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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 #include <stdio.h> // for puts
15
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct 16 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type> 17 // with the name ev_TYPE
16 ev_io stdin_watcher; 18 ev_io stdin_watcher;
17 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 19 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
18 20
19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature 21 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin 22 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
21 static void 23 static void
22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 24 stdin_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
23 { 25 {
24 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
26 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
31 } 33 }
32 34
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
34 static void 36 static void
35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
36 { 38 {
37 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
40 } 42 }
103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common) 105Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For 106configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
105more info about various configuration options please have a look at 107more info about various configuration options please have a look at
106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support 108B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of 109for 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 110name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument. 111this argument.
110 112
111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 113=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
112 114
113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 115Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
276 278
277=back 279=back
278 280
279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 281=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP
280 282
281An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 283An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct>
282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 284is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop>
283events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 285I<function>).
286
287The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
288supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do
289not.
284 290
285=over 4 291=over 4
286 292
287=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 293=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
288 294
294If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 300If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
295function. 301function.
296 302
297Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 303Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 304from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway). 305as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway).
300 306
301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 307The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 308C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 309for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 310create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
380=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 386=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
381 387
382For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 388For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
383but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 389but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
384like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 390like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
385epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number 391epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
386of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect 392
387cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad 393The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
388support for dup. 394of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
395dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
396descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and
397so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then
398I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can
399take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course
400hard to detect.
401
402Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
403of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
404I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
405even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
406on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
407employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
408events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required.
389 409
390While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 410While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
391will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such incident 411will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
392(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 412incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
393best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work 413I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
394very well if you register events for both fds. 414file descriptors might not work very well if you register events for both
395 415file descriptors.
396Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
397need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
398(or space) is available.
399 416
400Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all 417Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
401watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, 418watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible,
402i.e. keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times. Stopping and 419i.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 420starting a watcher (without re-setting it) also usually doesn't cause
404extra overhead. 421extra overhead. A fork can both result in spurious notifications as well
422as in libev having to destroy and recreate the epoll object, which can
423take considerable time and thus should be avoided.
424
425All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or
426faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on
427the usage. So sad.
405 428
406While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in 429While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
407all kernel versions tested so far. 430all kernel versions tested so far.
408 431
409This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 432This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
410C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 433C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
411 434
412=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 435=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
413 436
414Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it was 437Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
415broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably with 438was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
416anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course it's 439with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
417completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected" unless 440it's completely useless). Unlike epoll, however, whose brokenness
418you explicitly specify it in the flags (i.e. using C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or 441is by design, these kqueue bugs can (and eventually will) be fixed
419libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) system like NetBSD. 442without API changes to existing programs. For this reason it's not being
443"auto-detected" unless you explicitly specify it in the flags (i.e. using
444C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
445system like NetBSD.
420 446
421You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 447You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
422only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on 448only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
423the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 449the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
424 450
425It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 451It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
426kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 452kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
427course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 453course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
428cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 454cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
429two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it 455two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but
430drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases. 456sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect
457cases
431 458
432This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 459This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
433 460
434While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 461While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
435everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 462everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
436almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets 463almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets
437(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop 464(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop
438(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and, did I mention it, 465(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (but C<poll> is of course
439using it only for sockets. 466also broken on OS X)) and, did I mention it, using it only for sockets.
440 467
441This backend maps C<EV_READ> into an C<EVFILT_READ> kevent with 468This 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 469C<NOTE_EOF>, and C<EV_WRITE> into an C<EVFILT_WRITE> kevent with
443C<NOTE_EOF>. 470C<NOTE_EOF>.
444 471
464might perform better. 491might perform better.
465 492
466On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness 493On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness
467notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification 494notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
468in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the 495in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the
469OS-specific backends. 496OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks).
470 497
471This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 498This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
472C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 499C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
473 500
474=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 501=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
527responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 554responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
528calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 555calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
529the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 556the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
530for example). 557for example).
531 558
532Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by 559Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
533this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers) 560handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
534would need to be stopped manually. 561as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
535 562
536In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 563In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
537rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 564rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
538pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 565pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
539C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 566C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
607very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 634very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
608the current time is a good idea. 635the current time is a good idea.
609 636
610See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section. 637See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section.
611 638
639=item ev_suspend (loop)
640
641=item ev_resume (loop)
642
643These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is
644not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
645
646A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
647the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
648would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
649the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
650in your C<SIGTSTP> handler, sending yourself a C<SIGSTOP> and calling
651C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
652
653Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
654between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
655will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
656occured while suspended).
657
658After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
659given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
660without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
661
662Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
663event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
664
612=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 665=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
613 666
614Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 667Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
615after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 668after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
616events. 669events.
631the loop. 684the loop.
632 685
633A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 686A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
634necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 687necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
635will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 688will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
636be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarentee that a 689be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
637user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 690user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
638iteration of the loop. 691iteration of the loop.
639 692
640This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 693This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
641with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 694with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
699 752
700If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 753If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop>
701from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 754from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before
702stopping it. 755stopping it.
703 756
704As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is 757As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
705not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting 758is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from
706if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 759exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
707way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 760excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
708libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop> 761third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
709(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before, 762before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
710respectively). 763before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
764(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
765in the callback).
711 766
712Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 767Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
713running when nothing else is active. 768running when nothing else is active.
714 769
715 struct ev_signal exitsig; 770 ev_signal exitsig;
716 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 771 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
717 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 772 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
718 evf_unref (loop); 773 evf_unref (loop);
719 774
720Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 775Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
768they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only. 823they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
769 824
770=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 825=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
771 826
772This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 827This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
773compiled in. which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 828compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
774through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 829through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
775is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 830is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
776error and call C<abort ()>. 831error and call C<abort ()>.
777 832
778This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal 833This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
782=back 837=back
783 838
784 839
785=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 840=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
786 841
842In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
843watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
844watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
845
787A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 846A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
788interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 847interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
789become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 848become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
790 849
791 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 850 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
792 { 851 {
793 ev_io_stop (w); 852 ev_io_stop (w);
794 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 853 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
795 } 854 }
796 855
797 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 856 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
857
798 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 858 ev_io stdin_watcher;
859
799 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 860 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
800 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 861 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
801 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 862 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
863
802 ev_loop (loop, 0); 864 ev_loop (loop, 0);
803 865
804As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 866As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
805watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 867watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
806although this can sometimes be quite valid). 868stack).
869
870Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
871or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
807 872
808Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 873Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
809(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 874(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
810callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 875callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
811watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 876watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
812is readable and/or writable). 877is readable and/or writable).
813 878
814Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 879Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
815with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 880macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
816to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< ev_<type>_init 881is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
817(watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 882ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
818 883
819To make the watcher actually watch out for events, you have to start it 884To make the watcher actually watch out for events, you have to start it
820with a watcher-specific start function (C<< ev_<type>_start (loop, watcher 885with a watcher-specific start function (C<< ev_TYPE_start (loop, watcher
821*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the 886*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the
822corresponding stop function (C<< ev_<type>_stop (loop, watcher *) >>. 887corresponding stop function (C<< ev_TYPE_stop (loop, watcher *) >>.
823 888
824As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you 889As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you
825must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never 890must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never
826reinitialise it or call its C<set> macro. 891reinitialise it or call its C<ev_TYPE_set> macro.
827 892
828Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the 893Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the
829registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as 894registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as
830third argument. 895third argument.
831 896
889 954
890=item C<EV_ASYNC> 955=item C<EV_ASYNC>
891 956
892The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 957The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
893 958
959=item C<EV_CUSTOM>
960
961Not ever sent (or otherwise used) by libev itself, but can be freely used
962by libev users to signal watchers (e.g. via C<ev_feed_event>).
963
894=item C<EV_ERROR> 964=item C<EV_ERROR>
895 965
896An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might 966An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
897happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 967happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
898ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 968ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
969problem. Libev considers these application bugs.
970
899problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 971You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping with the
900with the watcher being stopped. 972watcher being stopped. Note that well-written programs should not receive
973an error ever, so when your watcher receives it, this usually indicates a
974bug in your program.
901 975
902Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for 976Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, for
903example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your 977example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your
904callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with 978callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with
905the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded 979the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
908 982
909=back 983=back
910 984
911=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 985=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
912 986
913In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type,
914e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers.
915
916=over 4 987=over 4
917 988
918=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 989=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
919 990
920This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents 991This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
925which rolls both calls into one. 996which rolls both calls into one.
926 997
927You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped 998You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
928(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding. 999(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
929 1000
930The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, 1001The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
931int revents)>. 1002int revents)>.
932 1003
933Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps. 1004Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
934 1005
935 ev_io w; 1006 ev_io w;
969 1040
970 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1041 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
971 1042
972=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1043=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
973 1044
974Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending 1045Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1046the watcher was active or not).
1047
975status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example, 1048It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
976non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending), but 1049non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
977C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor pending. If 1050calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
978you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is therefore a 1051pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
979good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. 1052therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
980 1053
981=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1054=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
982 1055
983Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started 1056Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
984and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify 1057and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1026The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is 1099The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1027always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :). 1100always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1028 1101
1029Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is 1102Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1030fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might 1103fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1031or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range. 1104or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1032 1105
1033=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1106=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1034 1107
1035Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1108Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1036C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback 1109C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1058member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 1131member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1059data: 1132data:
1060 1133
1061 struct my_io 1134 struct my_io
1062 { 1135 {
1063 struct ev_io io; 1136 ev_io io;
1064 int otherfd; 1137 int otherfd;
1065 void *somedata; 1138 void *somedata;
1066 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 1139 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1067 }; 1140 };
1068 1141
1071 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ); 1144 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1072 1145
1073And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1146And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1074can cast it back to your own type: 1147can cast it back to your own type:
1075 1148
1076 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1149 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1077 { 1150 {
1078 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1151 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1079 ... 1152 ...
1080 } 1153 }
1081 1154
1099programmers): 1172programmers):
1100 1173
1101 #include <stddef.h> 1174 #include <stddef.h>
1102 1175
1103 static void 1176 static void
1104 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1177 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1105 { 1178 {
1106 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1179 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1107 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1180 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1108 } 1181 }
1109 1182
1110 static void 1183 static void
1111 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1184 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1112 { 1185 {
1113 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1186 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
1114 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1187 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1115 } 1188 }
1116 1189
1251Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1324Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
1252readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1325readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
1253attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1326attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
1254 1327
1255 static void 1328 static void
1256 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1329 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1257 { 1330 {
1258 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1331 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
1259 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors 1332 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and handle any I/O errors
1260 } 1333 }
1261 1334
1262 ... 1335 ...
1263 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1336 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1264 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1337 ev_io stdin_readable;
1265 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1338 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1266 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1339 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1267 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1340 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1268 1341
1269 1342
1277year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because 1350year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because
1278detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1351detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1279monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1352monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1280 1353
1281The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1354The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1282passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration 1355passed. If multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration
1283then order of execution is undefined. 1356then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with
1357later time-out values (but this is no longer true when a callback calls
1358C<ev_loop> recursively).
1359
1360=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1361
1362Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1363recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1364you want to raise some error after a while.
1365
1366What follows are some ways to handle this problem, from obvious and
1367inefficient to smart and efficient.
1368
1369In the following, a 60 second activity timeout is assumed - a timeout that
1370gets reset to 60 seconds each time there is activity (e.g. each time some
1371data or other life sign was received).
1372
1373=over 4
1374
1375=item 1. Use a timer and stop, reinitialise and start it on activity.
1376
1377This is the most obvious, but not the most simple way: In the beginning,
1378start the watcher:
1379
1380 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 60., 0.);
1381 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1382
1383Then, each time there is some activity, C<ev_timer_stop> it, initialise it
1384and start it again:
1385
1386 ev_timer_stop (loop, timer);
1387 ev_timer_set (timer, 60., 0.);
1388 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1389
1390This is relatively simple to implement, but means that each time there is
1391some activity, libev will first have to remove the timer from its internal
1392data structure and then add it again. Libev tries to be fast, but it's
1393still not a constant-time operation.
1394
1395=item 2. Use a timer and re-start it with C<ev_timer_again> inactivity.
1396
1397This is the easiest way, and involves using C<ev_timer_again> instead of
1398C<ev_timer_start>.
1399
1400To implement this, configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value
1401of C<60> and then call C<ev_timer_again> at start and each time you
1402successfully read or write some data. If you go into an idle state where
1403you do not expect data to travel on the socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop>
1404the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will automatically restart it if need be.
1405
1406That means you can ignore both the C<ev_timer_start> function and the
1407C<after> argument to C<ev_timer_set>, and only ever use the C<repeat>
1408member and C<ev_timer_again>.
1409
1410At start:
1411
1412 ev_timer_init (timer, callback);
1413 timer->repeat = 60.;
1414 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1415
1416Each time there is some activity:
1417
1418 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1419
1420It is even possible to change the time-out on the fly, regardless of
1421whether the watcher is active or not:
1422
1423 timer->repeat = 30.;
1424 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1425
1426This is slightly more efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1427you want to modify its timeout value, as libev does not have to completely
1428remove and re-insert the timer from/into its internal data structure.
1429
1430It is, however, even simpler than the "obvious" way to do it.
1431
1432=item 3. Let the timer time out, but then re-arm it as required.
1433
1434This method is more tricky, but usually most efficient: Most timeouts are
1435relatively long compared to the intervals between other activity - in
1436our example, within 60 seconds, there are usually many I/O events with
1437associated activity resets.
1438
1439In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1440but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1441within the callback:
1442
1443 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1444
1445 static void
1446 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1447 {
1448 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A);
1449 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1450
1451 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1452 if (timeout < now)
1453 {
1454 // timeout occured, take action
1455 }
1456 else
1457 {
1458 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1459 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1460 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive:
1461 w->repeat = timeout - now;
1462 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w);
1463 }
1464 }
1465
1466To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined
1467as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has
1468been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise
1469the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so
1470re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1471a timeout then.
1472
1473Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the
1474C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running.
1475
1476This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1477minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1478libev to change the timeout.
1479
1480To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity>
1481to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1482callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1483
1484 ev_timer_init (timer, callback);
1485 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1486 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT);
1487
1488And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1489C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1490
1491 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop);
1492
1493This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1494time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1495
1496Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1497callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1498fix things for you.
1499
1500=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1501
1502If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1503employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1504do even better:
1505
1506When starting the timeout, calculate the timeout value and put the timeout
1507at the I<end> of the list.
1508
1509Then use an C<ev_timer> to fire when the timeout at the I<beginning> of
1510the list is expected to fire (for example, using the technique #3).
1511
1512When there is some activity, remove the timer from the list, recalculate
1513the timeout, append it to the end of the list again, and make sure to
1514update the C<ev_timer> if it was taken from the beginning of the list.
1515
1516This way, one can manage an unlimited number of timeouts in O(1) time for
1517starting, stopping and updating the timers, at the expense of a major
1518complication, and having to use a constant timeout. The constant timeout
1519ensures that the list stays sorted.
1520
1521=back
1522
1523So which method the best?
1524
1525Method #2 is a simple no-brain-required solution that is adequate in most
1526situations. Method #3 requires a bit more thinking, but handles many cases
1527better, and isn't very complicated either. In most case, choosing either
1528one is fine, with #3 being better in typical situations.
1529
1530Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1531rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1532off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1533overkill :)
1284 1534
1285=head3 The special problem of time updates 1535=head3 The special problem of time updates
1286 1536
1287Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1537Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1288least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1538least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1332If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1582If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1333 1583
1334If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1584If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1335C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1585C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1336 1586
1337This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1587This sounds a bit complicated, see "Be smart about timeouts", above, for a
1338example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle 1588usage example.
1339timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
1340seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
1341configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
1342C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
1343you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
1344socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
1345automatically restart it if need be.
1346
1347That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
1348altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
1349
1350 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
1351 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1352 ...
1353 timer->again = 17.;
1354 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1355 ...
1356 timer->again = 10.;
1357 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1358
1359This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1360you want to modify its timeout value.
1361
1362Note, however, that it is often even more efficient to remember the
1363time of the last activity and let the timer time-out naturally. In the
1364callback, you then check whether the time-out is real, or, if there was
1365some activity, you reschedule the watcher to time-out in "last_activity +
1366timeout - ev_now ()" seconds.
1367 1589
1368=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1590=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1369 1591
1370The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1592The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1371or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 1593or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1376=head3 Examples 1598=head3 Examples
1377 1599
1378Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1600Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
1379 1601
1380 static void 1602 static void
1381 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1603 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1382 { 1604 {
1383 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1605 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
1384 } 1606 }
1385 1607
1386 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1608 ev_timer mytimer;
1387 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1609 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
1388 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1610 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
1389 1611
1390Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1612Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
1391inactivity. 1613inactivity.
1392 1614
1393 static void 1615 static void
1394 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1616 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_timer *w, int revents)
1395 { 1617 {
1396 .. ten seconds without any activity 1618 .. ten seconds without any activity
1397 } 1619 }
1398 1620
1399 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1621 ev_timer mytimer;
1400 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1622 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1401 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1623 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1402 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1624 ev_loop (loop, 0);
1403 1625
1404 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1626 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1409=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1631=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1410 1632
1411Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1633Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
1412(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1634(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1413 1635
1414Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1636Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or
1415but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1637relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
1416to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1638(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calender or clock). The
1417periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now () 1639difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real
1418+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system 1640time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your
1419clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year 1641wrist-watch).
1420to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1421roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1422 1642
1643You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point
1644in time: for example, if you tell a periodic watcher to trigger "in 10
1645seconds" (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now () + 10.>, that is, an absolute time
1646not a delay) and then reset your system clock to January of the previous
1647year, then it will take a year or more to trigger the event (unlike an
1648C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting
1649it, as it uses a relative timeout).
1650
1423C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, 1651C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex
1424such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other 1652timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
1425complicated rules. 1653other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as
1654those cannot react to time jumps.
1426 1655
1427As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 1656As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1428time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1657point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1429during the same loop iteration, then order of execution is undefined. 1658timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1659earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1660(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively).
1430 1661
1431=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1662=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1432 1663
1433=over 4 1664=over 4
1434 1665
1435=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1666=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp offset, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1436 1667
1437=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1668=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp offset, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1438 1669
1439Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1670Lots of arguments, let's sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1440operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex: 1671operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex:
1441 1672
1442=over 4 1673=over 4
1443 1674
1444=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1675=item * absolute timer (offset = absolute time, interval = 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1445 1676
1446In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock 1677In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1447time C<at> has passed. It will not repeat and will not adjust when a time 1678time C<offset> has passed. It will not repeat and will not adjust when a
1448jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will 1679time jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it
1449only run when the system clock reaches or surpasses this time. 1680will be stopped and invoked when the system clock reaches or surpasses
1681this point in time.
1450 1682
1451=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1683=item * repeating interval timer (offset = offset within interval, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1452 1684
1453In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1685In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1454C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative) 1686C<offset + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be
1455and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. 1687negative) and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps. The C<offset>
1688argument is merely an offset into the C<interval> periods.
1456 1689
1457This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to the 1690This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to the
1458system clock, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each 1691system clock, for example, here is an C<ev_periodic> that triggers each
1459hour, on the hour: 1692hour, on the hour (with respect to UTC):
1460 1693
1461 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1694 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1462 1695
1463This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1696This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1464but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1697but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1465full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1698full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1466by 3600. 1699by 3600.
1467 1700
1468Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1701Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1469C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1702C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1470time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1703time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1471 1704
1472For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near 1705For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near
1473C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 1706C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1474this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 1707this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1475 1708
1476Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU 1709Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1477speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 1710speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1478will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 1711will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1479millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 1712millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1480 1713
1481=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1714=item * manual reschedule mode (offset ignored, interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1482 1715
1483In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1716In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<offset> are both being
1484ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1717ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1485reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1718reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1486current time as second argument. 1719current time as second argument.
1487 1720
1488NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1721NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, ever,
1489ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>. 1722or make ANY other event loop modifications whatsoever, unless explicitly
1723allowed by documentation here>.
1490 1724
1491If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop 1725If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1492it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the 1726it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1493only event loop modification you are allowed to do). 1727only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1494 1728
1495The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic 1729The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic
1496*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1730*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1497 1731
1732 static ev_tstamp
1498 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1733 my_rescheduler (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1499 { 1734 {
1500 return now + 60.; 1735 return now + 60.;
1501 } 1736 }
1502 1737
1503It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1738It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1523a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1758a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1524program when the crontabs have changed). 1759program when the crontabs have changed).
1525 1760
1526=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *) 1761=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1527 1762
1528When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to 1763When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed
1529trigger next. 1764to trigger next. This is not the same as the C<offset> argument to
1765C<ev_periodic_set>, but indeed works even in interval and manual
1766rescheduling modes.
1530 1767
1531=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1768=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1532 1769
1533When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1770When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1534absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>). 1771absolute point in time (the C<offset> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>,
1772although libev might modify this value for better numerical stability).
1535 1773
1536Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic 1774Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1537timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1775timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1538 1776
1539=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1777=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1540 1778
1541The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1779The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1542take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1780take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1543called. 1781called.
1544 1782
1545=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write] 1783=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1546 1784
1547The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1785The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1548switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1786switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1549the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1787the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1550 1788
1555Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1793Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1556system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1794system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1557potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 1795potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1558 1796
1559 static void 1797 static void
1560 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1798 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1561 { 1799 {
1562 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1800 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1563 } 1801 }
1564 1802
1565 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1803 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1566 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1804 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1567 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1805 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1568 1806
1569Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1807Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1570 1808
1571 #include <math.h> 1809 #include <math.h>
1572 1810
1573 static ev_tstamp 1811 static ev_tstamp
1574 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1812 my_scheduler_cb (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1575 { 1813 {
1576 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.)); 1814 return now + (3600. - fmod (now, 3600.));
1577 } 1815 }
1578 1816
1579 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1817 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1580 1818
1581Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1819Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1582 1820
1583 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1821 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1584 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1822 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1585 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1823 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1586 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1824 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1587 1825
1588 1826
1630=head3 Examples 1868=head3 Examples
1631 1869
1632Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 1870Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
1633 1871
1634 static void 1872 static void
1635 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1873 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
1636 { 1874 {
1637 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1875 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1638 } 1876 }
1639 1877
1640 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1878 ev_signal signal_watcher;
1641 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1879 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1642 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 1880 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
1643 1881
1644 1882
1645=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1883=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1720its completion. 1958its completion.
1721 1959
1722 ev_child cw; 1960 ev_child cw;
1723 1961
1724 static void 1962 static void
1725 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents) 1963 child_cb (EV_P_ ev_child *w, int revents)
1726 { 1964 {
1727 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w); 1965 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1728 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus); 1966 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1729 } 1967 }
1730 1968
1745 1983
1746 1984
1747=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1985=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1748 1986
1749This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1987This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1750C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1988C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
1751compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1989and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if
1990it did.
1752 1991
1753The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1992The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1754not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1993not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
1755not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 1994exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
1756otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 1995C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
1757the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1996least one) and all the other fields of the stat buffer having unspecified
1997contents.
1758 1998
1759The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is 1999The path I<must not> end in a slash or contain special components such as
2000C<.> or C<..>. The path I<should> be absolute: If it is relative and
1760relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined. 2001your working directory changes, then the behaviour is undefined.
1761 2002
1762Since there is no standard kernel interface to do this, the portable 2003Since there is no portable change notification interface available, the
1763implementation simply calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if 2004portable implementation simply calls C<stat(2)> regularly on the path
1764it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling interval for 2005to see if it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling
1765this case. If you specify a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) 2006interval for this case. If you specify a polling interval of C<0> (highly
1766then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used (which 2007recommended!) then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used
1767you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might change 2008(which you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might
1768dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is currently 2009change dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is
1769around C<0.1>, but thats usually overkill. 2010currently around C<0.1>, but that's usually overkill.
1770 2011
1771This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 2012This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1772as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 2013as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1773resource-intensive. 2014resource-intensive.
1774 2015
1775At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented 2016At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented
1776is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as 2017is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as an
1777an exercise for the reader. Note, however, that the author sees no way 2018exercise for the reader. Note, however, that the author sees no way of
1778of implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue). 2019implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue, except as a hint).
1779 2020
1780=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 2021=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1781 2022
1782Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 2023Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1783compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file 2024compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1784support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat 2025support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1785structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 2026structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1786use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to 2027use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1787compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 2028compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1788obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is 2029obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1789most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support. 2030most noticeably displayed with ev_stat and large file support.
1790 2031
1791The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large 2032The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1792file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not 2033file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1793optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has 2034optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1794to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the 2035to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1795default compilation environment. 2036default compilation environment.
1796 2037
1797=head3 Inotify and Kqueue 2038=head3 Inotify and Kqueue
1798 2039
1799When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only 2040When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev and present at
1800available with Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 2041runtime, it will be used to speed up change detection where possible. The
1801change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily 2042inotify descriptor will be created lazily when the first C<ev_stat>
1802when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started. 2043watcher is being started.
1803 2044
1804Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 2045Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1805except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid 2046except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1806making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support 2047making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1807there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling, 2048there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling,
1808but as long as the path exists, libev usually gets away without polling. 2049but as long as kernel 2.6.25 or newer is used (2.6.24 and older have too
2050many bugs), the path exists (i.e. stat succeeds), and the path resides on
2051a local filesystem (libev currently assumes only ext2/3, jfs, reiserfs and
2052xfs are fully working) libev usually gets away without polling.
1809 2053
1810There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to 2054There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1811implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 2055implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1812descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks 2056descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks
1813etc. is difficult. 2057etc. is difficult.
1814 2058
2059=head3 C<stat ()> is a synchronous operation
2060
2061Libev doesn't normally do any kind of I/O itself, and so is not blocking
2062the process. The exception are C<ev_stat> watchers - those call C<stat
2063()>, which is a synchronous operation.
2064
2065For local paths, this usually doesn't matter: unless the system is very
2066busy or the intervals between stat's are large, a stat call will be fast,
2067as the path data is usually in memory already (except when starting the
2068watcher).
2069
2070For networked file systems, calling C<stat ()> can block an indefinite
2071time due to network issues, and even under good conditions, a stat call
2072often takes multiple milliseconds.
2073
2074Therefore, it is best to avoid using C<ev_stat> watchers on networked
2075paths, although this is fully supported by libev.
2076
1815=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 2077=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1816 2078
1817The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and 2079The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably,
1818even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems still 2080and even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems
1819only support whole seconds. 2081still only support whole seconds.
1820 2082
1821That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can 2083That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1822easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and 2084easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1823calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update 2085calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1824within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect unless the 2086within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect unless the
1967 2229
1968=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2230=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1969 2231
1970=over 4 2232=over 4
1971 2233
1972=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2234=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
1973 2235
1974Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 2236Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1975kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2237kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1976believe me. 2238believe me.
1977 2239
1981 2243
1982Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 2244Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1983callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2245callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1984 2246
1985 static void 2247 static void
1986 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 2248 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
1987 { 2249 {
1988 free (w); 2250 free (w);
1989 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2251 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1990 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2252 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1991 } 2253 }
1992 2254
1993 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 2255 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
1994 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 2256 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1995 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 2257 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1996 2258
1997 2259
1998=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2260=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2079 2341
2080 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 2342 static ev_io iow [nfd];
2081 static ev_timer tw; 2343 static ev_timer tw;
2082 2344
2083 static void 2345 static void
2084 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2346 io_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
2085 { 2347 {
2086 } 2348 }
2087 2349
2088 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 2350 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
2089 static void 2351 static void
2090 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 2352 adns_prepare_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
2091 { 2353 {
2092 int timeout = 3600000; 2354 int timeout = 3600000;
2093 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2355 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
2094 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2356 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
2095 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2357 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
2110 } 2372 }
2111 } 2373 }
2112 2374
2113 // stop all watchers after blocking 2375 // stop all watchers after blocking
2114 static void 2376 static void
2115 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2377 adns_check_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
2116 { 2378 {
2117 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2379 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
2118 2380
2119 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2381 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
2120 { 2382 {
2216some fds have to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency), 2478some fds have to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency),
2217and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In 2479and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In
2218this case you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all 2480this case you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all
2219the rest in a second one, and embed the second one in the first. 2481the rest in a second one, and embed the second one in the first.
2220 2482
2221As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every time 2483As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every
2222there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then 2484time there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback
2223call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single sweep and invoke 2485must then call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single
2224their callbacks (you could also start an idle watcher to give the embedded 2486sweep and invoke their callbacks (the callback doesn't need to invoke the
2225loop strictly lower priority for example). You can also set the callback 2487C<ev_embed_sweep> function directly, it could also start an idle watcher
2226to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher will automatically execute the 2488to give the embedded loop strictly lower priority for example).
2227embedded loop sweep.
2228 2489
2229As long as the watcher is started it will automatically handle events. The 2490You can also set the callback to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher
2230callback will be invoked whenever some events have been handled. You can 2491will automatically execute the embedded loop sweep whenever necessary.
2231set the callback to C<0> to avoid having to specify one if you are not
2232interested in that.
2233 2492
2234Also, there have not currently been made special provisions for forking: 2493Fork detection will be handled transparently while the C<ev_embed> watcher
2235when you fork, you not only have to call C<ev_loop_fork> on both loops, 2494is active, i.e., the embedded loop will automatically be forked when the
2236but you will also have to stop and restart any C<ev_embed> watchers 2495embedding loop forks. In other cases, the user is responsible for calling
2237yourself - but you can use a fork watcher to handle this automatically, 2496C<ev_loop_fork> on the embedded loop.
2238and future versions of libev might do just that.
2239 2497
2240Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by 2498Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by
2241C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any 2499C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any
2242portable one. 2500portable one.
2243 2501
2288C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be 2546C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2289used). 2547used).
2290 2548
2291 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2549 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2292 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 2550 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2293 struct ev_embed embed; 2551 ev_embed embed;
2294 2552
2295 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 2553 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2296 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 2554 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2297 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 2555 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2298 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 2556 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2312kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in 2570kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2313C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 2571C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2314 2572
2315 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 2573 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2316 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 2574 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2317 struct ev_embed embed; 2575 ev_embed embed;
2318 2576
2319 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 2577 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2320 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 2578 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2321 { 2579 {
2322 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 2580 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2463=over 4 2721=over 4
2464 2722
2465=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback) 2723=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2466 2724
2467Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any 2725Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2468kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2726kind. There is a C<ev_async_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2469trust me. 2727trust me.
2470 2728
2471=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2729=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2472 2730
2473Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2731Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2474an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 2732an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2475C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or 2733C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or
2476similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 2734similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2477section below on what exactly this means). 2735section below on what exactly this means).
2478 2736
2737Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
2738compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this
2739is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>,
2740reset when the event loop detects that).
2741
2479This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration, 2742This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop
2480so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated 2743iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to
2481calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2744repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop.
2482 2745
2483=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 2746=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2484 2747
2485Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 2748Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2486watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 2749watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2489C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When 2752C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2490the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active, 2753the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2491it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very 2754it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2492quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea. 2755quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2493 2756
2494Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only 2757Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending,
2495whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending. 2758only whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending: there
2759is a time window between the event loop checking and resetting the async
2760notification, and the callback being invoked.
2496 2761
2497=back 2762=back
2498 2763
2499 2764
2500=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2765=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2536 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2801 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2537 } 2802 }
2538 2803
2539 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2804 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2540 2805
2541=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2806=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2542 2807
2543Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2808Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2544had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2809had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2545initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). 2810initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2546 2811
2547=item ev_feed_fd_event (ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 2812=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents)
2548 2813
2549Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2814Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2550the given events it. 2815the given events it.
2551 2816
2552=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2817=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum)
2553 2818
2554Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 2819Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2555loop!). 2820loop!).
2556 2821
2557=back 2822=back
2678 } 2943 }
2679 2944
2680 myclass obj; 2945 myclass obj;
2681 ev::io iow; 2946 ev::io iow;
2682 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2947 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2948
2949=item w->set (object *)
2950
2951This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
2952
2953This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
2954will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
2955functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
2956the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
2957list.
2958
2959The C<operator ()> method prototype must be C<void operator ()(watcher &w,
2960int revents)>.
2961
2962See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2963
2964Example: use a functor object as callback.
2965
2966 struct myfunctor
2967 {
2968 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
2969 {
2970 ...
2971 }
2972 }
2973
2974 myfunctor f;
2975
2976 ev::io w;
2977 w.set (&f);
2683 2978
2684=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2979=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2685 2980
2686Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as 2981Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2687callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's 2982callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2774L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 3069L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2775 3070
2776=item Python 3071=item Python
2777 3072
2778Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It 3073Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2779seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the 3074seems to be quite complete and well-documented.
2780patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2781for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2782libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2783libev).
2784 3075
2785=item Ruby 3076=item Ruby
2786 3077
2787Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 3078Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2788of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 3079of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2789more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at 3080more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2790L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 3081L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2791 3082
3083Roger Pack reports that using the link order C<-lws2_32 -lmsvcrt-ruby-190>
3084makes rev work even on mingw.
3085
3086=item Haskell
3087
3088A haskell binding to libev is available at
3089L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3090
2792=item D 3091=item D
2793 3092
2794Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 3093Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2795be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 3094be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
3095
3096=item Ocaml
3097
3098Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3099L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
2796 3100
2797=back 3101=back
2798 3102
2799 3103
2800=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3104=head1 MACRO MAGIC
2901 3205
2902 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 3206 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
2903 #include "ev.h" 3207 #include "ev.h"
2904 3208
2905Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 3209Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
2906compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 3210compiler (at least, that's a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
2907as a bug). 3211as a bug).
2908 3212
2909You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 3213You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
2910in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 3214in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
2911 3215
2967keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3271keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
2968implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3272implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
2969supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3273supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
2970F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3274F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
2971 3275
3276In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3277configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3278
2972=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3279=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
2973 3280
2974If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3281If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2975monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use 3282monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
2976of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 3283use of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this,
2977usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 3284you usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it
2978the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 3285when the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
2979to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 3286to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
2980function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 3287function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). See also C<EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL>.
2981 3288
2982=item EV_USE_REALTIME 3289=item EV_USE_REALTIME
2983 3290
2984If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3291If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
2985real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at 3292real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability
2986runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will 3293at runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock
2987be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 3294option will be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday>
2988(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 3295by C<clock_get (CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect
2989note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 3296correctness. See the note about libraries in the description of
3297C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. Defaults to the opposite value of
3298C<EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL>.
3299
3300=item EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL
3301
3302If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to use a direct syscall instead
3303of calling the system-provided C<clock_gettime> function. This option
3304exists because on GNU/Linux, C<clock_gettime> is in C<librt>, but C<librt>
3305unconditionally pulls in C<libpthread>, slowing down single-threaded
3306programs needlessly. Using a direct syscall is slightly slower (in
3307theory), because no optimised vdso implementation can be used, but avoids
3308the pthread dependency. Defaults to C<1> on GNU/Linux with glibc 2.x or
3309higher, as it simplifies linking (no need for C<-lrt>).
2990 3310
2991=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 3311=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2992 3312
2993If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available 3313If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2994and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 3314and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
3010 3330
3011=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 3331=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
3012 3332
3013If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 3333If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
3014structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 3334structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
3015C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on 3335C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout
3016exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 3336on exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to
3017low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 3337some low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket
3018allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 3338only allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation,
3019influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 3339configures the maximum size of the C<fd_set>.
3020 3340
3021=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 3341=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET
3022 3342
3023When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that 3343When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that
3024select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but 3344select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but
3383loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 3703loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3384you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 3704you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3385 3705
3386Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 3706Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3387C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 3707C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3388they do not clal any callbacks. 3708they do not call any callbacks.
3389 3709
3390=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 3710=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3391 3711
3392Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 3712Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3393lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently 3713lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3427 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3747 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3428 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3748 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3429 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks. 3749 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3430 3750
3431Then there is no memory leak, just as memory accounted to global variables 3751Then there is no memory leak, just as memory accounted to global variables
3432is not a memleak - the memory is still being refernced, and didn't leak. 3752is not a memleak - the memory is still being referenced, and didn't leak.
3433 3753
3434Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs 3754Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs
3435as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend, 3755as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend,
3436although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be 3756although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be
3437confused. 3757confused.
3675=back 3995=back
3676 3996
3677 3997
3678=head1 AUTHOR 3998=head1 AUTHOR
3679 3999
3680Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 4000Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson.
3681 4001

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