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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
118Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common) 126Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
119configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For 127configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
120more info about various configuration options please have a look at 128more info about various configuration options please have a look at
121B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support 129B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
122for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of 130for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
123name 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
124this argument. 132this argument.
125 133
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 135
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131type 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
132aliases 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
133on 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
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 145
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 147
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
164 173
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 175
167Returns 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
168C<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
169you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 180
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 182
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 203not a problem.
194 204
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 208
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 212
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 225
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 227
217Return 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
218recommended 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
219returned 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
220most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
221(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
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 235
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 237
226Returns 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
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 243
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 245
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
235 247
236Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
237semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
238used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
239when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
265 } 277 }
266 278
267 ... 279 ...
268 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
269 281
270=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
271 283
272Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
273as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
274indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
275callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
292=back 304=back
293 305
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 307
296An 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
297is 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
298I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 311
300The 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
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 314do not.
303 315
304=over 4 316=over 4
305 317
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 319
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet 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
310false. 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
311flags. 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".
312 330
313If 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
314function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 333
316Note 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
317from 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
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
319 338
320The 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,
321C<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
322for 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
323create 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
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<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.
326 363
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
328backends 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>).
329 366
330The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
345useful 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
346around bugs. 383around bugs.
347 384
348=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 385=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
349 386
350Instead 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
351a 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.
352enabling this flag.
353 389
354This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 390This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
355and 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
356iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 392iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
357GNU/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
366environment variable. 402environment variable.
367 403
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 404=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369 405
370When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 406When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
371I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 407I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 408testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 409otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374 410
375=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGNALFD> 411=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
376 412
377When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 413When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
378I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This is 414I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
379probably only useful to work around any bugs in libev. Consequently, this 415delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
380flag might go away once the signalfd functionality is considered stable, 416it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
381so it's useful mostly in environment variables and not in program code. 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.
382 423
383=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 424=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
384 425
385This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 426This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
386libev 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,
411This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and 452This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
412C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 453C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
413 454
414=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 455=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
415 456
457Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
458kernels).
459
416For 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,
417but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 461but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
418like 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),
419epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 463epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
420 464
421The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 465The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
422of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 466of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
423dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 467dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
424descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 468descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
469returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
470(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
425so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4710.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
426I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 472forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
427take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 473set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
428hard to detect. 474and is of course hard to detect.
429 475
430Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 476Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
431of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 477of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
432I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 478I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
433even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 479even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
434on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 480on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
435employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 481employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
436events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 482events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
483not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
484perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
485
486Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
437 487
438While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 488While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
439will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 489will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
440incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 490incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
441I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 491I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
539If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 589If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
540then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 590then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
541here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 591here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
542()> will be tried. 592()> will be tried.
543 593
544Example: This is the most typical usage.
545
546 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
547 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
548
549Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
550environment settings to be taken into account:
551
552 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
553
554Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
555used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
556private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
557fds):
558
559 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
560
561=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
562
563Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
564always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
565handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
566undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
567
568Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
569libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
570default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
571
572Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 594Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
573 595
574 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 596 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
575 if (!epoller) 597 if (!epoller)
576 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 598 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
577 599
600Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
601used if available.
602
603 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
604
578=item ev_default_destroy () 605=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
579 606
580Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 607Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
581etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 608etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
582sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 609sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
583responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 610responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
584calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 611calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
585the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 612the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
587 614
588Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 615Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
589handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 616handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
590as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 617as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
591 618
592In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 619This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
593rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 620C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
621C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
622
623Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
624except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
594pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 625If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
595C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 626and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
596 627
597=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 628=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
598 629
599Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
600earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
601
602=item ev_default_fork ()
603
604This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 630This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
605to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 631reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
606name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 632name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
607the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 633the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
608sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 634child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
609functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 635
636Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
637a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
638because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
639during fork.
610 640
611On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 641On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
612process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 642process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
613you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 643you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
644call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
645difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
646costly reset of the backend).
614 647
615The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 648The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
616it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 649it just in case after a fork.
617quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
618 650
651Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
652using pthreads.
653
654 static void
655 post_fork_child (void)
656 {
657 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
658 }
659
660 ...
619 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 661 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
620
621=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
622
623Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
624C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
625after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
626entirely your own problem.
627 662
628=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 663=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
629 664
630Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 665Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
631otherwise. 666otherwise.
632 667
633=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 668=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
634 669
635Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 670Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
636the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 671to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
637happily wraps around with enough iterations. 672and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
638 673
639This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 674This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
640"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 675"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
641C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 676C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
677prepare and check phases.
642 678
643=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 679=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
644 680
645Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 681Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
646times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 682times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
647 683
648Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 684Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
649C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 685C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
650in which case it is higher. 686in which case it is higher.
651 687
652Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 688Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
653etc.), doesn't count as exit. 689etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
690ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
654 691
655=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 692=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
656 693
657Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 694Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
658use. 695use.
667 704
668=item ev_now_update (loop) 705=item ev_now_update (loop)
669 706
670Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 707Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
671returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 708returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
672is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 709is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
673 710
674This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 711This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
675very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 712very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
676the current time is a good idea. 713the current time is a good idea.
677 714
679 716
680=item ev_suspend (loop) 717=item ev_suspend (loop)
681 718
682=item ev_resume (loop) 719=item ev_resume (loop)
683 720
684These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 721These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
685not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 722loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
686 723
687A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 724A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
688the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 725the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
689would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 726would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
690the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 727the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
692C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 729C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
693 730
694Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 731Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
695between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 732between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
696will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 733will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
697occured while suspended). 734occurred while suspended).
698 735
699After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 736After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
700given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 737given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
701without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 738without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
702 739
703Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 740Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
704event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 741event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
705 742
706=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 743=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
707 744
708Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 745Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
709after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 746after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
710events. 747handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
748the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
749is why event loops are called I<loops>.
711 750
712If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 751If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
713either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 752until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
753called.
714 754
715Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 755Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
716relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 756relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
717finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 757finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
718that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 758that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
719of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 759of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
720beauty. 760beauty.
721 761
722A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 762A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
723those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 763those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
724process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 764block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
725the loop. 765iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
766events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
726 767
727A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 768A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
728necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 769necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
729will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 770will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
730be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 771be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
731user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 772user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
732iteration of the loop. 773iteration of the loop.
733 774
734This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 775This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
735with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 776with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
736own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 777own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
737usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 778usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
738 779
739Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 780Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
740 781
782 - Increment loop depth.
783 - Reset the ev_break status.
741 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 784 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
785 LOOP:
742 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 786 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
743 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 787 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
744 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 788 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
789 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
745 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 790 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
746 as to not disturb the other process. 791 as to not disturb the other process.
747 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 792 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
748 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 793 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
749 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 794 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
750 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 795 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
751 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 796 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
752 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 797 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
798 - Increment loop iteration counter.
753 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 799 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
754 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 800 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
755 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 801 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
756 - Queue all expired timers. 802 - Queue all expired timers.
757 - Queue all expired periodics. 803 - Queue all expired periodics.
758 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 804 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
759 - Queue all check watchers. 805 - Queue all check watchers.
760 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 806 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
761 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 807 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
762 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 808 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
763 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 809 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
764 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 810 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
765 continue with step *. 811 continue with step LOOP.
812 FINISH:
813 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
814 - Decrement the loop depth.
815 - Return.
766 816
767Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 817Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
768anymore. 818anymore.
769 819
770 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 820 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
771 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 821 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
772 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 822 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
773 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 823 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
774 824
775=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 825=item ev_break (loop, how)
776 826
777Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 827Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
778has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 828has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
779C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 829C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
780C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 830C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
781 831
782This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 832This "break state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
783 833
784It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 834It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too.
785 835
786=item ev_ref (loop) 836=item ev_ref (loop)
787 837
788=item ev_unref (loop) 838=item ev_unref (loop)
789 839
790Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 840Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
791loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 841loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
792count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 842count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
793 843
794If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 844This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
795from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 845unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
846returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
796stopping it. 847before stopping it.
797 848
798As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 849As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
799is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 850is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
800exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 851exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
801excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 852excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
802third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 853third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
803before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 854before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
804before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 855before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
805(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 856(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
806in the callback). 857in the callback).
807 858
808Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 859Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
809running when nothing else is active. 860running when nothing else is active.
810 861
811 ev_signal exitsig; 862 ev_signal exitsig;
812 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 863 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
813 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 864 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
858usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 909usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
859as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 910as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
860you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 911you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
861parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 912parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
862need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 913need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
863then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 914then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
864 915
865Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 916Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
866saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 917saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
867are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 918are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
868times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 919times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
876 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 927 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
877 928
878=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 929=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
879 930
880This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 931This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
881pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 932pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
882but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 933but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
934function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
935when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
936event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
937thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
883 938
884=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 939=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
885 940
886Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 941Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
887are pending. 942are pending.
888 943
889=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 944=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
890 945
891This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 946This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
892invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 947invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
893this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 948this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
894invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 949invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
895 950
896If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 951If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
897callback. 952callback.
900 955
901Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 956Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
902can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 957can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
903each call to a libev function. 958each call to a libev function.
904 959
905However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 960However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
906wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 961to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
907C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 962loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
908and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 963I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
909 964
910When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 965When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
911suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 966suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
912afterwards. 967afterwards.
913 968
916 971
917While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 972While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
918C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 973C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
919modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 974modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
920have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 975have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
921waited. USe an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 976waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
922to take note of any changes you made. 977to take note of any changes you made.
923 978
924In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 979In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
925invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 980invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
926 981
927See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 982See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
928document. 983document.
929 984
938These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 993These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
939and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 994and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
940C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 995C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
941any other purpose as well. 996any other purpose as well.
942 997
943=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 998=item ev_verify (loop)
944 999
945This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1000This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
946compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1001compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
947through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1002through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
948is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1003is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
959 1014
960In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1015In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
961watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1016watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
962watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1017watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
963 1018
964A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1019A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
965interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1020your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
966become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1021to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1022for that:
967 1023
968 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1024 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
969 { 1025 {
970 ev_io_stop (w); 1026 ev_io_stop (w);
971 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1027 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
972 } 1028 }
973 1029
974 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1030 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
975 1031
976 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1032 ev_io stdin_watcher;
977 1033
978 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1034 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
979 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1035 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
980 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1036 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
981 1037
982 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1038 ev_run (loop, 0);
983 1039
984As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1040As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
985watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1041watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
986stack). 1042stack).
987 1043
988Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1044Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
989or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1045or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
990 1046
991Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1047Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
992(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1048*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
993callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1049invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
994watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1050time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
995is readable and/or writable). 1051and/or writable).
996 1052
997Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1053Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
998macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1054macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
999is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1055is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1000ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1056ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1023=item C<EV_WRITE> 1079=item C<EV_WRITE>
1024 1080
1025The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1081The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
1026writable. 1082writable.
1027 1083
1028=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1084=item C<EV_TIMER>
1029 1085
1030The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1086The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
1031 1087
1032=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1088=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
1033 1089
1051 1107
1052=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1108=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1053 1109
1054=item C<EV_CHECK> 1110=item C<EV_CHECK>
1055 1111
1056All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1112All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1057to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1113to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1058C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1114C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1059received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1115received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1060many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1116many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1061(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1117(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1062C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1118C<ev_run> from blocking).
1063 1119
1064=item C<EV_EMBED> 1120=item C<EV_EMBED>
1065 1121
1066The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1122The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1067 1123
1068=item C<EV_FORK> 1124=item C<EV_FORK>
1069 1125
1070The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1126The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1071C<ev_fork>). 1127C<ev_fork>).
1128
1129=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1130
1131The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1072 1132
1073=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1133=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1074 1134
1075The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1135The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1076 1136
1123 1183
1124 ev_io w; 1184 ev_io w;
1125 ev_init (&w, my_cb); 1185 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1126 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1186 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1127 1187
1128=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1188=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1129 1189
1130This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1190This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1131call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1191call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1132call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1192call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1133macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1193macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1146 1206
1147Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step. 1207Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1148 1208
1149 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1209 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1150 1210
1151=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1211=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1152 1212
1153Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1213Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1154events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1214events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1155 1215
1156Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this 1216Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1157whole section. 1217whole section.
1158 1218
1159 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1219 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1160 1220
1161=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1221=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1162 1222
1163Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether 1223Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1164the watcher was active or not). 1224the watcher was active or not).
1165 1225
1166It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example, 1226It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1191=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1251=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1192 1252
1193Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1253Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1194(modulo threads). 1254(modulo threads).
1195 1255
1196=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1256=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1197 1257
1198=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1258=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1199 1259
1200Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1260Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1201integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1261integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1233watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1293watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1234 1294
1235Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1295Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1236callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1296callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1237 1297
1298=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1299
1300Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1301had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1302initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1303not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1304
1305Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1306C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1307not started in the first place.
1308
1309See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1310functions that do not need a watcher.
1311
1238=back 1312=back
1239
1240 1313
1241=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1314=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1242 1315
1243Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1316Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1244and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1317and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1300 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1373 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1301 { 1374 {
1302 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1375 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1303 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1376 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1304 } 1377 }
1378
1379=head2 WATCHER STATES
1380
1381There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1382active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1383transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1384rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1385
1386=over 4
1387
1388=item initialiased
1389
1390Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1391initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1392C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1393
1394In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1395in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1396
1397=item started/running/active
1398
1399Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1400property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1401this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1402freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1403and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1404
1405=item pending
1406
1407If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1408in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1409stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1410about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1411callback.
1412
1413The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1414an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1415is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1416but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1417moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1418previous item still apply.
1419
1420It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1421via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1422active.
1423
1424=item stopped
1425
1426A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1427be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1428latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1429of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1430freeing it is often a good idea.
1431
1432While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1433initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1434you wish.
1435
1436=back
1305 1437
1306=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1438=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1307 1439
1308Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1440Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1309integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1441integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1352 1484
1353For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1485For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1354you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1486you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1355the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1487the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1356processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1488processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1357continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1489continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1358the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1490the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1359workable. 1491workable.
1360 1492
1361Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1493Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1362miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1494miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1376 { 1508 {
1377 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1509 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1378 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1510 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1379 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1511 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1380 1512
1381 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1513 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1382 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1514 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1383 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1515 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1384 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1516 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1385 } 1517 }
1386 1518
1440 1572
1441If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1573If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1442known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1574known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1443C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1575C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1444descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1576descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1445files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1577files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1446 1578
1447Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1579Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1448receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1580receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1449be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1581be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1450because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1582because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1515 1647
1516So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1648So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1517ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1649ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1518somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1650somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1519 1651
1652=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1653
1654Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1655found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1656connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1657
1658For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1659of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1660rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1661the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1662typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1663
1664Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1665operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1666situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1667cope with overload is known (to me).
1668
1669One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1670- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1671situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1672event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1673
1674A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1675C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1676messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1677what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1678the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1679usage.
1680
1681If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1682descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1683when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1684close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1685clients under typical overload conditions.
1686
1687The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1688is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1689opportunity for a DoS attack.
1520 1690
1521=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1691=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1522 1692
1523=over 4 1693=over 4
1524 1694
1556 ... 1726 ...
1557 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1727 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1558 ev_io stdin_readable; 1728 ev_io stdin_readable;
1559 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1729 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1560 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1730 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1561 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1731 ev_run (loop, 0);
1562 1732
1563 1733
1564=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1734=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1565 1735
1566Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1736Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1575The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1745The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1576passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1746passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1577might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1747might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1578same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1748same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1579before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1749before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1580no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1750no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1581 1751
1582=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1752=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1583 1753
1584Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1754Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1585recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1755recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1671 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1841 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1672 1842
1673 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1843 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1674 if (timeout < now) 1844 if (timeout < now)
1675 { 1845 {
1676 // timeout occured, take action 1846 // timeout occurred, take action
1677 } 1847 }
1678 else 1848 else
1679 { 1849 {
1680 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1850 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1681 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1851 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1703to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1873to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1704callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1874callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1705 1875
1706 ev_init (timer, callback); 1876 ev_init (timer, callback);
1707 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1877 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1708 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1878 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1709 1879
1710And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1880And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1711C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1881C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1712 1882
1713 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1883 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1714 1884
1715This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1885This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1716time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1886time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1717 1887
1718Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1888Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1756 1926
1757=head3 The special problem of time updates 1927=head3 The special problem of time updates
1758 1928
1759Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1929Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1760least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1930least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1761time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1931time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1762growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1932growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1763lots of events in one iteration. 1933lots of events in one iteration.
1764 1934
1765The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1935The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1766time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1936time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1837C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2007C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1838 2008
1839This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2009This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1840usage example. 2010usage example.
1841 2011
1842=item ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2012=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
1843 2013
1844Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2014Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
1845then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's 2015then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
1846the timeout value currently configured. 2016the timeout value currently configured.
1847 2017
1848That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns 2018That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
1849C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remain> 2019C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
1850will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return 2020will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
1851roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time, 2021roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
1852too), and so on. 2022too), and so on.
1853 2023
1854=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2024=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1883 } 2053 }
1884 2054
1885 ev_timer mytimer; 2055 ev_timer mytimer;
1886 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2056 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1887 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2057 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1888 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2058 ev_run (loop, 0);
1889 2059
1890 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2060 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1891 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2061 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1892 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2062 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1893 2063
1919 2089
1920As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2090As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1921point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2091point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1922timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2092timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1923earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2093earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1924(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2094(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1925 2095
1926=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2096=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1927 2097
1928=over 4 2098=over 4
1929 2099
2057Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2227Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2058system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2228system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2059potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2229potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2060 2230
2061 static void 2231 static void
2062 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2232 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2063 { 2233 {
2064 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2234 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2065 } 2235 }
2066 2236
2067 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2237 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2090 2260
2091=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2261=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2092 2262
2093Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2263Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2094signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2264signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2095will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2265will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2096normal event processing, like any other event. 2266normal event processing, like any other event.
2097 2267
2098If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2268If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2099C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2269C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2100the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2270the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2108 2278
2109When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2279When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
2110with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2280with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
2111you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2281you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
2112 2282
2113Both the signal mask state (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal handler state
2114(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2115sotpping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2116and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2117
2118If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2283If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2119C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2284C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2120not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2285not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2121interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2286interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2122and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2287and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2123 2288
2289=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2290
2291Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2292(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2293stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2294and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2295
2296While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2297sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2298C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2299certain signals to be blocked.
2300
2301This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2302the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2303choice usually).
2304
2305The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2306to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2307catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2308
2309In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2310unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2311the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2312I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2313
2314So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2315you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2316is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2317
2124=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2318=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2125 2319
2126=over 4 2320=over 4
2127 2321
2128=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 2322=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
2143Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2337Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2144 2338
2145 static void 2339 static void
2146 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2340 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2147 { 2341 {
2148 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2342 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2149 } 2343 }
2150 2344
2151 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2345 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2152 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2346 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2153 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2347 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2539 2733
2540Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2734Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2541prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2735prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2542afterwards. 2736afterwards.
2543 2737
2544You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2738You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2545the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2739the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2546watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2740watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2547rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2741rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2548those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2742those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2549C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2743C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2717 2911
2718 if (timeout >= 0) 2912 if (timeout >= 0)
2719 // create/start timer 2913 // create/start timer
2720 2914
2721 // poll 2915 // poll
2722 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2916 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2723 2917
2724 // stop timer again 2918 // stop timer again
2725 if (timeout >= 0) 2919 if (timeout >= 0)
2726 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2920 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2727 2921
2805if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2999if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2806 3000
2807=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3001=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2808 3002
2809Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3003Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2810similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3004similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2811appropriate way for embedded loops. 3005appropriate way for embedded loops.
2812 3006
2813=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3007=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2814 3008
2815The embedded event loop. 3009The embedded event loop.
2875C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3069C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2876handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3070handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2877 3071
2878=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3072=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2879 3073
2880Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3074Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2881up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3075up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2882sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3076sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2883 3077
2884This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3078This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2885in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3079in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2901disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3095disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2902signal watchers). 3096signal watchers).
2903 3097
2904When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3098When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2905other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3099other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2906C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3100C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2907the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3101Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2908have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3102watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2909also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3103those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3104signal watchers.
2910 3105
2911=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3106=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2912 3107
2913=over 4 3108=over 4
2914 3109
2915=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3110=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2916 3111
2917Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3112Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2918kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3113kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2919believe me. 3114really.
2920 3115
2921=back 3116=back
2922 3117
2923 3118
3119=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3120
3121Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3122by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3123
3124While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3125watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3126program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3127loop when you want them to be invoked.
3128
3129Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3130all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3131makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3132can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3133
3134=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3135
3136=over 4
3137
3138=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3139
3140Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3141any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3142pointless, I assure you.
3143
3144=back
3145
3146Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3147cleanup functions are called.
3148
3149 static void
3150 program_exits (void)
3151 {
3152 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3153 }
3154
3155 ...
3156 atexit (program_exits);
3157
3158
2924=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3159=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2925 3160
2926In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3161In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2927asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3162asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2928loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3163loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2929 3164
2930Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3165Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2931control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3166for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2932C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3167watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2933can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3168it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2934safe.
2935 3169
2936This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3170This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2937too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3171too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2938(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3172(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2939C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3173C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2944=head3 Queueing 3178=head3 Queueing
2945 3179
2946C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3180C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2947is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3181is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2948multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3182multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2949need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3183need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3184semantics.
2950 3185
2951That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3186That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2952queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your 3187queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2953queue: 3188queue:
2954 3189
3093 3328
3094If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3329If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
3095started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3330started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
3096repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3331repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
3097 3332
3098The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3333The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
3099passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3334passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
3100C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3335C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
3101value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3336value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3102a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3337a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3103events precedence. 3338events precedence.
3104 3339
3105Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3340Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3106 3341
3107 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3342 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
3108 { 3343 {
3109 if (revents & EV_READ) 3344 if (revents & EV_READ)
3110 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3345 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3111 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3346 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3112 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3347 /* doh, nothing entered */;
3113 } 3348 }
3114 3349
3115 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3350 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3116 3351
3117=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
3118
3119Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
3120had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
3121initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
3122
3123=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3352=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3124 3353
3125Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3354Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3126the given events it. 3355the given events it.
3127 3356
3128=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3357=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3129 3358
3130Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3359Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
3131loop!). 3360loop!).
3132 3361
3133=back 3362=back
3213 3442
3214=over 4 3443=over 4
3215 3444
3216=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3445=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
3217 3446
3218=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3447=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
3219 3448
3220=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3449=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
3221 3450
3222The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3451The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
3223with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3452with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
3256 myclass obj; 3485 myclass obj;
3257 ev::io iow; 3486 ev::io iow;
3258 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3487 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3259 3488
3260=item w->set (object *) 3489=item w->set (object *)
3261
3262This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3263 3490
3264This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3491This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3265will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3492will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3266functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3493functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3267the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3494the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3300Example: Use a plain function as callback. 3527Example: Use a plain function as callback.
3301 3528
3302 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3529 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
3303 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3530 iow.set <io_cb> ();
3304 3531
3305=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3532=item w->set (loop)
3306 3533
3307Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3534Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3308do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3535do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3309 3536
3310=item w->set ([arguments]) 3537=item w->set ([arguments])
3311 3538
3312Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3539Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3313called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3540method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3314automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3541C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3315method. 3542when reconfiguring it with this method.
3316 3543
3317=item w->start () 3544=item w->start ()
3318 3545
3319Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3546Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3320constructor already stores the event loop. 3547constructor already stores the event loop.
3321 3548
3549=item w->start ([arguments])
3550
3551Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3552convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3553the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3554
3322=item w->stop () 3555=item w->stop ()
3323 3556
3324Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3557Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3325 3558
3326=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3559=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3338 3571
3339=back 3572=back
3340 3573
3341=back 3574=back
3342 3575
3343Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3576Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3344the constructor. 3577watchers in the constructor.
3345 3578
3346 class myclass 3579 class myclass
3347 { 3580 {
3348 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3581 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3582 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3349 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3583 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3350 3584
3351 myclass (int fd) 3585 myclass (int fd)
3352 { 3586 {
3353 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3587 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3588 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3354 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3589 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3355 3590
3356 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3591 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3592 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3593
3594 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3357 } 3595 }
3358 }; 3596 };
3359 3597
3360 3598
3361=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3599=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3409Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3647Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3410L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3648L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3411 3649
3412=item Lua 3650=item Lua
3413 3651
3414Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev 3652Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3415for lua (only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 3653time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3416L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 3654L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3417 3655
3418=back 3656=back
3419 3657
3420 3658
3435loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3673loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3436C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3674C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3437 3675
3438 ev_unref (EV_A); 3676 ev_unref (EV_A);
3439 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3677 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3440 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3678 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3441 3679
3442It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3680It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3443which is often provided by the following macro. 3681which is often provided by the following macro.
3444 3682
3445=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3683=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3485 } 3723 }
3486 3724
3487 ev_check check; 3725 ev_check check;
3488 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3726 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3489 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3727 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3490 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3728 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3491 3729
3492=head1 EMBEDDING 3730=head1 EMBEDDING
3493 3731
3494Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3732Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3495applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3733applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3575 libev.m4 3813 libev.m4
3576 3814
3577=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3815=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3578 3816
3579Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3817Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3580define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3818define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3581autoconf is documented for every option. 3819the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3820
3821Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3822values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3823to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3824to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3825users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3826settings.
3582 3827
3583=over 4 3828=over 4
3584 3829
3830=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3831
3832Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3833release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3834have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3835
3836You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3837versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3838sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3839from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3840typedef in that case.
3841
3842In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3843and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3844removed completely.
3845
3585=item EV_STANDALONE 3846=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3586 3847
3587Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3848Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3588keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3849keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3589implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3850implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3590supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3851supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3663be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3924be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3664C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3925C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3665it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3926it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3666on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3927on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3667 3928
3668=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3929=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3669 3930
3670If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3931If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3671file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3932file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3672default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3933default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3673correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3934correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3674in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3935in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3936
3937=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3938
3939If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3940using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3941their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3942to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3943
3944=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3945
3946If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3947macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3948file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3949the underlying OS handle.
3675 3950
3676=item EV_USE_POLL 3951=item EV_USE_POLL
3677 3952
3678If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3953If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3679backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3954backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3726as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4001as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3727 4002
3728In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4003In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3729(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4004(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3730 4005
3731=item EV_H 4006=item EV_H (h)
3732 4007
3733The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4008The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3734undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4009undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3735used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4010used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3736 4011
3737=item EV_CONFIG_H 4012=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3738 4013
3739If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4014If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3740F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4015F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3741C<EV_H>, above. 4016C<EV_H>, above.
3742 4017
3743=item EV_EVENT_H 4018=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3744 4019
3745Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4020Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3746of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4021of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3747 4022
3748=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4023=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3749 4024
3750If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4025If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3751prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4026prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3752occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4027occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3753around libev functions. 4028around libev functions.
3775fine. 4050fine.
3776 4051
3777If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4052If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3778both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4053both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3779 4054
3780=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4055=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4056EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4057EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3781 4058
3782If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4059If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3783defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4060the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3784code. 4061is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3785 4062
3786=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4063=item EV_FEATURES
3787
3788If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3789defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3790code.
3791
3792=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3793
3794If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3795defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3796watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3797
3798=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3799
3800If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3801defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3802
3803=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3804
3805If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3806defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3807
3808=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3809
3810If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3811defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3812
3813=item EV_MINIMAL
3814 4064
3815If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4065If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3816speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this 4066speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3817is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size 4067certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3818on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over 4068that can be enabled on the platform.
3819the default 4-heap.
3820 4069
3821You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need 4070A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
3822and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert> 4071with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
3823(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot. 4072additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4073but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4074backend, use this:
3824 4075
3825Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to 4076 #define EV_FEATURES 0
3826provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts 4077 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
3827of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes 4078 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
3828over time. 4079 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4080 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4081
4082The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4083values:
4084
4085=over 4
4086
4087=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4088
4089Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4090
4091Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4092code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4093
4094When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4095gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4096assertions.
4097
4098=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4099
4100Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4101hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4102and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4103runtime.
4104
4105=item C<4> - full API configuration
4106
4107This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4108enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4109
4110=item C<8> - full API
4111
4112This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4113details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4114feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4115
4116=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4117
4118Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4119only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4120embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4121C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4122
4123=item C<32> - enable all backends
4124
4125This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4126least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4127
4128=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4129
4130Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4131default.
4132
4133=back
4134
4135Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4136reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4137code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4138watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4139
4140With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4141when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4142your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4143I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4144
4145=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4146
4147If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4148functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4149somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4150libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4151big.
4152
4153Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4154enabled.
3829 4155
3830=item EV_NSIG 4156=item EV_NSIG
3831 4157
3832The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4158The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3833signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4159signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3834automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4160automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3835specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4161specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3836good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4162good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3837statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4163statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3838 4164
3839=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4165=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3840 4166
3841C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4167C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3842pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4168pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3843than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4169usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3844increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4170might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3845 4171
3846=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4172=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3847 4173
3848C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4174C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3849inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4175inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3850usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4176disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3851watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4177C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3852two). 4178power of two).
3853 4179
3854=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4180=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3855 4181
3856Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4182Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3857timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4183timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3858to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4184to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3859faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4185faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3860 4186
3861The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4187The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3862(disabled). 4188will be C<0>.
3863 4189
3864=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4190=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3865 4191
3866Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4192Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3867timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4193timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3868the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4194the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3869which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4195which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3870but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4196but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3871noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4197noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3872 4198
3873The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4199The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3874(disabled). 4200will be C<0>.
3875 4201
3876=item EV_VERIFY 4202=item EV_VERIFY
3877 4203
3878Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4204Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3879be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4205be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3880in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4206in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3881called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4207called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3882called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4208called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3883verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4209verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3884libev considerably. 4210libev considerably.
3885 4211
3886The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4212The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3887C<0>. 4213will be C<0>.
3888 4214
3889=item EV_COMMON 4215=item EV_COMMON
3890 4216
3891By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4217By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3892this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4218this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3893members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4219members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3894though, and it must be identical each time. 4220though, and it must be identical each time.
3895 4221
3896For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4222For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3897 4223
3950file. 4276file.
3951 4277
3952The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4278The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3953that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4279that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3954 4280
3955 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4281 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3956 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4282 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3957 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3958 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4283 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4284 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3959 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4285 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3960 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4286 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4287 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3961 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4288 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3962 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3963 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3964 4289
3965 #include "ev++.h" 4290 #include "ev++.h"
3966 4291
3967And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4292And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3968 4293
4099 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4424 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4100 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4425 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4101 } 4426 }
4102 4427
4103The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4428The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4104into C<ev_loop>: 4429into C<ev_run>:
4105 4430
4106 void * 4431 void *
4107 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4432 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4108 { 4433 {
4109 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4434 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4110 4435
4111 l_acquire (EV_A); 4436 l_acquire (EV_A);
4112 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4437 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4113 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4438 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4114 l_release (EV_A); 4439 l_release (EV_A);
4115 4440
4116 return 0; 4441 return 0;
4117 } 4442 }
4118 4443
4170 4495
4171=head3 COROUTINES 4496=head3 COROUTINES
4172 4497
4173Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4498Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4174libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4499libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4175coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4500coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4176different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4501different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4177the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4502the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4178that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4503that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4179 4504
4180Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4505Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4181C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4506C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4182they do not call any callbacks. 4507they do not call any callbacks.
4183 4508
4184=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4509=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4185 4510
4186Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4511Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4197maintainable. 4522maintainable.
4198 4523
4199And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4524And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4200wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4525wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4201seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4526seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4202warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4527warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4203been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4528been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4204such buggy versions. 4529such buggy versions.
4205 4530
4206While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4531While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4207"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4532"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4243I suggest using suppression lists. 4568I suggest using suppression lists.
4244 4569
4245 4570
4246=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4571=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4247 4572
4573=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4574
4575GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4576interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4577
4578That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4579files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4580
4581Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4582by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4583standard libev compiled for their system.
4584
4585Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4586suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4587i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4588
4589=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4590
4591The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4592you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4593OpenGL drivers.
4594
4595=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4596
4597The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4598only sockets, many support pipes.
4599
4600Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4601rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4602loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4603probably going to work well.
4604
4605=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4606
4607Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4608implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4609release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4610
4611Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4612this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4613a loop.
4614
4615=head3 C<select> is buggy
4616
4617All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4618one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4619descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4620you use more.
4621
4622There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4623C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4624work on OS/X.
4625
4626=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4627
4628=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4629
4630The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4631thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4632without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4633defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4634
4635If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4636it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4637
4638=head3 Event port backend
4639
4640The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4641ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4642releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4643a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4644and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4645are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4646great.
4647
4648If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4649the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4650C<select> backends.
4651
4652=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4653
4654AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4655this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4656compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4657with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4658
4248=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4659=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4660
4661=head3 General issues
4249 4662
4250Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4663Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4251requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4664requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4252model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4665model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4253the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4666the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4254descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4667descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4255e.g. cygwin. 4668e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4669as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4670environment.
4256 4671
4257Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4672Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4258re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4673re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4259things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4674then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4260way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4675also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4261 4676
4262There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4677There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4263embedding it into other applications. 4678embedding it into other applications.
4264 4679
4265Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4680Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4293you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4708you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4294 4709
4295 #include "evwrap.h" 4710 #include "evwrap.h"
4296 #include "ev.c" 4711 #include "ev.c"
4297 4712
4298=over 4
4299
4300=item The winsocket select function 4713=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4301 4714
4302The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4715The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4303requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4716requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4304also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4717also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4305requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4718requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4314 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4727 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4315 4728
4316Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4729Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4317complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4730complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4318 4731
4319=item Limited number of file descriptors 4732=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4320 4733
4321Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4734Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4322 4735
4323Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4736Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4324of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4737of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4339runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4752runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4340(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4753(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4341you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4754you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4342the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4755the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4343 4756
4344=back
4345
4346=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4757=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4347 4758
4348In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4759In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4349backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4760backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4350 4761
4356Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4767Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4357structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4768structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4358assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4769assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4359callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4770callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4360calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4771calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4772
4773=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4774
4775Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4776writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4361 4777
4362=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4778=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4363 4779
4364The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4780The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4365C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4781C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4388watchers. 4804watchers.
4389 4805
4390=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4806=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4391 4807
4392The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4808The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4393have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4809have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4394enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4810good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4811(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4395implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4812implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4396ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4813IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
43972200.
4398 4814
4399=back 4815=back
4400 4816
4401If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4817If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4402 4818
4470involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4886involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4471 4887
4472=back 4888=back
4473 4889
4474 4890
4891=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4892
4893The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4894
4895At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4896for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4897layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4898new API early than late.
4899
4900=over 4
4901
4902=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4903
4904The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4905C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4906section.
4907
4908=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4909
4910These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4911
4912 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4913 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4914
4915=item function/symbol renames
4916
4917A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4918
4919 ev_loop => ev_run
4920 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4921 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4922
4923 ev_unloop => ev_break
4924 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4925 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4926 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4927
4928 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4929
4930 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4931 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4932 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4933
4934Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4935C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4936associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4937ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4938as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4939C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4940typedef.
4941
4942=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4943
4944The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4945mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4946and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4947
4948=back
4949
4950
4475=head1 GLOSSARY 4951=head1 GLOSSARY
4476 4952
4477=over 4 4953=over 4
4478 4954
4479=item active 4955=item active
4480 4956
4481A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4957A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4482an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4958See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4483 4959
4484=item application 4960=item application
4485 4961
4486In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4962In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4963
4964=item backend
4965
4966The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4487 4967
4488=item callback 4968=item callback
4489 4969
4490The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4970The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4491detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4971detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4492received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4972received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4493 4973
4494=item callback invocation 4974=item callback/watcher invocation
4495 4975
4496The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4976The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4497 4977
4498=item event 4978=item event
4499 4979
4500A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 4980A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4501for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 4981for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4502any other events happening anymore. 4982any other events happening anymore.
4503 4983
4504In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 4984In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4505C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 4985C<EV_TIMER>).
4506 4986
4507=item event library 4987=item event library
4508 4988
4509A software package implementing an event model and loop. 4989A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4510 4990
4518The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 4998The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4519watchers and events. 4999watchers and events.
4520 5000
4521=item pending 5001=item pending
4522 5002
4523A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5003A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4524and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5004detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4525pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4526
4527A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4528its pending status.
4529 5005
4530=item real time 5006=item real time
4531 5007
4532The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5008The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4533 5009
4540=item watcher 5016=item watcher
4541 5017
4542A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5018A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4543to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5019to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4544 5020
4545=item watcher invocation
4546
4547The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4548
4549=back 5021=back
4550 5022
4551=head1 AUTHOR 5023=head1 AUTHOR
4552 5024
4553Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5025Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5026Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4554 5027

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