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Revision 1.231 by root, Wed Apr 15 19:35:53 2009 UTC

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
41 43
42 int 44 int
43 main (void) 45 main (void)
44 { 46 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
46 ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
47 49
48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
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<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 ev_signal exitsig; 770 ev_signal exitsig;
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
781 836
782=back 837=back
783 838
784 839
785=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 840=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
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.
786 845
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
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 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
912 982
913=back 983=back
914 984
915=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 985=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
916 986
917In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type,
918e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers.
919
920=over 4 987=over 4
921 988
922=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 989=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
923 990
924This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents 991This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
1032The 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
1033always 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 :).
1034 1101
1035Setting 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
1036fine, 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
1037or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range. 1104or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1038 1105
1039=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1106=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1040 1107
1041Invoke 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
1042C<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
1283year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because 1350year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because
1284detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1351detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1285monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1352monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1286 1353
1287The 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
1288passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration 1355passed. If multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration
1289then 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).
1290 1359
1291=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1360=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1292 1361
1293Many real-world problems invole some kind of time-out, usually for error 1362Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1294recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1363recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1295you want to raise some error after a while. 1364you want to raise some error after a while.
1296 1365
1297Here are some ways on how to handle this problem, from simple and 1366What follows are some ways to handle this problem, from obvious and
1298inefficient to very efficient. 1367inefficient to smart and efficient.
1299 1368
1300In the following examples a 60 second activity timeout is assumed - a 1369In the following, a 60 second activity timeout is assumed - a timeout that
1301timeout that gets reset to 60 seconds each time some data ("a lifesign") 1370gets reset to 60 seconds each time there is activity (e.g. each time some
1302was received. 1371data or other life sign was received).
1303 1372
1304=over 4 1373=over 4
1305 1374
1306=item 1. Use a timer and stop, reinitialise, start it on activity. 1375=item 1. Use a timer and stop, reinitialise and start it on activity.
1307 1376
1308This is the most obvious, but not the most simple way: In the beginning, 1377This is the most obvious, but not the most simple way: In the beginning,
1309start the watcher: 1378start the watcher:
1310 1379
1311 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 60., 0.); 1380 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 60., 0.);
1312 ev_timer_start (loop, timer); 1381 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1313 1382
1314Then, each time there is some activity, C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, 1383Then, each time there is some activity, C<ev_timer_stop> it, initialise it
1315initialise it again, and start it: 1384and start it again:
1316 1385
1317 ev_timer_stop (loop, timer); 1386 ev_timer_stop (loop, timer);
1318 ev_timer_set (timer, 60., 0.); 1387 ev_timer_set (timer, 60., 0.);
1319 ev_timer_start (loop, timer); 1388 ev_timer_start (loop, timer);
1320 1389
1321This is relatively simple to implement, but means that each time there 1390This is relatively simple to implement, but means that each time there is
1322is some activity, libev will first have to remove the timer from it's 1391some activity, libev will first have to remove the timer from its internal
1323internal data strcuture and then add it again. 1392data structure and then add it again. Libev tries to be fast, but it's
1393still not a constant-time operation.
1324 1394
1325=item 2. Use a timer and re-start it with C<ev_timer_again> inactivity. 1395=item 2. Use a timer and re-start it with C<ev_timer_again> inactivity.
1326 1396
1327This is the easiest way, and involves using C<ev_timer_again> instead of 1397This is the easiest way, and involves using C<ev_timer_again> instead of
1328C<ev_timer_start>. 1398C<ev_timer_start>.
1329 1399
1330For this, configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and 1400To implement this, configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value
1331then call C<ev_timer_again> at start and each time you successfully read 1401of C<60> and then call C<ev_timer_again> at start and each time you
1332or write some data. If you go into an idle state where you do not expect 1402successfully read or write some data. If you go into an idle state where
1333data to travel on the socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and 1403you do not expect data to travel on the socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop>
1334C<ev_timer_again> will automatically restart it if need be. 1404the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will automatically restart it if need be.
1335 1405
1336That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> 1406That means you can ignore both the C<ev_timer_start> function and the
1337altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>. 1407C<after> argument to C<ev_timer_set>, and only ever use the C<repeat>
1408member and C<ev_timer_again>.
1338 1409
1339At start: 1410At start:
1340 1411
1341 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 60.); 1412 ev_timer_init (timer, callback);
1413 timer->repeat = 60.;
1342 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1414 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1343 1415
1344Each time you receive some data: 1416Each time there is some activity:
1345 1417
1346 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1418 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1347 1419
1348It is even possible to change the time-out on the fly: 1420It is even possible to change the time-out on the fly, regardless of
1421whether the watcher is active or not:
1349 1422
1350 timer->repeat = 30.; 1423 timer->repeat = 30.;
1351 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1424 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1352 1425
1353This is slightly more efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time 1426This is slightly more efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
1354you want to modify its timeout value, as libev does not have to completely 1427you want to modify its timeout value, as libev does not have to completely
1355remove and re-insert the timer from/into it's internal data structure. 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.
1356 1431
1357=item 3. Let the timer time out, but then re-arm it as required. 1432=item 3. Let the timer time out, but then re-arm it as required.
1358 1433
1359This method is more tricky, but usually most efficient: Most timeouts are 1434This method is more tricky, but usually most efficient: Most timeouts are
1360relatively long compared to the loop iteration time - in our example, 1435relatively long compared to the intervals between other activity - in
1361within 60 seconds, there are usually many I/O events with associated 1436our example, within 60 seconds, there are usually many I/O events with
1362activity resets. 1437associated activity resets.
1363 1438
1364In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone, 1439In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1365but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only 1440but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1366within the callback: 1441within the callback:
1367 1442
1368 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity 1443 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1369 1444
1370 static void 1445 static void
1371 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1446 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1372 { 1447 {
1373 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A); 1448 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A);
1374 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1449 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1375 1450
1376 // if last_activity is older than now - timeout, we did time out 1451 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1377 if (timeout < now) 1452 if (timeout < now)
1378 { 1453 {
1379 // timeout occured, take action 1454 // timeout occured, take action
1380 } 1455 }
1381 else 1456 else
1382 { 1457 {
1383 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1458 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1384 // to fire in last_activity + 60. 1459 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1460 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive:
1385 w->again = timeout - now; 1461 w->repeat = timeout - now;
1386 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w); 1462 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w);
1387 } 1463 }
1388 } 1464 }
1389 1465
1390To summarise the callback: first calculate the real time-out (defined as 1466To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined
1391"60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has been 1467as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has
1392reached, which means there was a real timeout. Otherwise the callback was 1468been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise
1393invoked too early (timeout is in the future), so re-schedule the timer to 1469the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so
1394fire at that future time. 1470re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1471a timeout then.
1395 1472
1396Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the 1473Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the
1397C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running. 1474C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running.
1398 1475
1399This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds), 1476This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1400but virtually no calls to libev to change the timeout. 1477minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1478libev to change the timeout.
1401 1479
1402To start the timer, simply intiialise the watcher and C<last_activity>, 1480To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity>
1403then call the callback: 1481to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1482callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1404 1483
1405 ev_timer_init (timer, callback); 1484 ev_timer_init (timer, callback);
1406 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1485 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1407 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1486 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT);
1408 1487
1409And when there is some activity, simply remember the time in 1488And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1410C<last_activity>: 1489C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1411 1490
1412 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1491 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop);
1413 1492
1414This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1493This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1415time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1494time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1416 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
1417=back 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 :)
1418 1534
1419=head3 The special problem of time updates 1535=head3 The special problem of time updates
1420 1536
1421Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1537Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1422least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1538least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1515=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1631=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
1516 1632
1517Periodic 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
1518(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1634(and unfortunately a bit complex).
1519 1635
1520Unlike 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
1521but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1637relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
1522to 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
1523periodic 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
1524+ 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
1525clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year 1641wrist-watch).
1526to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1527roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1528 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
1529C<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
1530such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other 1652timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
1531complicated rules. 1653other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as
1654those cannot react to time jumps.
1532 1655
1533As 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
1534time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1657point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1535during 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).
1536 1661
1537=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1662=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1538 1663
1539=over 4 1664=over 4
1540 1665
1541=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)
1542 1667
1543=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)
1544 1669
1545Lots 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
1546operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex: 1671operation, and we will explain them from simplest to most complex:
1547 1672
1548=over 4 1673=over 4
1549 1674
1550=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1675=item * absolute timer (offset = absolute time, interval = 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1551 1676
1552In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock 1677In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1553time 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
1554jump 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
1555only 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.
1556 1682
1557=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)
1558 1684
1559In 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
1560C<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
1561and 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.
1562 1689
1563This 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
1564system 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
1565hour, on the hour: 1692hour, on the hour (with respect to UTC):
1566 1693
1567 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1694 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1568 1695
1569This 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,
1570but 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
1571full 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
1572by 3600. 1699by 3600.
1573 1700
1574Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1701Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1575C<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
1576time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1703time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1577 1704
1578For 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
1579C<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
1580this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 1707this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1581 1708
1582Note 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
1583speed 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
1584will 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
1585millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 1712millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1586 1713
1587=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback) 1714=item * manual reschedule mode (offset ignored, interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1588 1715
1589In 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
1590ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1717ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1591reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1718reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1592current time as second argument. 1719current time as second argument.
1593 1720
1594NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1721NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, ever,
1595ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>. 1722or make ANY other event loop modifications whatsoever, unless explicitly
1723allowed by documentation here>.
1596 1724
1597If 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
1598it 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
1599only event loop modification you are allowed to do). 1727only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1600 1728
1630a 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
1631program when the crontabs have changed). 1759program when the crontabs have changed).
1632 1760
1633=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *) 1761=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1634 1762
1635When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to 1763When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed
1636trigger 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.
1637 1767
1638=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write] 1768=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1639 1769
1640When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the 1770When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1641absolute 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).
1642 1773
1643Can 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
1644timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1775timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1645 1776
1646=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1777=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1852 1983
1853 1984
1854=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1985=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1855 1986
1856This 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
1857C<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)
1858compared 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.
1859 1991
1860The 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
1861not 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
1862not 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
1863otherwise 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
1864the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1996least one) and all the other fields of the stat buffer having unspecified
1997contents.
1865 1998
1866The 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
1867relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined. 2001your working directory changes, then the behaviour is undefined.
1868 2002
1869Since there is no standard kernel interface to do this, the portable 2003Since there is no portable change notification interface available, the
1870implementation simply calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if 2004portable implementation simply calls C<stat(2)> regularly on the path
1871it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling interval for 2005to see if it changed somehow. You can specify a recommended polling
1872this 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
1873then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used (which 2007recommended!) then a I<suitable, unspecified default> value will be used
1874you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might change 2008(which you can expect to be around five seconds, although this might
1875dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is currently 2009change dynamically). Libev will also impose a minimum interval which is
1876around C<0.1>, but thats usually overkill. 2010currently around C<0.1>, but that's usually overkill.
1877 2011
1878This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 2012This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1879as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 2013as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1880resource-intensive. 2014resource-intensive.
1881 2015
1882At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented 2016At the time of this writing, the only OS-specific interface implemented
1883is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as 2017is the Linux inotify interface (implementing kqueue support is left as an
1884an 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
1885of implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue). 2019implementing C<ev_stat> semantics with kqueue, except as a hint).
1886 2020
1887=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support) 2021=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1888 2022
1889Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default 2023Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1890compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file 2024compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1891support 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
1892structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to 2026structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1893use 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
1894compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is 2028compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1895obviously 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
1896most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support. 2030most noticeably displayed with ev_stat and large file support.
1897 2031
1898The 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
1899file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not 2033file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1900optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has 2034optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1901to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the 2035to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1902default compilation environment. 2036default compilation environment.
1903 2037
1904=head3 Inotify and Kqueue 2038=head3 Inotify and Kqueue
1905 2039
1906When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally 2040When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev and present at
1907only available with Linux 2.6.25 or above due to bugs in earlier 2041runtime, it will be used to speed up change detection where possible. The
1908implementations) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up 2042inotify descriptor will be created lazily when the first C<ev_stat>
1909change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created 2043watcher is being started.
1910lazily when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1911 2044
1912Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers 2045Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1913except 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
1914making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support 2047making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1915there 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,
1916but 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.
1917 2053
1918There 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
1919implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file 2055implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1920descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks 2056descriptor open on the object at all times, and detecting renames, unlinks
1921etc. is difficult. 2057etc. is difficult.
1922 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
1923=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution 2077=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1924 2078
1925The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and 2079The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably,
1926even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems still 2080and even on systems where the resolution is higher, most file systems
1927only support whole seconds. 2081still only support whole seconds.
1928 2082
1929That 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
1930easily 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
1931calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update 2085calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1932within 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
2075 2229
2076=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2230=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2077 2231
2078=over 4 2232=over 4
2079 2233
2080=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2234=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
2081 2235
2082Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 2236Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
2083kind. 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,
2084believe me. 2238believe me.
2085 2239
2324some 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),
2325and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In 2479and even priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In
2326this 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
2327the 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.
2328 2482
2329As 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
2330there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then 2484time there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback
2331call 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
2332their 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
2333loop strictly lower priority for example). You can also set the callback 2487C<ev_embed_sweep> function directly, it could also start an idle watcher
2334to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher will automatically execute the 2488to give the embedded loop strictly lower priority for example).
2335embedded loop sweep.
2336 2489
2337As 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
2338callback will be invoked whenever some events have been handled. You can 2491will automatically execute the embedded loop sweep whenever necessary.
2339set the callback to C<0> to avoid having to specify one if you are not
2340interested in that.
2341 2492
2342Also, there have not currently been made special provisions for forking: 2493Fork detection will be handled transparently while the C<ev_embed> watcher
2343when 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
2344but 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
2345yourself - but you can use a fork watcher to handle this automatically, 2496C<ev_loop_fork> on the embedded loop.
2346and future versions of libev might do just that.
2347 2497
2348Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by 2498Unfortunately, not all backends are embeddable: only the ones returned by
2349C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any 2499C<ev_embeddable_backends> are, which, unfortunately, does not include any
2350portable one. 2500portable one.
2351 2501
2571=over 4 2721=over 4
2572 2722
2573=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback) 2723=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2574 2724
2575Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any 2725Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2576kind. 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,
2577trust me. 2727trust me.
2578 2728
2579=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 2729=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2580 2730
2581Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 2731Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2582an 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
2583C<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
2584similar 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
2585section below on what exactly this means). 2735section below on what exactly this means).
2586 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
2587This 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
2588so 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
2589calls to C<ev_async_send>. 2744repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop.
2590 2745
2591=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 2746=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2592 2747
2593Returns 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
2594watcher 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
2597C<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
2598the 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,
2599it 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
2600quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea. 2755quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2601 2756
2602Not 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,
2603whether 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.
2604 2761
2605=back 2762=back
2606 2763
2607 2764
2608=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2765=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
2787 2944
2788 myclass obj; 2945 myclass obj;
2789 ev::io iow; 2946 ev::io iow;
2790 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 2947 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2791 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);
2978
2792=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0) 2979=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2793 2980
2794Also 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
2795callback. 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
2796C<data> member and is free for you to use. 2983C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2882L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 3069L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2883 3070
2884=item Python 3071=item Python
2885 3072
2886Python 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
2887seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the 3074seems to be quite complete and well-documented.
2888patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2889for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2890libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2891libev).
2892 3075
2893=item Ruby 3076=item Ruby
2894 3077
2895Tony 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
2896of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 3079of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2897more 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
2898L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 3081L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2899 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
2900=item D 3091=item D
2901 3092
2902Leandro 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
2903be 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/>.
2904 3100
2905=back 3101=back
2906 3102
2907 3103
2908=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3104=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3009 3205
3010 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 3206 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
3011 #include "ev.h" 3207 #include "ev.h"
3012 3208
3013Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 3209Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
3014compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 3210compiler (at least, that's a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
3015as a bug). 3211as a bug).
3016 3212
3017You 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
3018in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 3214in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
3019 3215
3075keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3271keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3076implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3272implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3077supported). 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
3078F<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.
3079 3275
3276In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3277configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3278
3080=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3279=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3081 3280
3082If 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
3083monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use 3282monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
3084of 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,
3085usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 3284you usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it
3086the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have 3285when the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
3087to 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>
3088function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 3287function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). See also C<EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL>.
3089 3288
3090=item EV_USE_REALTIME 3289=item EV_USE_REALTIME
3091 3290
3092If 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
3093real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at 3292real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability
3094runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will 3293at runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock
3095be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 3294option will be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday>
3096(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the 3295by C<clock_get (CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect
3097note 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>).
3098 3310
3099=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP 3311=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
3100 3312
3101If 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
3102and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>. 3314and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
3118 3330
3119=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 3331=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
3120 3332
3121If 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>
3122structure. 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
3123C<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
3124exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 3336on exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to
3125low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 3337some low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket
3126allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 3338only allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation,
3127influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 3339configures the maximum size of the C<fd_set>.
3128 3340
3129=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 3341=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET
3130 3342
3131When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that 3343When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that
3132select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but 3344select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but
3491loop, 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
3492you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 3704you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3493 3705
3494Care 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
3495C<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
3496they do not clal any callbacks. 3708they do not call any callbacks.
3497 3709
3498=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 3710=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3499 3711
3500Depending 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
3501lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently 3713lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3535 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3747 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3536 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks. 3748 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3537 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks. 3749 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3538 3750
3539Then 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
3540is 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.
3541 3753
3542Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs 3754Similarly, under some circumstances, valgrind might report kernel bugs
3543as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend, 3755as if it were a bug in libev (e.g. in realloc or in the poll backend,
3544although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be 3756although an acceptable workaround has been found here), or it might be
3545confused. 3757confused.
3783=back 3995=back
3784 3996
3785 3997
3786=head1 AUTHOR 3998=head1 AUTHOR
3787 3999
3788Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 4000Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson.
3789 4001

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