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26 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
28 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 30
31 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
33 } 33 }
34 34
35 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
36 static void 36 static void
37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
38 { 38 {
39 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
42 } 42 }
43 43
44 int 44 int
45 main (void) 45 main (void)
46 { 46 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 49
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 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);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting 75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial 76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
98=head2 FEATURES 106=head2 FEATURES
99 107
100Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 108Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
101BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 109BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
102for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 110for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
103(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 111(for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner
104with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals 112inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative
105(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event 113timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling
106watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, 114(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status
107C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as 115change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event
108file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events 116loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and
109(C<ev_fork>). 117C<ev_check> watchers) as well as file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even
118limited support for fork events (C<ev_fork>).
110 119
111It also is quite fast (see this 120It also is quite fast (see this
112L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 121L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
113for example). 122for example).
114 123
117Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common) 126Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
118configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For 127configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
119more info about various configuration options please have a look at 128more info about various configuration options please have a look at
120B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support 129B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
121for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of 130for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
122name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have 131name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
123this argument. 132this argument.
124 133
125=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
126 135
127Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
128the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
129near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
130type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
131aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
132on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
133component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
134throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
135 145
136=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
137 147
138Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
139and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
163 173
164=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
165 175
166Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
167C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
168you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
169 180
170=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
171 182
172Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
173either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
190as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
191compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
192not a problem. 203not a problem.
193 204
194Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
195version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
196 208
197 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
198 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
199 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
200 212
211 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
212 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
213 225
214=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
215 227
216Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
217recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
218returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
219most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
220(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
221libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
222 235
223=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
224 237
225Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
226is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
227might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
228C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
229recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
230 243
231See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
232 245
233=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
234 247
235Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
236semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
237used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
238when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
264 } 277 }
265 278
266 ... 279 ...
267 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
268 281
269=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
270 283
271Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
272as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
273indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
274callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
286 } 299 }
287 300
288 ... 301 ...
289 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
290 303
304=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
305
306This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
307safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
308handlers or random threads.
309
310Its main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
311in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
312by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
313creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
314mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
315C<ev_feed_signal>.
316
291=back 317=back
292 318
293=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 319=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
294 320
295An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 321An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
296is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 322I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
297I<function>). 323libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
298 324
299The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 325The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
300supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 326supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
301not. 327do not.
302 328
303=over 4 329=over 4
304 330
305=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 331=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
306 332
307This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 333This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
308yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 334normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
309false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 335the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
310flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 336C<ev_loop_new>.
337
338If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
339returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
340C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
341flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
342one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
311 343
312If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 344If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
313function. 345function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
314 346
315Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 347Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
316from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 348from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
317as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 349that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
350threads anyway).
318 351
319The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 352The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
320C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 353and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
321for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 354a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
322create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 355C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
323can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 356C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
324C<ev_default_init>. 357
358Example: This is the most typical usage.
359
360 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
361 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
362
363Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
364environment settings to be taken into account:
365
366 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
367
368=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
369
370This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
371could not be initialised, returns false.
372
373This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
374threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
375loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
325 376
326The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 377The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
327backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 378backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
328 379
329The following flags are supported: 380The following flags are supported:
344useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 395useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
345around bugs. 396around bugs.
346 397
347=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 398=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
348 399
349Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 400Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
350a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 401make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
351enabling this flag.
352 402
353This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 403This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
354and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 404and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
355iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 405iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
356GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 406GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
362flag. 412flag.
363 413
364This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 414This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
365environment variable. 415environment variable.
366 416
417=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
418
419When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
420I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
421testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
422otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
423
424=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
425
426When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
427I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
428delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
429it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
430handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
431threads that are not interested in handling them.
432
433Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
434there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them.
442
443This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
444want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
445unblocking the signals.
446
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
448
367=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
368 450
369This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 451This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
370libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 452libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
371but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 453but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
395This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and 477This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
396C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 478C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
397 479
398=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 480=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
399 481
482Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
483kernels).
484
400For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 485For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
401but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 486but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
402like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 487like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
403epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
404 489
405The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
406of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
407dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
408descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
494returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
495(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
409so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
410I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
411take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
412hard to detect. 499and is of course hard to detect.
413 500
414Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 501Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
415of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
416I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
417even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
418on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
419employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
420events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms,
512a frankenpoll, cobbled together in a hurry, no thought to design or
513interaction with others.
421 514
422While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 515While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
423will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 516will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
424incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 517incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
425I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 518I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
491=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 584=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
492 585
493This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 586This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
494it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 587it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
495 588
496Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
497notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
498blocking when no data (or space) is available.
499
500While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 589While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
501file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 590file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
502descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 591descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
503might perform better. 592might perform better.
504 593
505On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness 594On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to
506notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
507in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the 595specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat
508OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks). 596among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
597hacks).
598
599On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
600even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
601function sometimes returning events to the caller even though an error
602occurred, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
603even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where
604you absolutely have to know whether an event occurred or not because you
605have to re-arm the watcher.
606
607Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
509 608
510This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 609This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
511C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 610C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
512 611
513=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 612=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
514 613
515Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 614Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
516with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 615with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
517C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 616C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
518 617
519It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 618It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
619C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
620at all.
621
622=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
623
624Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
625C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
626value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
520 627
521=back 628=back
522 629
523If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these 630If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
524backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 631then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
525specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 632here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
526 633()> will be tried.
527Example: This is the most typical usage.
528
529 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
530 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
531
532Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
533environment settings to be taken into account:
534
535 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
536
537Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
538used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
539private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
540fds):
541
542 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
543
544=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
545
546Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
547always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
548handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
549undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
550
551Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
552libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
553default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
554 634
555Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 635Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
556 636
557 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 637 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
558 if (!epoller) 638 if (!epoller)
559 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 639 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
560 640
641Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
642used if available.
643
644 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
645
561=item ev_default_destroy () 646=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
562 647
563Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 648Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
564etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 649etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
565sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 650sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
566responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 651responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
567calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 652calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
568the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 653the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
570 655
571Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 656Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
572handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 657handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
573as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 658as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
574 659
575In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 660This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
576rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 661C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
662C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
663
664Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
665except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
577pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 666If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
578C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 667and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
579 668
580=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 669=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
581 670
582Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
583earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
584
585=item ev_default_fork ()
586
587This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 671This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
588to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 672reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
589name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 673name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
590the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 674the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
591sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 675child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
592functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 676
677Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
678a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
679because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
680during fork.
593 681
594On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 682On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
595process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 683process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
596you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 684you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
685call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
686difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
687costly reset of the backend).
597 688
598The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 689The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
599it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 690it just in case after a fork.
600quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
601 691
692Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
693using pthreads.
694
695 static void
696 post_fork_child (void)
697 {
698 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
699 }
700
701 ...
602 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 702 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
603
604=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
605
606Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
607C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
608after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
609entirely your own problem.
610 703
611=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 704=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
612 705
613Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 706Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
614otherwise. 707otherwise.
615 708
616=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 709=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
617 710
618Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 711Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
619the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 712to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
620happily wraps around with enough iterations. 713and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
621 714
622This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 715This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
623"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 716"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
624C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 717C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
718prepare and check phases.
719
720=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
721
722Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
723times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
724
725Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
726C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
727in which case it is higher.
728
729Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
730throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
731as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
732convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
625 733
626=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 734=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
627 735
628Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 736Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
629use. 737use.
638 746
639=item ev_now_update (loop) 747=item ev_now_update (loop)
640 748
641Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 749Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
642returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 750returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
643is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 751is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
644 752
645This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 753This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
646very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 754very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
647the current time is a good idea. 755the current time is a good idea.
648 756
650 758
651=item ev_suspend (loop) 759=item ev_suspend (loop)
652 760
653=item ev_resume (loop) 761=item ev_resume (loop)
654 762
655These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 763These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
656not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 764loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
657 765
658A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 766A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
659the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 767the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
660would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 768would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
661the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 769the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
663C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 771C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
664 772
665Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 773Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
666between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 774between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
667will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 775will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
668occured while suspended). 776occurred while suspended).
669 777
670After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 778After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
671given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 779given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
672without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 780without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
673 781
674Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 782Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
675event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 783event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
676 784
677=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 785=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
678 786
679Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 787Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
680after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 788after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
681events. 789handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
790the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
791is why event loops are called I<loops>.
682 792
683If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 793If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
684either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 794until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
795called.
685 796
686Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 797Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
687relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 798relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
688finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 799finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
689that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 800that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
690of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 801of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
691beauty. 802beauty.
692 803
804This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
805a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
806exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
807will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
808
693A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 809A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
694those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 810those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
695process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 811block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
696the loop. 812iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
813events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
697 814
698A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 815A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
699necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 816necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
700will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 817will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
701be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 818be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
702user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 819user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
703iteration of the loop. 820iteration of the loop.
704 821
705This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 822This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
706with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 823with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
707own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 824own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
708usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 825usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
709 826
710Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 827Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
711 828
829 - Increment loop depth.
830 - Reset the ev_break status.
712 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 831 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
832 LOOP:
713 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 833 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
714 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 834 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
715 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 835 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
836 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
716 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 837 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
717 as to not disturb the other process. 838 as to not disturb the other process.
718 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 839 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
719 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 840 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
720 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 841 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
721 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 842 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
722 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 843 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
723 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 844 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
845 - Increment loop iteration counter.
724 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 846 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
725 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 847 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
726 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 848 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
727 - Queue all expired timers. 849 - Queue all expired timers.
728 - Queue all expired periodics. 850 - Queue all expired periodics.
729 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 851 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
730 - Queue all check watchers. 852 - Queue all check watchers.
731 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 853 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
732 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 854 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
733 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 855 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
734 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 856 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
735 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 857 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
736 continue with step *. 858 continue with step LOOP.
859 FINISH:
860 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
861 - Decrement the loop depth.
862 - Return.
737 863
738Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 864Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
739anymore. 865anymore.
740 866
741 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 867 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
742 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 868 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
743 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 869 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
744 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 870 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
745 871
746=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 872=item ev_break (loop, how)
747 873
748Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 874Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
749has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 875has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
750C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 876C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
751C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 877C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
752 878
753This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 879This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
754 880
755It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 881It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
882which case it will have no effect.
756 883
757=item ev_ref (loop) 884=item ev_ref (loop)
758 885
759=item ev_unref (loop) 886=item ev_unref (loop)
760 887
761Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 888Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
762loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 889loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
763count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 890count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
764 891
765If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 892This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
766from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 893unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
894returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
767stopping it. 895before stopping it.
768 896
769As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 897As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
770is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 898is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
771exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 899exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
772excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 900excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
773third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 901third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
774before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 902before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
775before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 903before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
776(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 904(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
777in the callback). 905in the callback).
778 906
779Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 907Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
780running when nothing else is active. 908running when nothing else is active.
781 909
782 ev_signal exitsig; 910 ev_signal exitsig;
783 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 911 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
784 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 912 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
785 evf_unref (loop); 913 ev_unref (loop);
786 914
787Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 915Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
788 916
789 ev_ref (loop); 917 ev_ref (loop);
790 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 918 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
829usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 957usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
830as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 958as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
831you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 959you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
832parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 960parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
833need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 961need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
834then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 962then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
835 963
836Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 964Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
837saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 965saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
838are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 966are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
839times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 967times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
844more often than 100 times per second: 972more often than 100 times per second:
845 973
846 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1); 974 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1);
847 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 975 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
848 976
977=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
978
979This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
980pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
981but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
982function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
983when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
984event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
985thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
986
987=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
988
989Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
990are pending.
991
992=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
993
994This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
995invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
996this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
997invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
998
999If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
1000callback.
1001
1002=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P))
1003
1004Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
1005can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
1006each call to a libev function.
1007
1008However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
1009to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
1010loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
1011I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
1012
1013When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
1014suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
1015afterwards.
1016
1017Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and
1018C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again.
1019
1020While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
1021C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
1022modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
1023have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
1024waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
1025to take note of any changes you made.
1026
1027In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
1028invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
1029
1030See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
1031document.
1032
1033=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
1034
1035=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
1036
1037Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
1038C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
1039C<0>.
1040
1041These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
1042and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
1043C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
1044any other purpose as well.
1045
849=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1046=item ev_verify (loop)
850 1047
851This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1048This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
852compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1049compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
853through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1050through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
854is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1051is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
865 1062
866In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1063In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
867watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1064watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
868watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1065watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
869 1066
870A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1067A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
871interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1068your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
872become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1069to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1070for that:
873 1071
874 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1072 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
875 { 1073 {
876 ev_io_stop (w); 1074 ev_io_stop (w);
877 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1075 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
878 } 1076 }
879 1077
880 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1078 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
881 1079
882 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1080 ev_io stdin_watcher;
883 1081
884 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1082 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
885 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1083 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
886 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1084 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
887 1085
888 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1086 ev_run (loop, 0);
889 1087
890As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1088As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
891watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1089watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
892stack). 1090stack).
893 1091
894Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1092Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
895or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1093or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
896 1094
897Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1095Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
898(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1096*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
899callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1097invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
900watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1098time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
901is readable and/or writable). 1099and/or writable).
902 1100
903Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1101Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
904macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1102macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
905is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1103is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
906ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1104ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
929=item C<EV_WRITE> 1127=item C<EV_WRITE>
930 1128
931The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1129The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
932writable. 1130writable.
933 1131
934=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1132=item C<EV_TIMER>
935 1133
936The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1134The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
937 1135
938=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1136=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
939 1137
957 1155
958=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1156=item C<EV_PREPARE>
959 1157
960=item C<EV_CHECK> 1158=item C<EV_CHECK>
961 1159
962All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1160All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
963to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1161to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
964C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1162C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
965received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1163received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
966many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1164many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
967(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1165(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
968C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1166C<ev_run> from blocking).
969 1167
970=item C<EV_EMBED> 1168=item C<EV_EMBED>
971 1169
972The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1170The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
973 1171
974=item C<EV_FORK> 1172=item C<EV_FORK>
975 1173
976The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1174The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
977C<ev_fork>). 1175C<ev_fork>).
1176
1177=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1178
1179The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
978 1180
979=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1181=item C<EV_ASYNC>
980 1182
981The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1183The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
982 1184
1029 1231
1030 ev_io w; 1232 ev_io w;
1031 ev_init (&w, my_cb); 1233 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1032 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1234 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1033 1235
1034=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1236=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1035 1237
1036This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1238This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1037call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1239call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1038call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1240call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1039macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1241macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1052 1254
1053Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step. 1255Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1054 1256
1055 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1257 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1056 1258
1057=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1259=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1058 1260
1059Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1261Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1060events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1262events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1061 1263
1062Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this 1264Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1063whole section. 1265whole section.
1064 1266
1065 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1267 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1066 1268
1067=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1269=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1068 1270
1069Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether 1271Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1070the watcher was active or not). 1272the watcher was active or not).
1071 1273
1072It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example, 1274It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1097=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1299=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1098 1300
1099Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1301Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1100(modulo threads). 1302(modulo threads).
1101 1303
1102=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1304=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1103 1305
1104=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1306=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1105 1307
1106Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1308Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1107integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1309integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1139watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1341watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1140 1342
1141Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1343Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1142callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1344callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1143 1345
1346=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1347
1348Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1349had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1350initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1351not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1352
1353Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1354C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1355not started in the first place.
1356
1357See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1358functions that do not need a watcher.
1359
1144=back 1360=back
1145
1146 1361
1147=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1362=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1148 1363
1149Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1364Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1150and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1365and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1206 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1421 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1207 { 1422 {
1208 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1423 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1209 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1424 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1210 } 1425 }
1426
1427=head2 WATCHER STATES
1428
1429There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1430active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1431transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1432rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1433
1434=over 4
1435
1436=item initialiased
1437
1438Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1439initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1440C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1441
1442In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1443in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1444
1445=item started/running/active
1446
1447Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1448property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1449this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1450freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1451and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1452
1453=item pending
1454
1455If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1456in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1457stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1458about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1459callback.
1460
1461The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1462an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1463is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1464but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1465moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1466previous item still apply.
1467
1468It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1469via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1470active.
1471
1472=item stopped
1473
1474A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1475be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1476latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1477of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1478freeing it is often a good idea.
1479
1480While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1481initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1482you wish.
1483
1484=back
1211 1485
1212=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1486=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1213 1487
1214Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1488Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1215integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1489integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1258 1532
1259For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1533For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1260you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1534you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1261the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1535the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1262processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1536processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1263continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1537continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1264the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1538the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1265workable. 1539workable.
1266 1540
1267Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1541Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1268miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1542miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1282 { 1556 {
1283 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1557 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1284 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1558 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1285 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1559 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1286 1560
1287 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1561 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1288 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1562 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1289 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1563 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1290 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1564 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1291 } 1565 }
1292 1566
1342In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1616In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1343fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1617fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1344descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1618descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1345required if you know what you are doing). 1619required if you know what you are doing).
1346 1620
1347If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1348known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1349C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1350descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1351files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case.
1352
1353Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1621Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1354receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1622receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is, your callback might
1355be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1623be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1356because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1624because there is no data. It is very easy to get into this situation even
1357lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1625with a relatively standard program structure. Thus it is best to always
1358this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1626use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning C<EAGAIN> is far
1359it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1360C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1627preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1361 1628
1362If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should 1629If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1363not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately 1630not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1364re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good 1631re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1365interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already 1632interface such as poll (fortunately in the case of Xlib, it already does
1366does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally 1633this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1367use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block 1634use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1368indefinitely. 1635indefinitely.
1369 1636
1370But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1637But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1371 1638
1399 1666
1400There is no workaround possible except not registering events 1667There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1401for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to 1668for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1402C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1669C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1403 1670
1671=head3 The special problem of files
1672
1673Many people try to use C<select> (or libev) on file descriptors
1674representing files, and expect it to become ready when their program
1675doesn't block on disk accesses (which can take a long time on their own).
1676
1677However, this cannot ever work in the "expected" way - you get a readiness
1678notification as soon as the kernel knows whether and how much data is
1679there, and in the case of open files, that's always the case, so you
1680always get a readiness notification instantly, and your read (or possibly
1681write) will still block on the disk I/O.
1682
1683Another way to view it is that in the case of sockets, pipes, character
1684devices and so on, there is another party (the sender) that delivers data
1685on it's own, but in the case of files, there is no such thing: the disk
1686will not send data on it's own, simply because it doesn't know what you
1687wish to read - you would first have to request some data.
1688
1689Since files are typically not-so-well supported by advanced notification
1690mechanism, libev tries hard to emulate POSIX behaviour with respect
1691to files, even though you should not use it. The reason for this is
1692convenience: sometimes you want to watch STDIN or STDOUT, which is
1693usually a tty, often a pipe, but also sometimes files or special devices
1694(for example, C<epoll> on Linux works with F</dev/random> but not with
1695F</dev/urandom>), and even though the file might better be served with
1696asynchronous I/O instead of with non-blocking I/O, it is still useful when
1697it "just works" instead of freezing.
1698
1699So avoid file descriptors pointing to files when you know it (e.g. use
1700libeio), but use them when it is convenient, e.g. for STDIN/STDOUT, or
1701when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1702reuse the same code path.
1703
1404=head3 The special problem of fork 1704=head3 The special problem of fork
1405 1705
1406Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1706Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1407useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1707useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1408it in the child. 1708it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the child.
1409 1709
1410To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1710To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1411C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1711()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1412enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1712C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1413C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1414 1713
1415=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1714=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1416 1715
1417While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>: 1716While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1418when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets 1717when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1421 1720
1422So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1721So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1423ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1722ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1424somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1723somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1425 1724
1725=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1726
1727Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1728found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1729connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1730
1731For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1732of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1733rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1734the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1735typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1736
1737Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1738operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1739situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1740cope with overload is known (to me).
1741
1742One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1743- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1744situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1745event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1746
1747A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1748C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1749messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1750what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1751the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1752usage.
1753
1754If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1755descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1756when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1757close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1758clients under typical overload conditions.
1759
1760The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1761is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1762opportunity for a DoS attack.
1426 1763
1427=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1764=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1428 1765
1429=over 4 1766=over 4
1430 1767
1462 ... 1799 ...
1463 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1800 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1464 ev_io stdin_readable; 1801 ev_io stdin_readable;
1465 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1802 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1466 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1803 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1467 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1804 ev_run (loop, 0);
1468 1805
1469 1806
1470=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1807=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1471 1808
1472Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1809Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1480 1817
1481The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1818The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1482passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1819passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1483might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1820might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1484same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1821same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1485before ones with later time-out values (but this is no longer true when a 1822before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1486callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1823no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1487 1824
1488=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1825=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1489 1826
1490Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1827Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1491recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1828recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1577 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1914 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1578 1915
1579 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1916 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1580 if (timeout < now) 1917 if (timeout < now)
1581 { 1918 {
1582 // timeout occured, take action 1919 // timeout occurred, take action
1583 } 1920 }
1584 else 1921 else
1585 { 1922 {
1586 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1923 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1587 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1924 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1609to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1946to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1610callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1947callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1611 1948
1612 ev_init (timer, callback); 1949 ev_init (timer, callback);
1613 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1950 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1614 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1951 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1615 1952
1616And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1953And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1617C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1954C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1618 1955
1619 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1956 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1620 1957
1621This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1958This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1622time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1959time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1623 1960
1624Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1961Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1662 1999
1663=head3 The special problem of time updates 2000=head3 The special problem of time updates
1664 2001
1665Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 2002Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1666least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 2003least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1667time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 2004time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1668growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 2005growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1669lots of events in one iteration. 2006lots of events in one iteration.
1670 2007
1671The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2008The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1672time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 2009time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1678 2015
1679If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2016If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1680update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2017update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1681()>. 2018()>.
1682 2019
2020=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
2021
2022When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
2023can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
2024
2025Some quick tests made with a Linux 2.6.28 indicate that a suspend freezes
2026all processes, while the clocks (C<times>, C<CLOCK_MONOTONIC>) continue
2027to run until the system is suspended, but they will not advance while the
2028system is suspended. That means, on resume, it will be as if the program
2029was frozen for a few seconds, but the suspend time will not be counted
2030towards C<ev_timer> when a monotonic clock source is used. The real time
2031clock advanced as expected, but if it is used as sole clocksource, then a
2032long suspend would be detected as a time jump by libev, and timers would
2033be adjusted accordingly.
2034
2035I would not be surprised to see different behaviour in different between
2036operating systems, OS versions or even different hardware.
2037
2038The other form of suspend (job control, or sending a SIGSTOP) will see a
2039time jump in the monotonic clocks and the realtime clock. If the program
2040is suspended for a very long time, and monotonic clock sources are in use,
2041then you can expect C<ev_timer>s to expire as the full suspension time
2042will be counted towards the timers. When no monotonic clock source is in
2043use, then libev will again assume a timejump and adjust accordingly.
2044
2045It might be beneficial for this latter case to call C<ev_suspend>
2046and C<ev_resume> in code that handles C<SIGTSTP>, to at least get
2047deterministic behaviour in this case (you can do nothing against
2048C<SIGSTOP>).
2049
1683=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2050=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1684 2051
1685=over 4 2052=over 4
1686 2053
1687=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2054=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1713C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2080C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1714 2081
1715This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2082This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1716usage example. 2083usage example.
1717 2084
2085=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2086
2087Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2088then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
2089the timeout value currently configured.
2090
2091That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
2092C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
2093will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
2094roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
2095too), and so on.
2096
1718=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2097=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1719 2098
1720The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 2099The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1721or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 2100or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1722which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 2101which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
1747 } 2126 }
1748 2127
1749 ev_timer mytimer; 2128 ev_timer mytimer;
1750 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2129 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1751 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2130 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1752 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2131 ev_run (loop, 0);
1753 2132
1754 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2133 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1755 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2134 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1756 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2135 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1757 2136
1783 2162
1784As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2163As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1785point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2164point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1786timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2165timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1787earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2166earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1788(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2167(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1789 2168
1790=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2169=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1791 2170
1792=over 4 2171=over 4
1793 2172
1921Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2300Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1922system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2301system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1923potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2302potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1924 2303
1925 static void 2304 static void
1926 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2305 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
1927 { 2306 {
1928 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2307 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1929 } 2308 }
1930 2309
1931 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2310 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1954 2333
1955=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2334=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1956 2335
1957Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2336Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1958signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2337signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
1959will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2338will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
1960normal event processing, like any other event. 2339normal event processing, like any other event.
1961 2340
1962If you want signals asynchronously, just use C<sigaction> as you would 2341If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
1963do without libev and forget about sharing the signal. You can even use 2342C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
1964C<ev_async> from a signal handler to synchronously wake up an event loop. 2343the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2344synchronously wake up an event loop.
1965 2345
1966You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 2346You can configure as many watchers as you like for the same signal, but
2347only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2348default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2349C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2350the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2351
1967first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal handler 2352When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
1968with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2353with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
1969you don't register any with libev for the same signal). Similarly, when 2354you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
1970the last signal watcher for a signal is stopped, libev will reset the
1971signal handler to SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1972 2355
1973If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2356If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1974C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly 2357C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
1975interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by 2358not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
1976signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 2359interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
1977them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2360and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2361
2362=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2363
2364Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2365(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2366stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2367and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2368
2369While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2370sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2371C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2372certain signals to be blocked.
2373
2374This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2375the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2376choice usually).
2377
2378The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2379to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2380catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2381
2382In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2383unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2384the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2385I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2386
2387So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2388you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2389is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2390
2391=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2392
2393POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2394a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2395threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2396
2397When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2398for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2399all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2400sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2401loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2402these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2403in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
1978 2404
1979=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2405=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1980 2406
1981=over 4 2407=over 4
1982 2408
1998Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2424Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
1999 2425
2000 static void 2426 static void
2001 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2427 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2002 { 2428 {
2003 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2429 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2004 } 2430 }
2005 2431
2006 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2432 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2007 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2433 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2008 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2434 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2020in the next callback invocation is not. 2446in the next callback invocation is not.
2021 2447
2022Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 2448Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
2023you can only register child watchers in the default event loop. 2449you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
2024 2450
2451Due to some design glitches inside libev, child watchers will always be
2452handled at maximum priority (their priority is set to C<EV_MAXPRI> by
2453libev)
2454
2025=head3 Process Interaction 2455=head3 Process Interaction
2026 2456
2027Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 2457Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
2028initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 2458initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if the
2029the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence 2459first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
2030of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 2460of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
2031synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 2461synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
2032children, even ones not watched. 2462children, even ones not watched.
2033 2463
2034=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 2464=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
2044=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher 2474=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
2045 2475
2046Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the 2476Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
2047child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the 2477child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
2048callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically 2478callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
2049when a child exit is detected. 2479when a child exit is detected (calling C<ev_child_stop> twice is not a
2480problem).
2050 2481
2051=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2482=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2052 2483
2053=over 4 2484=over 4
2054 2485
2389 2820
2390Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2821Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2391prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2822prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2392afterwards. 2823afterwards.
2393 2824
2394You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2825You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2395the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2826the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2396watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2827watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2397rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2828rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2398those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2829those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2399C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2830C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2567 2998
2568 if (timeout >= 0) 2999 if (timeout >= 0)
2569 // create/start timer 3000 // create/start timer
2570 3001
2571 // poll 3002 // poll
2572 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3003 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2573 3004
2574 // stop timer again 3005 // stop timer again
2575 if (timeout >= 0) 3006 if (timeout >= 0)
2576 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 3007 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2577 3008
2655if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3086if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2656 3087
2657=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3088=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2658 3089
2659Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3090Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2660similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3091similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2661appropriate way for embedded loops. 3092appropriate way for embedded loops.
2662 3093
2663=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3094=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2664 3095
2665The embedded event loop. 3096The embedded event loop.
2725C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3156C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2726handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3157handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2727 3158
2728=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3159=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2729 3160
2730Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3161Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2731up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3162up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2732sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3163sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2733 3164
2734This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3165This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2735in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3166in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2751disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3182disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2752signal watchers). 3183signal watchers).
2753 3184
2754When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3185When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2755other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3186other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2756C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3187C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2757the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3188Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2758have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3189watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2759also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3190those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3191signal watchers.
2760 3192
2761=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3193=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2762 3194
2763=over 4 3195=over 4
2764 3196
2765=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3197=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2766 3198
2767Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3199Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2768kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3200kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2769believe me. 3201really.
2770 3202
2771=back 3203=back
2772 3204
2773 3205
3206=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3207
3208Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3209by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3210
3211While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3212watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3213program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3214loop when you want them to be invoked.
3215
3216Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3217all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3218makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3219can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3220
3221=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3222
3223=over 4
3224
3225=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3226
3227Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3228any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3229pointless, I assure you.
3230
3231=back
3232
3233Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3234cleanup functions are called.
3235
3236 static void
3237 program_exits (void)
3238 {
3239 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3240 }
3241
3242 ...
3243 atexit (program_exits);
3244
3245
2774=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3246=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2775 3247
2776In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3248In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2777asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3249asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2778loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3250loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2779 3251
2780Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3252Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2781control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3253for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2782C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3254watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2783can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3255it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2784safe.
2785 3256
2786This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3257This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2787too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3258too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2788(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3259(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2789C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3260C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3261of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3262signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3263even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
2790 3264
2791Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3265Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
2792just the default loop. 3266just the default loop.
2793 3267
2794=head3 Queueing 3268=head3 Queueing
2795 3269
2796C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3270C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2797is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3271is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2798multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3272multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2799need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3273need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3274semantics.
2800 3275
2801That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3276That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2802queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your 3277queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2803queue: 3278queue:
2804 3279
2943 3418
2944If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3419If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2945started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3420started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2946repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3421repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
2947 3422
2948The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3423The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
2949passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3424passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2950C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3425C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
2951value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3426value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
2952a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3427a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
2953events precedence. 3428events precedence.
2954 3429
2955Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3430Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
2956 3431
2957 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3432 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2958 { 3433 {
2959 if (revents & EV_READ) 3434 if (revents & EV_READ)
2960 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3435 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2961 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3436 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
2962 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3437 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2963 } 3438 }
2964 3439
2965 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3440 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2966 3441
2967=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2968
2969Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2970had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2971initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2972
2973=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3442=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
2974 3443
2975Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3444Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2976the given events it. 3445the given events it.
2977 3446
2978=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3447=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
2979 3448
2980Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3449Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
2981loop!). 3450which is async-safe.
2982 3451
2983=back 3452=back
3453
3454
3455=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3456
3457This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3458obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3459section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3460
3461=head2 MODEL/NESTED EVENT LOOP INVOCATIONS AND EXIT CONDITIONS
3462
3463Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3464I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3465invoking C<ev_run>.
3466
3467This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3468main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3469a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3470and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3471other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone.
3472
3473The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3474invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3475triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3476
3477 // main loop
3478 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3479
3480 while (!exit_main_loop)
3481 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3482
3483 // in a model watcher
3484 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3485
3486 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3487 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3488
3489To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3490
3491 // exit modal loop
3492 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3493
3494 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3495 exit_main_loop = 1;
3496
3497 // exit both
3498 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3499
3500=head2 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3501
3502Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
3503thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
3504created/added/removed.
3505
3506For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
3507which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
3508languages).
3509
3510The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
3511variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
3512event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
3513
3514First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
3515
3516 typedef struct {
3517 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
3518 ev_async async_w;
3519 thread_t tid;
3520 cond_t invoke_cv;
3521 } userdata;
3522
3523 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
3524 {
3525 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
3526 static userdata u;
3527
3528 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
3529 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3530
3531 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
3532 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
3533
3534 // now associate this with the loop
3535 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
3536 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
3537 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
3538
3539 // then create the thread running ev_loop
3540 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
3541 }
3542
3543The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
3544solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
3545that might have been added:
3546
3547 static void
3548 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
3549 {
3550 // just used for the side effects
3551 }
3552
3553The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
3554protecting the loop data, respectively.
3555
3556 static void
3557 l_release (EV_P)
3558 {
3559 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3560 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3561 }
3562
3563 static void
3564 l_acquire (EV_P)
3565 {
3566 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3567 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3568 }
3569
3570The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
3571into C<ev_run>:
3572
3573 void *
3574 l_run (void *thr_arg)
3575 {
3576 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
3577
3578 l_acquire (EV_A);
3579 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
3580 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3581 l_release (EV_A);
3582
3583 return 0;
3584 }
3585
3586Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
3587signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
3588writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
3589have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
3590and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
3591watchers is very beneficial):
3592
3593 static void
3594 l_invoke (EV_P)
3595 {
3596 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3597
3598 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
3599 {
3600 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
3601 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
3602 }
3603 }
3604
3605Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
3606will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
3607thread to continue:
3608
3609 static void
3610 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
3611 {
3612 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3613
3614 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3615 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
3616 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
3617 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3618 }
3619
3620Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
3621event loop, you will now have to lock:
3622
3623 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
3624 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3625
3626 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
3627
3628 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3629 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
3630 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3631 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3632
3633Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
3634an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
3635about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
3636watchers in the next event loop iteration.
2984 3637
2985 3638
2986=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3639=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
2987 3640
2988Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3641Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
2989emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3642emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
2990 3643
2991=over 4 3644=over 4
3645
3646=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3647
3648This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3649and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
2992 3650
2993=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3651=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
2994 3652
2995=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3653=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
2996ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3654ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3002=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3660=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3003will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3661will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3004is an ev_pri field. 3662is an ev_pri field.
3005 3663
3006=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3664=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3007first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3665base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3008 3666
3009=item * Other members are not supported. 3667=item * Other members are not supported.
3010 3668
3011=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3669=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3012to use the libev header file and library. 3670to use the libev header file and library.
3031Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 3689Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3032classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 3690classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3033that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 3691that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3034you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 3692you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3035 3693
3036Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 3694Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3037used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 3695with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3038need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 3696to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3039types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 3697you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3040it). 3698(preferably after implementing it).
3041 3699
3042Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 3700Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3043 3701
3044=over 4 3702=over 4
3045 3703
3063 3721
3064=over 4 3722=over 4
3065 3723
3066=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3724=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
3067 3725
3068=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3726=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
3069 3727
3070=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3728=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
3071 3729
3072The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3730The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
3073with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3731with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
3106 myclass obj; 3764 myclass obj;
3107 ev::io iow; 3765 ev::io iow;
3108 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3766 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3109 3767
3110=item w->set (object *) 3768=item w->set (object *)
3111
3112This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3113 3769
3114This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3770This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3115will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3771will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3116functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3772functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3117the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3773the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3150Example: Use a plain function as callback. 3806Example: Use a plain function as callback.
3151 3807
3152 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3808 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
3153 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3809 iow.set <io_cb> ();
3154 3810
3155=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3811=item w->set (loop)
3156 3812
3157Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3813Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3158do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3814do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3159 3815
3160=item w->set ([arguments]) 3816=item w->set ([arguments])
3161 3817
3162Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3818Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3163called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3819method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3164automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3820C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3165method. 3821when reconfiguring it with this method.
3166 3822
3167=item w->start () 3823=item w->start ()
3168 3824
3169Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3825Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3170constructor already stores the event loop. 3826constructor already stores the event loop.
3171 3827
3828=item w->start ([arguments])
3829
3830Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3831convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3832the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3833
3172=item w->stop () 3834=item w->stop ()
3173 3835
3174Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3836Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3175 3837
3176=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3838=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3188 3850
3189=back 3851=back
3190 3852
3191=back 3853=back
3192 3854
3193Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3855Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3194the constructor. 3856watchers in the constructor.
3195 3857
3196 class myclass 3858 class myclass
3197 { 3859 {
3198 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3860 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3861 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3199 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3862 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3200 3863
3201 myclass (int fd) 3864 myclass (int fd)
3202 { 3865 {
3203 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3866 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3867 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3204 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3868 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3205 3869
3206 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3870 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3871 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3872
3873 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3207 } 3874 }
3208 }; 3875 };
3209 3876
3210 3877
3211=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3878=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3257=item Ocaml 3924=item Ocaml
3258 3925
3259Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3926Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3260L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3927L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3261 3928
3929=item Lua
3930
3931Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3932time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3933L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3934
3262=back 3935=back
3263 3936
3264 3937
3265=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3938=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3266 3939
3279loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3952loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3280C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3953C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3281 3954
3282 ev_unref (EV_A); 3955 ev_unref (EV_A);
3283 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3956 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3284 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3957 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3285 3958
3286It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3959It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3287which is often provided by the following macro. 3960which is often provided by the following macro.
3288 3961
3289=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3962=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3329 } 4002 }
3330 4003
3331 ev_check check; 4004 ev_check check;
3332 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 4005 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3333 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 4006 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3334 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 4007 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3335 4008
3336=head1 EMBEDDING 4009=head1 EMBEDDING
3337 4010
3338Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 4011Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3339applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 4012applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3419 libev.m4 4092 libev.m4
3420 4093
3421=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 4094=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3422 4095
3423Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 4096Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3424define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 4097define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3425autoconf is documented for every option. 4098the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
4099
4100Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
4101values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
4102to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
4103to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
4104users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
4105settings.
3426 4106
3427=over 4 4107=over 4
3428 4108
4109=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
4110
4111Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
4112release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
4113have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
4114
4115You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
4116versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
4117sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
4118from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
4119typedef in that case.
4120
4121In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
4122and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
4123removed completely.
4124
3429=item EV_STANDALONE 4125=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3430 4126
3431Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 4127Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3432keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 4128keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3433implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 4129implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3434supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 4130supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3435F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 4131F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3436 4132
3437In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 4133In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3438configuration, but has to be more conservative. 4134configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3439 4135
3440=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 4136=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3441 4137
3442If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 4138If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3507be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 4203be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3508C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 4204C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3509it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 4205it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3510on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 4206on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3511 4207
3512=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 4208=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3513 4209
3514If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 4210If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3515file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 4211file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3516default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 4212default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3517correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 4213correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3518in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 4214in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
4215
4216=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
4217
4218If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
4219using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
4220their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
4221to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
4222
4223=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
4224
4225If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
4226macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
4227file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
4228the underlying OS handle.
3519 4229
3520=item EV_USE_POLL 4230=item EV_USE_POLL
3521 4231
3522If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 4232If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3523backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 4233backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3570as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4280as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3571 4281
3572In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4282In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3573(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4283(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3574 4284
3575=item EV_H 4285=item EV_H (h)
3576 4286
3577The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4287The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3578undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4288undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3579used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4289used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3580 4290
3581=item EV_CONFIG_H 4291=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3582 4292
3583If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4293If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3584F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4294F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3585C<EV_H>, above. 4295C<EV_H>, above.
3586 4296
3587=item EV_EVENT_H 4297=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3588 4298
3589Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4299Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3590of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4300of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3591 4301
3592=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4302=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3593 4303
3594If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4304If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3595prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4305prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3596occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4306occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3597around libev functions. 4307around libev functions.
3619fine. 4329fine.
3620 4330
3621If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4331If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3622both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4332both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3623 4333
3624=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4334=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4335EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4336EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3625 4337
3626If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4338If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3627defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4339the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3628code. 4340is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3629 4341
3630=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4342=item EV_FEATURES
3631
3632If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3633defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3634code.
3635
3636=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3637
3638If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3639defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3640watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3641
3642=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3643
3644If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3645defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3646
3647=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3648
3649If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3650defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3651
3652=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3653
3654If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3655defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3656
3657=item EV_MINIMAL
3658 4343
3659If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4344If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3660speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some 4345speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3661inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a 4346certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3662much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap. 4347that can be enabled on the platform.
4348
4349A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
4350with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
4351additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4352but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4353backend, use this:
4354
4355 #define EV_FEATURES 0
4356 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
4357 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4358 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4359 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4360
4361The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4362values:
4363
4364=over 4
4365
4366=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4367
4368Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4369
4370Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4371code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4372
4373When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4374gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4375assertions.
4376
4377=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4378
4379Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4380hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4381and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4382runtime.
4383
4384=item C<4> - full API configuration
4385
4386This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4387enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4388
4389=item C<8> - full API
4390
4391This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4392details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4393feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4394
4395=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4396
4397Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4398only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4399embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4400C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4401
4402=item C<32> - enable all backends
4403
4404This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4405least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4406
4407=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4408
4409Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4410default.
4411
4412=back
4413
4414Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4415reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4416code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4417watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4418
4419With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4420when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4421your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4422I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4423
4424=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4425
4426If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4427functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4428somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4429libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4430big.
4431
4432Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4433enabled.
4434
4435=item EV_NSIG
4436
4437The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
4438signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
4439automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
4440specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
4441good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
4442statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3663 4443
3664=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4444=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3665 4445
3666C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4446C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3667pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4447pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3668than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4448usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3669increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4449might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3670 4450
3671=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4451=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3672 4452
3673C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4453C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3674inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4454inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3675usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4455disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3676watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4456C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3677two). 4457power of two).
3678 4458
3679=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4459=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3680 4460
3681Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4461Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3682timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4462timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3683to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4463to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3684faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4464faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3685 4465
3686The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4466The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3687(disabled). 4467will be C<0>.
3688 4468
3689=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4469=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3690 4470
3691Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4471Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3692timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4472timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3693the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4473the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3694which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4474which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3695but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4475but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3696noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4476noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3697 4477
3698The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4478The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3699(disabled). 4479will be C<0>.
3700 4480
3701=item EV_VERIFY 4481=item EV_VERIFY
3702 4482
3703Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4483Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3704be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4484be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3705in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4485in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3706called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4486called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3707called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4487called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3708verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4488verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3709libev considerably. 4489libev considerably.
3710 4490
3711The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4491The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3712C<0>. 4492will be C<0>.
3713 4493
3714=item EV_COMMON 4494=item EV_COMMON
3715 4495
3716By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4496By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3717this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4497this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3718members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4498members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3719though, and it must be identical each time. 4499though, and it must be identical each time.
3720 4500
3721For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4501For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3722 4502
3775file. 4555file.
3776 4556
3777The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4557The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3778that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4558that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3779 4559
3780 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4560 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3781 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4561 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3782 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3783 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4562 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4563 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3784 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4564 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3785 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4565 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4566 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3786 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4567 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3787 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3788 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3789 4568
3790 #include "ev++.h" 4569 #include "ev++.h"
3791 4570
3792And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4571And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3793 4572
3794 #include "ev_cpp.h" 4573 #include "ev_cpp.h"
3795 #include "ev.c" 4574 #include "ev.c"
3796 4575
3797=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES 4576=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS, LIBRARIES OR THE ENVIRONMENT
3798 4577
3799=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES 4578=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3800 4579
3801=head3 THREADS 4580=head3 THREADS
3802 4581
3853default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 4632default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
3854watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 4633watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3855 4634
3856=back 4635=back
3857 4636
4637See also L<THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE>.
4638
3858=head3 COROUTINES 4639=head3 COROUTINES
3859 4640
3860Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4641Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3861libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4642libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3862coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4643coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
3863different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running the 4644different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
3864loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 4645the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
3865you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4646that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3866 4647
3867Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4648Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3868C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4649C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3869they do not call any callbacks. 4650they do not call any callbacks.
3870 4651
3871=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4652=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3872 4653
3873Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4654Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3884maintainable. 4665maintainable.
3885 4666
3886And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4667And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3887wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4668wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3888seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4669seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
3889warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4670warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
3890been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4671been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
3891such buggy versions. 4672such buggy versions.
3892 4673
3893While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4674While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3894"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4675"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3930I suggest using suppression lists. 4711I suggest using suppression lists.
3931 4712
3932 4713
3933=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4714=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
3934 4715
4716=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4717
4718GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4719interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4720
4721That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4722files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4723
4724Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4725by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4726standard libev compiled for their system.
4727
4728Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4729suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4730i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4731
4732=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4733
4734The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4735you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4736OpenGL drivers.
4737
4738=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4739
4740The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4741only sockets, many support pipes.
4742
4743Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4744rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4745loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4746probably going to work well.
4747
4748=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4749
4750Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4751implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4752release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4753
4754Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4755this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4756a loop.
4757
4758=head3 C<select> is buggy
4759
4760All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4761one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4762descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4763you use more.
4764
4765There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4766C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4767work on OS/X.
4768
4769=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4770
4771=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4772
4773The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4774thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4775without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4776defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4777
4778If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4779it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4780
4781=head3 Event port backend
4782
4783The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4784ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4785releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4786a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4787and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4788are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4789great.
4790
4791If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4792the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4793C<select> backends.
4794
4795=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4796
4797AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4798this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4799compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4800with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4801
3935=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4802=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4803
4804=head3 General issues
3936 4805
3937Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4806Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3938requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4807requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3939model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4808model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3940the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4809the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3941descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4810descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3942e.g. cygwin. 4811e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4812as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4813environment.
3943 4814
3944Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4815Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3945re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4816re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
3946things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4817then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
3947way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4818also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3948 4819
3949There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4820There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3950embedding it into other applications. 4821embedding it into other applications.
3951 4822
3952Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4823Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
3980you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4851you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
3981 4852
3982 #include "evwrap.h" 4853 #include "evwrap.h"
3983 #include "ev.c" 4854 #include "ev.c"
3984 4855
3985=over 4
3986
3987=item The winsocket select function 4856=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
3988 4857
3989The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4858The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3990requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4859requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3991also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4860also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3992requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4861requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4001 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4870 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4002 4871
4003Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4872Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4004complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4873complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4005 4874
4006=item Limited number of file descriptors 4875=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4007 4876
4008Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4877Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4009 4878
4010Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4879Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4011of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4880of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4026runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4895runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4027(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4896(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4028you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4897you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4029the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4898the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4030 4899
4031=back
4032
4033=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4900=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4034 4901
4035In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4902In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4036backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4903backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4037 4904
4043Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4910Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4044structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4911structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4045assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4912assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4046callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4913callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4047calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4914calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4915
4916=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4917
4918Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4919writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4048 4920
4049=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4921=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4050 4922
4051The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4923The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4052C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4924C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4075watchers. 4947watchers.
4076 4948
4077=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4949=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4078 4950
4079The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4951The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4080have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4952have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4081enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4953good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4954(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4082implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4955implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4083ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4956IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
40842200.
4085 4957
4086=back 4958=back
4087 4959
4088If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4960If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4089 4961
4157involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 5029involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4158 5030
4159=back 5031=back
4160 5032
4161 5033
5034=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
5035
5036The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
5037
5038At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
5039for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
5040layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5041new API early than late.
5042
5043=over 4
5044
5045=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5046
5047The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5048C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
5049section.
5050
5051=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5052
5053These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5054
5055 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
5056 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
5057
5058=item function/symbol renames
5059
5060A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
5061
5062 ev_loop => ev_run
5063 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
5064 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
5065
5066 ev_unloop => ev_break
5067 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
5068 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
5069 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
5070
5071 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
5072
5073 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
5074 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
5075 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
5076
5077Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
5078C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
5079associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
5080ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
5081as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
5082C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
5083typedef.
5084
5085=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
5086
5087The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
5088mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
5089and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
5090
5091=back
5092
5093
4162=head1 GLOSSARY 5094=head1 GLOSSARY
4163 5095
4164=over 4 5096=over 4
4165 5097
4166=item active 5098=item active
4167 5099
4168A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 5100A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4169an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 5101See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4170 5102
4171=item application 5103=item application
4172 5104
4173In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5105In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5106
5107=item backend
5108
5109The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4174 5110
4175=item callback 5111=item callback
4176 5112
4177The address of a function that is called when some event has been 5113The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4178detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 5114detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4179received the event, and the actual event bitset. 5115received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4180 5116
4181=item callback invocation 5117=item callback/watcher invocation
4182 5118
4183The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 5119The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4184 5120
4185=item event 5121=item event
4186 5122
4187A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 5123A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4188for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 5124for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4189any other events happening anymore. 5125any other events happening anymore.
4190 5126
4191In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 5127In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4192C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 5128C<EV_TIMER>).
4193 5129
4194=item event library 5130=item event library
4195 5131
4196A software package implementing an event model and loop. 5132A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4197 5133
4205The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5141The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4206watchers and events. 5142watchers and events.
4207 5143
4208=item pending 5144=item pending
4209 5145
4210A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5146A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4211and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5147detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4212pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4213
4214A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4215its pending status.
4216 5148
4217=item real time 5149=item real time
4218 5150
4219The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5151The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4220 5152
4227=item watcher 5159=item watcher
4228 5160
4229A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5161A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4230to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5162to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4231 5163
4232=item watcher invocation
4233
4234The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4235
4236=back 5164=back
4237 5165
4238=head1 AUTHOR 5166=head1 AUTHOR
4239 5167
4240Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5168Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5169Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4241 5170

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