ViewVC Help
View File | Revision Log | Show Annotations | Download File
/cvs/libev/ev.pod
(Generate patch)

Comparing libev/ev.pod (file contents):
Revision 1.290 by root, Tue Mar 16 18:03:01 2010 UTC vs.
Revision 1.349 by root, Mon Jan 10 01:58:55 2011 UTC

26 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
28 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 30
31 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
33 } 33 }
34 34
35 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
36 static void 36 static void
37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
38 { 38 {
39 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
42 } 42 }
43 43
44 int 44 int
45 main (void) 45 main (void)
46 { 46 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 49
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting 75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial 76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
124this argument. 132this argument.
125 133
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 135
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
132aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
133on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 145
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 147
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
164 173
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 175
167Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
168C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
169you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 180
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 182
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 203not a problem.
194 204
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 208
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 212
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 225
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 227
217Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
218recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
219returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
220most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
221(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 235
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 237
226Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 243
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 245
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
235 247
236Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
237semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
238used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
239when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
265 } 277 }
266 278
267 ... 279 ...
268 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
269 281
270=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
271 283
272Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
273as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
274indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
275callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
287 } 299 }
288 300
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
304=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
305
306This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
307safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
308handlers or random threads.
309
310It's main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
311in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
312by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
313creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
314mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
315C<ev_feed_signal>.
316
292=back 317=back
293 318
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 319=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 320
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 321An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
297is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 322I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 323libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 324
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 325The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 326supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 327do not.
303 328
304=over 4 329=over 4
305 330
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 331=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 332
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 333This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 334normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
310false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 335the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 336C<ev_loop_new>.
337
338If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
339returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
340C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
341flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
342one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 343
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 344If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 345function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 346
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 347Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
317from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 348from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 349that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
350threads anyway).
319 351
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 352The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
321C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 353and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
322for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 354a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
323create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 355C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 356C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 357
358Example: This is the most typical usage.
359
360 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
361 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
362
363Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
364environment settings to be taken into account:
365
366 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
367
368=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
369
370This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
371could not be initialised, returns false.
372
373This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
374threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
375loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 376
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 377The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
328backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 378backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 379
330The following flags are supported: 380The following flags are supported:
345useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 395useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
346around bugs. 396around bugs.
347 397
348=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 398=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
349 399
350Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 400Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
351a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 401make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
352enabling this flag.
353 402
354This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 403This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
355and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 404and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
356iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 405iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
357GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 406GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
366environment variable. 415environment variable.
367 416
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 417=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369 418
370When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 419When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
371I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 420I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 421testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 422otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374 423
375=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 424=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
376 425
377When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 426When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
378I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 427I<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 428delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
380it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 429it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
381handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 430handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
382threads that are not interested in handling them. 431threads that are not interested in handling them.
383 432
384Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and 433Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
385there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for 434there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
386example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them.
442
443This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
444want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
445unblocking the signals.
446
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
387 448
388=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
389 450
390This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 451This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
391libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 452libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
427epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
428 489
429The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
430of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
431dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
432descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
494returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
495(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
433so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
434I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
435take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
436hard to detect. 499and is of course hard to detect.
437 500
438Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 501Epoll 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 502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
440I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
441even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
442on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
443employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
444events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
445 512
446While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 513While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
447will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 514will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
448incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 515incident (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 516I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
538 605
539Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 606Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
540with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 607with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
541C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 608C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
542 609
543It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 610It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
611C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
612at all.
613
614=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
615
616Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
617C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
618value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
544 619
545=back 620=back
546 621
547If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 622If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
548then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 623then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
549here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 624here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
550()> will be tried. 625()> will be tried.
551 626
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.
573
574Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
575libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
576default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
577
578Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 627Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
579 628
580 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 629 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
581 if (!epoller) 630 if (!epoller)
582 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 631 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
583 632
633Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
634used if available.
635
636 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
637
584=item ev_default_destroy () 638=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
585 639
586Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 640Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
587of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 641etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
588e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your responsibility to 642sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
589either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> calling this function, 643responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
590or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 644calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
591can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 645the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
646for example).
592 647
593Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 648Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
594handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 649handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
595as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 650as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
596 651
597In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 652This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
598rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 653C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
654C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
655
656Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
657except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
599pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 658If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
600C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 659and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
601 660
602=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 661=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
603 662
604Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
605earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
606
607=item ev_default_fork ()
608
609This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 663This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
610to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 664reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
611name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 665name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
612the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 666the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
613sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 667child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
614functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 668
669Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
670a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
671because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
672during fork.
615 673
616On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 674On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
617process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 675process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
618you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 676you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
677call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
678difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
679costly reset of the backend).
619 680
620The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 681The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
621it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 682it just in case after a fork.
622quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
623 683
684Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
685using pthreads.
686
687 static void
688 post_fork_child (void)
689 {
690 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
691 }
692
693 ...
624 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 694 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
625
626=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
627
628Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
629C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
630after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
631entirely your own problem.
632 695
633=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 696=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
634 697
635Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 698Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
636otherwise. 699otherwise.
637 700
638=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 701=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
639 702
640Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 703Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
641the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 704to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
642happily wraps around with enough iterations. 705and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
643 706
644This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 707This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
645"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 708"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
646C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 709C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
710prepare and check phases.
647 711
648=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 712=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
649 713
650Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 714Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
651times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 715times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
652 716
653Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 717Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
654C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 718C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
655in which case it is higher. 719in which case it is higher.
656 720
657Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 721Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
658etc.), doesn't count as exit. 722throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
723as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
724convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
659 725
660=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 726=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
661 727
662Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 728Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
663use. 729use.
672 738
673=item ev_now_update (loop) 739=item ev_now_update (loop)
674 740
675Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 741Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
676returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 742returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
677is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 743is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
678 744
679This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 745This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
680very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 746very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
681the current time is a good idea. 747the current time is a good idea.
682 748
684 750
685=item ev_suspend (loop) 751=item ev_suspend (loop)
686 752
687=item ev_resume (loop) 753=item ev_resume (loop)
688 754
689These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 755These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
690not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 756loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
691 757
692A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 758A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
693the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 759the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
694would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 760would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
695the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 761the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
697C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 763C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
698 764
699Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 765Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
700between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 766between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
701will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 767will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
702occured while suspended). 768occurred while suspended).
703 769
704After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 770After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
705given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 771given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
706without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 772without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
707 773
708Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 774Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
709event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 775event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
710 776
711=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 777=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
712 778
713Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 779Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
714after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 780after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
715handling events. 781handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
782the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
783is why event loops are called I<loops>.
716 784
717If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 785If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
718either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 786until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
787called.
719 788
720Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 789Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
721relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 790relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
722finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 791finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
723that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 792that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
724of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 793of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
725beauty. 794beauty.
726 795
796This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
797a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
798exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
799will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
800
727A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 801A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
728those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 802those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
729process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 803block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
730the loop. 804iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
805events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
731 806
732A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 807A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
733necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 808necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
734will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 809will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
735be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 810be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
736user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 811user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
737iteration of the loop. 812iteration of the loop.
738 813
739This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 814This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
740with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 815with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
741own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 816own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
742usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 817usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
743 818
744Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 819Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
745 820
821 - Increment loop depth.
822 - Reset the ev_break status.
746 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 823 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
824 LOOP:
747 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 825 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
748 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 826 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
749 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 827 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
828 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
750 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 829 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
751 as to not disturb the other process. 830 as to not disturb the other process.
752 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 831 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
753 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 832 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
754 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 833 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
755 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 834 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
756 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 835 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
757 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 836 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
837 - Increment loop iteration counter.
758 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 838 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
759 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 839 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
760 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 840 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
761 - Queue all expired timers. 841 - Queue all expired timers.
762 - Queue all expired periodics. 842 - Queue all expired periodics.
763 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 843 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
764 - Queue all check watchers. 844 - Queue all check watchers.
765 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 845 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
766 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 846 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
767 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 847 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
768 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 848 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
769 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 849 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
770 continue with step *. 850 continue with step LOOP.
851 FINISH:
852 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
853 - Decrement the loop depth.
854 - Return.
771 855
772Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 856Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
773anymore. 857anymore.
774 858
775 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 859 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
776 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 860 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
777 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 861 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
778 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 862 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
779 863
780=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 864=item ev_break (loop, how)
781 865
782Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 866Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
783has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 867has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
784C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 868C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
785C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 869C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
786 870
787This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 871This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
788 872
789It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 873It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
874which case it will have no effect.
790 875
791=item ev_ref (loop) 876=item ev_ref (loop)
792 877
793=item ev_unref (loop) 878=item ev_unref (loop)
794 879
795Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 880Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
796loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 881loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
797count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 882count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
798 883
799This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 884This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
800unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 885unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
801returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref> 886returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
802before stopping it. 887before stopping it.
803 888
804As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 889As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
805is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 890is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
806exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 891exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
807excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 892excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
808third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 893third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
809before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 894before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
810before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 895before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
811(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 896(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
812in the callback). 897in the callback).
813 898
814Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 899Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
815running when nothing else is active. 900running when nothing else is active.
816 901
817 ev_signal exitsig; 902 ev_signal exitsig;
818 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 903 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
819 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 904 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
820 evf_unref (loop); 905 ev_unref (loop);
821 906
822Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 907Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
823 908
824 ev_ref (loop); 909 ev_ref (loop);
825 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 910 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
864usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 949usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
865as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 950as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
866you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 951you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
867parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 952parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
868need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 953need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
869then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 954then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
870 955
871Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 956Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
872saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 957saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
873are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 958are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
874times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 959times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
882 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 967 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
883 968
884=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 969=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
885 970
886This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 971This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
887pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 972pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
888but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 973but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
974function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
975when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
976event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
977thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
889 978
890=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 979=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
891 980
892Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 981Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
893are pending. 982are pending.
894 983
895=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 984=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
896 985
897This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 986This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
898invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 987invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
899this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 988this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
900invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 989invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
901 990
902If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 991If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
903callback. 992callback.
906 995
907Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 996Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
908can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 997can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
909each call to a libev function. 998each call to a libev function.
910 999
911However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 1000However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
912wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 1001to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
913C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 1002loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
914and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1003I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
915 1004
916When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1005When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
917suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1006suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
918afterwards. 1007afterwards.
919 1008
922 1011
923While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 1012While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
924C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 1013C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
925modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 1014modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
926have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 1015have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
927waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 1016waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
928to take note of any changes you made. 1017to take note of any changes you made.
929 1018
930In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 1019In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
931invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 1020invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
932 1021
933See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 1022See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
934document. 1023document.
935 1024
936=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 1025=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
937 1026
938=item ev_userdata (loop) 1027=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
939 1028
940Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 1029Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
941C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 1030C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
942C<0.> 1031C<0>.
943 1032
944These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1033These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
945and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1034and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
946C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1035C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
947any other purpose as well. 1036any other purpose as well.
948 1037
949=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1038=item ev_verify (loop)
950 1039
951This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1040This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
952compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1041compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
953through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1042through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
954is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1043is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
965 1054
966In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1055In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
967watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1056watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
968watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1057watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
969 1058
970A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1059A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
971interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1060your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
972become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1061to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1062for that:
973 1063
974 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1064 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
975 { 1065 {
976 ev_io_stop (w); 1066 ev_io_stop (w);
977 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1067 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
978 } 1068 }
979 1069
980 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1070 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
981 1071
982 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1072 ev_io stdin_watcher;
983 1073
984 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1074 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
985 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1075 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
986 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1076 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
987 1077
988 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1078 ev_run (loop, 0);
989 1079
990As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1080As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
991watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1081watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
992stack). 1082stack).
993 1083
994Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1084Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
995or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1085or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
996 1086
997Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1087Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
998(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1088*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
999callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1089invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
1000watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1090time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1001is readable and/or writable). 1091and/or writable).
1002 1092
1003Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1093Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1004macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1094macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1005is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1095is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1006ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1096ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1057 1147
1058=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1148=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1059 1149
1060=item C<EV_CHECK> 1150=item C<EV_CHECK>
1061 1151
1062All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1152All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1063to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1153to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1064C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1154C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1065received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1155received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1066many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1156many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1067(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1157(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1068C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1158C<ev_run> from blocking).
1069 1159
1070=item C<EV_EMBED> 1160=item C<EV_EMBED>
1071 1161
1072The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1162The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1073 1163
1074=item C<EV_FORK> 1164=item C<EV_FORK>
1075 1165
1076The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1166The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1077C<ev_fork>). 1167C<ev_fork>).
1168
1169=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1170
1171The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1078 1172
1079=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1173=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1080 1174
1081The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1175The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1082 1176
1254 1348
1255See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1349See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1256functions that do not need a watcher. 1350functions that do not need a watcher.
1257 1351
1258=back 1352=back
1259
1260 1353
1261=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1354=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1262 1355
1263Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1356Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1264and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1357and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1320 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1413 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1321 { 1414 {
1322 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1415 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1323 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1416 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1324 } 1417 }
1418
1419=head2 WATCHER STATES
1420
1421There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1422active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1423transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1424rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1425
1426=over 4
1427
1428=item initialiased
1429
1430Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1431initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1432C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1433
1434In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1435in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1436
1437=item started/running/active
1438
1439Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1440property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1441this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1442freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1443and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1444
1445=item pending
1446
1447If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1448in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1449stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1450about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1451callback.
1452
1453The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1454an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1455is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1456but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1457moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1458previous item still apply.
1459
1460It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1461via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1462active.
1463
1464=item stopped
1465
1466A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1467be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1468latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1469of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1470freeing it is often a good idea.
1471
1472While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1473initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1474you wish.
1475
1476=back
1325 1477
1326=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1478=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1327 1479
1328Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1480Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1329integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1481integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1372 1524
1373For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1525For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1374you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1526you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1375the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1527the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1376processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1528processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1377continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1529continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1378the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1530the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1379workable. 1531workable.
1380 1532
1381Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1533Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1382miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1534miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1396 { 1548 {
1397 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1549 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1398 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1550 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1399 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1551 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1400 1552
1401 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1553 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1402 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1554 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1403 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1555 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1404 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1556 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1405 } 1557 }
1406 1558
1460 1612
1461If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1613If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1462known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1614known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1463C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1615C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1464descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1616descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1465files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1617files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1466 1618
1467Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1619Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1468receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1620receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1469be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1621be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1470because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1622because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1538somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1690somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1539 1691
1540=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't 1692=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1541 1693
1542Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example, 1694Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1543found in port-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a 1695found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1544connection from the pending queue in all error cases. 1696connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1545 1697
1546For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because 1698For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1547of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not 1699of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1548rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on 1700rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1614 ... 1766 ...
1615 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1767 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1616 ev_io stdin_readable; 1768 ev_io stdin_readable;
1617 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1769 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1618 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1770 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1619 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1771 ev_run (loop, 0);
1620 1772
1621 1773
1622=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1774=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1623 1775
1624Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1776Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1633The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1785The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1634passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1786passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1635might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1787might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1636same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1788same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1637before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1789before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1638no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1790no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1639 1791
1640=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1792=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1641 1793
1642Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1794Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1643recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1795recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1729 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1881 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1730 1882
1731 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1883 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1732 if (timeout < now) 1884 if (timeout < now)
1733 { 1885 {
1734 // timeout occured, take action 1886 // timeout occurred, take action
1735 } 1887 }
1736 else 1888 else
1737 { 1889 {
1738 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1890 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1739 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1891 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1766 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER); 1918 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1767 1919
1768And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1920And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1769C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1921C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1770 1922
1771 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1923 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1772 1924
1773This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1925This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1774time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1926time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1775 1927
1776Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1928Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1814 1966
1815=head3 The special problem of time updates 1967=head3 The special problem of time updates
1816 1968
1817Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1969Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1818least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1970least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1819time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1971time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1820growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1972growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1821lots of events in one iteration. 1973lots of events in one iteration.
1822 1974
1823The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1975The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1824time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1976time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1941 } 2093 }
1942 2094
1943 ev_timer mytimer; 2095 ev_timer mytimer;
1944 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2096 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1945 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2097 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1946 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2098 ev_run (loop, 0);
1947 2099
1948 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2100 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1949 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2101 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1950 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2102 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1951 2103
1977 2129
1978As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2130As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1979point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2131point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1980timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2132timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1981earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2133earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1982(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2134(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1983 2135
1984=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2136=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1985 2137
1986=over 4 2138=over 4
1987 2139
2115Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2267Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2116system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2268system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2117potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2269potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2118 2270
2119 static void 2271 static void
2120 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2272 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2121 { 2273 {
2122 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2274 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2123 } 2275 }
2124 2276
2125 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2277 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2148 2300
2149=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2301=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2150 2302
2151Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2303Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2152signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2304signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2153will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2305will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2154normal event processing, like any other event. 2306normal event processing, like any other event.
2155 2307
2156If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2308If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2157C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2309C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2158the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2310the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2201 2353
2202So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when 2354So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2203you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This 2355you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2204is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries. 2356is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2205 2357
2358=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2359
2360POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2361a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2362threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2363
2364When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2365for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2366all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2367sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2368loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2369these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2370in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
2371
2206=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2372=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2207 2373
2208=over 4 2374=over 4
2209 2375
2210=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 2376=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
2225Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2391Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2226 2392
2227 static void 2393 static void
2228 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2394 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2229 { 2395 {
2230 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2396 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2231 } 2397 }
2232 2398
2233 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2399 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2234 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2400 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2235 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2401 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2621 2787
2622Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2788Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2623prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2789prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2624afterwards. 2790afterwards.
2625 2791
2626You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2792You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2627the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2793the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2628watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2794watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2629rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2795rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2630those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2796those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2631C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2797C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2799 2965
2800 if (timeout >= 0) 2966 if (timeout >= 0)
2801 // create/start timer 2967 // create/start timer
2802 2968
2803 // poll 2969 // poll
2804 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2970 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2805 2971
2806 // stop timer again 2972 // stop timer again
2807 if (timeout >= 0) 2973 if (timeout >= 0)
2808 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2974 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2809 2975
2887if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3053if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2888 3054
2889=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3055=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2890 3056
2891Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3057Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2892similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3058similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2893appropriate way for embedded loops. 3059appropriate way for embedded loops.
2894 3060
2895=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3061=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2896 3062
2897The embedded event loop. 3063The embedded event loop.
2957C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3123C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2958handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3124handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2959 3125
2960=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3126=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2961 3127
2962Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3128Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2963up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3129up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2964sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3130sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2965 3131
2966This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3132This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2967in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3133in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2983disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3149disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2984signal watchers). 3150signal watchers).
2985 3151
2986When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3152When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2987other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3153other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2988C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3154C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2989the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3155Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2990have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3156watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2991also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3157those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3158signal watchers.
2992 3159
2993=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3160=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2994 3161
2995=over 4 3162=over 4
2996 3163
2997=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3164=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2998 3165
2999Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3166Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3000kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3167kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3001believe me. 3168really.
3002 3169
3003=back 3170=back
3004 3171
3005 3172
3173=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3174
3175Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3176by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3177
3178While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3179watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3180program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3181loop when you want them to be invoked.
3182
3183Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3184all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3185makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3186can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3187
3188=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3189
3190=over 4
3191
3192=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3193
3194Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3195any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3196pointless, I assure you.
3197
3198=back
3199
3200Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3201cleanup functions are called.
3202
3203 static void
3204 program_exits (void)
3205 {
3206 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3207 }
3208
3209 ...
3210 atexit (program_exits);
3211
3212
3006=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3213=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3007 3214
3008In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3215In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
3009asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3216asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3010loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3217loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3011 3218
3012Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3219Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3013control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3220for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3014C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3221watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
3015can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3222it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3016safe.
3017 3223
3018This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3224This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3019too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3225too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3020(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3226(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3021C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3227C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3228of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3229signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3230even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3022 3231
3023Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3232Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
3024just the default loop. 3233just the default loop.
3025 3234
3026=head3 Queueing 3235=head3 Queueing
3202Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3411Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3203the given events it. 3412the given events it.
3204 3413
3205=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3414=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3206 3415
3207Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3416Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3208loop!). 3417which is async-safe.
3418
3419=back
3420
3421
3422=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3423
3424This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3425obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3426section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3427
3428=over 4
3429
3430=item Model/nested event loop invocations and exit conditions.
3431
3432Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3433I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3434invoking C<ev_run>.
3435
3436This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3437main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3438a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3439and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3440other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone.
3441
3442The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3443invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3444triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3445
3446 // main loop
3447 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3448
3449 while (!exit_main_loop)
3450 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3451
3452 // in a model watcher
3453 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3454
3455 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3456 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3457
3458To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3459
3460 // exit modal loop
3461 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3462
3463 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3464 exit_main_loop = 1;
3465
3466 // exit both
3467 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3209 3468
3210=back 3469=back
3211 3470
3212 3471
3213=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3472=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3214 3473
3215Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3474Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3216emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3475emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
3217 3476
3218=over 4 3477=over 4
3478
3479=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3480
3481This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3482and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
3219 3483
3220=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3484=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
3221 3485
3222=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3486=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
3223ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3487ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3229=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3493=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3230will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3494will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3231is an ev_pri field. 3495is an ev_pri field.
3232 3496
3233=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3497=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3234first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3498base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3235 3499
3236=item * Other members are not supported. 3500=item * Other members are not supported.
3237 3501
3238=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3502=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3239to use the libev header file and library. 3503to use the libev header file and library.
3258Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 3522Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3259classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 3523classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3260that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 3524that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3261you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 3525you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3262 3526
3263Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 3527Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3264used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 3528with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3265need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 3529to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3266types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 3530you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3267it). 3531(preferably after implementing it).
3268 3532
3269Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 3533Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3270 3534
3271=over 4 3535=over 4
3272 3536
3333 myclass obj; 3597 myclass obj;
3334 ev::io iow; 3598 ev::io iow;
3335 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3599 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3336 3600
3337=item w->set (object *) 3601=item w->set (object *)
3338
3339This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3340 3602
3341This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3603This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3342will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3604will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3343functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3605functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3344the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3606the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3384Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3646Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3385do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3647do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3386 3648
3387=item w->set ([arguments]) 3649=item w->set ([arguments])
3388 3650
3389Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3651Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3390called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3652method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3391automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3653C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3392method. 3654when reconfiguring it with this method.
3393 3655
3394=item w->start () 3656=item w->start ()
3395 3657
3396Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3658Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3397constructor already stores the event loop. 3659constructor already stores the event loop.
3398 3660
3661=item w->start ([arguments])
3662
3663Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3664convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3665the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3666
3399=item w->stop () 3667=item w->stop ()
3400 3668
3401Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3669Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3402 3670
3403=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3671=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3415 3683
3416=back 3684=back
3417 3685
3418=back 3686=back
3419 3687
3420Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3688Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3421the constructor. 3689watchers in the constructor.
3422 3690
3423 class myclass 3691 class myclass
3424 { 3692 {
3425 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3693 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3694 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3426 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3695 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3427 3696
3428 myclass (int fd) 3697 myclass (int fd)
3429 { 3698 {
3430 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3699 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3700 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3431 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3701 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3432 3702
3433 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3703 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3704 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3705
3706 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3434 } 3707 }
3435 }; 3708 };
3436 3709
3437 3710
3438=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3711=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3512loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3785loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3513C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3786C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3514 3787
3515 ev_unref (EV_A); 3788 ev_unref (EV_A);
3516 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3789 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3517 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3790 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3518 3791
3519It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3792It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3520which is often provided by the following macro. 3793which is often provided by the following macro.
3521 3794
3522=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3795=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3562 } 3835 }
3563 3836
3564 ev_check check; 3837 ev_check check;
3565 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3838 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3566 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3839 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3567 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3840 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3568 3841
3569=head1 EMBEDDING 3842=head1 EMBEDDING
3570 3843
3571Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3844Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3572applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3845applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3657define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in 3930define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3658the absence of autoconf is documented for every option. 3931the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3659 3932
3660Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different 3933Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3661values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible 3934values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3662to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breakign compatibility 3935to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3663to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3936to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3664users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible 3937users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3665settings. 3938settings.
3666 3939
3667=over 4 3940=over 4
3941
3942=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3943
3944Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3945release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3946have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3947
3948You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3949versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3950sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3951from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3952typedef in that case.
3953
3954In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3955and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3956removed completely.
3668 3957
3669=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3958=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3670 3959
3671Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3960Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3672keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3961keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3879EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE, 4168EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
3880EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE. 4169EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3881 4170
3882If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then 4171If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3883the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it 4172the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3884is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves codesize. 4173is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3885 4174
3886=item EV_FEATURES 4175=item EV_FEATURES
3887 4176
3888If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4177If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3889speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request 4178speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3909 4198
3910=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4199=item C<1> - faster/larger code
3911 4200
3912Use larger code to speed up some operations. 4201Use larger code to speed up some operations.
3913 4202
3914Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the roughly 4203Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
391530% code size on amd64. 4204code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
3916 4205
3917When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4206When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
3918gcc recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4207gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
3919assertions. 4208assertions.
3920 4209
3921=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4210=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
3922 4211
3923Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4212Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
3924hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase codesize 4213hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
3925and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4214and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
3926runtime. 4215runtime.
3927 4216
3928=item C<4> - full API configuration 4217=item C<4> - full API configuration
3929 4218
3966I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4255I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
3967 4256
3968=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4257=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
3969 4258
3970If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4259If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
3971functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the codesize 4260functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
3972somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your 4261somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
3973libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite 4262libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
3974big. 4263big.
3975 4264
3976Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is 4265Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
3980 4269
3981The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4270The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3982signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4271signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3983automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4272automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3984specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4273specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3985good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4274good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3986statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4275statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3987 4276
3988=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4277=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3989 4278
3990C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4279C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
4022The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it 4311The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4023will be C<0>. 4312will be C<0>.
4024 4313
4025=item EV_VERIFY 4314=item EV_VERIFY
4026 4315
4027Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4316Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4028be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4317be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4029in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4318in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4030called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4319called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4031called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4320called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4032verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4321verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4036will be C<0>. 4325will be C<0>.
4037 4326
4038=item EV_COMMON 4327=item EV_COMMON
4039 4328
4040By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4329By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
4041this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4330this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
4042members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4331members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4043though, and it must be identical each time. 4332though, and it must be identical each time.
4044 4333
4045For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4334For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4046 4335
4247 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4536 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4248 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4537 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4249 } 4538 }
4250 4539
4251The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4540The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4252into C<ev_loop>: 4541into C<ev_run>:
4253 4542
4254 void * 4543 void *
4255 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4544 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4256 { 4545 {
4257 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4546 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4258 4547
4259 l_acquire (EV_A); 4548 l_acquire (EV_A);
4260 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4549 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4261 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4550 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4262 l_release (EV_A); 4551 l_release (EV_A);
4263 4552
4264 return 0; 4553 return 0;
4265 } 4554 }
4266 4555
4318 4607
4319=head3 COROUTINES 4608=head3 COROUTINES
4320 4609
4321Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4610Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4322libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4611libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4323coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4612coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4324different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4613different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4325the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4614the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4326that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4615that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4327 4616
4328Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4617Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4329C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4618C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4330they do not call any callbacks. 4619they do not call any callbacks.
4331 4620
4332=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4621=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4333 4622
4334Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4623Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4345maintainable. 4634maintainable.
4346 4635
4347And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4636And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4348wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4637wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4349seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4638seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4350warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4639warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4351been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4640been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4352such buggy versions. 4641such buggy versions.
4353 4642
4354While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4643While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4355"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4644"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4391I suggest using suppression lists. 4680I suggest using suppression lists.
4392 4681
4393 4682
4394=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4683=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4395 4684
4685=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4686
4687GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4688interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4689
4690That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4691files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4692
4693Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4694by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4695standard libev compiled for their system.
4696
4697Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4698suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4699i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4700
4701=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4702
4703The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4704you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4705OpenGL drivers.
4706
4707=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4708
4709The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4710only sockets, many support pipes.
4711
4712Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4713rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4714loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4715probably going to work well.
4716
4717=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4718
4719Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4720implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4721release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4722
4723Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4724this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4725a loop.
4726
4727=head3 C<select> is buggy
4728
4729All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4730one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4731descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4732you use more.
4733
4734There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4735C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4736work on OS/X.
4737
4738=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4739
4740=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4741
4742The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4743thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4744without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4745defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4746
4747If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4748it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4749
4750=head3 Event port backend
4751
4752The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4753ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4754releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4755a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4756and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4757are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4758great.
4759
4760If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4761the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4762C<select> backends.
4763
4764=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4765
4766AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4767this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4768compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4769with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4770
4396=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4771=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4772
4773=head3 General issues
4397 4774
4398Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4775Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4399requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4776requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4400model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4777model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4401the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4778the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4402descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4779descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4403e.g. cygwin. 4780e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4781as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4782environment.
4404 4783
4405Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4784Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4406re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4785re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4407things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4786then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4408way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4787also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4409 4788
4410There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4789There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4411embedding it into other applications. 4790embedding it into other applications.
4412 4791
4413Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4792Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4441you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4820you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4442 4821
4443 #include "evwrap.h" 4822 #include "evwrap.h"
4444 #include "ev.c" 4823 #include "ev.c"
4445 4824
4446=over 4
4447
4448=item The winsocket select function 4825=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4449 4826
4450The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4827The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4451requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4828requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4452also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4829also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4453requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4830requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4462 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4839 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4463 4840
4464Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4841Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4465complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4842complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4466 4843
4467=item Limited number of file descriptors 4844=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4468 4845
4469Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4846Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4470 4847
4471Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4848Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4472of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4849of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4487runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4864runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4488(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4865(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4489you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4866you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4490the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4867the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4491 4868
4492=back
4493
4494=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4869=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4495 4870
4496In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4871In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4497backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4872backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4498 4873
4504Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4879Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4505structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4880structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4506assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4881assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4507callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4882callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4508calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4883calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4884
4885=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4886
4887Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4888writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4509 4889
4510=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4890=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4511 4891
4512The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4892The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4513C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4893C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4536watchers. 4916watchers.
4537 4917
4538=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4918=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4539 4919
4540The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4920The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4541have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4921have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4542enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4922good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4923(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4543implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4924implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4544ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4925IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45452200.
4546 4926
4547=back 4927=back
4548 4928
4549If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4929If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4550 4930
4618involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4998involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4619 4999
4620=back 5000=back
4621 5001
4622 5002
4623=head1 PORTING FROM 3.X TO 4.X 5003=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4624 5004
4625The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 5005The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
5006
5007At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
5008for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
5009layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5010new API early than late.
4626 5011
4627=over 4 5012=over 4
4628 5013
4629=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> replaced by C<EV_TIMER> in C<revents> 5014=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4630 5015
4631This is a simple rename - all other watcher types use their name 5016The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4632as revents flag, and now C<ev_timer> does, too. 5017C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
5018section.
4633 5019
4634Both C<EV_TIMER> and C<EV_TIMEOUT> symbols were present in 3.x versions 5020=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4635and continue to be present for the forseeable future, so this is mostly a 5021
4636documentation change. 5022These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5023
5024 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
5025 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
5026
5027=item function/symbol renames
5028
5029A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
5030
5031 ev_loop => ev_run
5032 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
5033 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
5034
5035 ev_unloop => ev_break
5036 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
5037 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
5038 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
5039
5040 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
5041
5042 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
5043 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
5044 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
5045
5046Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
5047C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
5048associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
5049ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
5050as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
5051C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
5052typedef.
4637 5053
4638=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 5054=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4639 5055
4640The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 5056The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4641mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 5057mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4648 5064
4649=over 4 5065=over 4
4650 5066
4651=item active 5067=item active
4652 5068
4653A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 5069A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4654an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 5070See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4655 5071
4656=item application 5072=item application
4657 5073
4658In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5074In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5075
5076=item backend
5077
5078The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4659 5079
4660=item callback 5080=item callback
4661 5081
4662The address of a function that is called when some event has been 5082The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4663detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 5083detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4664received the event, and the actual event bitset. 5084received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4665 5085
4666=item callback invocation 5086=item callback/watcher invocation
4667 5087
4668The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 5088The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4669 5089
4670=item event 5090=item event
4671 5091
4690The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5110The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4691watchers and events. 5111watchers and events.
4692 5112
4693=item pending 5113=item pending
4694 5114
4695A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5115A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4696and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5116detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4697pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4698
4699A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4700its pending status.
4701 5117
4702=item real time 5118=item real time
4703 5119
4704The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5120The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4705 5121
4712=item watcher 5128=item watcher
4713 5129
4714A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5130A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4715to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5131to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4716 5132
4717=item watcher invocation
4718
4719The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4720
4721=back 5133=back
4722 5134
4723=head1 AUTHOR 5135=head1 AUTHOR
4724 5136
4725Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5137Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5138Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4726 5139

Diff Legend

Removed lines
+ Added lines
< Changed lines
> Changed lines