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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)) [NOT REENTRANT]
234 247
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
360Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
361libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
362default loop 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 it's 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 it's 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
394 451
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)
456
457Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
458kernels).
399 459
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).
415of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 475of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
416I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 476I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
417even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 477even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
418on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 478on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
419employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 479employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
420events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 480events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
481not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
482perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
421 483
422While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 484While 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 485will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
424incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 486incident (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 487I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
518 580
519It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 581It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
520 582
521=back 583=back
522 584
523If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these 585If 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 586then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
525specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 587here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
526 588()> 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.
554 589
555Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 590Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
556 591
557 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 592 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
558 if (!epoller) 593 if (!epoller)
559 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 594 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
560 595
596Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
597used if available.
598
599 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
600
561=item ev_default_destroy () 601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
562 602
563Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 603Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
564etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 604etc.). 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 605sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
566responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 606responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
567calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 607calling 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 608the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
570 610
571Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 611Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
572handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 612handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
573as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 613as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
574 614
575In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 615This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
576rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 616C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
617C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
618
619Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
620except in the rare occasion where you really need to free it's resources.
577pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 621If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
578C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 622and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
579 623
580=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 624=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
581 625
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 626This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
588to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 627reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
589name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 628name, 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 629the 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 630child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
592functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 631
632Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
633a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
634because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
635during fork.
593 636
594On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 637On 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 638process 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. 639you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
640call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
641difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
642costly reset of the backend).
597 643
598The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 644The 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 645it just in case after a fork.
600quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
601 646
647Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
648using pthreads.
649
650 static void
651 post_fork_child (void)
652 {
653 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
654 }
655
656 ...
602 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 657 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.
610 658
611=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 659=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
612 660
613Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 661Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
614otherwise. 662otherwise.
615 663
616=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 664=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
617 665
618Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 666Returns 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 667to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
620happily wraps around with enough iterations. 668and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
621 669
622This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 670This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
623"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 671"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
624C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 672C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
673prepare and check phases.
625 674
626=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 675=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
627 676
628Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 677Returns 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. 678times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
630 679
631Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 680Outside 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), 681C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
633in which case it is higher. 682in which case it is higher.
634 683
635Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 684Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
636etc.), doesn't count as exit. 685etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
686ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
637 687
638=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 688=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
639 689
640Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 690Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
641use. 691use.
650 700
651=item ev_now_update (loop) 701=item ev_now_update (loop)
652 702
653Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 703Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
654returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 704returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
655is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 705is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
656 706
657This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 707This 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 708very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
659the current time is a good idea. 709the current time is a good idea.
660 710
662 712
663=item ev_suspend (loop) 713=item ev_suspend (loop)
664 714
665=item ev_resume (loop) 715=item ev_resume (loop)
666 716
667These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 717These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
668not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 718loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
669 719
670A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 720A 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 721the 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 722would 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> 723the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
675C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 725C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
676 726
677Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 727Effectively, 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 728between 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 729will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
680occured while suspended). 730occurred while suspended).
681 731
682After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 732After 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> 733given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
684without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 734without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
685 735
686Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 736Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
687event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 737event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
688 738
689=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 739=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
690 740
691Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 741Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
692after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 742after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
693events. 743handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
744the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
745is why event loops are called I<loops>.
694 746
695If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 747If 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. 748until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
749called.
697 750
698Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 751Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
699relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 752relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
700finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 753finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
701that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 754that 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 755of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
703beauty. 756beauty.
704 757
705A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 758A 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 759those 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 760block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
708the loop. 761iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
762events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
709 763
710A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 764A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
711necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 765necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
712will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 766will 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 767be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
714user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 768user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
715iteration of the loop. 769iteration of the loop.
716 770
717This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 771This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
718with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 772with 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 773own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
720usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 774usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
721 775
722Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 776Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
723 777
778 - Increment loop depth.
779 - Reset the ev_break status.
724 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 780 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
781 LOOP:
725 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 782 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
726 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 783 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
727 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 784 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
785 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
728 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 786 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
729 as to not disturb the other process. 787 as to not disturb the other process.
730 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 788 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
731 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 789 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
732 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 790 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
733 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 791 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
734 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 792 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
735 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 793 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
794 - Increment loop iteration counter.
736 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 795 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
737 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 796 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
738 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 797 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
739 - Queue all expired timers. 798 - Queue all expired timers.
740 - Queue all expired periodics. 799 - Queue all expired periodics.
741 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 800 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
742 - Queue all check watchers. 801 - Queue all check watchers.
743 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 802 - 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 803 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
745 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 804 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
746 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 805 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
747 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 806 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
748 continue with step *. 807 continue with step LOOP.
808 FINISH:
809 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
810 - Decrement the loop depth.
811 - Return.
749 812
750Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 813Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
751anymore. 814anymore.
752 815
753 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 816 ... 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..) 817 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
755 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 818 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
756 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 819 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
757 820
758=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 821=item ev_break (loop, how)
759 822
760Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 823Can 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 824has 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 825C<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. 826C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
764 827
765This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 828This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
766 829
767It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 830It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO##
768 831
769=item ev_ref (loop) 832=item ev_ref (loop)
770 833
771=item ev_unref (loop) 834=item ev_unref (loop)
772 835
773Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 836Ref/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 837loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
775count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 838count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
776 839
777If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 840This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
778from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 841unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
842returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
779stopping it. 843before stopping it.
780 844
781As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 845As 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 846is 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 847exiting 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 848excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
785third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 849third-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 850before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
787before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 851before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
788(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 852(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
789in the callback). 853in the callback).
790 854
791Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 855Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
792running when nothing else is active. 856running when nothing else is active.
793 857
794 ev_signal exitsig; 858 ev_signal exitsig;
795 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 859 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
796 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 860 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
841usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 905usually 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 906as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
843you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 907you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
844parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 908parallelity, 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, 909need 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). 910then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
847 911
848Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 912Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
849saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 913saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
850are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 914are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
851times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 915times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
859 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 923 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
860 924
861=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 925=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
862 926
863This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 927This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
864pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 928pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
865but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 929but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
930function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
931when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
932event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
933thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
934
935=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
936
937Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
938are pending.
866 939
867=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 940=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
868 941
869This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 942This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
870invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 943invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
871this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 944this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
872invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 945invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
873 946
874If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 947If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
875callback. 948callback.
878 951
879Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 952Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
880can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 953can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
881each call to a libev function. 954each call to a libev function.
882 955
883However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 956However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
884wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 957to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
885C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 958loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
886and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 959I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
887 960
888When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 961When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
889suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 962suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
890afterwards. 963afterwards.
891 964
892Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and 965Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and
893C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again. 966C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again.
967
968While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
969C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
970modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
971have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
972waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
973to take note of any changes you made.
974
975In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
976invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
977
978See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
979document.
894 980
895=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 981=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
896 982
897=item ev_userdata (loop) 983=item ev_userdata (loop)
898 984
903These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 989These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
904and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 990and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
905C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 991C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
906any other purpose as well. 992any other purpose as well.
907 993
908=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 994=item ev_verify (loop)
909 995
910This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 996This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
911compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 997compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
912through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 998through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
913is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 999is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
924 1010
925In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1011In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
926watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1012watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
927watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1013watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
928 1014
929A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1015A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
930interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1016your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
931become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1017to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1018for that:
932 1019
933 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1020 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
934 { 1021 {
935 ev_io_stop (w); 1022 ev_io_stop (w);
936 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1023 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
937 } 1024 }
938 1025
939 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1026 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
940 1027
941 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1028 ev_io stdin_watcher;
942 1029
943 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1030 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
944 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1031 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
945 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1032 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
946 1033
947 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1034 ev_run (loop, 0);
948 1035
949As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1036As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
950watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1037watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
951stack). 1038stack).
952 1039
953Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1040Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
954or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1041or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
955 1042
956Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1043Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
957(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1044*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
958callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1045invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
959watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1046time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
960is readable and/or writable). 1047and/or writable).
961 1048
962Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1049Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
963macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1050macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
964is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1051is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
965ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1052ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
988=item C<EV_WRITE> 1075=item C<EV_WRITE>
989 1076
990The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1077The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
991writable. 1078writable.
992 1079
993=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1080=item C<EV_TIMER>
994 1081
995The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1082The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
996 1083
997=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1084=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
998 1085
1016 1103
1017=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1104=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1018 1105
1019=item C<EV_CHECK> 1106=item C<EV_CHECK>
1020 1107
1021All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1108All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1022to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1109to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1023C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1110C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1024received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1111received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1025many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1112many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1026(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1113(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1027C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1114C<ev_run> from blocking).
1028 1115
1029=item C<EV_EMBED> 1116=item C<EV_EMBED>
1030 1117
1031The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1118The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1032 1119
1033=item C<EV_FORK> 1120=item C<EV_FORK>
1034 1121
1035The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1122The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1036C<ev_fork>). 1123C<ev_fork>).
1124
1125=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1126
1127The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1037 1128
1038=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1129=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1039 1130
1040The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1131The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1041 1132
1063programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another 1154programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1064thing, so beware. 1155thing, so beware.
1065 1156
1066=back 1157=back
1067 1158
1159=head2 WATCHER STATES
1160
1161There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1162active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1163transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1164rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1165
1166=over 4
1167
1168=item initialiased
1169
1170Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1171initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1172C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1173
1174In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1175in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1176
1177=item started/running/active
1178
1179Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1180property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1181this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1182freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1183and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1184
1185=item pending
1186
1187If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1188in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1189stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1190about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1191callback.
1192
1193The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1194an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1195is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1196but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1197moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1198previous item still apply.
1199
1200It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1201via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1202active.
1203
1204=item stopped
1205
1206A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1207be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1208latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1209of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1210freeing it is often a good idea.
1211
1212While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1213initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1214you wish.
1215
1216=back
1217
1068=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 1218=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1069 1219
1070=over 4 1220=over 4
1071 1221
1072=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1222=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1088 1238
1089 ev_io w; 1239 ev_io w;
1090 ev_init (&w, my_cb); 1240 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1091 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1241 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1092 1242
1093=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1243=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1094 1244
1095This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1245This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1096call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1246call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1097call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1247call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1098macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1248macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1111 1261
1112Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step. 1262Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1113 1263
1114 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1264 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1115 1265
1116=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1266=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1117 1267
1118Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1268Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1119events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1269events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1120 1270
1121Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this 1271Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1122whole section. 1272whole section.
1123 1273
1124 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1274 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1125 1275
1126=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1276=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1127 1277
1128Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether 1278Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1129the watcher was active or not). 1279the watcher was active or not).
1130 1280
1131It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example, 1281It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1156=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1306=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1157 1307
1158Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1308Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1159(modulo threads). 1309(modulo threads).
1160 1310
1161=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1311=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1162 1312
1163=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1313=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1164 1314
1165Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1315Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1166integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1316integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1197returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the 1347returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1198watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1348watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1199 1349
1200Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1350Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1201callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1351callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1352
1353=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1354
1355Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1356had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1357initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1358not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1359
1360Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1361C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1362not started in the first place.
1363
1364See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1365functions that do not need a watcher.
1202 1366
1203=back 1367=back
1204 1368
1205 1369
1206=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1370=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1317 1481
1318For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1482For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1319you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1483you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1320the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1484the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1321processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1485processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1322continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1486continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1323the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1487the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1324workable. 1488workable.
1325 1489
1326Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1490Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1327miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1491miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1341 { 1505 {
1342 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1506 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1343 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1507 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1344 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1508 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1345 1509
1346 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1510 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1347 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1511 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1348 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1512 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1349 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1513 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1350 } 1514 }
1351 1515
1405 1569
1406If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1570If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1407known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1571known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1408C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1572C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1409descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1573descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1410files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1574files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1411 1575
1412Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1576Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1413receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1577receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1414be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1578be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1415because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1579because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1480 1644
1481So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1645So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1482ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1646ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1483somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1647somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1484 1648
1649=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1650
1651Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1652found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1653connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1654
1655For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1656of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1657rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1658the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1659typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1660
1661Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1662operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1663situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1664cope with overload is known (to me).
1665
1666One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1667- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1668situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1669event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1670
1671A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1672C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1673messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1674what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1675the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1676usage.
1677
1678If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1679descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1680when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1681close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1682clients under typical overload conditions.
1683
1684The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1685is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1686opportunity for a DoS attack.
1485 1687
1486=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1688=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1487 1689
1488=over 4 1690=over 4
1489 1691
1521 ... 1723 ...
1522 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1724 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1523 ev_io stdin_readable; 1725 ev_io stdin_readable;
1524 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1726 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1525 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1727 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1526 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1728 ev_run (loop, 0);
1527 1729
1528 1730
1529=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1731=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1530 1732
1531Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1733Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1540The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1742The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1541passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1743passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1542might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1744might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1543same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1745same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1544before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1746before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1545no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1747no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1546 1748
1547=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1749=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1548 1750
1549Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1751Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1550recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1752recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1636 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1838 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1637 1839
1638 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1840 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1639 if (timeout < now) 1841 if (timeout < now)
1640 { 1842 {
1641 // timeout occured, take action 1843 // timeout occurred, take action
1642 } 1844 }
1643 else 1845 else
1644 { 1846 {
1645 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1847 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1646 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1848 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1668to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1870to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1669callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1871callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1670 1872
1671 ev_init (timer, callback); 1873 ev_init (timer, callback);
1672 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1874 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1673 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1875 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1674 1876
1675And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1877And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1676C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1878C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1677 1879
1678 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1880 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1679 1881
1680This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1882This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1681time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1883time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1682 1884
1683Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1885Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1721 1923
1722=head3 The special problem of time updates 1924=head3 The special problem of time updates
1723 1925
1724Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1926Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1725least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1927least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1726time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1928time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1727growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1929growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1728lots of events in one iteration. 1930lots of events in one iteration.
1729 1931
1730The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1932The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1731time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1933time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1737 1939
1738If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 1940If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1739update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 1941update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1740()>. 1942()>.
1741 1943
1944=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1945
1946When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1947can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1948
1949Some quick tests made with a Linux 2.6.28 indicate that a suspend freezes
1950all processes, while the clocks (C<times>, C<CLOCK_MONOTONIC>) continue
1951to run until the system is suspended, but they will not advance while the
1952system is suspended. That means, on resume, it will be as if the program
1953was frozen for a few seconds, but the suspend time will not be counted
1954towards C<ev_timer> when a monotonic clock source is used. The real time
1955clock advanced as expected, but if it is used as sole clocksource, then a
1956long suspend would be detected as a time jump by libev, and timers would
1957be adjusted accordingly.
1958
1959I would not be surprised to see different behaviour in different between
1960operating systems, OS versions or even different hardware.
1961
1962The other form of suspend (job control, or sending a SIGSTOP) will see a
1963time jump in the monotonic clocks and the realtime clock. If the program
1964is suspended for a very long time, and monotonic clock sources are in use,
1965then you can expect C<ev_timer>s to expire as the full suspension time
1966will be counted towards the timers. When no monotonic clock source is in
1967use, then libev will again assume a timejump and adjust accordingly.
1968
1969It might be beneficial for this latter case to call C<ev_suspend>
1970and C<ev_resume> in code that handles C<SIGTSTP>, to at least get
1971deterministic behaviour in this case (you can do nothing against
1972C<SIGSTOP>).
1973
1742=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1974=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1743 1975
1744=over 4 1976=over 4
1745 1977
1746=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1978=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1772C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2004C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1773 2005
1774This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2006This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1775usage example. 2007usage example.
1776 2008
2009=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2010
2011Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2012then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
2013the timeout value currently configured.
2014
2015That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
2016C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
2017will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
2018roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
2019too), and so on.
2020
1777=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2021=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1778 2022
1779The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 2023The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1780or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 2024or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1781which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 2025which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
1806 } 2050 }
1807 2051
1808 ev_timer mytimer; 2052 ev_timer mytimer;
1809 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2053 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1810 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2054 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1811 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2055 ev_run (loop, 0);
1812 2056
1813 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2057 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1814 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2058 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1815 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2059 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1816 2060
1842 2086
1843As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2087As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1844point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2088point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1845timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2089timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1846earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2090earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1847(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2091(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1848 2092
1849=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2093=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1850 2094
1851=over 4 2095=over 4
1852 2096
1980Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2224Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1981system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2225system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1982potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2226potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1983 2227
1984 static void 2228 static void
1985 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2229 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
1986 { 2230 {
1987 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2231 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1988 } 2232 }
1989 2233
1990 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2234 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2016Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2260Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2017signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2261signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2018will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2262will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2019normal event processing, like any other event. 2263normal event processing, like any other event.
2020 2264
2021If you want signals asynchronously, just use C<sigaction> as you would 2265If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2022do without libev and forget about sharing the signal. You can even use 2266C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2023C<ev_async> from a signal handler to synchronously wake up an event loop. 2267the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2268synchronously wake up an event loop.
2024 2269
2025You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 2270You can configure as many watchers as you like for the same signal, but
2271only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2272default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2273C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2274the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2275
2026first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal handler 2276When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
2027with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2277with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
2028you don't register any with libev for the same signal). Similarly, when 2278you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
2029the last signal watcher for a signal is stopped, libev will reset the
2030signal handler to SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
2031 2279
2032If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2280If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2033C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly 2281C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2034interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by 2282not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2035signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 2283interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2036them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2284and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2285
2286=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2287
2288Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2289(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2290stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2291and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2292
2293While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2294sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2295C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2296certain signals to be blocked.
2297
2298This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2299the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2300choice usually).
2301
2302The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2303to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2304catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2305
2306In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2307unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2308the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2309I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2310
2311So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2312you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2313is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2037 2314
2038=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2315=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2039 2316
2040=over 4 2317=over 4
2041 2318
2057Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2334Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2058 2335
2059 static void 2336 static void
2060 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2337 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2061 { 2338 {
2062 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2339 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2063 } 2340 }
2064 2341
2065 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2342 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2066 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2343 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2067 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2344 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2086libev) 2363libev)
2087 2364
2088=head3 Process Interaction 2365=head3 Process Interaction
2089 2366
2090Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 2367Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
2091initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 2368initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if the
2092the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence 2369first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
2093of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 2370of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
2094synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 2371synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
2095children, even ones not watched. 2372children, even ones not watched.
2096 2373
2097=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 2374=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
2107=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher 2384=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
2108 2385
2109Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the 2386Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
2110child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the 2387child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
2111callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically 2388callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
2112when a child exit is detected. 2389when a child exit is detected (calling C<ev_child_stop> twice is not a
2390problem).
2113 2391
2114=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2392=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2115 2393
2116=over 4 2394=over 4
2117 2395
2452 2730
2453Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2731Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2454prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2732prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2455afterwards. 2733afterwards.
2456 2734
2457You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2735You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2458the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2736the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2459watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2737watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2460rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2738rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2461those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2739those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2462C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2740C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2630 2908
2631 if (timeout >= 0) 2909 if (timeout >= 0)
2632 // create/start timer 2910 // create/start timer
2633 2911
2634 // poll 2912 // poll
2635 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2913 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2636 2914
2637 // stop timer again 2915 // stop timer again
2638 if (timeout >= 0) 2916 if (timeout >= 0)
2639 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2917 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2640 2918
2718if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2996if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2719 2997
2720=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2998=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2721 2999
2722Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3000Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2723similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3001similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2724appropriate way for embedded loops. 3002appropriate way for embedded loops.
2725 3003
2726=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3004=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2727 3005
2728The embedded event loop. 3006The embedded event loop.
2788C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3066C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2789handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3067handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2790 3068
2791=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3069=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2792 3070
2793Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3071Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2794up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3072up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2795sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3073sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2796 3074
2797This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3075This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2798in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3076in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2814disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3092disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2815signal watchers). 3093signal watchers).
2816 3094
2817When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3095When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2818other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3096other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2819C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3097C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2820the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3098Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2821have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3099watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2822also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3100those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3101signal watchers.
2823 3102
2824=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2825 3104
2826=over 4 3105=over 4
2827 3106
2828=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3107=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2829 3108
2830Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3109Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2831kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3110kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2832believe me. 3111really.
2833 3112
2834=back 3113=back
2835 3114
2836 3115
3116=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3117
3118Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3119by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3120
3121While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3122watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3123program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3124loop when you want them to be invoked.
3125
3126Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3127all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3128makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3129can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3130
3131=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3132
3133=over 4
3134
3135=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3136
3137Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3138any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3139pointless, I assure you.
3140
3141=back
3142
3143Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3144cleanup functions are called.
3145
3146 static void
3147 program_exits (void)
3148 {
3149 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3150 }
3151
3152 ...
3153 atexit (program_exits);
3154
3155
2837=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3156=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2838 3157
2839In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3158In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2840asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3159asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2841loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3160loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2842 3161
2843Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3162Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2844control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3163for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2845C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3164watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2846can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3165it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2847safe.
2848 3166
2849This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3167This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2850too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3168too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2851(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3169(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2852C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3170C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2857=head3 Queueing 3175=head3 Queueing
2858 3176
2859C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3177C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2860is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3178is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2861multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3179multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2862need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3180need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3181semantics.
2863 3182
2864That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3183That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2865queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your 3184queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2866queue: 3185queue:
2867 3186
3006 3325
3007If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3326If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
3008started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3327started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
3009repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3328repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
3010 3329
3011The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3330The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
3012passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3331passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
3013C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3332C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
3014value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3333value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3015a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3334a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3016events precedence. 3335events precedence.
3017 3336
3018Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3337Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3019 3338
3020 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3339 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
3021 { 3340 {
3022 if (revents & EV_READ) 3341 if (revents & EV_READ)
3023 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3342 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3024 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3343 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3025 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3344 /* doh, nothing entered */;
3026 } 3345 }
3027 3346
3028 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3347 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3029 3348
3030=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
3031
3032Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
3033had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
3034initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
3035
3036=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3349=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3037 3350
3038Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3351Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3039the given events it. 3352the given events it.
3040 3353
3041=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3354=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3042 3355
3043Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3356Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
3044loop!). 3357loop!).
3045 3358
3046=back 3359=back
3126 3439
3127=over 4 3440=over 4
3128 3441
3129=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3442=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
3130 3443
3131=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3444=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
3132 3445
3133=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3446=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
3134 3447
3135The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3448The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
3136with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3449with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
3169 myclass obj; 3482 myclass obj;
3170 ev::io iow; 3483 ev::io iow;
3171 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3484 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3172 3485
3173=item w->set (object *) 3486=item w->set (object *)
3174
3175This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3176 3487
3177This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3488This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3178will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3489will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3179functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3490functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3180the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3491the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3213Example: Use a plain function as callback. 3524Example: Use a plain function as callback.
3214 3525
3215 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3526 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
3216 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3527 iow.set <io_cb> ();
3217 3528
3218=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3529=item w->set (loop)
3219 3530
3220Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3531Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3221do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3532do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3222 3533
3223=item w->set ([arguments]) 3534=item w->set ([arguments])
3224 3535
3225Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3536Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3226called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3537method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3227automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3538C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3228method. 3539when reconfiguring it with this method.
3229 3540
3230=item w->start () 3541=item w->start ()
3231 3542
3232Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3543Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3233constructor already stores the event loop. 3544constructor already stores the event loop.
3234 3545
3546=item w->start ([arguments])
3547
3548Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3549convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3550the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3551
3235=item w->stop () 3552=item w->stop ()
3236 3553
3237Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3554Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3238 3555
3239=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3556=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3251 3568
3252=back 3569=back
3253 3570
3254=back 3571=back
3255 3572
3256Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3573Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3257the constructor. 3574watchers in the constructor.
3258 3575
3259 class myclass 3576 class myclass
3260 { 3577 {
3261 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3578 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3579 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3262 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3580 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3263 3581
3264 myclass (int fd) 3582 myclass (int fd)
3265 { 3583 {
3266 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3584 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3585 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3267 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3586 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3268 3587
3269 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3588 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3589 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3590
3591 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3270 } 3592 }
3271 }; 3593 };
3272 3594
3273 3595
3274=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3596=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3320=item Ocaml 3642=item Ocaml
3321 3643
3322Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3644Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3323L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3645L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3324 3646
3647=item Lua
3648
3649Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3650time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3651L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3652
3325=back 3653=back
3326 3654
3327 3655
3328=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3656=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3329 3657
3342loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3670loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3343C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3671C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3344 3672
3345 ev_unref (EV_A); 3673 ev_unref (EV_A);
3346 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3674 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3347 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3675 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3348 3676
3349It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3677It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3350which is often provided by the following macro. 3678which is often provided by the following macro.
3351 3679
3352=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3680=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3392 } 3720 }
3393 3721
3394 ev_check check; 3722 ev_check check;
3395 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3723 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3396 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3724 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3397 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3725 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3398 3726
3399=head1 EMBEDDING 3727=head1 EMBEDDING
3400 3728
3401Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3729Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3402applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3730applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3482 libev.m4 3810 libev.m4
3483 3811
3484=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3812=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3485 3813
3486Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3814Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3487define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3815define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3488autoconf is documented for every option. 3816the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3817
3818Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3819values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3820to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3821to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3822users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3823settings.
3489 3824
3490=over 4 3825=over 4
3491 3826
3827=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3828
3829Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3830release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3831have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3832
3833You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3834versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3835sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3836from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3837typedef in that case.
3838
3839In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3840and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3841removed completely.
3842
3492=item EV_STANDALONE 3843=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3493 3844
3494Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3845Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3495keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3846keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3496implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3847implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3497supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3848supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3498F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3849F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3499 3850
3500In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 3851In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3501configuration, but has to be more conservative. 3852configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3502 3853
3503=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3854=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3504 3855
3505If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3856If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3570be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3921be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3571C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3922C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3572it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3923it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3573on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3924on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3574 3925
3575=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3926=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3576 3927
3577If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3928If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3578file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3929file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3579default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3930default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3580correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3931correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3581in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3932in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3933
3934=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3935
3936If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3937using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3938their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3939to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3940
3941=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3942
3943If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3944macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3945file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3946the underlying OS handle.
3582 3947
3583=item EV_USE_POLL 3948=item EV_USE_POLL
3584 3949
3585If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3950If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3586backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3951backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3633as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 3998as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3634 3999
3635In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4000In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3636(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4001(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3637 4002
3638=item EV_H 4003=item EV_H (h)
3639 4004
3640The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4005The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3641undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4006undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3642used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4007used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3643 4008
3644=item EV_CONFIG_H 4009=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3645 4010
3646If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4011If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3647F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4012F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3648C<EV_H>, above. 4013C<EV_H>, above.
3649 4014
3650=item EV_EVENT_H 4015=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3651 4016
3652Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4017Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3653of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4018of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3654 4019
3655=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4020=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3656 4021
3657If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4022If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3658prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4023prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3659occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4024occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3660around libev functions. 4025around libev functions.
3682fine. 4047fine.
3683 4048
3684If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4049If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3685both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4050both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3686 4051
3687=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4052=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4053EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4054EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3688 4055
3689If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4056If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3690defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4057the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3691code. 4058is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3692 4059
3693=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4060=item EV_FEATURES
3694
3695If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3696defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3697code.
3698
3699=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3700
3701If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3702defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3703watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3704
3705=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3706
3707If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3708defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3709
3710=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3711
3712If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3713defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3714
3715=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3716
3717If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3718defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3719
3720=item EV_MINIMAL
3721 4061
3722If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4062If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3723speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this 4063speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3724is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size 4064certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3725on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over 4065that can be enabled on the platform.
3726the default 4-heap.
3727 4066
3728You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need 4067A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
3729and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert> 4068with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
3730(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot. 4069additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4070but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4071backend, use this:
3731 4072
3732Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to 4073 #define EV_FEATURES 0
3733provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts 4074 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
3734of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes 4075 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
3735over time. 4076 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4077 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4078
4079The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4080values:
4081
4082=over 4
4083
4084=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4085
4086Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4087
4088Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4089code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4090
4091When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4092gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4093assertions.
4094
4095=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4096
4097Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4098hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4099and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4100runtime.
4101
4102=item C<4> - full API configuration
4103
4104This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4105enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4106
4107=item C<8> - full API
4108
4109This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4110details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4111feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4112
4113=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4114
4115Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4116only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4117embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4118C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4119
4120=item C<32> - enable all backends
4121
4122This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4123least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4124
4125=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4126
4127Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4128default.
4129
4130=back
4131
4132Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4133reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4134code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4135watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4136
4137With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4138when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4139your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4140I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4141
4142=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4143
4144If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4145functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4146somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4147libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4148big.
4149
4150Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4151enabled.
4152
4153=item EV_NSIG
4154
4155The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
4156signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
4157automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
4158specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
4159good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
4160statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3736 4161
3737=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4162=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3738 4163
3739C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4164C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3740pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4165pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3741than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4166usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3742increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4167might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3743 4168
3744=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4169=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3745 4170
3746C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4171C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3747inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4172inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3748usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4173disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3749watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4174C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3750two). 4175power of two).
3751 4176
3752=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4177=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3753 4178
3754Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4179Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3755timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4180timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3756to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4181to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3757faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4182faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3758 4183
3759The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4184The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3760(disabled). 4185will be C<0>.
3761 4186
3762=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4187=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3763 4188
3764Heaps 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
3765timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4190timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3766the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4191the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3767which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4192which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3768but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4193but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3769noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4194noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3770 4195
3771The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4196The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3772(disabled). 4197will be C<0>.
3773 4198
3774=item EV_VERIFY 4199=item EV_VERIFY
3775 4200
3776Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4201Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3777be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4202be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3778in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4203in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3779called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4204called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3780called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4205called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3781verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4206verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3782libev considerably. 4207libev considerably.
3783 4208
3784The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4209The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3785C<0>. 4210will be C<0>.
3786 4211
3787=item EV_COMMON 4212=item EV_COMMON
3788 4213
3789By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4214By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3790this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4215this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3791members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4216members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3792though, and it must be identical each time. 4217though, and it must be identical each time.
3793 4218
3794For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4219For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3795 4220
3848file. 4273file.
3849 4274
3850The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4275The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3851that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4276that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3852 4277
3853 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4278 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3854 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4279 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3855 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3856 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4280 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4281 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3857 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4282 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3858 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4283 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4284 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3859 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4285 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3860 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3861 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3862 4286
3863 #include "ev++.h" 4287 #include "ev++.h"
3864 4288
3865And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4289And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3866 4290
3928 4352
3929=back 4353=back
3930 4354
3931=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE 4355=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3932 4356
4357Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4358thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4359created/added/removed.
4360
4361For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4362which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4363languages).
4364
4365The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4366variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4367event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4368
4369First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4370
4371 typedef struct {
4372 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4373 ev_async async_w;
4374 thread_t tid;
4375 cond_t invoke_cv;
4376 } userdata;
4377
4378 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4379 {
4380 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4381 static userdata u;
4382
4383 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4384 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4385
4386 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4387 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4388
4389 // now associate this with the loop
4390 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4391 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4392 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4393
4394 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4395 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4396 }
4397
4398The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4399solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4400that might have been added:
4401
4402 static void
4403 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4404 {
4405 // just used for the side effects
4406 }
4407
4408The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4409protecting the loop data, respectively.
4410
4411 static void
4412 l_release (EV_P)
4413 {
4414 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4415 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4416 }
4417
4418 static void
4419 l_acquire (EV_P)
4420 {
4421 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4422 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4423 }
4424
4425The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4426into C<ev_run>:
4427
4428 void *
4429 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4430 {
4431 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4432
4433 l_acquire (EV_A);
4434 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4435 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4436 l_release (EV_A);
4437
4438 return 0;
4439 }
4440
4441Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4442signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4443writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4444have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4445and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4446watchers is very beneficial):
4447
4448 static void
4449 l_invoke (EV_P)
4450 {
4451 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4452
4453 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4454 {
4455 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4456 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4457 }
4458 }
4459
4460Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4461will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4462thread to continue:
4463
4464 static void
4465 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4466 {
4467 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4468
4469 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4470 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4471 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4472 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4473 }
4474
4475Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4476event loop, you will now have to lock:
4477
4478 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4479 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4480
4481 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4482
4483 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4484 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4485 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4486 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4487
4488Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4489an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4490about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4491watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4492
3933=head3 COROUTINES 4493=head3 COROUTINES
3934 4494
3935Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4495Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3936libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4496libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3937coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4497coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
3938different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running the 4498different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
3939loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 4499the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
3940you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4500that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3941 4501
3942Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4502Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3943C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4503C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3944they do not call any callbacks. 4504they do not call any callbacks.
3945 4505
3946=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4506=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
3947 4507
3948Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4508Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3959maintainable. 4519maintainable.
3960 4520
3961And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4521And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3962wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4522wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3963seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4523seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
3964warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4524warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
3965been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4525been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
3966such buggy versions. 4526such buggy versions.
3967 4527
3968While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4528While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3969"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4529"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4005I suggest using suppression lists. 4565I suggest using suppression lists.
4006 4566
4007 4567
4008=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4568=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4009 4569
4570=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4571
4572GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4573interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4574
4575That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4576files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4577
4578Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4579by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4580standard libev compiled for their system.
4581
4582Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4583suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4584i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4585
4586=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4587
4588The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4589you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4590OpenGL drivers.
4591
4592=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4593
4594The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4595only sockets, many support pipes.
4596
4597Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4598rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4599loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4600probably going to work well.
4601
4602=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4603
4604Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4605implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4606release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4607
4608Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4609this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4610a loop.
4611
4612=head3 C<select> is buggy
4613
4614All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4615one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4616descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4617you use more.
4618
4619There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4620C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4621work on OS/X.
4622
4623=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4624
4625=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4626
4627The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4628thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4629without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4630defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4631
4632If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4633it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4634
4635=head3 Event port backend
4636
4637The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4638ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4639releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4640a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4641and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4642are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4643great.
4644
4645If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4646the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4647C<select> backends.
4648
4649=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4650
4651AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4652this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4653compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4654with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4655
4010=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4656=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4657
4658=head3 General issues
4011 4659
4012Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4660Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4013requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4661requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4014model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4662model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4015the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4663the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4016descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4664descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4017e.g. cygwin. 4665e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4666as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4667environment.
4018 4668
4019Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4669Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4020re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4670re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4021things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4671then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4022way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4672also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4023 4673
4024There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4674There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4025embedding it into other applications. 4675embedding it into other applications.
4026 4676
4027Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4677Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4055you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4705you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4056 4706
4057 #include "evwrap.h" 4707 #include "evwrap.h"
4058 #include "ev.c" 4708 #include "ev.c"
4059 4709
4060=over 4
4061
4062=item The winsocket select function 4710=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4063 4711
4064The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4712The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4065requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4713requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4066also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4714also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4067requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4715requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4076 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4724 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4077 4725
4078Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4726Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4079complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4727complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4080 4728
4081=item Limited number of file descriptors 4729=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4082 4730
4083Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4731Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4084 4732
4085Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4733Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4086of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4734of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4101runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4749runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4102(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4750(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4103you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4751you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4104the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4752the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4105 4753
4106=back
4107
4108=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4754=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4109 4755
4110In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4756In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4111backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4757backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4112 4758
4118Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4764Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4119structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4765structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4120assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4766assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4121callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4767callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4122calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4768calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4769
4770=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4771
4772Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4773writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4123 4774
4124=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4775=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4125 4776
4126The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4777The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4127C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4778C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4150watchers. 4801watchers.
4151 4802
4152=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4803=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4153 4804
4154The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4805The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4155have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4806have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4156enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4807good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4808(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4157implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4809implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4158ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4810IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
41592200.
4160 4811
4161=back 4812=back
4162 4813
4163If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4814If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4164 4815
4232involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4883involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4233 4884
4234=back 4885=back
4235 4886
4236 4887
4888=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4889
4890The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4891
4892At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4893for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4894layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4895new API early than late.
4896
4897=over 4
4898
4899=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4900
4901The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4902C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4903section.
4904
4905=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4906
4907These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4908
4909 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4910 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4911
4912=item function/symbol renames
4913
4914A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4915
4916 ev_loop => ev_run
4917 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4918 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4919
4920 ev_unloop => ev_break
4921 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4922 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4923 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4924
4925 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4926
4927 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4928 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4929 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4930
4931Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4932C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4933associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4934ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4935as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4936C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4937typedef.
4938
4939=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4940
4941The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4942mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4943and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4944
4945=back
4946
4947
4237=head1 GLOSSARY 4948=head1 GLOSSARY
4238 4949
4239=over 4 4950=over 4
4240 4951
4241=item active 4952=item active
4242 4953
4243A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4954A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4244an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4955See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4245 4956
4246=item application 4957=item application
4247 4958
4248In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4959In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4960
4961=item backend
4962
4963The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4249 4964
4250=item callback 4965=item callback
4251 4966
4252The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4967The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4253detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4968detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4254received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4969received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4255 4970
4256=item callback invocation 4971=item callback/watcher invocation
4257 4972
4258The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4973The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4259 4974
4260=item event 4975=item event
4261 4976
4262A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 4977A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4263for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 4978for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4264any other events happening anymore. 4979any other events happening anymore.
4265 4980
4266In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 4981In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4267C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 4982C<EV_TIMER>).
4268 4983
4269=item event library 4984=item event library
4270 4985
4271A software package implementing an event model and loop. 4986A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4272 4987
4280The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 4995The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4281watchers and events. 4996watchers and events.
4282 4997
4283=item pending 4998=item pending
4284 4999
4285A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5000A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4286and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5001detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4287pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4288
4289A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4290its pending status.
4291 5002
4292=item real time 5003=item real time
4293 5004
4294The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5005The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4295 5006
4302=item watcher 5013=item watcher
4303 5014
4304A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5015A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4305to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5016to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4306 5017
4307=item watcher invocation
4308
4309The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4310
4311=back 5018=back
4312 5019
4313=head1 AUTHOR 5020=head1 AUTHOR
4314 5021
4315Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5022Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5023Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4316 5024

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