 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 2855 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2735 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 2856 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2751=item Perl 2872=item Perl
2752 2873
2753The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test 2874The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2754libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module, 2875libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2755there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces 2876there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2756to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the 2877to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>, but C<AnyEvent::DNS> is preferred nowadays),
2757C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>). 2878C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV>
2879and C<EV::Glib>).
2758 2880
2759It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at 2881It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2760L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 2882L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2761 2883
2762=item Python 2884=item Python
2941 3063
2942=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3064=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
2943 3065
2944Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3066Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
2945define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3067define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
2946autoconf is noted for every option. 3068autoconf is documented for every option.
2947 3069
2948=over 4 3070=over 4
2949 3071
2950=item EV_STANDALONE 3072=item EV_STANDALONE
2951 3073
3121When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search 3243When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
3122all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space 3244all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
3123and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually 3245and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
3124fine. 3246fine.
3125 3247
3126If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to 3248If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3127C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 3249both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3128 3250
3129=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3251=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
3130 3252
3131If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3253If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
3132defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3254defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3139code. 3261code.
3140 3262
3141=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 3263=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3142 3264
3143If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If 3265If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3144defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3266defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3267watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3145 3268
3146=item EV_STAT_ENABLE 3269=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3147 3270
3148If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If 3271If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3149defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3272defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3181two). 3304two).
3182 3305
3183=item EV_USE_4HEAP 3306=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3184 3307
3185Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 3308Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3186timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 3309timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3187to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has 3310to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3188noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 3311faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3189 3312
3190The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 3313The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3191(disabled). 3314(disabled).
3192 3315
3193=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 3316=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3194 3317
3195Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 3318Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3196timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 3319timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3197the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 3320the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3198which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 3321which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3199but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 3322but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3200noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers. 3323noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3201 3324
3202The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 3325The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3203(disabled). 3326(disabled).
3204 3327
3205=item EV_VERIFY 3328=item EV_VERIFY
3211called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 3334called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3212verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 3335verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3213libev considerably. 3336libev considerably.
3214 3337
3215The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 3338The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3216C<0.> 3339C<0>.
3217 3340
3218=item EV_COMMON 3341=item EV_COMMON
3219 3342
3220By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3343By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3221this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3344this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
3238and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 3361and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
3239definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for 3362definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
3240their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 3363their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
3241avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3364avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
3242method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3365method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
3366
3367=back
3243 3368
3244=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS 3369=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
3245 3370
3246If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of 3371If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
3247exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list 3372exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3294And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3419And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3295 3420
3296 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3421 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3297 #include "ev.c" 3422 #include "ev.c"
3298 3423
3424=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES
3299 3425
3300=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES 3426=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3301 3427
3302=head2 THREADS 3428=head3 THREADS
3303 3429
3304Libev itself is thread-safe (unless the opposite is specifically 3430All libev functions are reentrant and thread-safe unless explicitly
3305documented for a function), but it uses no locking itself. This means that 3431documented otherwise, but libev implements no locking itself. This means
3306you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as only one 3432that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as there
3307thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop parameter: 3433are no concurrent calls into any libev function with the same loop
3434parameter (C<ev_default_*> calls have an implicit default loop parameter,
3308libev guarentees that different event loops share no data structures that 3435of course): libev guarantees that different event loops share no data
3309need locking. 3436structures that need any locking.
3310 3437
3311Or to put it differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done 3438Or to put it differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done
3312concurrently from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter 3439concurrently from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter
3313must be done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as 3440must be done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as
3314only one thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using 3441only one thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using
3315a mutex per loop). 3442a mutex per loop).
3316 3443
3317Specifically to support threads (and signal handlers), libev implements 3444Specifically to support threads (and signal handlers), libev implements
3318so-called C<ev_async> watchers, which allow some limited form of 3445so-called C<ev_async> watchers, which allow some limited form of
3319concurrency on the same event loop. 3446concurrency on the same event loop, namely waking it up "from the
3447outside".
3320 3448
3321If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops 3449If 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 3450without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3323help you. I can give some generic advice however: 3451help you, but here is some generic advice:
3324 3452
3325=over 4 3453=over 4
3326 3454
3327=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop 3455=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3328in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop. 3456in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3352default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 3480default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
3353watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 3481watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3354 3482
3355=back 3483=back
3356 3484
3357=head2 COROUTINES 3485=head3 COROUTINES
3358 3486
3359Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 3487Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3360libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different 3488libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3361coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 3489coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3362different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the 3490different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3363loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 3491loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3364you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 3492you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3365 3493
3366Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 3494Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3367C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine switches. 3495C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3496they do not clal any callbacks.
3368 3497
3498=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3369 3499
3370=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3500Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3501lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3502scared by this.
3371 3503
3372In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3504However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3373libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 3505has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3374documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 3506warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3507targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3375 3508
3376All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be 3509Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3377extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this 3510workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3378happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might 3511maintainable.
3379mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
3380it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
3381 3512
3382=over 4 3513And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3514wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3515seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
3516warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have
3517been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
3518such buggy versions.
3383 3519
3384=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 3520While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3521"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3522with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3523them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3524warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3385 3525
3386This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
3387there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
3388have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
3389 3526
3390=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 3527=head2 VALGRIND
3391 3528
3392That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them 3529Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3393as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for. 3530highly useful. Unfortunately, valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3394 3531
3395=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1) 3532If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3533in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3396 3534
3397These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list. 3535 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3536 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3537 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3398 3538
3399=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1) 3539Then there is no memory leak, just as memory accounted to global variables
3540is not a memleak - the memory is still being refernced, and didn't leak.
3400 3541
3401=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 3542Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs
3543as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend,
3544although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be
3545confused.
3402 3546
3403These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the 3547Keep in mind that valgrind is a very good tool, but only a tool. Don't
3404correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually 3548make it into some kind of religion.
3405have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3406 3549
3407=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1) 3550If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3551with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this
3552is a bug in libev (best check the archives, too :). However, don't be
3553annoyed when you get a brisk "this is no bug" answer and take the chance
3554of learning how to interpret valgrind properly.
3408 3555
3409By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a 3556If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3410fixed position in the storage array. 3557I suggest using suppression lists.
3411 3558
3412=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3413 3559
3414A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires 3560=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
3415libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3416on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3417 3561
3418=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3419
3420=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3421
3422Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
3423priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
3424linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
3425watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. priority handling.
3426
3427=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
3428
3429=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3430
3431=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3432
3433Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3434calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3435involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3436
3437=back
3438
3439
3440=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 3562=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3441 3563
3442Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 3564Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3443requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 3565requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3444model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 3566model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3445the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 3567the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3456 3578
3457Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't 3579Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3458accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will 3580accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3459either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large, 3581either 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 3582so 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 3583megabyte seems safe, but this apparently depends on the amount of memory
3462available). 3584available).
3463 3585
3464Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and 3586Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3465the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets 3587the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3466is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use 3588is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3477 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */ 3599 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3478 3600
3479 #include "ev.h" 3601 #include "ev.h"
3480 3602
3481And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure 3603And 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!): 3604you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
3483 3605
3484 #include "evwrap.h" 3606 #include "evwrap.h"
3485 #include "ev.c" 3607 #include "ev.c"
3486 3608
3487=over 4 3609=over 4
3532wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 3654wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3533calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 3655calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3534 3656
3535=back 3657=back
3536 3658
3537
3538=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 3659=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3539 3660
3540In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few 3661In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
3541additional extensions: 3662backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
3542 3663
3543=over 4 3664=over 4
3544 3665
3545=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible 3666=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3546calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>. 3667calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3552calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 3673calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3553 3674
3554=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 3675=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3555 3676
3556The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 3677The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3557C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different 3678C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
3558threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is 3679threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3559believed to be sufficiently portable. 3680believed to be sufficiently portable.
3560 3681
3561=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment 3682=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3562 3683
3571except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 3692except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3572well. 3693well.
3573 3694
3574=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 3695=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3575 3696
3576To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long> 3697To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
3577internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On 3698instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
3578non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but 3699systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but is still at
3579is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of 3700least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of millions of
3580millions of watchers. 3701watchers.
3581 3702
3582=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 3703=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3583 3704
3584The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 3705The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3585have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 3706have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3589=back 3710=back
3590 3711
3591If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 3712If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3592 3713
3593 3714
3594=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS 3715=head1 ALGORITHMIC COMPLEXITIES
3595 3716
3596Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 3717In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
3597lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently 3718libev will be documented. For complexity discussions about backends see
3598scared by this. 3719the documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
3599 3720
3600However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler 3721All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
3601has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding 3722extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
3602warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when 3723happens asymptotically rarer with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
3603targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version. 3724mean that libev does a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on
3725average it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
3604 3726
3605Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate 3727=over 4
3606workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3607maintainable.
3608 3728
3609And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 3729=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
3610wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3611seems to warn about).
3612 3730
3613While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 3731This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
3614"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 3732there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that, then inserting will
3615with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with 3733have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
3616them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3617warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3618 3734
3735=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
3619 3736
3620=head1 VALGRIND 3737That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them,
3738as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
3621 3739
3622Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is 3740=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1)
3623highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3624 3741
3625If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.) 3742These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
3626in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3627 3743
3628 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3744=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
3629 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3630 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3631 3745
3632Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances, 3746=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
3633valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3634might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3635 3747
3636If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list 3748These watchers are stored in lists, so they need to be walked to find the
3637with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is 3749correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3638a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is 3750have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal: one is typical, two
3639no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind 3751is rare).
3640properly.
3641 3752
3642If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project 3753=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3643I suggest using suppression lists. 3754
3755By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
3756fixed position in the storage array.
3757
3758=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
3759
3760A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3761libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3762on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3763
3764=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3765
3766=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3767
3768Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
3769priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
3770linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
3771watchers becomes O(1) with respect to priority handling.
3772
3773=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
3774
3775=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3776
3777=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3778
3779Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3780calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3781involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3782
3783=back
3644 3784
3645 3785
3646=head1 AUTHOR 3786=head1 AUTHOR
3647 3787
3648Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3788Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.

Diff Legend

Removed lines
+ Added lines
< Changed lines
> Changed lines