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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
288 ... 301 ...
289 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
290 303
291=back 304=back
292 305
293=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
294 307
295An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 308An 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> 309I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
297I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
298 311
299The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 312The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
300supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
301not. 314do not.
302 315
303=over 4 316=over 4
304 317
305=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
306 319
307This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
308yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 321normally 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 322the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
310flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 323C<ev_loop_new>.
324
325If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
326returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
327C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
328flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
329one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
311 330
312If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 331If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
313function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
314 333
315Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 334Note 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, 335from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
317as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
318 338
319The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 339The 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 340and 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 341a 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 342C<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 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
324C<ev_default_init>. 344
345Example: This is the most typical usage.
346
347 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
348 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
349
350Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
351environment settings to be taken into account:
352
353 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
354
355=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
356
357This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
358could not be initialised, returns false.
359
360This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
361threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
362loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
325 363
326The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The 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>). 365backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
328 366
329The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
344useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 382useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
345around bugs. 383around bugs.
346 384
347=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 385=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
348 386
349Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 387Instead 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 388make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
351enabling this flag.
352 389
353This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 390This 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 391and 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 392iterations 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 393GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
362flag. 399flag.
363 400
364This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 401This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
365environment variable. 402environment variable.
366 403
404=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
405
406When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
407I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
408testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
409otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
410
411=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
412
413When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
414I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
415delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
416it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
417handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
418threads that are not interested in handling them.
419
420Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
421there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
422example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
423
367=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 424=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
368 425
369This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 426This 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, 427libev 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 428but 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 452This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
396C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 453C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
397 454
398=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 455=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
399 456
457Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
458kernels).
459
400For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 460For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
401but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 461but 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), 462like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
403epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 463epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
404 464
405The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 465The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
406of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 466of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
407dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 467dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
408descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 468descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
469returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
470(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 4710.1ms) 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 472forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
411take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 473set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
412hard to detect. 474and is of course hard to detect.
413 475
414Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 476Epoll 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 477of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
416I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 478I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
417even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 479even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
418on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 480on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
419employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 481employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
420events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 482events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
483not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
484perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
485
486Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
421 487
422While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 488While 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 489will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
424incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 490incident (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 491I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
518 584
519It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 585It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
520 586
521=back 587=back
522 588
523If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these 589If 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 590then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
525specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 591here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
526 592()> 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.
554 593
555Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 594Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
556 595
557 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 596 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
558 if (!epoller) 597 if (!epoller)
559 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 598 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
560 599
600Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
601used if available.
602
603 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
604
561=item ev_default_destroy () 605=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
562 606
563Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 607Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
564etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 608etc.). 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 609sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
566responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 610responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
567calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 611calling 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 612the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
570 614
571Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 615Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
572handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 616handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
573as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 617as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
574 618
575In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 619This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
576rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 620C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
621C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
622
623Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
624except 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 625If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
578C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 626and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
579 627
580=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 628=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
581 629
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 630This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
588to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 631reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
589name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 632name, 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 633the 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 634child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
592functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 635
636Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
637a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
638because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
639during fork.
593 640
594On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 641On 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 642process 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. 643you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
644call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
645difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
646costly reset of the backend).
597 647
598The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 648The 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 649it just in case after a fork.
600quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
601 650
651Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
652using pthreads.
653
654 static void
655 post_fork_child (void)
656 {
657 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
658 }
659
660 ...
602 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 661 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.
610 662
611=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 663=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
612 664
613Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 665Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
614otherwise. 666otherwise.
615 667
616=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 668=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
617 669
618Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 670Returns 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 671to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
620happily wraps around with enough iterations. 672and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
621 673
622This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 674This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
623"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 675"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
624C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 676C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
677prepare and check phases.
625 678
626=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 679=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
627 680
628Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 681Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
629times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 682times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
630 683
631Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 684Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
632C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 685C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
633in which case it is higher. 686in which case it is higher.
634 687
635Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 688Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
636etc.), doesn't count as exit. 689throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
690as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
691convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
637 692
638=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 693=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
639 694
640Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 695Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
641use. 696use.
650 705
651=item ev_now_update (loop) 706=item ev_now_update (loop)
652 707
653Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 708Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
654returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 709returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
655is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 710is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
656 711
657This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 712This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
658very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 713very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
659the current time is a good idea. 714the current time is a good idea.
660 715
662 717
663=item ev_suspend (loop) 718=item ev_suspend (loop)
664 719
665=item ev_resume (loop) 720=item ev_resume (loop)
666 721
667These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 722These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
668not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 723loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
669 724
670A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 725A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
671the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 726the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
672would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 727would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
673the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 728the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
675C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 730C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
676 731
677Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 732Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
678between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 733between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
679will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 734will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
680occured while suspended). 735occurred while suspended).
681 736
682After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 737After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
683given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 738given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
684without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 739without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
685 740
686Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 741Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
687event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 742event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
688 743
689=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 744=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
690 745
691Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 746Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
692after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 747after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
693events. 748handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
749the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
750is why event loops are called I<loops>.
694 751
695If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 752If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
696either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 753until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
754called.
697 755
698Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 756Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
699relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 757relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
700finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 758finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
701that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 759that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
702of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 760of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
703beauty. 761beauty.
704 762
763This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
764a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
765exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
766will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
767
705A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 768A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
706those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 769those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
707process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 770block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
708the loop. 771iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
772events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
709 773
710A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 774A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
711necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 775necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
712will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 776will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
713be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 777be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
714user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 778user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
715iteration of the loop. 779iteration of the loop.
716 780
717This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 781This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
718with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 782with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
719own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 783own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
720usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 784usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
721 785
722Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 786Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
723 787
788 - Increment loop depth.
789 - Reset the ev_break status.
724 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 790 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
791 LOOP:
725 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 792 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
726 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 793 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
727 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 794 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
795 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
728 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 796 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
729 as to not disturb the other process. 797 as to not disturb the other process.
730 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 798 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
731 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 799 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
732 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 800 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
733 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 801 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
734 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 802 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
735 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 803 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
804 - Increment loop iteration counter.
736 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 805 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
737 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 806 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
738 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 807 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
739 - Queue all expired timers. 808 - Queue all expired timers.
740 - Queue all expired periodics. 809 - Queue all expired periodics.
741 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 810 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
742 - Queue all check watchers. 811 - Queue all check watchers.
743 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 812 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
744 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 813 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
745 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 814 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
746 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 815 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
747 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 816 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
748 continue with step *. 817 continue with step LOOP.
818 FINISH:
819 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
820 - Decrement the loop depth.
821 - Return.
749 822
750Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 823Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
751anymore. 824anymore.
752 825
753 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 826 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
754 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 827 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
755 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 828 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
756 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 829 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
757 830
758=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 831=item ev_break (loop, how)
759 832
760Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 833Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
761has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 834has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
762C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 835C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
763C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 836C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
764 837
765This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 838This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
766 839
767It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 840It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
841which case it will have no effect.
768 842
769=item ev_ref (loop) 843=item ev_ref (loop)
770 844
771=item ev_unref (loop) 845=item ev_unref (loop)
772 846
773Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 847Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
774loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 848loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
775count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 849count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
776 850
777If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 851This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
778from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 852unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
853returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
779stopping it. 854before stopping it.
780 855
781As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 856As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
782is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 857is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
783exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 858exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
784excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 859excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
785third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 860third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
786before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 861before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
787before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 862before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
788(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 863(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
789in the callback). 864in the callback).
790 865
791Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 866Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
792running when nothing else is active. 867running when nothing else is active.
793 868
794 ev_signal exitsig; 869 ev_signal exitsig;
795 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 870 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
796 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 871 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
841usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 916usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
842as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 917as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
843you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 918you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
844parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 919parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
845need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 920need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
846then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 921then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
847 922
848Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 923Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
849saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 924saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
850are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 925are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
851times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 926times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
856more often than 100 times per second: 931more often than 100 times per second:
857 932
858 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1); 933 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1);
859 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 934 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
860 935
936=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
937
938This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
939pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
940but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
941function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
942when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
943event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
944thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
945
946=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
947
948Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
949are pending.
950
951=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
952
953This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
954invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
955this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
956invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
957
958If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
959callback.
960
961=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P))
962
963Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
964can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
965each call to a libev function.
966
967However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
968to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
969loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
970I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
971
972When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
973suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
974afterwards.
975
976Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and
977C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again.
978
979While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
980C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
981modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
982have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
983waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
984to take note of any changes you made.
985
986In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
987invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
988
989See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
990document.
991
992=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
993
994=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
995
996Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
997C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
998C<0>.
999
1000These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
1001and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
1002C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
1003any other purpose as well.
1004
861=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1005=item ev_verify (loop)
862 1006
863This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1007This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
864compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1008compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
865through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1009through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
866is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1010is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
877 1021
878In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1022In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
879watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1023watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
880watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1024watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
881 1025
882A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1026A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
883interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1027your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
884become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1028to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1029for that:
885 1030
886 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1031 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
887 { 1032 {
888 ev_io_stop (w); 1033 ev_io_stop (w);
889 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1034 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
890 } 1035 }
891 1036
892 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1037 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
893 1038
894 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1039 ev_io stdin_watcher;
895 1040
896 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1041 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
897 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1042 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
898 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1043 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
899 1044
900 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1045 ev_run (loop, 0);
901 1046
902As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1047As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
903watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1048watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
904stack). 1049stack).
905 1050
906Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1051Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
907or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1052or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
908 1053
909Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1054Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
910(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1055*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
911callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1056invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
912watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1057time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
913is readable and/or writable). 1058and/or writable).
914 1059
915Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1060Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
916macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1061macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
917is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1062is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
918ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1063ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
941=item C<EV_WRITE> 1086=item C<EV_WRITE>
942 1087
943The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1088The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
944writable. 1089writable.
945 1090
946=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1091=item C<EV_TIMER>
947 1092
948The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1093The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
949 1094
950=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1095=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
951 1096
969 1114
970=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1115=item C<EV_PREPARE>
971 1116
972=item C<EV_CHECK> 1117=item C<EV_CHECK>
973 1118
974All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1119All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
975to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1120to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
976C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1121C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
977received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1122received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
978many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1123many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
979(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1124(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
980C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1125C<ev_run> from blocking).
981 1126
982=item C<EV_EMBED> 1127=item C<EV_EMBED>
983 1128
984The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1129The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
985 1130
986=item C<EV_FORK> 1131=item C<EV_FORK>
987 1132
988The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1133The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
989C<ev_fork>). 1134C<ev_fork>).
1135
1136=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1137
1138The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
990 1139
991=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1140=item C<EV_ASYNC>
992 1141
993The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1142The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
994 1143
1041 1190
1042 ev_io w; 1191 ev_io w;
1043 ev_init (&w, my_cb); 1192 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1044 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1193 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1045 1194
1046=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1195=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1047 1196
1048This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1197This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1049call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1198call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1050call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1199call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1051macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1200macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1064 1213
1065Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step. 1214Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1066 1215
1067 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1216 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1068 1217
1069=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1218=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1070 1219
1071Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1220Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1072events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1221events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1073 1222
1074Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this 1223Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1075whole section. 1224whole section.
1076 1225
1077 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1226 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1078 1227
1079=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1228=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1080 1229
1081Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether 1230Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1082the watcher was active or not). 1231the watcher was active or not).
1083 1232
1084It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example, 1233It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1109=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1258=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1110 1259
1111Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1260Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1112(modulo threads). 1261(modulo threads).
1113 1262
1114=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1263=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1115 1264
1116=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1265=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1117 1266
1118Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1267Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1119integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1268integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1151watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1300watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1152 1301
1153Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1302Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1154callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1303callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1155 1304
1305=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1306
1307Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1308had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1309initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1310not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1311
1312Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1313C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1314not started in the first place.
1315
1316See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1317functions that do not need a watcher.
1318
1156=back 1319=back
1157
1158 1320
1159=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1321=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1160 1322
1161Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1323Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1162and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1324and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1218 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1380 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1219 { 1381 {
1220 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1382 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1221 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1383 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1222 } 1384 }
1385
1386=head2 WATCHER STATES
1387
1388There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1389active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1390transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1391rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1392
1393=over 4
1394
1395=item initialiased
1396
1397Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1398initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1399C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1400
1401In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1402in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1403
1404=item started/running/active
1405
1406Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1407property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1408this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1409freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1410and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1411
1412=item pending
1413
1414If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1415in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1416stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1417about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1418callback.
1419
1420The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1421an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1422is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1423but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1424moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1425previous item still apply.
1426
1427It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1428via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1429active.
1430
1431=item stopped
1432
1433A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1434be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1435latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1436of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1437freeing it is often a good idea.
1438
1439While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1440initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1441you wish.
1442
1443=back
1223 1444
1224=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1445=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1225 1446
1226Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1447Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1227integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1448integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1270 1491
1271For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1492For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1272you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1493you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1273the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1494the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1274processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1495processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1275continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1496continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1276the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1497the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1277workable. 1498workable.
1278 1499
1279Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1500Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1280miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1501miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1294 { 1515 {
1295 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1516 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1296 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1517 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1297 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1518 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1298 1519
1299 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1520 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1300 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1521 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1301 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1522 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1302 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1523 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1303 } 1524 }
1304 1525
1358 1579
1359If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1580If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1360known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1581known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1361C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1582C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1362descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1583descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1363files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1584files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1364 1585
1365Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1586Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1366receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1587receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1367be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1588be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1368because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1589because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1433 1654
1434So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1655So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1435ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1656ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1436somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1657somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1437 1658
1659=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1660
1661Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1662found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1663connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1664
1665For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1666of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1667rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1668the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1669typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1670
1671Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1672operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1673situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1674cope with overload is known (to me).
1675
1676One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1677- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1678situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1679event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1680
1681A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1682C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1683messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1684what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1685the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1686usage.
1687
1688If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1689descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1690when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1691close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1692clients under typical overload conditions.
1693
1694The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1695is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1696opportunity for a DoS attack.
1438 1697
1439=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1698=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1440 1699
1441=over 4 1700=over 4
1442 1701
1474 ... 1733 ...
1475 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1734 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1476 ev_io stdin_readable; 1735 ev_io stdin_readable;
1477 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1736 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1478 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1737 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1479 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1738 ev_run (loop, 0);
1480 1739
1481 1740
1482=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1741=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1483 1742
1484Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1743Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1493The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1752The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1494passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1753passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1495might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1754might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1496same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1755same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1497before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1756before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1498no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1757no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1499 1758
1500=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1759=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1501 1760
1502Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1761Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1503recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1762recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1589 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1848 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1590 1849
1591 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1850 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1592 if (timeout < now) 1851 if (timeout < now)
1593 { 1852 {
1594 // timeout occured, take action 1853 // timeout occurred, take action
1595 } 1854 }
1596 else 1855 else
1597 { 1856 {
1598 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1857 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1599 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1858 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1621to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1880to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1622callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1881callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1623 1882
1624 ev_init (timer, callback); 1883 ev_init (timer, callback);
1625 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1884 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1626 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1885 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1627 1886
1628And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1887And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1629C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1888C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1630 1889
1631 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1890 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1632 1891
1633This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1892This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1634time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1893time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1635 1894
1636Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1895Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1674 1933
1675=head3 The special problem of time updates 1934=head3 The special problem of time updates
1676 1935
1677Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1936Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1678least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1937least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1679time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1938time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1680growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1939growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1681lots of events in one iteration. 1940lots of events in one iteration.
1682 1941
1683The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1942The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1684time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1943time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1690 1949
1691If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 1950If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1692update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 1951update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1693()>. 1952()>.
1694 1953
1954=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1955
1956When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1957can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1958
1959Some quick tests made with a Linux 2.6.28 indicate that a suspend freezes
1960all processes, while the clocks (C<times>, C<CLOCK_MONOTONIC>) continue
1961to run until the system is suspended, but they will not advance while the
1962system is suspended. That means, on resume, it will be as if the program
1963was frozen for a few seconds, but the suspend time will not be counted
1964towards C<ev_timer> when a monotonic clock source is used. The real time
1965clock advanced as expected, but if it is used as sole clocksource, then a
1966long suspend would be detected as a time jump by libev, and timers would
1967be adjusted accordingly.
1968
1969I would not be surprised to see different behaviour in different between
1970operating systems, OS versions or even different hardware.
1971
1972The other form of suspend (job control, or sending a SIGSTOP) will see a
1973time jump in the monotonic clocks and the realtime clock. If the program
1974is suspended for a very long time, and monotonic clock sources are in use,
1975then you can expect C<ev_timer>s to expire as the full suspension time
1976will be counted towards the timers. When no monotonic clock source is in
1977use, then libev will again assume a timejump and adjust accordingly.
1978
1979It might be beneficial for this latter case to call C<ev_suspend>
1980and C<ev_resume> in code that handles C<SIGTSTP>, to at least get
1981deterministic behaviour in this case (you can do nothing against
1982C<SIGSTOP>).
1983
1695=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1984=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1696 1985
1697=over 4 1986=over 4
1698 1987
1699=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1988=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1725C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2014C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1726 2015
1727This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2016This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1728usage example. 2017usage example.
1729 2018
2019=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2020
2021Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2022then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
2023the timeout value currently configured.
2024
2025That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
2026C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
2027will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
2028roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
2029too), and so on.
2030
1730=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2031=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1731 2032
1732The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 2033The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1733or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 2034or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1734which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 2035which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
1759 } 2060 }
1760 2061
1761 ev_timer mytimer; 2062 ev_timer mytimer;
1762 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2063 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1763 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2064 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1764 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2065 ev_run (loop, 0);
1765 2066
1766 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2067 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1767 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2068 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1768 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2069 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1769 2070
1795 2096
1796As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2097As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1797point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2098point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1798timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2099timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1799earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2100earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1800(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2101(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1801 2102
1802=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1803 2104
1804=over 4 2105=over 4
1805 2106
1933Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2234Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1934system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2235system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1935potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2236potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1936 2237
1937 static void 2238 static void
1938 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2239 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
1939 { 2240 {
1940 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2241 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1941 } 2242 }
1942 2243
1943 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2244 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1966 2267
1967=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2268=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1968 2269
1969Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2270Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1970signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2271signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
1971will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2272will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
1972normal event processing, like any other event. 2273normal event processing, like any other event.
1973 2274
1974If you want signals asynchronously, just use C<sigaction> as you would 2275If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
1975do without libev and forget about sharing the signal. You can even use 2276C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
1976C<ev_async> from a signal handler to synchronously wake up an event loop. 2277the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2278synchronously wake up an event loop.
1977 2279
1978You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 2280You can configure as many watchers as you like for the same signal, but
2281only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2282default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2283C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2284the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2285
1979first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal handler 2286When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
1980with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2287with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
1981you don't register any with libev for the same signal). Similarly, when 2288you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
1982the last signal watcher for a signal is stopped, libev will reset the
1983signal handler to SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1984 2289
1985If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2290If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1986C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly 2291C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
1987interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by 2292not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
1988signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 2293interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
1989them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2294and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2295
2296=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2297
2298Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2299(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2300stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2301and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2302
2303While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2304sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2305C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2306certain signals to be blocked.
2307
2308This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2309the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2310choice usually).
2311
2312The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2313to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2314catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2315
2316In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2317unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2318the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2319I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2320
2321So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2322you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2323is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
1990 2324
1991=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2325=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1992 2326
1993=over 4 2327=over 4
1994 2328
2010Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2344Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2011 2345
2012 static void 2346 static void
2013 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2347 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2014 { 2348 {
2015 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2349 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2016 } 2350 }
2017 2351
2018 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2352 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2019 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2353 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2020 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2354 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2039libev) 2373libev)
2040 2374
2041=head3 Process Interaction 2375=head3 Process Interaction
2042 2376
2043Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 2377Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
2044initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 2378initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if the
2045the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence 2379first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
2046of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 2380of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
2047synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 2381synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
2048children, even ones not watched. 2382children, even ones not watched.
2049 2383
2050=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 2384=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
2060=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher 2394=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
2061 2395
2062Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the 2396Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
2063child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the 2397child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
2064callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically 2398callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
2065when a child exit is detected. 2399when a child exit is detected (calling C<ev_child_stop> twice is not a
2400problem).
2066 2401
2067=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2402=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2068 2403
2069=over 4 2404=over 4
2070 2405
2405 2740
2406Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2741Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2407prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2742prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2408afterwards. 2743afterwards.
2409 2744
2410You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2745You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2411the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2746the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2412watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2747watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2413rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2748rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2414those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2749those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2415C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2750C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2583 2918
2584 if (timeout >= 0) 2919 if (timeout >= 0)
2585 // create/start timer 2920 // create/start timer
2586 2921
2587 // poll 2922 // poll
2588 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2923 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2589 2924
2590 // stop timer again 2925 // stop timer again
2591 if (timeout >= 0) 2926 if (timeout >= 0)
2592 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2927 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2593 2928
2671if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3006if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2672 3007
2673=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3008=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2674 3009
2675Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3010Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2676similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3011similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2677appropriate way for embedded loops. 3012appropriate way for embedded loops.
2678 3013
2679=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3014=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2680 3015
2681The embedded event loop. 3016The embedded event loop.
2741C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3076C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2742handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3077handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2743 3078
2744=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3079=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2745 3080
2746Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3081Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2747up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3082up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2748sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3083sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2749 3084
2750This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3085This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2751in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3086in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2767disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3102disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2768signal watchers). 3103signal watchers).
2769 3104
2770When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3105When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2771other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3106other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2772C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3107C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2773the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3108Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2774have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3109watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2775also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3110those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3111signal watchers.
2776 3112
2777=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3113=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2778 3114
2779=over 4 3115=over 4
2780 3116
2781=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3117=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2782 3118
2783Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3119Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2784kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3120kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2785believe me. 3121really.
2786 3122
2787=back 3123=back
2788 3124
2789 3125
3126=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3127
3128Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3129by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3130
3131While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3132watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3133program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3134loop when you want them to be invoked.
3135
3136Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3137all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3138makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3139can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3140
3141=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3142
3143=over 4
3144
3145=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3146
3147Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3148any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3149pointless, I assure you.
3150
3151=back
3152
3153Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3154cleanup functions are called.
3155
3156 static void
3157 program_exits (void)
3158 {
3159 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3160 }
3161
3162 ...
3163 atexit (program_exits);
3164
3165
2790=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3166=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2791 3167
2792In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3168In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2793asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3169asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2794loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3170loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2795 3171
2796Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3172Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2797control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3173for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2798C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3174watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2799can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3175it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2800safe.
2801 3176
2802This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3177This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2803too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3178too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2804(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3179(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2805C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3180C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2810=head3 Queueing 3185=head3 Queueing
2811 3186
2812C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3187C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2813is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3188is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2814multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3189multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2815need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3190need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3191semantics.
2816 3192
2817That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3193That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2818queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your 3194queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2819queue: 3195queue:
2820 3196
2959 3335
2960If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3336If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
2961started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3337started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
2962repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3338repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
2963 3339
2964The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3340The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
2965passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3341passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
2966C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3342C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
2967value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3343value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
2968a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3344a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
2969events precedence. 3345events precedence.
2970 3346
2971Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3347Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
2972 3348
2973 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3349 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
2974 { 3350 {
2975 if (revents & EV_READ) 3351 if (revents & EV_READ)
2976 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3352 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
2977 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3353 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
2978 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3354 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2979 } 3355 }
2980 3356
2981 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3357 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2982 3358
2983=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2984
2985Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2986had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2987initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2988
2989=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3359=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
2990 3360
2991Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3361Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2992the given events it. 3362the given events it.
2993 3363
2994=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3364=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
2995 3365
2996Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3366Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
2997loop!). 3367loop!).
2998 3368
2999=back 3369=back
3018=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3388=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3019will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3389will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3020is an ev_pri field. 3390is an ev_pri field.
3021 3391
3022=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3392=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3023first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3393base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3024 3394
3025=item * Other members are not supported. 3395=item * Other members are not supported.
3026 3396
3027=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3397=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3028to use the libev header file and library. 3398to use the libev header file and library.
3079 3449
3080=over 4 3450=over 4
3081 3451
3082=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3452=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
3083 3453
3084=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3454=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
3085 3455
3086=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3456=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
3087 3457
3088The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3458The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
3089with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3459with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
3122 myclass obj; 3492 myclass obj;
3123 ev::io iow; 3493 ev::io iow;
3124 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3494 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3125 3495
3126=item w->set (object *) 3496=item w->set (object *)
3127
3128This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3129 3497
3130This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3498This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3131will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3499will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3132functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3500functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3133the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3501the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3166Example: Use a plain function as callback. 3534Example: Use a plain function as callback.
3167 3535
3168 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3536 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
3169 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3537 iow.set <io_cb> ();
3170 3538
3171=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3539=item w->set (loop)
3172 3540
3173Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3541Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3174do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3542do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3175 3543
3176=item w->set ([arguments]) 3544=item w->set ([arguments])
3177 3545
3178Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3546Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3179called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3547method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3180automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3548C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3181method. 3549when reconfiguring it with this method.
3182 3550
3183=item w->start () 3551=item w->start ()
3184 3552
3185Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3553Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3186constructor already stores the event loop. 3554constructor already stores the event loop.
3187 3555
3556=item w->start ([arguments])
3557
3558Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3559convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3560the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3561
3188=item w->stop () 3562=item w->stop ()
3189 3563
3190Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3564Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3191 3565
3192=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3566=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3204 3578
3205=back 3579=back
3206 3580
3207=back 3581=back
3208 3582
3209Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3583Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3210the constructor. 3584watchers in the constructor.
3211 3585
3212 class myclass 3586 class myclass
3213 { 3587 {
3214 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3588 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3589 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3215 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3590 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3216 3591
3217 myclass (int fd) 3592 myclass (int fd)
3218 { 3593 {
3219 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3594 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3595 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3220 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3596 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3221 3597
3222 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3598 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3599 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3600
3601 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3223 } 3602 }
3224 }; 3603 };
3225 3604
3226 3605
3227=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3606=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3273=item Ocaml 3652=item Ocaml
3274 3653
3275Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3654Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3276L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3655L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3277 3656
3657=item Lua
3658
3659Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3660time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3661L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3662
3278=back 3663=back
3279 3664
3280 3665
3281=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3666=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3282 3667
3295loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3680loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3296C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3681C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3297 3682
3298 ev_unref (EV_A); 3683 ev_unref (EV_A);
3299 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3684 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3300 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3685 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3301 3686
3302It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3687It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3303which is often provided by the following macro. 3688which is often provided by the following macro.
3304 3689
3305=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3690=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3345 } 3730 }
3346 3731
3347 ev_check check; 3732 ev_check check;
3348 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3733 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3349 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3734 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3350 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3735 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3351 3736
3352=head1 EMBEDDING 3737=head1 EMBEDDING
3353 3738
3354Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3739Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3355applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3740applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3435 libev.m4 3820 libev.m4
3436 3821
3437=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3822=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3438 3823
3439Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3824Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3440define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3825define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3441autoconf is documented for every option. 3826the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3827
3828Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3829values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3830to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3831to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3832users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3833settings.
3442 3834
3443=over 4 3835=over 4
3444 3836
3837=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3838
3839Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3840release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3841have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3842
3843You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3844versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3845sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3846from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3847typedef in that case.
3848
3849In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3850and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3851removed completely.
3852
3445=item EV_STANDALONE 3853=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3446 3854
3447Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3855Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3448keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3856keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3449implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3857implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3450supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3858supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3451F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3859F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3452 3860
3453In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 3861In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3454configuration, but has to be more conservative. 3862configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3455 3863
3456=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3864=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3457 3865
3458If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3866If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3523be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3931be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3524C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3932C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3525it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3933it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3526on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3934on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3527 3935
3528=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3936=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3529 3937
3530If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3938If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3531file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3939file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3532default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3940default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3533correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3941correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3534in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3942in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3943
3944=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3945
3946If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3947using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3948their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3949to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3950
3951=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3952
3953If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3954macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3955file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3956the underlying OS handle.
3535 3957
3536=item EV_USE_POLL 3958=item EV_USE_POLL
3537 3959
3538If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3960If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3539backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3961backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3586as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4008as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3587 4009
3588In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4010In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3589(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4011(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3590 4012
3591=item EV_H 4013=item EV_H (h)
3592 4014
3593The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4015The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3594undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4016undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3595used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4017used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3596 4018
3597=item EV_CONFIG_H 4019=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3598 4020
3599If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4021If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3600F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4022F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3601C<EV_H>, above. 4023C<EV_H>, above.
3602 4024
3603=item EV_EVENT_H 4025=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3604 4026
3605Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4027Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3606of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4028of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3607 4029
3608=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4030=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3609 4031
3610If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4032If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3611prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4033prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3612occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4034occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3613around libev functions. 4035around libev functions.
3635fine. 4057fine.
3636 4058
3637If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4059If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3638both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4060both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3639 4061
3640=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4062=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4063EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4064EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3641 4065
3642If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4066If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3643defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4067the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3644code. 4068is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3645 4069
3646=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4070=item EV_FEATURES
3647
3648If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3649defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3650code.
3651
3652=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3653
3654If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3655defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3656watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3657
3658=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3659
3660If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3661defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3662
3663=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3664
3665If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3666defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3667
3668=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3669
3670If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3671defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3672
3673=item EV_MINIMAL
3674 4071
3675If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4072If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3676speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some 4073speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3677inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a 4074certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3678much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap. 4075that can be enabled on the platform.
4076
4077A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
4078with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
4079additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4080but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4081backend, use this:
4082
4083 #define EV_FEATURES 0
4084 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
4085 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4086 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4087 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4088
4089The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4090values:
4091
4092=over 4
4093
4094=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4095
4096Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4097
4098Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4099code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4100
4101When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4102gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4103assertions.
4104
4105=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4106
4107Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4108hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4109and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4110runtime.
4111
4112=item C<4> - full API configuration
4113
4114This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4115enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4116
4117=item C<8> - full API
4118
4119This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4120details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4121feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4122
4123=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4124
4125Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4126only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4127embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4128C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4129
4130=item C<32> - enable all backends
4131
4132This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4133least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4134
4135=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4136
4137Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4138default.
4139
4140=back
4141
4142Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4143reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4144code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4145watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4146
4147With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4148when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4149your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4150I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4151
4152=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4153
4154If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4155functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4156somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4157libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4158big.
4159
4160Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4161enabled.
4162
4163=item EV_NSIG
4164
4165The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
4166signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
4167automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
4168specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
4169good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
4170statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3679 4171
3680=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4172=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3681 4173
3682C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4174C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3683pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4175pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3684than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4176usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3685increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4177might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3686 4178
3687=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4179=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3688 4180
3689C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4181C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3690inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4182inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3691usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4183disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3692watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4184C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3693two). 4185power of two).
3694 4186
3695=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4187=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3696 4188
3697Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4189Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3698timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4190timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3699to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4191to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3700faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4192faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3701 4193
3702The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4194The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3703(disabled). 4195will be C<0>.
3704 4196
3705=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4197=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3706 4198
3707Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4199Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3708timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4200timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3709the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4201the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3710which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4202which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3711but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4203but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3712noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4204noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3713 4205
3714The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4206The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3715(disabled). 4207will be C<0>.
3716 4208
3717=item EV_VERIFY 4209=item EV_VERIFY
3718 4210
3719Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4211Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3720be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4212be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3721in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4213in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3722called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4214called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3723called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4215called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3724verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4216verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3725libev considerably. 4217libev considerably.
3726 4218
3727The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4219The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3728C<0>. 4220will be C<0>.
3729 4221
3730=item EV_COMMON 4222=item EV_COMMON
3731 4223
3732By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4224By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3733this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4225this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3734members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4226members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3735though, and it must be identical each time. 4227though, and it must be identical each time.
3736 4228
3737For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4229For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3738 4230
3791file. 4283file.
3792 4284
3793The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4285The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3794that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4286that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3795 4287
3796 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4288 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3797 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4289 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3798 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3799 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4290 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4291 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3800 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4292 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3801 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4293 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4294 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3802 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4295 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3803 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3804 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3805 4296
3806 #include "ev++.h" 4297 #include "ev++.h"
3807 4298
3808And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4299And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3809 4300
3869default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 4360default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
3870watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 4361watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3871 4362
3872=back 4363=back
3873 4364
4365=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
4366
4367Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4368thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4369created/added/removed.
4370
4371For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4372which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4373languages).
4374
4375The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4376variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4377event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4378
4379First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4380
4381 typedef struct {
4382 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4383 ev_async async_w;
4384 thread_t tid;
4385 cond_t invoke_cv;
4386 } userdata;
4387
4388 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4389 {
4390 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4391 static userdata u;
4392
4393 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4394 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4395
4396 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4397 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4398
4399 // now associate this with the loop
4400 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4401 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4402 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4403
4404 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4405 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4406 }
4407
4408The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4409solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4410that might have been added:
4411
4412 static void
4413 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4414 {
4415 // just used for the side effects
4416 }
4417
4418The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4419protecting the loop data, respectively.
4420
4421 static void
4422 l_release (EV_P)
4423 {
4424 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4425 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4426 }
4427
4428 static void
4429 l_acquire (EV_P)
4430 {
4431 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4432 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4433 }
4434
4435The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4436into C<ev_run>:
4437
4438 void *
4439 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4440 {
4441 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4442
4443 l_acquire (EV_A);
4444 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4445 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4446 l_release (EV_A);
4447
4448 return 0;
4449 }
4450
4451Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4452signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4453writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4454have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4455and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4456watchers is very beneficial):
4457
4458 static void
4459 l_invoke (EV_P)
4460 {
4461 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4462
4463 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4464 {
4465 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4466 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4467 }
4468 }
4469
4470Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4471will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4472thread to continue:
4473
4474 static void
4475 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4476 {
4477 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4478
4479 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4480 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4481 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4482 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4483 }
4484
4485Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4486event loop, you will now have to lock:
4487
4488 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4489 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4490
4491 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4492
4493 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4494 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4495 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4496 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4497
4498Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4499an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4500about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4501watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4502
3874=head3 COROUTINES 4503=head3 COROUTINES
3875 4504
3876Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4505Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3877libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4506libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3878coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4507coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
3879different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running the 4508different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
3880loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 4509the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
3881you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4510that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3882 4511
3883Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4512Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3884C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4513C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3885they do not call any callbacks. 4514they do not call any callbacks.
3886 4515
3887=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4516=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3888 4517
3889Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4518Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3900maintainable. 4529maintainable.
3901 4530
3902And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4531And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3903wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4532wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3904seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4533seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
3905warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4534warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
3906been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4535been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
3907such buggy versions. 4536such buggy versions.
3908 4537
3909While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4538While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3910"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4539"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3946I suggest using suppression lists. 4575I suggest using suppression lists.
3947 4576
3948 4577
3949=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4578=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
3950 4579
4580=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4581
4582GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4583interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4584
4585That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4586files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4587
4588Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4589by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4590standard libev compiled for their system.
4591
4592Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4593suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4594i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4595
4596=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4597
4598The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4599you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4600OpenGL drivers.
4601
4602=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4603
4604The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4605only sockets, many support pipes.
4606
4607Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4608rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4609loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4610probably going to work well.
4611
4612=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4613
4614Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4615implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4616release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4617
4618Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4619this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4620a loop.
4621
4622=head3 C<select> is buggy
4623
4624All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4625one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4626descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4627you use more.
4628
4629There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4630C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4631work on OS/X.
4632
4633=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4634
4635=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4636
4637The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4638thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4639without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4640defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4641
4642If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4643it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4644
4645=head3 Event port backend
4646
4647The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4648ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4649releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4650a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4651and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4652are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4653great.
4654
4655If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4656the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4657C<select> backends.
4658
4659=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4660
4661AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4662this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4663compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4664with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4665
3951=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4666=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4667
4668=head3 General issues
3952 4669
3953Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4670Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3954requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4671requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3955model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4672model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3956the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4673the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3957descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4674descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3958e.g. cygwin. 4675e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4676as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4677environment.
3959 4678
3960Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4679Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3961re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4680re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
3962things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4681then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
3963way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4682also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3964 4683
3965There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4684There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3966embedding it into other applications. 4685embedding it into other applications.
3967 4686
3968Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4687Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
3996you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4715you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
3997 4716
3998 #include "evwrap.h" 4717 #include "evwrap.h"
3999 #include "ev.c" 4718 #include "ev.c"
4000 4719
4001=over 4
4002
4003=item The winsocket select function 4720=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4004 4721
4005The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4722The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4006requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4723requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4007also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4724also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4008requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4725requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4017 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4734 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4018 4735
4019Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4736Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4020complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4737complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4021 4738
4022=item Limited number of file descriptors 4739=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4023 4740
4024Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4741Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4025 4742
4026Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4743Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4027of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4744of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4042runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4759runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4043(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4760(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4044you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4761you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4045the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4762the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4046 4763
4047=back
4048
4049=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4764=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4050 4765
4051In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4766In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4052backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4767backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4053 4768
4059Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4774Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4060structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4775structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4061assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4776assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4062callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4777callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4063calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4778calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4779
4780=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4781
4782Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4783writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4064 4784
4065=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4785=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4066 4786
4067The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4787The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4068C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4788C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4091watchers. 4811watchers.
4092 4812
4093=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4813=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4094 4814
4095The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4815The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4096have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4816have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4097enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4817good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4818(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4098implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4819implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4099ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4820IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
41002200.
4101 4821
4102=back 4822=back
4103 4823
4104If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4824If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4105 4825
4173involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4893involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4174 4894
4175=back 4895=back
4176 4896
4177 4897
4898=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4899
4900The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4901
4902At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4903for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4904layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4905new API early than late.
4906
4907=over 4
4908
4909=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4910
4911The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4912C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4913section.
4914
4915=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4916
4917These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4918
4919 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4920 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4921
4922=item function/symbol renames
4923
4924A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4925
4926 ev_loop => ev_run
4927 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4928 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4929
4930 ev_unloop => ev_break
4931 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4932 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4933 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4934
4935 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4936
4937 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4938 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4939 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4940
4941Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4942C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4943associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4944ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4945as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4946C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4947typedef.
4948
4949=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4950
4951The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4952mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4953and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4954
4955=back
4956
4957
4178=head1 GLOSSARY 4958=head1 GLOSSARY
4179 4959
4180=over 4 4960=over 4
4181 4961
4182=item active 4962=item active
4183 4963
4184A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4964A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4185an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4965See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4186 4966
4187=item application 4967=item application
4188 4968
4189In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4969In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4970
4971=item backend
4972
4973The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4190 4974
4191=item callback 4975=item callback
4192 4976
4193The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4977The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4194detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4978detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4195received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4979received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4196 4980
4197=item callback invocation 4981=item callback/watcher invocation
4198 4982
4199The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4983The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4200 4984
4201=item event 4985=item event
4202 4986
4203A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 4987A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4204for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 4988for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4205any other events happening anymore. 4989any other events happening anymore.
4206 4990
4207In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 4991In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4208C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 4992C<EV_TIMER>).
4209 4993
4210=item event library 4994=item event library
4211 4995
4212A software package implementing an event model and loop. 4996A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4213 4997
4221The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5005The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4222watchers and events. 5006watchers and events.
4223 5007
4224=item pending 5008=item pending
4225 5009
4226A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5010A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4227and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5011detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4228pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4229
4230A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4231its pending status.
4232 5012
4233=item real time 5013=item real time
4234 5014
4235The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5015The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4236 5016
4243=item watcher 5023=item watcher
4244 5024
4245A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5025A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4246to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5026to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4247 5027
4248=item watcher invocation
4249
4250The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4251
4252=back 5028=back
4253 5029
4254=head1 AUTHOR 5030=head1 AUTHOR
4255 5031
4256Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5032Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5033Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4257 5034

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