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62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
67=head1 DESCRIPTION 67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68
69This document documents the libev software package.
68 70
69The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted 71The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
70web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first 72web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
71time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>. 73time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>.
74
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
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev.
79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
72 84
73Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
74file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
75these event sources and provide your program with events. 87these event sources and provide your program with events.
76 88
86=head2 FEATURES 98=head2 FEATURES
87 99
88Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 100Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
89BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 101BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
90for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 102for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
91(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 103(for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner
92with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals 104inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative
93(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event 105timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling
94watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, 106(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status
95C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as 107change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event
96file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events 108loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and
97(C<ev_fork>). 109C<ev_check> watchers) as well as file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even
110limited support for fork events (C<ev_fork>).
98 111
99It also is quite fast (see this 112It also is quite fast (see this
100L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 113L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
101for example). 114for example).
102 115
110name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have 123name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have
111this argument. 124this argument.
112 125
113=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
114 127
115Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
116(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere
117the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This
118called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 131type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually
119to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 132aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations
120it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 133on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name
121component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
122throughout libev. 135throughout libev.
123 136
124=head1 ERROR HANDLING 137=head1 ERROR HANDLING
125 138
350flag. 363flag.
351 364
352This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 365This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
353environment variable. 366environment variable.
354 367
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369
370When 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
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374
375=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGFD>
376
377When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
378I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This is
379probably only useful to work around any bugs in libev. Consequently, this
380flag might go away once the signalfd functionality is considered stable,
381so it's useful mostly in environment variables and not in program code.
382
355=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 383=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
356 384
357This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 385This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
358libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 386libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
359but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 387but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
382 410
383This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and 411This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
384C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 412C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
385 413
386=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 414=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
415
416Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
417kernels).
387 418
388For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 419For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
389but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 420but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
390like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 421like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
391epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 422epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
506 537
507It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 538It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
508 539
509=back 540=back
510 541
511If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these 542If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
512backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are 543then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
513specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried. 544here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
545()> will be tried.
514 546
515Example: This is the most typical usage. 547Example: This is the most typical usage.
516 548
517 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 549 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
518 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 550 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
561as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 593as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
562 594
563In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 595In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
564rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 596rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
565pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 597pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
566C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 598C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
567 599
568=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 600=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
569 601
570Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 602Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
571earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 603earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
609 641
610This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 642This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
611"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 643"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
612C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 644C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
613 645
646=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop)
647
648Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of
649times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
650
651Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
652C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
653in which case it is higher.
654
655Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
656etc.), doesn't count as exit.
657
614=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 658=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
615 659
616Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 660Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
617use. 661use.
618 662
632 676
633This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 677This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
634very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 678very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
635the current time is a good idea. 679the current time is a good idea.
636 680
637See also "The special problem of time updates" in the C<ev_timer> section. 681See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
682
683=item ev_suspend (loop)
684
685=item ev_resume (loop)
686
687These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is
688not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
689
690A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
691the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
692would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
693the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
694in your C<SIGTSTP> handler, sending yourself a C<SIGSTOP> and calling
695C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
696
697Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
698between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
699will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
700occured while suspended).
701
702After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
703given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
704without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
705
706Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
707event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
638 708
639=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 709=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
640 710
641Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 711Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
642after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 712after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
643events. 713handling events.
644 714
645If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 715If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until
646either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 716either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called.
647 717
648Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 718Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than
726 796
727If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 797If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop>
728from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 798from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before
729stopping it. 799stopping it.
730 800
731As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is 801As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
732not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting 802is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from
733if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 803exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
734way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 804excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
735libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop> 805third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
736(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before, 806before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
737respectively). 807before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
808(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
809in the callback).
738 810
739Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 811Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
740running when nothing else is active. 812running when nothing else is active.
741 813
742 ev_signal exitsig; 814 ev_signal exitsig;
771 843
772By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 844By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
773time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 845time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
774at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 846at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
775C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 847C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
776introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. 848introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
849sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
850once per this interval, on average.
777 851
778Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 852Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
779to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 853to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
780latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called 854latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
781later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null 855later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
783 857
784Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect 858Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
785interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for 859interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
786interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It 860interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
787usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 861usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
788as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. 862as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
863you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
864parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
865need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
866then you can't do more than 100 transations per second).
789 867
790Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 868Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
791saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 869saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
792are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 870are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
793times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 871times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
794reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure 872reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
795they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only. 873they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
874
875Example: we only need 0.1s timeout granularity, and we wish not to poll
876more often than 100 times per second:
877
878 ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.1);
879 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
880
881=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
882
883This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
884pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required,
885but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy.
886
887=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
888
889Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
890are pending.
891
892=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
893
894This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
895invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call
896this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
897invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
898
899If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
900callback.
901
902=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P))
903
904Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
905can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
906each call to a libev function.
907
908However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to
909wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via
910C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release>
911and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
912
913When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
914suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
915afterwards.
916
917Ideally, C<release> will just call your mutex_unlock function, and
918C<acquire> will just call the mutex_lock function again.
919
920While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
921C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
922modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
923have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
924waited. USe an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it
925to take note of any changes you made.
926
927In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between
928invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
929
930See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
931document.
932
933=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
934
935=item ev_userdata (loop)
936
937Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
938C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
939C<0.>
940
941These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
942and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
943C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
944any other purpose as well.
796 945
797=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 946=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
798 947
799This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 948This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
800compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 949compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
926 1075
927=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1076=item C<EV_ASYNC>
928 1077
929The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1078The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
930 1079
1080=item C<EV_CUSTOM>
1081
1082Not ever sent (or otherwise used) by libev itself, but can be freely used
1083by libev users to signal watchers (e.g. via C<ev_feed_event>).
1084
931=item C<EV_ERROR> 1085=item C<EV_ERROR>
932 1086
933An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might 1087An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
934happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 1088happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
935ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 1089ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
1050integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1204integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1051(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked 1205(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
1052before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers 1206before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
1053from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers). 1207from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
1054 1208
1055This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
1056invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
1057example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
1058watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
1059
1060If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending 1209If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
1061you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality. 1210you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
1062 1211
1063You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or 1212You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
1064pending. 1213pending.
1065
1066The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1067always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1068 1214
1069Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is 1215Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1070fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might 1216fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1071or might not have been clamped to the valid range. 1217or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1218
1219The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1220always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1221
1222See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1223priorities.
1072 1224
1073=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1225=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1074 1226
1075Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1227Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1076C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback 1228C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1083returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the 1235returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1084watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1236watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1085 1237
1086Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1238Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1087callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1239callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1240
1241=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
1242
1243Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1244had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1245initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1246not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1247
1248Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1249C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1250not started in the first place.
1251
1252See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1253functions that do not need a watcher.
1088 1254
1089=back 1255=back
1090 1256
1091 1257
1092=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1258=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1141 #include <stddef.h> 1307 #include <stddef.h>
1142 1308
1143 static void 1309 static void
1144 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1310 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1145 { 1311 {
1146 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1312 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1147 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1313 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1148 } 1314 }
1149 1315
1150 static void 1316 static void
1151 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1317 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1152 { 1318 {
1153 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1319 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1154 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1320 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1155 } 1321 }
1322
1323=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1324
1325Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1326integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1327between watchers in some way, all else being equal.
1328
1329In libev, Watcher priorities can be set using C<ev_set_priority>. See its
1330description for the more technical details such as the actual priority
1331range.
1332
1333There are two common ways how these these priorities are being interpreted
1334by event loops:
1335
1336In the more common lock-out model, higher priorities "lock out" invocation
1337of lower priority watchers, which means as long as higher priority
1338watchers receive events, lower priority watchers are not being invoked.
1339
1340The less common only-for-ordering model uses priorities solely to order
1341callback invocation within a single event loop iteration: Higher priority
1342watchers are invoked before lower priority ones, but they all get invoked
1343before polling for new events.
1344
1345Libev uses the second (only-for-ordering) model for all its watchers
1346except for idle watchers (which use the lock-out model).
1347
1348The rationale behind this is that implementing the lock-out model for
1349watchers is not well supported by most kernel interfaces, and most event
1350libraries will just poll for the same events again and again as long as
1351their callbacks have not been executed, which is very inefficient in the
1352common case of one high-priority watcher locking out a mass of lower
1353priority ones.
1354
1355Static (ordering) priorities are most useful when you have two or more
1356watchers handling the same resource: a typical usage example is having an
1357C<ev_io> watcher to receive data, and an associated C<ev_timer> to handle
1358timeouts. Under load, data might be received while the program handles
1359other jobs, but since timers normally get invoked first, the timeout
1360handler will be executed before checking for data. In that case, giving
1361the timer a lower priority than the I/O watcher ensures that I/O will be
1362handled first even under adverse conditions (which is usually, but not
1363always, what you want).
1364
1365Since idle watchers use the "lock-out" model, meaning that idle watchers
1366will only be executed when no same or higher priority watchers have
1367received events, they can be used to implement the "lock-out" model when
1368required.
1369
1370For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1371you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1372the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1373processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1374continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1375the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1376workable.
1377
1378Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1379miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1380it might be preferable to stop the real watcher before starting the
1381idle watcher, so the kernel will not have to process the event in case
1382the actual processing will be delayed for considerable time.
1383
1384Here is an example of an I/O watcher that should run at a strictly lower
1385priority than the default, and which should only process data when no
1386other events are pending:
1387
1388 ev_idle idle; // actual processing watcher
1389 ev_io io; // actual event watcher
1390
1391 static void
1392 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1393 {
1394 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1395 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1396 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1397
1398 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event.
1399 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1400 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1401 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1402 }
1403
1404 static void
1405 idle_cb (EV_P_ ev_idle *w, int revents)
1406 {
1407 // actual processing
1408 read (STDIN_FILENO, ...);
1409
1410 // have to start the I/O watcher again, as
1411 // we have handled the event
1412 ev_io_start (EV_P_ &io);
1413 }
1414
1415 // initialisation
1416 ev_idle_init (&idle, idle_cb);
1417 ev_io_init (&io, io_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1418 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &io);
1419
1420In the "real" world, it might also be beneficial to start a timer, so that
1421low-priority connections can not be locked out forever under load. This
1422enables your program to keep a lower latency for important connections
1423during short periods of high load, while not completely locking out less
1424important ones.
1156 1425
1157 1426
1158=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1427=head1 WATCHER TYPES
1159 1428
1160This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1429This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
1186descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1455descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1187required if you know what you are doing). 1456required if you know what you are doing).
1188 1457
1189If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1458If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1190known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1459known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1191C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1460C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1461descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1462files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case.
1192 1463
1193Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1464Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1194receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1465receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1195be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1466be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1196because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1467because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1317year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because 1588year, it will still time out after (roughly) one hour. "Roughly" because
1318detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1589detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1319monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1590monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1320 1591
1321The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1592The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1322passed, but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration 1593passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1323then order of execution is undefined. 1594might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1595same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1596before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1597no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively).
1324 1598
1325=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1599=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1326 1600
1327Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1601Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1328recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1602recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1372C<after> argument to C<ev_timer_set>, and only ever use the C<repeat> 1646C<after> argument to C<ev_timer_set>, and only ever use the C<repeat>
1373member and C<ev_timer_again>. 1647member and C<ev_timer_again>.
1374 1648
1375At start: 1649At start:
1376 1650
1377 ev_timer_init (timer, callback); 1651 ev_init (timer, callback);
1378 timer->repeat = 60.; 1652 timer->repeat = 60.;
1379 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1653 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
1380 1654
1381Each time there is some activity: 1655Each time there is some activity:
1382 1656
1444 1718
1445To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity> 1719To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity>
1446to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1720to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1447callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1721callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1448 1722
1449 ev_timer_init (timer, callback); 1723 ev_init (timer, callback);
1450 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1724 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1451 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1725 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT);
1452 1726
1453And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1727And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1454C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1728C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1515 1789
1516If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 1790If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1517update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 1791update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1518()>. 1792()>.
1519 1793
1794=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1795
1796When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1797can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1798
1799Some quick tests made with a Linux 2.6.28 indicate that a suspend freezes
1800all processes, while the clocks (C<times>, C<CLOCK_MONOTONIC>) continue
1801to run until the system is suspended, but they will not advance while the
1802system is suspended. That means, on resume, it will be as if the program
1803was frozen for a few seconds, but the suspend time will not be counted
1804towards C<ev_timer> when a monotonic clock source is used. The real time
1805clock advanced as expected, but if it is used as sole clocksource, then a
1806long suspend would be detected as a time jump by libev, and timers would
1807be adjusted accordingly.
1808
1809I would not be surprised to see different behaviour in different between
1810operating systems, OS versions or even different hardware.
1811
1812The other form of suspend (job control, or sending a SIGSTOP) will see a
1813time jump in the monotonic clocks and the realtime clock. If the program
1814is suspended for a very long time, and monotonic clock sources are in use,
1815then you can expect C<ev_timer>s to expire as the full suspension time
1816will be counted towards the timers. When no monotonic clock source is in
1817use, then libev will again assume a timejump and adjust accordingly.
1818
1819It might be beneficial for this latter case to call C<ev_suspend>
1820and C<ev_resume> in code that handles C<SIGTSTP>, to at least get
1821deterministic behaviour in this case (you can do nothing against
1822C<SIGSTOP>).
1823
1520=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1824=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1521 1825
1522=over 4 1826=over 4
1523 1827
1524=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1828=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1547If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 1851If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
1548 1852
1549If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 1853If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
1550C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 1854C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1551 1855
1552This sounds a bit complicated, see "Be smart about timeouts", above, for a 1856This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1553usage example. 1857usage example.
1858
1859=item ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
1860
1861Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
1862then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
1863the timeout value currently configured.
1864
1865That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
1866C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remain>
1867will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
1868roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
1869too), and so on.
1554 1870
1555=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1871=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1556 1872
1557The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1873The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
1558or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any), 1874or C<ev_timer_again> is called, and determines the next timeout (if any),
1617timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or 1933timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
1618other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as 1934other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as
1619those cannot react to time jumps. 1935those cannot react to time jumps.
1620 1936
1621As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 1937As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1622point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed, but if multiple 1938point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1623periodic timers become ready during the same loop iteration, then order of 1939timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1624execution is undefined. 1940earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1941(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively).
1625 1942
1626=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 1943=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1627 1944
1628=over 4 1945=over 4
1629 1946
1793Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2110Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1794signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2111signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
1795will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2112will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
1796normal event processing, like any other event. 2113normal event processing, like any other event.
1797 2114
1798If you want signals asynchronously, just use C<sigaction> as you would 2115If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
1799do without libev and forget about sharing the signal. You can even use 2116C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
1800C<ev_async> from a signal handler to synchronously wake up an event loop. 2117the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2118synchronously wake up an event loop.
1801 2119
1802You can configure as many watchers as you like per signal. Only when the 2120You can configure as many watchers as you like for the same signal, but
2121only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2122default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2123C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2124the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2125
1803first watcher gets started will libev actually register a signal handler 2126When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
1804with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2127with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
1805you don't register any with libev for the same signal). Similarly, when 2128you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
1806the last signal watcher for a signal is stopped, libev will reset the
1807signal handler to SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1808 2129
1809If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2130If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1810C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly 2131C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
1811interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by 2132not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
1812signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock 2133interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
1813them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2134and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2135
2136=head3 The special problem of inheritance over execve
2137
2138Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2139(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2140stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2141and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2142
2143While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2144sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2145C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2146certain signals to be blocked.
2147
2148This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2149the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2150choice usually).
2151
2152The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2153to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2154catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2155
2156In current versions of libev, you can also ensure that the signal mask is
2157not blocking any signals (except temporarily, so thread users watch out)
2158by specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGFD> when creating the event loop. This
2159is not guaranteed for future versions, however.
1814 2160
1815=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2161=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1816 2162
1817=over 4 2163=over 4
1818 2164
1850some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies or 2196some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies or
1851exits). It is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child 2197exits). It is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child
1852has been forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long 2198has been forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long
1853as the event loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher), i.e., 2199as the event loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher), i.e.,
1854forking and then immediately registering a watcher for the child is fine, 2200forking and then immediately registering a watcher for the child is fine,
1855but forking and registering a watcher a few event loop iterations later is 2201but forking and registering a watcher a few event loop iterations later or
1856not. 2202in the next callback invocation is not.
1857 2203
1858Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore 2204Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1859you can only register child watchers in the default event loop. 2205you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1860 2206
2207Due to some design glitches inside libev, child watchers will always be
2208handled at maximum priority (their priority is set to C<EV_MAXPRI> by
2209libev)
2210
1861=head3 Process Interaction 2211=head3 Process Interaction
1862 2212
1863Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is 2213Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1864initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if 2214initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if the
1865the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence 2215first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1866of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done 2216of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1867synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all 2217synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1868children, even ones not watched. 2218children, even ones not watched.
1869 2219
1870=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing 2220=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1880=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher 2230=head3 Stopping the Child Watcher
1881 2231
1882Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the 2232Currently, the child watcher never gets stopped, even when the
1883child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the 2233child terminates, so normally one needs to stop the watcher in the
1884callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically 2234callback. Future versions of libev might stop the watcher automatically
1885when a child exit is detected. 2235when a child exit is detected (calling C<ev_child_stop> twice is not a
2236problem).
1886 2237
1887=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2238=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1888 2239
1889=over 4 2240=over 4
1890 2241
2216 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2567 // no longer anything immediate to do.
2217 } 2568 }
2218 2569
2219 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle)); 2570 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
2220 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 2571 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
2221 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 2572 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
2222 2573
2223 2574
2224=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2575=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2225 2576
2226Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2577Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2319 struct pollfd fds [nfd]; 2670 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
2320 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 2671 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
2321 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 2672 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
2322 2673
2323 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 2674 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
2324 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 2675 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3, 0.);
2325 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 2676 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
2326 2677
2327 // create one ev_io per pollfd 2678 // create one ev_io per pollfd
2328 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2679 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
2329 { 2680 {
2559event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 2910event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
2560and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 2911and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
2561C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 2912C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2562handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 2913handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2563 2914
2915=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2916
2917Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste
2918up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2919sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2920
2921This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2922in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2923fork.
2924
2925The default mode of operation (for libev, with application help to detect
2926forks) is to duplicate all the state in the child, as would be expected
2927when I<either> the parent I<or> the child process continues.
2928
2929When both processes want to continue using libev, then this is usually the
2930wrong result. In that case, usually one process (typically the parent) is
2931supposed to continue with all watchers in place as before, while the other
2932process typically wants to start fresh, i.e. without any active watchers.
2933
2934The cleanest and most efficient way to achieve that with libev is to
2935simply create a new event loop, which of course will be "empty", and
2936use that for new watchers. This has the advantage of not touching more
2937memory than necessary, and thus avoiding the copy-on-write, and the
2938disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2939signal watchers).
2940
2941When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2942other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2943C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying
2944the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you
2945have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note
2946also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers.
2947
2564=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2948=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2565 2949
2566=over 4 2950=over 4
2567 2951
2568=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2952=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
2764 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3148 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
2765 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3149 /* doh, nothing entered */;
2766 } 3150 }
2767 3151
2768 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3152 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
2769
2770=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
2771
2772Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
2773had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
2774initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
2775 3153
2776=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3154=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents)
2777 3155
2778Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3156Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
2779the given events it. 3157the given events it.
3033L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>. 3411L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
3034 3412
3035=item Python 3413=item Python
3036 3414
3037Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It 3415Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
3038seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the 3416seems to be quite complete and well-documented.
3039patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
3040for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
3041libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
3042libev).
3043 3417
3044=item Ruby 3418=item Ruby
3045 3419
3046Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset 3420Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
3047of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and 3421of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
3049L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>. 3423L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
3050 3424
3051Roger Pack reports that using the link order C<-lws2_32 -lmsvcrt-ruby-190> 3425Roger Pack reports that using the link order C<-lws2_32 -lmsvcrt-ruby-190>
3052makes rev work even on mingw. 3426makes rev work even on mingw.
3053 3427
3428=item Haskell
3429
3430A haskell binding to libev is available at
3431L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3432
3054=item D 3433=item D
3055 3434
3056Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 3435Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
3057be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 3436be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>.
3058 3437
3059=item Ocaml 3438=item Ocaml
3060 3439
3061Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3440Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3062L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3441L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3442
3443=item Lua
3444
3445Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev
3446for lua (only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3447L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3063 3448
3064=back 3449=back
3065 3450
3066 3451
3067=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3452=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3234keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3619keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3235implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3620implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3236supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3621supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3237F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3622F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3238 3623
3239In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 3624In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3240configuration, but has to be more conservative. 3625configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3241 3626
3242=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3627=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3243 3628
3244If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3629If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3309be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3694be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3310C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3695C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3311it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3696it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3312on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3697on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3313 3698
3314=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3699=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3315 3700
3316If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3701If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3317file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3702file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3318default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3703default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3319correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3704correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3320in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3705in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3706
3707=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3708
3709If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3710using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3711their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3712to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3713
3714=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3715
3716If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3717macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3718file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3719the underlying OS handle.
3321 3720
3322=item EV_USE_POLL 3721=item EV_USE_POLL
3323 3722
3324If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3723If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3325backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3724backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3457defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3856defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3458 3857
3459=item EV_MINIMAL 3858=item EV_MINIMAL
3460 3859
3461If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3860If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3462speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some 3861speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this
3463inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a 3862is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size
3464much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap. 3863on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over
3864the default 4-heap.
3865
3866You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need
3867and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert>
3868(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot.
3869
3870Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to
3871provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts
3872of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes
3873over time.
3874
3875=item EV_NSIG
3876
3877The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3878signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3879automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3880specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3881good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev
3882statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3465 3883
3466=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3884=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3467 3885
3468C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3886C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3469pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3887pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
3655default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 4073default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
3656watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 4074watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
3657 4075
3658=back 4076=back
3659 4077
4078=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
4079
4080Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4081thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4082created/added/removed.
4083
4084For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4085which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4086languages).
4087
4088The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4089variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4090event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4091
4092First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4093
4094 typedef struct {
4095 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4096 ev_async async_w;
4097 thread_t tid;
4098 cond_t invoke_cv;
4099 } userdata;
4100
4101 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4102 {
4103 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4104 static userdata u;
4105
4106 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4107 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4108
4109 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4110 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4111
4112 // now associate this with the loop
4113 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4114 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4115 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4116
4117 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4118 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4119 }
4120
4121The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4122solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4123that might have been added:
4124
4125 static void
4126 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4127 {
4128 // just used for the side effects
4129 }
4130
4131The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4132protecting the loop data, respectively.
4133
4134 static void
4135 l_release (EV_P)
4136 {
4137 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4138 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4139 }
4140
4141 static void
4142 l_acquire (EV_P)
4143 {
4144 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4145 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4146 }
4147
4148The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4149into C<ev_loop>:
4150
4151 void *
4152 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4153 {
4154 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4155
4156 l_acquire (EV_A);
4157 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4158 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
4159 l_release (EV_A);
4160
4161 return 0;
4162 }
4163
4164Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4165signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4166writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4167have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4168and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4169watchers is very beneficial):
4170
4171 static void
4172 l_invoke (EV_P)
4173 {
4174 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4175
4176 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4177 {
4178 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4179 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4180 }
4181 }
4182
4183Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4184will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4185thread to continue:
4186
4187 static void
4188 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4189 {
4190 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4191
4192 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4193 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4194 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4195 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4196 }
4197
4198Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4199event loop, you will now have to lock:
4200
4201 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4202 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4203
4204 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4205
4206 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4207 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4208 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4209 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4210
4211Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4212an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4213about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4214watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4215
3660=head3 COROUTINES 4216=head3 COROUTINES
3661 4217
3662Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4218Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3663libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4219libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
3664coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4220coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3665different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running the 4221different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
3666loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that 4222the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
3667you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4223that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3668 4224
3669Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4225Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
3670C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4226C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
3671they do not call any callbacks. 4227they do not call any callbacks.
3672 4228
3749way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4305way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3750 4306
3751There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4307There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3752embedding it into other applications. 4308embedding it into other applications.
3753 4309
4310Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4311tries its best, but under most conditions, signals will simply not work.
4312
3754Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't 4313Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3755accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will 4314accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3756either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large, 4315either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3757so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a 4316so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3758megabyte seems safe, but this apparently depends on the amount of memory 4317megabyte seems safe, but this apparently depends on the amount of memory
3762the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets 4321the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3763is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use 4322is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3764more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally 4323more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3765different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness 4324different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3766notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows 4325notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3767(Microsoft monopoly games). 4326(due to Microsoft monopoly games).
3768 4327
3769A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding 4328A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3770section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead 4329section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3771of F<ev.h>: 4330of F<ev.h>:
3772 4331
3808 4367
3809Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4368Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3810of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4369of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3811can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft 4370can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3812recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the 4371recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3813previous thread in each. Great). 4372previous thread in each. Sounds great!).
3814 4373
3815Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE> 4374Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3816to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select 4375to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3817call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own 4376call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl and many
3818select emulation on windows). 4377other interpreters do their own select emulation on windows).
3819 4378
3820Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime 4379Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3821libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish 4380libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64>
3822or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling 4381fetish or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this
3823C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another 4382by calling C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048>
3824arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime 4383(another arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft
3825libraries.
3826
3827This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on 4384runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
3828windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to 4385(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
3829wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of 4386you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
3830calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4387the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3831 4388
3832=back 4389=back
3833 4390
3834=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4391=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3835 4392
3878=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4435=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3879 4436
3880The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4437The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3881have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4438have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3882enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4439enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3883implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones). 4440implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing
4441ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least
44422200.
3884 4443
3885=back 4444=back
3886 4445
3887If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4446If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3888 4447
3956involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4515involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
3957 4516
3958=back 4517=back
3959 4518
3960 4519
4520=head1 GLOSSARY
4521
4522=over 4
4523
4524=item active
4525
4526A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to
4527an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop).
4528
4529=item application
4530
4531In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4532
4533=item callback
4534
4535The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4536detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4537received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4538
4539=item callback invocation
4540
4541The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4542
4543=item event
4544
4545A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4546for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4547any other events happening anymore.
4548
4549In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4550C<EV_TIMEOUT>).
4551
4552=item event library
4553
4554A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4555
4556=item event loop
4557
4558An entity that handles and processes external events and converts them
4559into callback invocations.
4560
4561=item event model
4562
4563The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4564watchers and events.
4565
4566=item pending
4567
4568A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected,
4569and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its
4570pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4571
4572A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4573its pending status.
4574
4575=item real time
4576
4577The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4578
4579=item wall-clock time
4580
4581The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
4582be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your
4583clock.
4584
4585=item watcher
4586
4587A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4588to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4589
4590=item watcher invocation
4591
4592The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4593
4594=back
4595
3961=head1 AUTHOR 4596=head1 AUTHOR
3962 4597
3963Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 4598Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson.
3964 4599

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