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26 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
28 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 30
31 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
33 } 33 }
34 34
35 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
36 static void 36 static void
37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
38 { 38 {
39 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
42 } 42 }
43 43
44 int 44 int
45 main (void) 45 main (void)
46 { 46 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 49
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting 75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial 76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
124this argument. 132this argument.
125 133
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 135
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
132aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
133on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 145
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 147
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
164 173
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 175
167Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
168C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
169you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 180
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 182
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 203not a problem.
194 204
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 208
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 212
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 225
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 227
217Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
218recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
219returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
220most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
221(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 235
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 237
226Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 243
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 245
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
235 247
236Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
237semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
238used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
239when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
265 } 277 }
266 278
267 ... 279 ...
268 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
269 281
270=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
271 283
272Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
273as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
274indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
275callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
292=back 304=back
293 305
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 307
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 308An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
297is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 309I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 311
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 312The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 314do not.
303 315
304=over 4 316=over 4
305 317
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 319
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 321normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
310false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 322the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 323C<ev_loop_new>.
324
325If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
326returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
327C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
328flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
329one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 330
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 331If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 333
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 334Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
317from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 335from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
319 338
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 339The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
321C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 340and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
322for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 341a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
323create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 342C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 344
345Example: This is the most typical usage.
346
347 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
348 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
349
350Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
351environment settings to be taken into account:
352
353 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
354
355=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
356
357This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
358could not be initialised, returns false.
359
360This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
361threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
362loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 363
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
328backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 365backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 366
330The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
345useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 382useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
346around bugs. 383around bugs.
347 384
348=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 385=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
349 386
350Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 387Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
351a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 388make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
352enabling this flag.
353 389
354This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 390This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
355and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 391and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
356iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 392iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
357GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 393GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
366environment variable. 402environment variable.
367 403
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 404=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369 405
370When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 406When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
371I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 407I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 408testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 409otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374 410
375=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 411=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
376 412
377When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 413When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
378I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 414I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
379delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make 415delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
380it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 416it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
381handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 417handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
382threads that are not interested in handling them. 418threads that are not interested in handling them.
383 419
427epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 463epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
428 464
429The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 465The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
430of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 466of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
431dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 467dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
432descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 468descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
469returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
470(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
433so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4710.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
434I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 472forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
435take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 473set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
436hard to detect. 474and is of course hard to detect.
437 475
438Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 476Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
439of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 477of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
440I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 478I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
441even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 479even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
442on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 480on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
443employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 481employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
444events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 482events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
483not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
484perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
485
486Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
445 487
446While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 488While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
447will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 489will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
448incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 490incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
449I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 491I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
547If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 589If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
548then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 590then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
549here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 591here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
550()> will be tried. 592()> will be tried.
551 593
552Example: This is the most typical usage.
553
554 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
555 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
556
557Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
558environment settings to be taken into account:
559
560 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
561
562Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
563used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
564private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
565fds):
566
567 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
568
569=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
570
571Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
572always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
573handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
574undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
575
576Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
577libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
578default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
579
580Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 594Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
581 595
582 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 596 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
583 if (!epoller) 597 if (!epoller)
584 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 598 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
585 599
600Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
601used if available.
602
603 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
604
586=item ev_default_destroy () 605=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
587 606
588Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 607Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
589etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 608etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
590sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 609sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
591responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 610responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
592calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 611calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
593the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 612the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
595 614
596Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 615Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
597handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 616handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
598as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 617as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
599 618
600In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 619This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
601rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 620C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
621C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
622
623Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
624except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
602pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 625If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
603C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 626and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
604 627
605=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 628=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
606 629
607Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
608earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
609
610=item ev_default_fork ()
611
612This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 630This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
613to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 631reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
614name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 632name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
615the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 633the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
616sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 634child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
617functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 635
636Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
637a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
638because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
639during fork.
618 640
619On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 641On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
620process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 642process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
621you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 643you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
644call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
645difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
646costly reset of the backend).
622 647
623The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 648The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
624it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 649it just in case after a fork.
625quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
626 650
651Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
652using pthreads.
653
654 static void
655 post_fork_child (void)
656 {
657 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
658 }
659
660 ...
627 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 661 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
628
629=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
630
631Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
632C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
633after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
634entirely your own problem.
635 662
636=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 663=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
637 664
638Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 665Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
639otherwise. 666otherwise.
640 667
641=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 668=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
642 669
643Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 670Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
644the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 671to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
645happily wraps around with enough iterations. 672and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
646 673
647This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 674This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
648"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 675"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
649C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 676C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
677prepare and check phases.
650 678
651=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 679=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
652 680
653Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 681Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
654times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 682times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
655 683
656Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 684Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
657C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 685C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
658in which case it is higher. 686in which case it is higher.
659 687
660Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 688Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
661etc.), doesn't count as exit. 689throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
690as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
691convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
662 692
663=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 693=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
664 694
665Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 695Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
666use. 696use.
675 705
676=item ev_now_update (loop) 706=item ev_now_update (loop)
677 707
678Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 708Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
679returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 709returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
680is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 710is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
681 711
682This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 712This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
683very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 713very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
684the current time is a good idea. 714the current time is a good idea.
685 715
687 717
688=item ev_suspend (loop) 718=item ev_suspend (loop)
689 719
690=item ev_resume (loop) 720=item ev_resume (loop)
691 721
692These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 722These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
693not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 723loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
694 724
695A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 725A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
696the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 726the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
697would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 727would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
698the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 728the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
700C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 730C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
701 731
702Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 732Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
703between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 733between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
704will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 734will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
705occured while suspended). 735occurred while suspended).
706 736
707After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 737After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
708given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 738given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
709without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 739without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
710 740
711Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 741Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
712event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 742event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
713 743
714=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 744=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
715 745
716Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 746Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
717after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 747after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
718handling events. 748handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
749the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
750is why event loops are called I<loops>.
719 751
720If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 752If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
721either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 753until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
754called.
722 755
723Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 756Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
724relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 757relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
725finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 758finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
726that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 759that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
727of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 760of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
728beauty. 761beauty.
729 762
763This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
764a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
765exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
766will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
767
730A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 768A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
731those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 769those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
732process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 770block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
733the loop. 771iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
772events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
734 773
735A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 774A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
736necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 775necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
737will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 776will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
738be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 777be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
739user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 778user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
740iteration of the loop. 779iteration of the loop.
741 780
742This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 781This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
743with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 782with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
744own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 783own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
745usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 784usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
746 785
747Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 786Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
748 787
788 - Increment loop depth.
789 - Reset the ev_break status.
749 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 790 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
791 LOOP:
750 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 792 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
751 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 793 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
752 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 794 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
795 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
753 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 796 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
754 as to not disturb the other process. 797 as to not disturb the other process.
755 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 798 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
756 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 799 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
757 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 800 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
758 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 801 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
759 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 802 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
760 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 803 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
804 - Increment loop iteration counter.
761 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 805 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
762 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 806 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
763 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 807 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
764 - Queue all expired timers. 808 - Queue all expired timers.
765 - Queue all expired periodics. 809 - Queue all expired periodics.
766 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 810 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
767 - Queue all check watchers. 811 - Queue all check watchers.
768 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 812 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
769 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 813 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
770 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 814 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
771 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 815 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
772 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 816 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
773 continue with step *. 817 continue with step LOOP.
818 FINISH:
819 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
820 - Decrement the loop depth.
821 - Return.
774 822
775Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 823Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
776anymore. 824anymore.
777 825
778 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 826 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
779 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 827 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
780 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 828 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
781 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 829 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
782 830
783=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 831=item ev_break (loop, how)
784 832
785Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 833Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
786has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 834has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
787C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 835C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
788C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 836C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
789 837
790This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 838This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
791 839
792It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 840It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
841which case it will have no effect.
793 842
794=item ev_ref (loop) 843=item ev_ref (loop)
795 844
796=item ev_unref (loop) 845=item ev_unref (loop)
797 846
798Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 847Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
799loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 848loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
800count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 849count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
801 850
802This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 851This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
803unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 852unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
804returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref> 853returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
805before stopping it. 854before stopping it.
806 855
807As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 856As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
808is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 857is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
809exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 858exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
810excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 859excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
811third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 860third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
812before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 861before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
813before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 862before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
814(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 863(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
815in the callback). 864in the callback).
816 865
817Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 866Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
818running when nothing else is active. 867running when nothing else is active.
819 868
820 ev_signal exitsig; 869 ev_signal exitsig;
821 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 870 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
822 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 871 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
867usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 916usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
868as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 917as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
869you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 918you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
870parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 919parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
871need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 920need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
872then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 921then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
873 922
874Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 923Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
875saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 924saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
876are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 925are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
877times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 926times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
885 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 934 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
886 935
887=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 936=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
888 937
889This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 938This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
890pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 939pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
891but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 940but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
941function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
942when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
943event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
944thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
892 945
893=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 946=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
894 947
895Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 948Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
896are pending. 949are pending.
897 950
898=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 951=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
899 952
900This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 953This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
901invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 954invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
902this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 955this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
903invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 956invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
904 957
905If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 958If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
906callback. 959callback.
909 962
910Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 963Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
911can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 964can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
912each call to a libev function. 965each call to a libev function.
913 966
914However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 967However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
915wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 968to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
916C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 969loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
917and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 970I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
918 971
919When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 972When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
920suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 973suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
921afterwards. 974afterwards.
922 975
925 978
926While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 979While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
927C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 980C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
928modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 981modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
929have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 982have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
930waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 983waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
931to take note of any changes you made. 984to take note of any changes you made.
932 985
933In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 986In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
934invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 987invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
935 988
936See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 989See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
937document. 990document.
938 991
940 993
941=item ev_userdata (loop) 994=item ev_userdata (loop)
942 995
943Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 996Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
944C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 997C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
945C<0.> 998C<0>.
946 999
947These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1000These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
948and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1001and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
949C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1002C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
950any other purpose as well. 1003any other purpose as well.
951 1004
952=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1005=item ev_verify (loop)
953 1006
954This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1007This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
955compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1008compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
956through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1009through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
957is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1010is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
968 1021
969In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1022In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
970watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1023watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
971watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1024watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
972 1025
973A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1026A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
974interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1027your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
975become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1028to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1029for that:
976 1030
977 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1031 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
978 { 1032 {
979 ev_io_stop (w); 1033 ev_io_stop (w);
980 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1034 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
981 } 1035 }
982 1036
983 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1037 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
984 1038
985 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1039 ev_io stdin_watcher;
986 1040
987 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1041 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
988 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1042 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
989 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1043 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
990 1044
991 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1045 ev_run (loop, 0);
992 1046
993As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1047As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
994watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1048watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
995stack). 1049stack).
996 1050
997Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1051Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
998or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1052or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
999 1053
1000Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1054Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
1001(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1055*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
1002callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1056invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
1003watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1057time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1004is readable and/or writable). 1058and/or writable).
1005 1059
1006Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1060Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1007macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1061macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1008is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1062is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1009ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1063ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1032=item C<EV_WRITE> 1086=item C<EV_WRITE>
1033 1087
1034The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1088The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
1035writable. 1089writable.
1036 1090
1037=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1091=item C<EV_TIMER>
1038 1092
1039The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1093The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
1040 1094
1041=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1095=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
1042 1096
1060 1114
1061=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1115=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1062 1116
1063=item C<EV_CHECK> 1117=item C<EV_CHECK>
1064 1118
1065All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1119All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1066to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1120to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1067C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1121C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1068received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1122received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1069many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1123many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1070(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1124(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1071C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1125C<ev_run> from blocking).
1072 1126
1073=item C<EV_EMBED> 1127=item C<EV_EMBED>
1074 1128
1075The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1129The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1076 1130
1077=item C<EV_FORK> 1131=item C<EV_FORK>
1078 1132
1079The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1133The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1080C<ev_fork>). 1134C<ev_fork>).
1135
1136=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1137
1138The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1081 1139
1082=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1140=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1083 1141
1084The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1142The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1085 1143
1257 1315
1258See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1316See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1259functions that do not need a watcher. 1317functions that do not need a watcher.
1260 1318
1261=back 1319=back
1262
1263 1320
1264=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1321=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1265 1322
1266Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1323Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1267and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1324and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1323 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1380 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1324 { 1381 {
1325 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1382 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1326 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1383 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1327 } 1384 }
1385
1386=head2 WATCHER STATES
1387
1388There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1389active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1390transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1391rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1392
1393=over 4
1394
1395=item initialiased
1396
1397Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1398initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1399C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1400
1401In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1402in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1403
1404=item started/running/active
1405
1406Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1407property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1408this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1409freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1410and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1411
1412=item pending
1413
1414If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1415in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1416stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1417about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1418callback.
1419
1420The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1421an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1422is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1423but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1424moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1425previous item still apply.
1426
1427It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1428via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1429active.
1430
1431=item stopped
1432
1433A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1434be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1435latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1436of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1437freeing it is often a good idea.
1438
1439While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1440initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1441you wish.
1442
1443=back
1328 1444
1329=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1445=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1330 1446
1331Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1447Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1332integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1448integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1375 1491
1376For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1492For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1377you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1493you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1378the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1494the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1379processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1495processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1380continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1496continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1381the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1497the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1382workable. 1498workable.
1383 1499
1384Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1500Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1385miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1501miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1399 { 1515 {
1400 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1516 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1401 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1517 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1402 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1518 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1403 1519
1404 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1520 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1405 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1521 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1406 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1522 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1407 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1523 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1408 } 1524 }
1409 1525
1463 1579
1464If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1580If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1465known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1581known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1466C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1582C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1467descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1583descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1468files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1584files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1469 1585
1470Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1586Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1471receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1587receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1472be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1588be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1473because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1589because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1538 1654
1539So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1655So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1540ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1656ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1541somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1657somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1542 1658
1659=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1660
1661Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1662found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1663connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1664
1665For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1666of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1667rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1668the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1669typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1670
1671Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1672operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1673situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1674cope with overload is known (to me).
1675
1676One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1677- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1678situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1679event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1680
1681A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1682C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1683messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1684what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1685the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1686usage.
1687
1688If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1689descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1690when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1691close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1692clients under typical overload conditions.
1693
1694The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1695is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1696opportunity for a DoS attack.
1543 1697
1544=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1698=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1545 1699
1546=over 4 1700=over 4
1547 1701
1579 ... 1733 ...
1580 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1734 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1581 ev_io stdin_readable; 1735 ev_io stdin_readable;
1582 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1736 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1583 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1737 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1584 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1738 ev_run (loop, 0);
1585 1739
1586 1740
1587=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1741=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1588 1742
1589Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1743Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1598The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1752The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1599passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1753passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1600might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1754might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1601same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1755same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1602before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1756before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1603no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1757no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1604 1758
1605=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1759=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1606 1760
1607Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1761Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1608recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1762recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1694 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1848 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1695 1849
1696 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1850 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1697 if (timeout < now) 1851 if (timeout < now)
1698 { 1852 {
1699 // timeout occured, take action 1853 // timeout occurred, take action
1700 } 1854 }
1701 else 1855 else
1702 { 1856 {
1703 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1857 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1704 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1858 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1726to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1880to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1727callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1881callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1728 1882
1729 ev_init (timer, callback); 1883 ev_init (timer, callback);
1730 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1884 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1731 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1885 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1732 1886
1733And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1887And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1734C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1888C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1735 1889
1736 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1890 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1737 1891
1738This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1892This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1739time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1893time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1740 1894
1741Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1895Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1779 1933
1780=head3 The special problem of time updates 1934=head3 The special problem of time updates
1781 1935
1782Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1936Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1783least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1937least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1784time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1938time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1785growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1939growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1786lots of events in one iteration. 1940lots of events in one iteration.
1787 1941
1788The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1942The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1789time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1943time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1906 } 2060 }
1907 2061
1908 ev_timer mytimer; 2062 ev_timer mytimer;
1909 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2063 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1910 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2064 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1911 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2065 ev_run (loop, 0);
1912 2066
1913 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2067 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1914 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2068 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1915 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2069 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1916 2070
1942 2096
1943As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2097As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1944point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2098point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1945timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2099timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1946earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2100earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1947(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2101(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1948 2102
1949=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1950 2104
1951=over 4 2105=over 4
1952 2106
2080Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2234Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2081system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2235system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2082potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2236potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2083 2237
2084 static void 2238 static void
2085 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2239 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2086 { 2240 {
2087 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2241 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2088 } 2242 }
2089 2243
2090 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2244 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2113 2267
2114=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2268=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2115 2269
2116Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2270Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2117signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2271signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2118will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2272will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2119normal event processing, like any other event. 2273normal event processing, like any other event.
2120 2274
2121If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2275If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2122C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2276C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2123the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2277the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2190Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2344Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2191 2345
2192 static void 2346 static void
2193 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2347 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2194 { 2348 {
2195 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2349 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2196 } 2350 }
2197 2351
2198 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2352 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2199 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2353 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2200 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2354 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2586 2740
2587Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2741Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2588prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2742prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2589afterwards. 2743afterwards.
2590 2744
2591You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2745You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2592the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2746the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2593watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2747watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2594rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2748rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2595those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2749those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2596C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2750C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2764 2918
2765 if (timeout >= 0) 2919 if (timeout >= 0)
2766 // create/start timer 2920 // create/start timer
2767 2921
2768 // poll 2922 // poll
2769 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2923 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2770 2924
2771 // stop timer again 2925 // stop timer again
2772 if (timeout >= 0) 2926 if (timeout >= 0)
2773 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2927 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2774 2928
2852if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3006if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2853 3007
2854=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3008=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2855 3009
2856Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3010Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2857similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3011similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2858appropriate way for embedded loops. 3012appropriate way for embedded loops.
2859 3013
2860=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3014=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2861 3015
2862The embedded event loop. 3016The embedded event loop.
2922C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3076C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2923handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3077handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2924 3078
2925=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3079=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2926 3080
2927Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3081Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2928up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3082up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2929sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3083sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2930 3084
2931This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3085This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2932in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3086in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2948disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3102disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2949signal watchers). 3103signal watchers).
2950 3104
2951When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3105When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2952other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3106other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2953C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3107C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2954the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3108Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2955have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3109watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2956also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3110those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3111signal watchers.
2957 3112
2958=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3113=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2959 3114
2960=over 4 3115=over 4
2961 3116
2962=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3117=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2963 3118
2964Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3119Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2965kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3120kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2966believe me. 3121really.
2967 3122
2968=back 3123=back
2969 3124
2970 3125
3126=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3127
3128Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3129by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3130
3131While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3132watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3133program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3134loop when you want them to be invoked.
3135
3136Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3137all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3138makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3139can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3140
3141=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3142
3143=over 4
3144
3145=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3146
3147Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3148any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3149pointless, I assure you.
3150
3151=back
3152
3153Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3154cleanup functions are called.
3155
3156 static void
3157 program_exits (void)
3158 {
3159 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3160 }
3161
3162 ...
3163 atexit (program_exits);
3164
3165
2971=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3166=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2972 3167
2973In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3168In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2974asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3169asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2975loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3170loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2976 3171
2977Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3172Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2978control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3173for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2979C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3174watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2980can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3175it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2981safe.
2982 3176
2983This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3177This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2984too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3178too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2985(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3179(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2986C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3180C<ev_async_sent> calls).
3141 3335
3142If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3336If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
3143started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3337started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
3144repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3338repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
3145 3339
3146The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3340The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
3147passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3341passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
3148C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3342C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
3149value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3343value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3150a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3344a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3151events precedence. 3345events precedence.
3152 3346
3153Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3347Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3154 3348
3155 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3349 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
3156 { 3350 {
3157 if (revents & EV_READ) 3351 if (revents & EV_READ)
3158 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3352 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3159 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3353 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3160 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3354 /* doh, nothing entered */;
3161 } 3355 }
3162 3356
3163 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3357 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3164 3358
3194=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3388=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3195will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3389will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3196is an ev_pri field. 3390is an ev_pri field.
3197 3391
3198=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3392=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3199first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3393base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3200 3394
3201=item * Other members are not supported. 3395=item * Other members are not supported.
3202 3396
3203=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3397=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3204to use the libev header file and library. 3398to use the libev header file and library.
3298 myclass obj; 3492 myclass obj;
3299 ev::io iow; 3493 ev::io iow;
3300 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3494 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3301 3495
3302=item w->set (object *) 3496=item w->set (object *)
3303
3304This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3305 3497
3306This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3498This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3307will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3499will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3308functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3500functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3309the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3501the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3349Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3541Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3350do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3542do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3351 3543
3352=item w->set ([arguments]) 3544=item w->set ([arguments])
3353 3545
3354Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3546Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3355called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3547method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3356automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3548C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3357method. 3549when reconfiguring it with this method.
3358 3550
3359=item w->start () 3551=item w->start ()
3360 3552
3361Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3553Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3362constructor already stores the event loop. 3554constructor already stores the event loop.
3363 3555
3556=item w->start ([arguments])
3557
3558Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3559convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3560the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3561
3364=item w->stop () 3562=item w->stop ()
3365 3563
3366Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3564Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3367 3565
3368=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3566=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3380 3578
3381=back 3579=back
3382 3580
3383=back 3581=back
3384 3582
3385Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3583Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3386the constructor. 3584watchers in the constructor.
3387 3585
3388 class myclass 3586 class myclass
3389 { 3587 {
3390 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3588 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3589 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3391 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3590 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3392 3591
3393 myclass (int fd) 3592 myclass (int fd)
3394 { 3593 {
3395 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3594 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3595 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3396 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3596 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3397 3597
3398 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3598 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3599 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3600
3601 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3399 } 3602 }
3400 }; 3603 };
3401 3604
3402 3605
3403=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3606=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3477loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3680loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3478C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3681C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3479 3682
3480 ev_unref (EV_A); 3683 ev_unref (EV_A);
3481 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3684 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3482 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3685 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3483 3686
3484It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3687It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3485which is often provided by the following macro. 3688which is often provided by the following macro.
3486 3689
3487=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3690=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3527 } 3730 }
3528 3731
3529 ev_check check; 3732 ev_check check;
3530 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3733 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3531 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3734 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3532 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3735 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3533 3736
3534=head1 EMBEDDING 3737=head1 EMBEDDING
3535 3738
3536Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3739Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3537applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3740applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3622define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in 3825define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3623the absence of autoconf is documented for every option. 3826the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3624 3827
3625Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different 3828Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3626values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible 3829values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3627to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breakign compatibility 3830to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3628to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3831to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3629users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible 3832users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3630settings. 3833settings.
3631 3834
3632=over 4 3835=over 4
3836
3837=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3838
3839Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3840release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3841have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3842
3843You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3844versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3845sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3846from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3847typedef in that case.
3848
3849In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3850and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3851removed completely.
3633 3852
3634=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3853=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3635 3854
3636Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3855Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3637keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3856keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3838fine. 4057fine.
3839 4058
3840If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4059If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3841both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4060both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3842 4061
3843=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4062=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4063EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4064EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3844 4065
3845If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4066If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3846defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4067the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3847code. 4068is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3848 4069
3849=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4070=item EV_FEATURES
3850
3851If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3852defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3853code.
3854
3855=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3856
3857If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3858defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3859watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3860
3861=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3862
3863If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3864defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3865
3866=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3867
3868If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3869defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3870
3871=item EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE
3872
3873If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then signal watchers are supported. If
3874defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3875
3876=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3877
3878If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3879defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3880
3881=item EV_CHILD_ENABLE
3882
3883If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and C<_WIN32> is not defined), then
3884child watchers are supported. If defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3885
3886=item EV_MINIMAL
3887 4071
3888If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4072If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3889speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this 4073speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3890is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size 4074certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3891on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over 4075that can be enabled on the platform.
3892the default 4-heap.
3893 4076
3894You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need 4077A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
3895and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert> 4078with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
3896(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot. Disabling inotify, 4079additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
3897eventfd and signalfd will further help, and disabling backends one doesn't 4080but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
3898need (e.g. poll, epoll, kqueue, ports) will help further. 4081backend, use this:
3899 4082
3900Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to 4083 #define EV_FEATURES 0
3901provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts
3902of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes
3903over time.
3904
3905This example set of settings reduces the compiled size of libev from 24Kb
3906to 8Kb on my GNU/Linux amd64 system (and leaves little in - there is also
3907an effect on the amount of memory used). With an intelligent-enough linker
3908further unused functions might be left out as well automatically.
3909
3910 // tuning and API changes
3911 #define EV_MINIMAL 2
3912 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 4084 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
3913 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3914 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3915
3916 // OS-specific backends
3917 #define EV_USE_INOTIFY 0
3918 #define EV_USE_EVENTFD 0
3919 #define EV_USE_SIGNALFD 0
3920 #define EV_USE_REALTIME 0
3921 #define EV_USE_MONOTONIC 0
3922 #define EV_USE_CLOCK_SYSCALL 0
3923
3924 // disable all backends except select
3925 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4085 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
3926 #define EV_USE_PORT 0
3927 #define EV_USE_KQUEUE 0
3928 #define EV_USE_EPOLL 0
3929
3930 // disable all watcher types that cna be disabled
3931 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3932 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3933 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 0
3934 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
3935 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 0
3936 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 0 4086 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
3937 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 0 4087 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
3938 #define EV_EMBED_ENABLE 0 4088
4089The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4090values:
4091
4092=over 4
4093
4094=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4095
4096Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4097
4098Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4099code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4100
4101When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4102gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4103assertions.
4104
4105=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4106
4107Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4108hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4109and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4110runtime.
4111
4112=item C<4> - full API configuration
4113
4114This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4115enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4116
4117=item C<8> - full API
4118
4119This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4120details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4121feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4122
4123=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4124
4125Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4126only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4127embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4128C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4129
4130=item C<32> - enable all backends
4131
4132This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4133least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4134
4135=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4136
4137Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4138default.
4139
4140=back
4141
4142Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4143reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4144code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4145watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4146
4147With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4148when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4149your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4150I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
3939 4151
3940=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4152=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
3941 4153
3942If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4154If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
3943functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the codesize 4155functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
3944somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your 4156somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
3945libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite 4157libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
3946big. 4158big.
3947 4159
3948Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is 4160Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
3952 4164
3953The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4165The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3954signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4166signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3955automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4167automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3956specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4168specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3957good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4169good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3958statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4170statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3959 4171
3960=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4172=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3961 4173
3962C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4174C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3963pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4175pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3964than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4176usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3965increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4177might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3966 4178
3967=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4179=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3968 4180
3969C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4181C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3970inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4182inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3971usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4183disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3972watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4184C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3973two). 4185power of two).
3974 4186
3975=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4187=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3976 4188
3977Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4189Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3978timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4190timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3979to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4191to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3980faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4192faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3981 4193
3982The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4194The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3983(disabled). 4195will be C<0>.
3984 4196
3985=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4197=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3986 4198
3987Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4199Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3988timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4200timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3989the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4201the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3990which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4202which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3991but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4203but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3992noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4204noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3993 4205
3994The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4206The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3995(disabled). 4207will be C<0>.
3996 4208
3997=item EV_VERIFY 4209=item EV_VERIFY
3998 4210
3999Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4211Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4000be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4212be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4001in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4213in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4002called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4214called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4003called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4215called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4004verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4216verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4005libev considerably. 4217libev considerably.
4006 4218
4007The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4219The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4008C<0>. 4220will be C<0>.
4009 4221
4010=item EV_COMMON 4222=item EV_COMMON
4011 4223
4012By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4224By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
4013this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4225this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
4014members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4226members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4015though, and it must be identical each time. 4227though, and it must be identical each time.
4016 4228
4017For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4229For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4018 4230
4071file. 4283file.
4072 4284
4073The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4285The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
4074that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4286that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
4075 4287
4076 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4288 #define EV_FEATURES 8
4077 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4289 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
4078 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
4079 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4290 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4291 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
4080 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4292 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
4081 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4293 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4294 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
4082 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4295 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
4083 #define EV_MINPRI 0
4084 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
4085 4296
4086 #include "ev++.h" 4297 #include "ev++.h"
4087 4298
4088And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4299And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4089 4300
4220 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4431 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4221 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4432 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4222 } 4433 }
4223 4434
4224The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4435The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4225into C<ev_loop>: 4436into C<ev_run>:
4226 4437
4227 void * 4438 void *
4228 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4439 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4229 { 4440 {
4230 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4441 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4231 4442
4232 l_acquire (EV_A); 4443 l_acquire (EV_A);
4233 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4444 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4234 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4445 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4235 l_release (EV_A); 4446 l_release (EV_A);
4236 4447
4237 return 0; 4448 return 0;
4238 } 4449 }
4239 4450
4291 4502
4292=head3 COROUTINES 4503=head3 COROUTINES
4293 4504
4294Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4505Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4295libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4506libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4296coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4507coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4297different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4508different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4298the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4509the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4299that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4510that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4300 4511
4301Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4512Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4302C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4513C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4303they do not call any callbacks. 4514they do not call any callbacks.
4304 4515
4305=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4516=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4306 4517
4307Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4518Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4318maintainable. 4529maintainable.
4319 4530
4320And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4531And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4321wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4532wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4322seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4533seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4323warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4534warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4324been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4535been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4325such buggy versions. 4536such buggy versions.
4326 4537
4327While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4538While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4328"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4539"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4364I suggest using suppression lists. 4575I suggest using suppression lists.
4365 4576
4366 4577
4367=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4578=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4368 4579
4580=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4581
4582GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4583interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4584
4585That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4586files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4587
4588Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4589by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4590standard libev compiled for their system.
4591
4592Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4593suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4594i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4595
4596=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4597
4598The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4599you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4600OpenGL drivers.
4601
4602=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4603
4604The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4605only sockets, many support pipes.
4606
4607Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4608rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4609loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4610probably going to work well.
4611
4612=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4613
4614Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4615implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4616release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4617
4618Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4619this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4620a loop.
4621
4622=head3 C<select> is buggy
4623
4624All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4625one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4626descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4627you use more.
4628
4629There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4630C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4631work on OS/X.
4632
4633=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4634
4635=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4636
4637The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4638thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4639without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4640defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4641
4642If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4643it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4644
4645=head3 Event port backend
4646
4647The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4648ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4649releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4650a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4651and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4652are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4653great.
4654
4655If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4656the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4657C<select> backends.
4658
4659=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4660
4661AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4662this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4663compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4664with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4665
4369=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4666=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4667
4668=head3 General issues
4370 4669
4371Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4670Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4372requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4671requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4373model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4672model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4374the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4673the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4375descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4674descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4376e.g. cygwin. 4675e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4676as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4677environment.
4377 4678
4378Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4679Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4379re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4680re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4380things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4681then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4381way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4682also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4382 4683
4383There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4684There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4384embedding it into other applications. 4685embedding it into other applications.
4385 4686
4386Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4687Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4414you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4715you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4415 4716
4416 #include "evwrap.h" 4717 #include "evwrap.h"
4417 #include "ev.c" 4718 #include "ev.c"
4418 4719
4419=over 4
4420
4421=item The winsocket select function 4720=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4422 4721
4423The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4722The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4424requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4723requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4425also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4724also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4426requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4725requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4435 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4734 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4436 4735
4437Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4736Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4438complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4737complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4439 4738
4440=item Limited number of file descriptors 4739=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4441 4740
4442Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4741Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4443 4742
4444Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4743Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4445of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4744of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4460runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4759runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4461(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4760(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4462you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4761you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4463the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4762the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4464 4763
4465=back
4466
4467=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4764=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4468 4765
4469In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4766In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4470backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4767backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4471 4768
4477Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4774Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4478structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4775structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4479assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4776assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4480callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4777callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4481calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4778calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4779
4780=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4781
4782Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4783writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4482 4784
4483=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4785=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4484 4786
4485The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4787The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4486C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4788C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4509watchers. 4811watchers.
4510 4812
4511=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4813=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4512 4814
4513The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4815The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4514have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4816have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4515enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4817good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4818(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4516implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4819implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4517ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4820IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45182200.
4519 4821
4520=back 4822=back
4521 4823
4522If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4824If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4523 4825
4591involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4893involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4592 4894
4593=back 4895=back
4594 4896
4595 4897
4898=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4899
4900The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4901
4902At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4903for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4904layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4905new API early than late.
4906
4907=over 4
4908
4909=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4910
4911The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4912C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4913section.
4914
4915=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4916
4917These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4918
4919 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4920 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4921
4922=item function/symbol renames
4923
4924A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4925
4926 ev_loop => ev_run
4927 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4928 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4929
4930 ev_unloop => ev_break
4931 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4932 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4933 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4934
4935 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4936
4937 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4938 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4939 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4940
4941Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4942C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4943associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4944ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4945as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4946C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4947typedef.
4948
4949=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4950
4951The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4952mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4953and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4954
4955=back
4956
4957
4596=head1 GLOSSARY 4958=head1 GLOSSARY
4597 4959
4598=over 4 4960=over 4
4599 4961
4600=item active 4962=item active
4601 4963
4602A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4964A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4603an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4965See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4604 4966
4605=item application 4967=item application
4606 4968
4607In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4969In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4970
4971=item backend
4972
4973The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4608 4974
4609=item callback 4975=item callback
4610 4976
4611The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4977The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4612detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4978detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4613received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4979received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4614 4980
4615=item callback invocation 4981=item callback/watcher invocation
4616 4982
4617The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4983The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4618 4984
4619=item event 4985=item event
4620 4986
4621A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 4987A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4622for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 4988for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4623any other events happening anymore. 4989any other events happening anymore.
4624 4990
4625In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 4991In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4626C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 4992C<EV_TIMER>).
4627 4993
4628=item event library 4994=item event library
4629 4995
4630A software package implementing an event model and loop. 4996A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4631 4997
4639The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5005The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4640watchers and events. 5006watchers and events.
4641 5007
4642=item pending 5008=item pending
4643 5009
4644A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5010A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4645and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5011detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4646pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4647
4648A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4649its pending status.
4650 5012
4651=item real time 5013=item real time
4652 5014
4653The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5015The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4654 5016
4661=item watcher 5023=item watcher
4662 5024
4663A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5025A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4664to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5026to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4665 5027
4666=item watcher invocation
4667
4668The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4669
4670=back 5028=back
4671 5029
4672=head1 AUTHOR 5030=head1 AUTHOR
4673 5031
4674Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5032Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5033Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4675 5034

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