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Revision 1.349 by root, Mon Jan 10 01:58:55 2011 UTC

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
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
287 } 299 }
288 300
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
304=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
305
306This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
307safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
308handlers or random threads.
309
310It's main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
311in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
312by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
313creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
314mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
315C<ev_feed_signal>.
316
292=back 317=back
293 318
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 319=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 320
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 321An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
297is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 322I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 323libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 324
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 325The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 326supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 327do not.
303 328
304=over 4 329=over 4
305 330
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 331=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 332
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 333This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 334normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
310false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 335the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 336C<ev_loop_new>.
337
338If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
339returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
340C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
341flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
342one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 343
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 344If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 345function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 346
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 347Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
317from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 348from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 349that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
350threads anyway).
319 351
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 352The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
321C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 353and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
322for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 354a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
323create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 355C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 356C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 357
358Example: This is the most typical usage.
359
360 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
361 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
362
363Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
364environment settings to be taken into account:
365
366 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
367
368=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
369
370This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
371could not be initialised, returns false.
372
373This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
374threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
375loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 376
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 377The 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>). 378backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 379
330The following flags are supported: 380The following flags are supported:
345useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 395useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
346around bugs. 396around bugs.
347 397
348=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 398=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
349 399
350Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 400Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
351a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 401make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
352enabling this flag.
353 402
354This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 403This 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 404and 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 405iterations 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 406GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
366environment variable. 415environment variable.
367 416
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 417=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369 418
370When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 419When 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 420I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 421testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 422otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374 423
375=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGFD> 424=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
376 425
377When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 426When 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 427I<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 428delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
380flag might go away once the signalfd functionality is considered stable, 429it 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. 430handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
431threads that are not interested in handling them.
432
433Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
434there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them.
442
443This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
444want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
445unblocking the signals.
446
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
382 448
383=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
384 450
385This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 451This 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, 452libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
422epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
423 489
424The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
425of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
426dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
427descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
494returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
495(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
428so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
429I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
430take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
431hard to detect. 499and is of course hard to detect.
432 500
433Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 501Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
434of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
435I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
436even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
437on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
438employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
439events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
440 512
441While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 513While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
442will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 514will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
443incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 515incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
444I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 516I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
533 605
534Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 606Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
535with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 607with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
536C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 608C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
537 609
538It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 610It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
611C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
612at all.
613
614=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
615
616Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
617C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
618value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
539 619
540=back 620=back
541 621
542If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 622If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
543then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 623then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
544here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 624here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
545()> will be tried. 625()> will be tried.
546 626
547Example: This is the most typical usage.
548
549 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
550 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
551
552Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
553environment settings to be taken into account:
554
555 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
556
557Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
558used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
559private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
560fds):
561
562 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
563
564=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
565
566Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
567always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
568handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
569undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
570
571Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
572libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
573default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
574
575Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 627Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
576 628
577 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 629 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
578 if (!epoller) 630 if (!epoller)
579 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 631 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
580 632
633Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
634used if available.
635
636 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
637
581=item ev_default_destroy () 638=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
582 639
583Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 640Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
584etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 641etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
585sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 642sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
586responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 643responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
587calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 644calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
588the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 645the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
590 647
591Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 648Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
592handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 649handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
593as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 650as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
594 651
595In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 652This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
596rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 653C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
654C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
655
656Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
657except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
597pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 658If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
598C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 659and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
599 660
600=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 661=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
601 662
602Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
603earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
604
605=item ev_default_fork ()
606
607This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 663This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
608to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 664reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
609name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 665name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
610the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 666the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
611sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 667child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
612functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 668
669Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
670a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
671because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
672during fork.
613 673
614On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 674On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
615process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 675process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
616you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 676you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
677call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
678difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
679costly reset of the backend).
617 680
618The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 681The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
619it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 682it just in case after a fork.
620quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
621 683
684Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
685using pthreads.
686
687 static void
688 post_fork_child (void)
689 {
690 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
691 }
692
693 ...
622 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 694 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
623
624=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
625
626Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
627C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
628after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
629entirely your own problem.
630 695
631=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 696=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
632 697
633Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 698Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
634otherwise. 699otherwise.
635 700
636=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 701=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
637 702
638Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 703Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
639the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 704to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
640happily wraps around with enough iterations. 705and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
641 706
642This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 707This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
643"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 708"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
644C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 709C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
710prepare and check phases.
645 711
646=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 712=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
647 713
648Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 714Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
649times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 715times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
650 716
651Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 717Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
652C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 718C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
653in which case it is higher. 719in which case it is higher.
654 720
655Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 721Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
656etc.), doesn't count as exit. 722throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
723as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
724convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
657 725
658=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 726=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
659 727
660Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 728Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
661use. 729use.
670 738
671=item ev_now_update (loop) 739=item ev_now_update (loop)
672 740
673Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 741Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
674returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 742returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
675is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 743is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
676 744
677This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 745This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
678very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 746very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
679the current time is a good idea. 747the current time is a good idea.
680 748
682 750
683=item ev_suspend (loop) 751=item ev_suspend (loop)
684 752
685=item ev_resume (loop) 753=item ev_resume (loop)
686 754
687These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 755These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
688not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 756loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
689 757
690A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 758A 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 759the 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 760would 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> 761the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
695C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 763C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
696 764
697Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 765Effectively, 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 766between 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 767will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
700occured while suspended). 768occurred while suspended).
701 769
702After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 770After 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> 771given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
704without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 772without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
705 773
706Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 774Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
707event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 775event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
708 776
709=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 777=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
710 778
711Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 779Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
712after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 780after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
713handling events. 781handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
782the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
783is why event loops are called I<loops>.
714 784
715If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 785If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
716either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 786until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
787called.
717 788
718Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 789Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
719relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 790relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
720finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 791finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
721that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 792that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
722of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 793of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
723beauty. 794beauty.
724 795
796This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
797a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
798exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
799will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
800
725A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 801A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
726those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 802those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
727process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 803block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
728the loop. 804iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
805events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
729 806
730A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 807A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
731necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 808necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
732will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 809will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
733be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 810be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
734user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 811user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
735iteration of the loop. 812iteration of the loop.
736 813
737This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 814This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
738with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 815with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
739own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 816own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
740usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 817usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
741 818
742Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 819Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
743 820
821 - Increment loop depth.
822 - Reset the ev_break status.
744 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 823 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
824 LOOP:
745 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 825 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
746 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 826 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
747 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 827 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
828 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
748 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 829 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
749 as to not disturb the other process. 830 as to not disturb the other process.
750 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 831 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
751 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 832 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
752 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 833 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
753 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 834 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
754 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 835 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
755 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 836 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
837 - Increment loop iteration counter.
756 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 838 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
757 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 839 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
758 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 840 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
759 - Queue all expired timers. 841 - Queue all expired timers.
760 - Queue all expired periodics. 842 - Queue all expired periodics.
761 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 843 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
762 - Queue all check watchers. 844 - Queue all check watchers.
763 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 845 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
764 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 846 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
765 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 847 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
766 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 848 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
767 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 849 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
768 continue with step *. 850 continue with step LOOP.
851 FINISH:
852 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
853 - Decrement the loop depth.
854 - Return.
769 855
770Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 856Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
771anymore. 857anymore.
772 858
773 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 859 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
774 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 860 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
775 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 861 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
776 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 862 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
777 863
778=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 864=item ev_break (loop, how)
779 865
780Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 866Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
781has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 867has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
782C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 868C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
783C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 869C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
784 870
785This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 871This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
786 872
787It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 873It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
874which case it will have no effect.
788 875
789=item ev_ref (loop) 876=item ev_ref (loop)
790 877
791=item ev_unref (loop) 878=item ev_unref (loop)
792 879
793Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 880Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
794loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 881loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
795count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 882count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
796 883
797If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 884This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
798from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 885unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
886returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
799stopping it. 887before stopping it.
800 888
801As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 889As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
802is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 890is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
803exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 891exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
804excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 892excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
805third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 893third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
806before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 894before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
807before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 895before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
808(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 896(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
809in the callback). 897in the callback).
810 898
811Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 899Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
812running when nothing else is active. 900running when nothing else is active.
813 901
814 ev_signal exitsig; 902 ev_signal exitsig;
815 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 903 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
816 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 904 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
817 evf_unref (loop); 905 ev_unref (loop);
818 906
819Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 907Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
820 908
821 ev_ref (loop); 909 ev_ref (loop);
822 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 910 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
861usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 949usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
862as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 950as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
863you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 951you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
864parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 952parallelity, 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, 953need 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). 954then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
867 955
868Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 956Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
869saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 957saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
870are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 958are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
871times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 959times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
879 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 967 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
880 968
881=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 969=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
882 970
883This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 971This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
884pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 972pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
885but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 973but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
974function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
975when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
976event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
977thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
886 978
887=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 979=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
888 980
889Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 981Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
890are pending. 982are pending.
891 983
892=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 984=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
893 985
894This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 986This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
895invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 987invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
896this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 988this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
897invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 989invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
898 990
899If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 991If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
900callback. 992callback.
903 995
904Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 996Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
905can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 997can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
906each call to a libev function. 998each call to a libev function.
907 999
908However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 1000However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
909wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 1001to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
910C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 1002loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
911and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1003I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
912 1004
913When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1005When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
914suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1006suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
915afterwards. 1007afterwards.
916 1008
919 1011
920While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 1012While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
921C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 1013C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
922modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 1014modifications 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 1015have 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 1016waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
925to take note of any changes you made. 1017to take note of any changes you made.
926 1018
927In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 1019In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
928invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 1020invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
929 1021
930See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 1022See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
931document. 1023document.
932 1024
933=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 1025=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
934 1026
935=item ev_userdata (loop) 1027=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
936 1028
937Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 1029Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
938C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 1030C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
939C<0.> 1031C<0>.
940 1032
941These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1033These 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 1034and 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 1035C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
944any other purpose as well. 1036any other purpose as well.
945 1037
946=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1038=item ev_verify (loop)
947 1039
948This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1040This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
949compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1041compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
950through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1042through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
951is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1043is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
962 1054
963In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1055In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
964watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1056watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
965watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1057watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
966 1058
967A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1059A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
968interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1060your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
969become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1061to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1062for that:
970 1063
971 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1064 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
972 { 1065 {
973 ev_io_stop (w); 1066 ev_io_stop (w);
974 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1067 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
975 } 1068 }
976 1069
977 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1070 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
978 1071
979 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1072 ev_io stdin_watcher;
980 1073
981 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1074 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
982 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1075 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
983 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1076 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
984 1077
985 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1078 ev_run (loop, 0);
986 1079
987As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1080As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
988watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1081watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
989stack). 1082stack).
990 1083
991Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1084Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
992or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1085or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
993 1086
994Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1087Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
995(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1088*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
996callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1089invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
997watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1090time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
998is readable and/or writable). 1091and/or writable).
999 1092
1000Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1093Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1001macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1094macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1002is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1095is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1003ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1096ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1026=item C<EV_WRITE> 1119=item C<EV_WRITE>
1027 1120
1028The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1121The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
1029writable. 1122writable.
1030 1123
1031=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1124=item C<EV_TIMER>
1032 1125
1033The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1126The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
1034 1127
1035=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1128=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
1036 1129
1054 1147
1055=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1148=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1056 1149
1057=item C<EV_CHECK> 1150=item C<EV_CHECK>
1058 1151
1059All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1152All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1060to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1153to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1061C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1154C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1062received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1155received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1063many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1156many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1064(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1157(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1065C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1158C<ev_run> from blocking).
1066 1159
1067=item C<EV_EMBED> 1160=item C<EV_EMBED>
1068 1161
1069The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1162The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1070 1163
1071=item C<EV_FORK> 1164=item C<EV_FORK>
1072 1165
1073The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1166The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1074C<ev_fork>). 1167C<ev_fork>).
1168
1169=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1170
1171The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1075 1172
1076=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1173=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1077 1174
1078The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1175The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1079 1176
1251 1348
1252See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1349See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1253functions that do not need a watcher. 1350functions that do not need a watcher.
1254 1351
1255=back 1352=back
1256
1257 1353
1258=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1354=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1259 1355
1260Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1356Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1261and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1357and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1317 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1413 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1318 { 1414 {
1319 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1415 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1320 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1416 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1321 } 1417 }
1418
1419=head2 WATCHER STATES
1420
1421There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1422active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1423transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1424rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1425
1426=over 4
1427
1428=item initialiased
1429
1430Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1431initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1432C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1433
1434In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1435in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1436
1437=item started/running/active
1438
1439Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1440property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1441this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1442freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1443and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1444
1445=item pending
1446
1447If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1448in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1449stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1450about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1451callback.
1452
1453The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1454an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1455is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1456but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1457moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1458previous item still apply.
1459
1460It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1461via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1462active.
1463
1464=item stopped
1465
1466A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1467be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1468latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1469of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1470freeing it is often a good idea.
1471
1472While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1473initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1474you wish.
1475
1476=back
1322 1477
1323=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1478=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1324 1479
1325Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1480Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1326integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1481integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1369 1524
1370For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1525For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1371you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1526you 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 1527the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1373processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1528processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1374continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1529continuously 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 1530the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1376workable. 1531workable.
1377 1532
1378Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1533Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1379miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1534miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1393 { 1548 {
1394 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1549 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1395 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1550 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1396 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1551 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1397 1552
1398 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1553 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1399 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1554 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1400 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1555 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1401 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1556 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1402 } 1557 }
1403 1558
1457 1612
1458If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1613If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1459known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1614known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1460C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1615C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1461descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1616descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1462files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1617files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1463 1618
1464Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1619Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1465receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1620receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1466be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1621be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1467because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1622because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1532 1687
1533So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1688So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1534ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1689ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1535somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1690somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1536 1691
1692=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1693
1694Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1695found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1696connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1697
1698For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1699of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1700rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1701the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1702typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1703
1704Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1705operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1706situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1707cope with overload is known (to me).
1708
1709One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1710- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1711situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1712event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1713
1714A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1715C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1716messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1717what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1718the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1719usage.
1720
1721If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1722descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1723when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1724close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1725clients under typical overload conditions.
1726
1727The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1728is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1729opportunity for a DoS attack.
1537 1730
1538=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1731=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1539 1732
1540=over 4 1733=over 4
1541 1734
1573 ... 1766 ...
1574 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1767 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1575 ev_io stdin_readable; 1768 ev_io stdin_readable;
1576 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1769 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1577 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1770 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1578 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1771 ev_run (loop, 0);
1579 1772
1580 1773
1581=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1774=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1582 1775
1583Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1776Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1592The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1785The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1593passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1786passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1594might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1787might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1595same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1788same 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 1789before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1597no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1790no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1598 1791
1599=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1792=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1600 1793
1601Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1794Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1602recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1795recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1688 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1881 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1689 1882
1690 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1883 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1691 if (timeout < now) 1884 if (timeout < now)
1692 { 1885 {
1693 // timeout occured, take action 1886 // timeout occurred, take action
1694 } 1887 }
1695 else 1888 else
1696 { 1889 {
1697 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1890 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1698 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1891 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1720to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1913to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1721callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1914callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1722 1915
1723 ev_init (timer, callback); 1916 ev_init (timer, callback);
1724 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1917 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1725 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1918 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1726 1919
1727And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1920And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1728C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1921C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1729 1922
1730 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1923 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1731 1924
1732This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1925This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1733time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1926time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1734 1927
1735Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1928Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1773 1966
1774=head3 The special problem of time updates 1967=head3 The special problem of time updates
1775 1968
1776Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1969Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1777least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1970least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1778time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1971time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1779growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1972growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1780lots of events in one iteration. 1973lots of events in one iteration.
1781 1974
1782The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1975The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1783time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1976time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1861Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2054Returns 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 2055then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
1863the timeout value currently configured. 2056the timeout value currently configured.
1864 2057
1865That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns 2058That 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> 2059C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
1867will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return 2060will 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, 2061roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
1869too), and so on. 2062too), and so on.
1870 2063
1871=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2064=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1900 } 2093 }
1901 2094
1902 ev_timer mytimer; 2095 ev_timer mytimer;
1903 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2096 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1904 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2097 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1905 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2098 ev_run (loop, 0);
1906 2099
1907 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2100 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1908 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2101 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1909 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2102 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1910 2103
1936 2129
1937As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2130As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1938point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2131point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1939timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2132timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1940earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2133earlier 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). 2134(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1942 2135
1943=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2136=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1944 2137
1945=over 4 2138=over 4
1946 2139
2074Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2267Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2075system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2268system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2076potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2269potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2077 2270
2078 static void 2271 static void
2079 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2272 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2080 { 2273 {
2081 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2274 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2082 } 2275 }
2083 2276
2084 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2277 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2107 2300
2108=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2301=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2109 2302
2110Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2303Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2111signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2304signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2112will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2305will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2113normal event processing, like any other event. 2306normal event processing, like any other event.
2114 2307
2115If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2308If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2116C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2309C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2117the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2310the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2131C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2324C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2132not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2325not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2133interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2326interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2134and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2327and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2135 2328
2136=head3 The special problem of inheritance over execve 2329=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2137 2330
2138Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition 2331Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2139(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after 2332(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2140stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal, 2333stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2141and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler. 2334and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2151 2344
2152The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is 2345The 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 2346to 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. 2347catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2155 2348
2156In current versions of libev, you can also ensure that the signal mask is 2349In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2157not blocking any signals (except temporarily, so thread users watch out) 2350unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2158by specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGFD> when creating the event loop. This 2351the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2159is not guaranteed for future versions, however. 2352I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2353
2354So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2355you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2356is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2357
2358=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2359
2360POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2361a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2362threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2363
2364When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2365for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2366all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2367sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2368loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2369these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2370in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
2160 2371
2161=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2372=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2162 2373
2163=over 4 2374=over 4
2164 2375
2180Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2391Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2181 2392
2182 static void 2393 static void
2183 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2394 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2184 { 2395 {
2185 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2396 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2186 } 2397 }
2187 2398
2188 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2399 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2189 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2400 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2190 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2401 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2576 2787
2577Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2788Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2578prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2789prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2579afterwards. 2790afterwards.
2580 2791
2581You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2792You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2582the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2793the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2583watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2794watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2584rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2795rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2585those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2796those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2586C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2797C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2754 2965
2755 if (timeout >= 0) 2966 if (timeout >= 0)
2756 // create/start timer 2967 // create/start timer
2757 2968
2758 // poll 2969 // poll
2759 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2970 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2760 2971
2761 // stop timer again 2972 // stop timer again
2762 if (timeout >= 0) 2973 if (timeout >= 0)
2763 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2974 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2764 2975
2842if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3053if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2843 3054
2844=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3055=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2845 3056
2846Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3057Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2847similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3058similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2848appropriate way for embedded loops. 3059appropriate way for embedded loops.
2849 3060
2850=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3061=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2851 3062
2852The embedded event loop. 3063The embedded event loop.
2912C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3123C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2913handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3124handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2914 3125
2915=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3126=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2916 3127
2917Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3128Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2918up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3129up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2919sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3130sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2920 3131
2921This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3132This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2922in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3133in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2938disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3149disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2939signal watchers). 3150signal watchers).
2940 3151
2941When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3152When 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 3153other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2943C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3154C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2944the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3155Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2945have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3156watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2946also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3157those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3158signal watchers.
2947 3159
2948=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3160=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2949 3161
2950=over 4 3162=over 4
2951 3163
2952=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3164=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2953 3165
2954Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3166Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2955kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3167kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2956believe me. 3168really.
2957 3169
2958=back 3170=back
2959 3171
2960 3172
3173=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3174
3175Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3176by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3177
3178While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3179watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3180program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3181loop when you want them to be invoked.
3182
3183Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3184all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3185makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3186can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3187
3188=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3189
3190=over 4
3191
3192=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3193
3194Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3195any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3196pointless, I assure you.
3197
3198=back
3199
3200Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3201cleanup functions are called.
3202
3203 static void
3204 program_exits (void)
3205 {
3206 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3207 }
3208
3209 ...
3210 atexit (program_exits);
3211
3212
2961=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3213=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2962 3214
2963In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3215In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2964asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3216asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2965loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3217loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2966 3218
2967Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3219Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2968control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3220for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2969C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3221watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2970can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3222it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2971safe.
2972 3223
2973This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3224This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2974too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3225too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2975(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3226(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2976C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3227C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3228of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3229signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3230even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
2977 3231
2978Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3232Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
2979just the default loop. 3233just the default loop.
2980 3234
2981=head3 Queueing 3235=head3 Queueing
3131 3385
3132If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3386If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
3133started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3387started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
3134repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3388repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
3135 3389
3136The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3390The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
3137passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3391passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
3138C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3392C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
3139value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3393value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3140a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3394a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3141events precedence. 3395events precedence.
3142 3396
3143Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3397Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3144 3398
3145 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3399 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
3146 { 3400 {
3147 if (revents & EV_READ) 3401 if (revents & EV_READ)
3148 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3402 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3149 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3403 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3150 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3404 /* doh, nothing entered */;
3151 } 3405 }
3152 3406
3153 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3407 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3154 3408
3157Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3411Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3158the given events it. 3412the given events it.
3159 3413
3160=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3414=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3161 3415
3162Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3416Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3163loop!). 3417which is async-safe.
3418
3419=back
3420
3421
3422=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3423
3424This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3425obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3426section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3427
3428=over 4
3429
3430=item Model/nested event loop invocations and exit conditions.
3431
3432Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3433I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3434invoking C<ev_run>.
3435
3436This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3437main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3438a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3439and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3440other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone.
3441
3442The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3443invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3444triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3445
3446 // main loop
3447 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3448
3449 while (!exit_main_loop)
3450 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3451
3452 // in a model watcher
3453 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3454
3455 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3456 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3457
3458To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3459
3460 // exit modal loop
3461 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3462
3463 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3464 exit_main_loop = 1;
3465
3466 // exit both
3467 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3164 3468
3165=back 3469=back
3166 3470
3167 3471
3168=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3472=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3169 3473
3170Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3474Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3171emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3475emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
3172 3476
3173=over 4 3477=over 4
3478
3479=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3480
3481This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3482and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
3174 3483
3175=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3484=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
3176 3485
3177=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3486=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
3178ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3487ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3184=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3493=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3185will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3494will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3186is an ev_pri field. 3495is an ev_pri field.
3187 3496
3188=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3497=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3189first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3498base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3190 3499
3191=item * Other members are not supported. 3500=item * Other members are not supported.
3192 3501
3193=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3502=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3194to use the libev header file and library. 3503to use the libev header file and library.
3213Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 3522Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3214classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 3523classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3215that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 3524that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3216you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 3525you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3217 3526
3218Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 3527Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3219used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 3528with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3220need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 3529to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3221types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 3530you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3222it). 3531(preferably after implementing it).
3223 3532
3224Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 3533Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3225 3534
3226=over 4 3535=over 4
3227 3536
3288 myclass obj; 3597 myclass obj;
3289 ev::io iow; 3598 ev::io iow;
3290 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3599 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3291 3600
3292=item w->set (object *) 3601=item w->set (object *)
3293
3294This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3295 3602
3296This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3603This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3297will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3604will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3298functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3605functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3299the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3606the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3339Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3646Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3340do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3647do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3341 3648
3342=item w->set ([arguments]) 3649=item w->set ([arguments])
3343 3650
3344Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3651Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3345called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3652method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3346automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3653C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3347method. 3654when reconfiguring it with this method.
3348 3655
3349=item w->start () 3656=item w->start ()
3350 3657
3351Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3658Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3352constructor already stores the event loop. 3659constructor already stores the event loop.
3353 3660
3661=item w->start ([arguments])
3662
3663Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3664convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3665the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3666
3354=item w->stop () 3667=item w->stop ()
3355 3668
3356Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3669Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3357 3670
3358=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3671=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3370 3683
3371=back 3684=back
3372 3685
3373=back 3686=back
3374 3687
3375Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3688Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3376the constructor. 3689watchers in the constructor.
3377 3690
3378 class myclass 3691 class myclass
3379 { 3692 {
3380 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3693 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3694 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3381 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3695 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3382 3696
3383 myclass (int fd) 3697 myclass (int fd)
3384 { 3698 {
3385 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3699 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3700 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3386 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3701 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3387 3702
3388 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3703 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3704 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3705
3706 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3389 } 3707 }
3390 }; 3708 };
3391 3709
3392 3710
3393=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3711=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3441Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3759Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3442L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3760L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3443 3761
3444=item Lua 3762=item Lua
3445 3763
3446Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev 3764Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3447for lua (only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 3765time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3448L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 3766L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3449 3767
3450=back 3768=back
3451 3769
3452 3770
3467loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3785loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3468C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3786C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3469 3787
3470 ev_unref (EV_A); 3788 ev_unref (EV_A);
3471 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3789 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3472 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3790 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3473 3791
3474It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3792It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3475which is often provided by the following macro. 3793which is often provided by the following macro.
3476 3794
3477=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3795=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3517 } 3835 }
3518 3836
3519 ev_check check; 3837 ev_check check;
3520 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3838 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3521 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3839 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3522 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3840 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3523 3841
3524=head1 EMBEDDING 3842=head1 EMBEDDING
3525 3843
3526Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3844Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3527applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3845applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3607 libev.m4 3925 libev.m4
3608 3926
3609=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3927=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3610 3928
3611Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3929Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3612define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3930define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3613autoconf is documented for every option. 3931the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3932
3933Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3934values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3935to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3936to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3937users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3938settings.
3614 3939
3615=over 4 3940=over 4
3616 3941
3942=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3943
3944Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3945release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3946have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3947
3948You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3949versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3950sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3951from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3952typedef in that case.
3953
3954In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3955and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3956removed completely.
3957
3617=item EV_STANDALONE 3958=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3618 3959
3619Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3960Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3620keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3961keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3621implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3962implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3622supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3963supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3772as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4113as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3773 4114
3774In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4115In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3775(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4116(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3776 4117
3777=item EV_H 4118=item EV_H (h)
3778 4119
3779The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4120The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3780undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4121undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3781used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4122used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3782 4123
3783=item EV_CONFIG_H 4124=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3784 4125
3785If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4126If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3786F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4127F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3787C<EV_H>, above. 4128C<EV_H>, above.
3788 4129
3789=item EV_EVENT_H 4130=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3790 4131
3791Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4132Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3792of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4133of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3793 4134
3794=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4135=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3795 4136
3796If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4137If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3797prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4138prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3798occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4139occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3799around libev functions. 4140around libev functions.
3821fine. 4162fine.
3822 4163
3823If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4164If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3824both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4165both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3825 4166
3826=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4167=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4168EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4169EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3827 4170
3828If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4171If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3829defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4172the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3830code. 4173is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3831 4174
3832=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4175=item EV_FEATURES
3833
3834If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3835defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3836code.
3837
3838=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3839
3840If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3841defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3842watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3843
3844=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3845
3846If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3847defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3848
3849=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3850
3851If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3852defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3853
3854=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3855
3856If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3857defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3858
3859=item EV_MINIMAL
3860 4176
3861If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4177If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3862speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this 4178speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3863is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size 4179certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3864on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over 4180that can be enabled on the platform.
3865the default 4-heap.
3866 4181
3867You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need 4182A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
3868and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert> 4183with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
3869(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot. 4184additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4185but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4186backend, use this:
3870 4187
3871Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to 4188 #define EV_FEATURES 0
3872provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts 4189 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
3873of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes 4190 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
3874over time. 4191 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4192 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4193
4194The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4195values:
4196
4197=over 4
4198
4199=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4200
4201Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4202
4203Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4204code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4205
4206When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4207gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4208assertions.
4209
4210=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4211
4212Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4213hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4214and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4215runtime.
4216
4217=item C<4> - full API configuration
4218
4219This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4220enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4221
4222=item C<8> - full API
4223
4224This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4225details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4226feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4227
4228=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4229
4230Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4231only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4232embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4233C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4234
4235=item C<32> - enable all backends
4236
4237This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4238least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4239
4240=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4241
4242Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4243default.
4244
4245=back
4246
4247Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4248reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4249code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4250watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4251
4252With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4253when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4254your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4255I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4256
4257=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4258
4259If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4260functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4261somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4262libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4263big.
4264
4265Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4266enabled.
3875 4267
3876=item EV_NSIG 4268=item EV_NSIG
3877 4269
3878The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4270The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3879signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4271signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3880automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4272automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3881specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4273specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3882good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4274good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3883statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4275statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3884 4276
3885=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4277=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3886 4278
3887C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4279C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3888pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4280pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3889than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4281usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3890increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4282might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3891 4283
3892=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4284=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3893 4285
3894C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4286C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3895inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4287inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3896usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4288disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3897watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4289C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3898two). 4290power of two).
3899 4291
3900=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4292=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3901 4293
3902Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4294Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3903timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4295timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3904to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4296to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3905faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4297faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3906 4298
3907The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4299The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3908(disabled). 4300will be C<0>.
3909 4301
3910=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4302=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3911 4303
3912Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4304Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3913timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4305timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3914the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4306the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3915which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4307which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3916but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4308but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3917noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4309noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3918 4310
3919The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4311The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3920(disabled). 4312will be C<0>.
3921 4313
3922=item EV_VERIFY 4314=item EV_VERIFY
3923 4315
3924Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4316Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3925be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4317be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3926in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4318in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3927called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4319called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3928called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4320called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3929verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4321verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3930libev considerably. 4322libev considerably.
3931 4323
3932The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4324The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3933C<0>. 4325will be C<0>.
3934 4326
3935=item EV_COMMON 4327=item EV_COMMON
3936 4328
3937By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4329By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3938this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4330this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3939members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4331members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3940though, and it must be identical each time. 4332though, and it must be identical each time.
3941 4333
3942For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4334For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3943 4335
3996file. 4388file.
3997 4389
3998The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4390The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3999that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4391that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
4000 4392
4001 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4393 #define EV_FEATURES 8
4002 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4394 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
4003 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
4004 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4395 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4396 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
4005 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4397 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
4006 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4398 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4399 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
4007 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4400 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
4008 #define EV_MINPRI 0
4009 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
4010 4401
4011 #include "ev++.h" 4402 #include "ev++.h"
4012 4403
4013And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4404And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4014 4405
4145 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4536 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4146 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4537 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4147 } 4538 }
4148 4539
4149The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4540The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4150into C<ev_loop>: 4541into C<ev_run>:
4151 4542
4152 void * 4543 void *
4153 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4544 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4154 { 4545 {
4155 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4546 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4156 4547
4157 l_acquire (EV_A); 4548 l_acquire (EV_A);
4158 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4549 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4159 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4550 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4160 l_release (EV_A); 4551 l_release (EV_A);
4161 4552
4162 return 0; 4553 return 0;
4163 } 4554 }
4164 4555
4216 4607
4217=head3 COROUTINES 4608=head3 COROUTINES
4218 4609
4219Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4610Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4220libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4611libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4221coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4612coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4222different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4613different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4223the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4614the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4224that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4615that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4225 4616
4226Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4617Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4227C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4618C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4228they do not call any callbacks. 4619they do not call any callbacks.
4229 4620
4230=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4621=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4231 4622
4232Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4623Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4243maintainable. 4634maintainable.
4244 4635
4245And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4636And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4246wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4637wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4247seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4638seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4248warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4639warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4249been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4640been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4250such buggy versions. 4641such buggy versions.
4251 4642
4252While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4643While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4253"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4644"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4289I suggest using suppression lists. 4680I suggest using suppression lists.
4290 4681
4291 4682
4292=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4683=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4293 4684
4685=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4686
4687GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4688interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4689
4690That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4691files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4692
4693Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4694by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4695standard libev compiled for their system.
4696
4697Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4698suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4699i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4700
4701=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4702
4703The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4704you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4705OpenGL drivers.
4706
4707=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4708
4709The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4710only sockets, many support pipes.
4711
4712Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4713rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4714loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4715probably going to work well.
4716
4717=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4718
4719Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4720implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4721release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4722
4723Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4724this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4725a loop.
4726
4727=head3 C<select> is buggy
4728
4729All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4730one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4731descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4732you use more.
4733
4734There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4735C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4736work on OS/X.
4737
4738=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4739
4740=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4741
4742The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4743thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4744without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4745defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4746
4747If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4748it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4749
4750=head3 Event port backend
4751
4752The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4753ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4754releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4755a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4756and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4757are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4758great.
4759
4760If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4761the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4762C<select> backends.
4763
4764=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4765
4766AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4767this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4768compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4769with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4770
4294=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4771=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4772
4773=head3 General issues
4295 4774
4296Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4775Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4297requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4776requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4298model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4777model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4299the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4778the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4300descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4779descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4301e.g. cygwin. 4780e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4781as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4782environment.
4302 4783
4303Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4784Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4304re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4785re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4305things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4786then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4306way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4787also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4307 4788
4308There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4789There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4309embedding it into other applications. 4790embedding it into other applications.
4310 4791
4311Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4792Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4339you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4820you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4340 4821
4341 #include "evwrap.h" 4822 #include "evwrap.h"
4342 #include "ev.c" 4823 #include "ev.c"
4343 4824
4344=over 4
4345
4346=item The winsocket select function 4825=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4347 4826
4348The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4827The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4349requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4828requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4350also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4829also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4351requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4830requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4360 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4839 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4361 4840
4362Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4841Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4363complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4842complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4364 4843
4365=item Limited number of file descriptors 4844=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4366 4845
4367Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4846Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4368 4847
4369Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4848Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4370of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4849of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4385runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4864runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4386(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4865(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4387you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4866you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4388the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4867the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4389 4868
4390=back
4391
4392=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4869=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4393 4870
4394In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4871In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4395backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4872backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4396 4873
4402Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4879Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4403structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4880structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4404assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4881assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4405callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4882callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4406calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4883calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4884
4885=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4886
4887Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4888writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4407 4889
4408=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4890=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4409 4891
4410The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4892The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4411C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4893C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4434watchers. 4916watchers.
4435 4917
4436=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4918=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4437 4919
4438The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4920The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4439have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4921have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4440enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4922good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4923(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4441implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4924implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4442ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4925IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
44432200.
4444 4926
4445=back 4927=back
4446 4928
4447If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4929If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4448 4930
4516involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4998involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4517 4999
4518=back 5000=back
4519 5001
4520 5002
5003=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
5004
5005The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
5006
5007At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
5008for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
5009layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5010new API early than late.
5011
5012=over 4
5013
5014=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5015
5016The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5017C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
5018section.
5019
5020=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5021
5022These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5023
5024 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
5025 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
5026
5027=item function/symbol renames
5028
5029A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
5030
5031 ev_loop => ev_run
5032 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
5033 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
5034
5035 ev_unloop => ev_break
5036 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
5037 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
5038 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
5039
5040 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
5041
5042 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
5043 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
5044 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
5045
5046Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
5047C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
5048associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
5049ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
5050as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
5051C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
5052typedef.
5053
5054=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
5055
5056The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
5057mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
5058and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
5059
5060=back
5061
5062
4521=head1 GLOSSARY 5063=head1 GLOSSARY
4522 5064
4523=over 4 5065=over 4
4524 5066
4525=item active 5067=item active
4526 5068
4527A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 5069A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4528an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 5070See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4529 5071
4530=item application 5072=item application
4531 5073
4532In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5074In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5075
5076=item backend
5077
5078The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4533 5079
4534=item callback 5080=item callback
4535 5081
4536The address of a function that is called when some event has been 5082The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4537detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 5083detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4538received the event, and the actual event bitset. 5084received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4539 5085
4540=item callback invocation 5086=item callback/watcher invocation
4541 5087
4542The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 5088The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4543 5089
4544=item event 5090=item event
4545 5091
4546A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 5092A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4547for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 5093for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4548any other events happening anymore. 5094any other events happening anymore.
4549 5095
4550In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 5096In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4551C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 5097C<EV_TIMER>).
4552 5098
4553=item event library 5099=item event library
4554 5100
4555A software package implementing an event model and loop. 5101A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4556 5102
4564The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5110The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4565watchers and events. 5111watchers and events.
4566 5112
4567=item pending 5113=item pending
4568 5114
4569A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5115A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4570and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5116detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4571pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4572
4573A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4574its pending status.
4575 5117
4576=item real time 5118=item real time
4577 5119
4578The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5120The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4579 5121
4586=item watcher 5128=item watcher
4587 5129
4588A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5130A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4589to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5131to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4590 5132
4591=item watcher invocation
4592
4593The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4594
4595=back 5133=back
4596 5134
4597=head1 AUTHOR 5135=head1 AUTHOR
4598 5136
4599Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5137Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5138Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4600 5139

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