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Revision 1.292 by sf-exg, Mon Mar 22 09:57:01 2010 UTC vs.
Revision 1.326 by root, Sun Oct 24 19:44:27 2010 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 82
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 84
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
124this argument. 124this argument.
125 125
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 127
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 130somewhere 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 131ask). 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 132too. 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 133any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
134
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 135Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 136time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 137
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 138=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 139
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 140Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 141and internal errors (bugs).
164 165
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 166=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 167
167Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 168Returns 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 169C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
169you actually want to know. 170you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
171C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 172
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 173=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 174
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 175Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 176either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 193as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 194compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 195not a problem.
194 196
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 197Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 198version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
199such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 200
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 201 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 202 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 203 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 204
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 215 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 216 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 217
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 218=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 219
217Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 220Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
218recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 221also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
222descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
219returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 223C<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 224and 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 225you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 226probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 227
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 228=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 229
226Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 230Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 231value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 232current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 233the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 234& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 235
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 236See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 237
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 238=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT]
235 239
289 ... 293 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 294 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 295
292=back 296=back
293 297
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 298=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 299
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 300An 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> 301I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 302libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 303
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 304The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 305supports signals and child events, and dynamically created event loops
302not. 306which do not.
303 307
304=over 4 308=over 4
305 309
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 310=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 311
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 312This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 313normally 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 314the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 315C<ev_loop_new>.
316
317If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
318returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
319C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
320flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
321one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 322
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 323If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 324function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 325
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 326Note 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, 327from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 328that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
329threads anyway).
319 330
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 331The 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 332and 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 333a 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 334C<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 335C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 336
337Example: This is the most typical usage.
338
339 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
340 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
341
342Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
343environment settings to be taken into account:
344
345 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
346
347=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
348
349This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
350could not be initialised, returns false.
351
352Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
353libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
354default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 355
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 356The 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>). 357backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 358
330The following flags are supported: 359The following flags are supported:
438of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 467of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
439I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 468I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
440even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 469even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
441on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 470on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
442employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 471employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
443events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 472events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
473not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
474perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
444 475
445While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 476While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
446will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 477will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
447incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 478incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
448I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 479I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
546If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 577If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
547then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 578then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
548here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 579here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
549()> will be tried. 580()> will be tried.
550 581
551Example: This is the most typical usage.
552
553 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
554 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
555
556Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
557environment settings to be taken into account:
558
559 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
560
561Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
562used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
563private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
564fds):
565
566 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
567
568=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
569
570Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
571always distinct from the default loop.
572
573Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
574libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
575default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
576
577Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 582Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
578 583
579 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 584 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
580 if (!epoller) 585 if (!epoller)
581 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 586 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
582 587
588Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
589used if available.
590
591 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
592
583=item ev_default_destroy () 593=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
584 594
585Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 595Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
586of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 596etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
587e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your responsibility to 597sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
588either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> calling this function, 598responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
589or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 599calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
590can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 600the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
601for example).
591 602
592Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 603Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
593handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 604handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
594as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 605as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
595 606
596In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 607This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
597rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 608C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
609C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
610
611Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
612except in the rare occasion where you really need to free it's resources.
598pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 613If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
599C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 614and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
600 615
601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 616=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
602 617
603Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
604earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
605
606=item ev_default_fork ()
607
608This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 618This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
609to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 619reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
610name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 620name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
611the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 621the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
612sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 622child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
613functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
614 623
615Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 624Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
616a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 625a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
617because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 626because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
618during fork. 627during fork.
619 628
620On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 629On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
621process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If you 630process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
622just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to call 631you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
623it at all. 632call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
633difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
634costly reset of the backend).
624 635
625The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 636The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
626it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 637it just in case after a fork.
627quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
628 638
639Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
640using pthreads.
641
642 static void
643 post_fork_child (void)
644 {
645 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
646 }
647
648 ...
629 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 649 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
630
631=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
632
633Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
634C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
635after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you keep track of
636them is entirely your own problem.
637 650
638=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 651=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
639 652
640Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 653Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
641otherwise. 654otherwise.
642 655
643=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop) 656=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
644 657
645Returns the current iteration count for the loop, which is identical to 658Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
646the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 659to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
647happily wraps around with enough iterations. 660and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
648 661
649This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 662This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
650"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 663"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
651C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the 664C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
652prepare and check phases. 665prepare and check phases.
653 666
654=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 667=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
655 668
656Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 669Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
657times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 670times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
658 671
659Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 672Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
660C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 673C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
661in which case it is higher. 674in which case it is higher.
662 675
663Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 676Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
664etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 677etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
665ungentleman behaviour unless it's really convenient. 678ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
666 679
667=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 680=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
668 681
669Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 682Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
670use. 683use.
679 692
680=item ev_now_update (loop) 693=item ev_now_update (loop)
681 694
682Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 695Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
683returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 696returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
684is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 697is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
685 698
686This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 699This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
687very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 700very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
688the current time is a good idea. 701the current time is a good idea.
689 702
691 704
692=item ev_suspend (loop) 705=item ev_suspend (loop)
693 706
694=item ev_resume (loop) 707=item ev_resume (loop)
695 708
696These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 709These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
697not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 710loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
698 711
699A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 712A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
700the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 713the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
701would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 714would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
702the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 715the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
704C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 717C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
705 718
706Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 719Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
707between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 720between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
708will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 721will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
709occured while suspended). 722occurred while suspended).
710 723
711After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 724After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
712given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 725given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
713without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 726without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
714 727
715Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 728Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
716event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 729event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
717 730
718=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 731=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
719 732
720Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 733Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
721after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 734after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
722handling events. 735handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
736the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
737is why event loops are called I<loops>.
723 738
724If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 739If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
725either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 740until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
741called.
726 742
727Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 743Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
728relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 744relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
729finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 745finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
730that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 746that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
731of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 747of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
732beauty. 748beauty.
733 749
734A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 750A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
735those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 751those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
736process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 752block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
737the loop. 753iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
754events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
738 755
739A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 756A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
740necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 757necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
741will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 758will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
742be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 759be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
743user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 760user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
744iteration of the loop. 761iteration of the loop.
745 762
746This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 763This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
747with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 764with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
748own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 765own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
749usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 766usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
750 767
751Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 768Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
752 769
770 - Increment loop depth.
771 - Reset the ev_break status.
753 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 772 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
773 LOOP:
754 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 774 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
755 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 775 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
756 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 776 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
777 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
757 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 778 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
758 as to not disturb the other process. 779 as to not disturb the other process.
759 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 780 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
760 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 781 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
761 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 782 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
762 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 783 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
763 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 784 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
764 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 785 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
786 - Increment loop iteration counter.
765 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 787 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
766 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 788 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
767 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 789 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
768 - Queue all expired timers. 790 - Queue all expired timers.
769 - Queue all expired periodics. 791 - Queue all expired periodics.
770 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 792 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
771 - Queue all check watchers. 793 - Queue all check watchers.
772 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 794 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
773 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 795 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
774 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 796 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
775 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 797 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
776 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 798 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
777 continue with step *. 799 continue with step LOOP.
800 FINISH:
801 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
802 - Decrement the loop depth.
803 - Return.
778 804
779Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 805Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
780anymore. 806anymore.
781 807
782 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 808 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
783 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 809 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
784 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 810 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
785 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 811 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
786 812
787=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 813=item ev_break (loop, how)
788 814
789Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 815Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
790has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 816has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
791C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 817C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
792C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 818C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
793 819
794This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 820This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
795 821
796It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 822It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO##
797 823
798=item ev_ref (loop) 824=item ev_ref (loop)
799 825
800=item ev_unref (loop) 826=item ev_unref (loop)
801 827
802Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 828Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
803loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 829loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
804count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 830count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
805 831
806This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 832This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
807unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 833unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
808returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref> 834returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
809before stopping it. 835before stopping it.
810 836
811As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 837As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
812is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 838is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
813exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 839exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
814excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 840excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
815third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 841third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
816before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 842before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
817before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 843before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
818(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 844(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
819in the callback). 845in the callback).
820 846
821Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 847Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
822running when nothing else is active. 848running when nothing else is active.
823 849
824 ev_signal exitsig; 850 ev_signal exitsig;
825 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 851 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
826 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 852 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
871usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 897usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
872as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 898as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
873you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 899you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
874parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 900parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
875need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 901need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
876then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 902then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
877 903
878Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 904Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
879saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 905saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
880are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 906are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
881times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 907times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
889 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 915 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
890 916
891=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 917=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
892 918
893This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 919This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
894pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 920pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
895but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 921but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
922function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
923when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
924event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
925thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
896 926
897=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 927=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
898 928
899Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 929Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
900are pending. 930are pending.
901 931
902=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 932=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
903 933
904This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 934This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
905invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 935invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
906this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 936this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
907invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 937invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
908 938
909If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 939If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
910callback. 940callback.
913 943
914Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 944Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
915can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 945can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
916each call to a libev function. 946each call to a libev function.
917 947
918However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 948However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
919wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 949to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
920C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 950loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
921and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 951I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
922 952
923When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 953When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
924suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 954suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
925afterwards. 955afterwards.
926 956
929 959
930While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 960While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
931C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 961C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
932modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 962modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
933have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 963have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
934waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 964waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
935to take note of any changes you made. 965to take note of any changes you made.
936 966
937In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 967In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
938invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 968invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
939 969
940See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 970See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
941document. 971document.
942 972
951These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 981These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
952and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 982and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
953C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 983C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
954any other purpose as well. 984any other purpose as well.
955 985
956=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 986=item ev_verify (loop)
957 987
958This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 988This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
959compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 989compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
960through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 990through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
961is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 991is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
972 1002
973In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1003In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
974watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1004watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
975watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1005watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
976 1006
977A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1007A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
978interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1008your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
979become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1009to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1010for that:
980 1011
981 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1012 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
982 { 1013 {
983 ev_io_stop (w); 1014 ev_io_stop (w);
984 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1015 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
985 } 1016 }
986 1017
987 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1018 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
988 1019
989 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1020 ev_io stdin_watcher;
990 1021
991 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1022 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
992 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1023 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
993 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1024 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
994 1025
995 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1026 ev_run (loop, 0);
996 1027
997As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1028As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
998watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1029watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
999stack). 1030stack).
1000 1031
1001Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1032Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
1002or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1033or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
1003 1034
1004Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1035Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
1005(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1036*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
1006callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1037invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
1007watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1038time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1008is readable and/or writable). 1039and/or writable).
1009 1040
1010Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1041Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1011macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1042macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1012is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1043is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1013ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1044ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1064 1095
1065=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1096=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1066 1097
1067=item C<EV_CHECK> 1098=item C<EV_CHECK>
1068 1099
1069All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1100All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1070to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1101to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1071C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1102C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1072received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1103received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1073many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1104many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1074(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1105(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1075C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1106C<ev_run> from blocking).
1076 1107
1077=item C<EV_EMBED> 1108=item C<EV_EMBED>
1078 1109
1079The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1110The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1080 1111
1081=item C<EV_FORK> 1112=item C<EV_FORK>
1082 1113
1083The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1114The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1084C<ev_fork>). 1115C<ev_fork>).
1116
1117=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1118
1119The event loop is abotu to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1085 1120
1086=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1121=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1087 1122
1088The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1123The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1089 1124
1108example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your 1143example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your
1109callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with 1144callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope with
1110the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded 1145the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
1111programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another 1146programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1112thing, so beware. 1147thing, so beware.
1148
1149=back
1150
1151=head2 WATCHER STATES
1152
1153There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1154active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1155transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1156rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1157
1158=over 4
1159
1160=item initialiased
1161
1162Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1163initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1164C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1165
1166In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1167in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1168
1169=item started/running/active
1170
1171Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1172property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1173this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1174freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1175and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1176
1177=item pending
1178
1179If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1180in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1181stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1182about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1183callback.
1184
1185The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1186an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1187is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1188but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1189moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1190previous item still apply.
1191
1192It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1193via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1194active.
1195
1196=item stopped
1197
1198A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1199be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1200latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1201of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1202freeing it is often a good idea.
1203
1204While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1205initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1206you wish.
1113 1207
1114=back 1208=back
1115 1209
1116=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 1210=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1117 1211
1379 1473
1380For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1474For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1381you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1475you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1382the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1476the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1383processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1477processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1384continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1478continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1385the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1479the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1386workable. 1480workable.
1387 1481
1388Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1482Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1389miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1483miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1403 { 1497 {
1404 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1498 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1405 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1499 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1406 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1500 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1407 1501
1408 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1502 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1409 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1503 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1410 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1504 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1411 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1505 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1412 } 1506 }
1413 1507
1467 1561
1468If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1562If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1469known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1563known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1470C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1564C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1471descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1565descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1472files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1566files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1473 1567
1474Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1568Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1475receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1569receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1476be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1570be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1477because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1571because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1621 ... 1715 ...
1622 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1716 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1623 ev_io stdin_readable; 1717 ev_io stdin_readable;
1624 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1718 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1625 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1719 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1626 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1720 ev_run (loop, 0);
1627 1721
1628 1722
1629=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1723=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1630 1724
1631Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1725Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1640The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1734The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1641passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1735passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1642might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1736might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1643same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1737same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1644before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1738before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1645no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1739no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1646 1740
1647=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1741=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1648 1742
1649Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1743Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1650recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1744recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1736 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1830 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1737 1831
1738 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1832 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1739 if (timeout < now) 1833 if (timeout < now)
1740 { 1834 {
1741 // timeout occured, take action 1835 // timeout occurred, take action
1742 } 1836 }
1743 else 1837 else
1744 { 1838 {
1745 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1839 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1746 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1840 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1773 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER); 1867 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1774 1868
1775And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1869And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1776C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1870C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1777 1871
1778 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1872 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1779 1873
1780This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1874This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1781time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1875time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1782 1876
1783Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1877Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1821 1915
1822=head3 The special problem of time updates 1916=head3 The special problem of time updates
1823 1917
1824Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1918Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1825least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1919least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1826time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1920time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1827growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1921growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1828lots of events in one iteration. 1922lots of events in one iteration.
1829 1923
1830The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1924The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1831time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1925time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1948 } 2042 }
1949 2043
1950 ev_timer mytimer; 2044 ev_timer mytimer;
1951 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2045 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1952 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2046 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1953 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2047 ev_run (loop, 0);
1954 2048
1955 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2049 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1956 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2050 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1957 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2051 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1958 2052
1984 2078
1985As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2079As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1986point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2080point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1987timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2081timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1988earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2082earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1989(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2083(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1990 2084
1991=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2085=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1992 2086
1993=over 4 2087=over 4
1994 2088
2122Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2216Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2123system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2217system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2124potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2218potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2125 2219
2126 static void 2220 static void
2127 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2221 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2128 { 2222 {
2129 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2223 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2130 } 2224 }
2131 2225
2132 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2226 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2232Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2326Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2233 2327
2234 static void 2328 static void
2235 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2329 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2236 { 2330 {
2237 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2331 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2238 } 2332 }
2239 2333
2240 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2334 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2241 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2335 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2242 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2336 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2628 2722
2629Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2723Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2630prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2724prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2631afterwards. 2725afterwards.
2632 2726
2633You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2727You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2634the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2728the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2635watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2729watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2636rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2730rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2637those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2731those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2638C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2732C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2806 2900
2807 if (timeout >= 0) 2901 if (timeout >= 0)
2808 // create/start timer 2902 // create/start timer
2809 2903
2810 // poll 2904 // poll
2811 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2905 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2812 2906
2813 // stop timer again 2907 // stop timer again
2814 if (timeout >= 0) 2908 if (timeout >= 0)
2815 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2909 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2816 2910
2894if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2988if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2895 2989
2896=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2990=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2897 2991
2898Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2992Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2899similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2993similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2900appropriate way for embedded loops. 2994appropriate way for embedded loops.
2901 2995
2902=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 2996=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2903 2997
2904The embedded event loop. 2998The embedded event loop.
2964C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3058C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2965handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3059handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2966 3060
2967=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3061=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2968 3062
2969Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3063Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2970up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3064up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2971sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3065sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2972 3066
2973This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3067This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2974in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3068in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2990disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3084disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2991signal watchers). 3085signal watchers).
2992 3086
2993When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3087When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2994other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3088other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2995C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3089C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2996the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3090Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2997have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3091watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2998also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3092those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3093signal watchers.
2999 3094
3000=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3095=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3001 3096
3002=over 4 3097=over 4
3003 3098
3004=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3099=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3005 3100
3006Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3101Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3007kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3102kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3008believe me. 3103believe me.
3009 3104
3010=back 3105=back
3011 3106
3012 3107
3108=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3109
3110Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop they are registered
3111with is being destroyed.
3112
3113While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3114watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3115program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3116loop when you want them to be invoked.
3117
3118=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3119
3120=over 4
3121
3122=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3123
3124Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3125any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3126pointless, believe me.
3127
3128=back
3129
3130Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3131cleanup functions are called.
3132
3133 static void
3134 program_exits (void)
3135 {
3136 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3137 }
3138
3139 ...
3140 atexit (program_exits);
3141
3142
3013=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3143=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3014 3144
3015In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3145In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
3016asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3146asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3017loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3147loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3018 3148
3019Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3149Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3020control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3150for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3021C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3151watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
3022can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3152it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3023safe.
3024 3153
3025This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3154This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3026too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3155too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3027(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3156(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3028C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3157C<ev_async_sent> calls).
3340 myclass obj; 3469 myclass obj;
3341 ev::io iow; 3470 ev::io iow;
3342 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3471 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3343 3472
3344=item w->set (object *) 3473=item w->set (object *)
3345
3346This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3347 3474
3348This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3475This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3349will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3476will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3350functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3477functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3351the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3478the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3391Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3518Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3392do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3519do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3393 3520
3394=item w->set ([arguments]) 3521=item w->set ([arguments])
3395 3522
3396Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3523Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3397called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3524method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3398automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3525C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3399method. 3526when reconfiguring it with this method.
3400 3527
3401=item w->start () 3528=item w->start ()
3402 3529
3403Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3530Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3404constructor already stores the event loop. 3531constructor already stores the event loop.
3405 3532
3533=item w->start ([arguments])
3534
3535Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3536convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3537the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3538
3406=item w->stop () 3539=item w->stop ()
3407 3540
3408Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3541Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3409 3542
3410=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3543=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3422 3555
3423=back 3556=back
3424 3557
3425=back 3558=back
3426 3559
3427Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3560Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3428the constructor. 3561watchers in the constructor.
3429 3562
3430 class myclass 3563 class myclass
3431 { 3564 {
3432 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3565 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3566 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3433 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3567 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3434 3568
3435 myclass (int fd) 3569 myclass (int fd)
3436 { 3570 {
3437 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3571 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3572 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3438 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3573 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3439 3574
3440 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3575 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3576 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3577
3578 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3441 } 3579 }
3442 }; 3580 };
3443 3581
3444 3582
3445=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3583=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3519loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3657loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3520C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3658C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3521 3659
3522 ev_unref (EV_A); 3660 ev_unref (EV_A);
3523 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3661 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3524 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3662 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3525 3663
3526It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3664It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3527which is often provided by the following macro. 3665which is often provided by the following macro.
3528 3666
3529=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3667=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3569 } 3707 }
3570 3708
3571 ev_check check; 3709 ev_check check;
3572 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3710 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3573 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3711 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3574 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3712 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3575 3713
3576=head1 EMBEDDING 3714=head1 EMBEDDING
3577 3715
3578Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3716Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3579applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3717applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3670to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3808to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3671users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible 3809users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3672settings. 3810settings.
3673 3811
3674=over 4 3812=over 4
3813
3814=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3815
3816Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3817release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3818have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3819
3820You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3821versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3822sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3823from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3824typedef in that case.
3825
3826In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3827and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3828removed completely.
3675 3829
3676=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3830=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3677 3831
3678Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3832Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3679keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3833keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3886EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE, 4040EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
3887EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE. 4041EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3888 4042
3889If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then 4043If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3890the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it 4044the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3891is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves codesize. 4045is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3892 4046
3893=item EV_FEATURES 4047=item EV_FEATURES
3894 4048
3895If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4049If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3896speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request 4050speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3916 4070
3917=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4071=item C<1> - faster/larger code
3918 4072
3919Use larger code to speed up some operations. 4073Use larger code to speed up some operations.
3920 4074
3921Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the roughly 4075Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
392230% code size on amd64. 4076code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
3923 4077
3924When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4078When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
3925gcc recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4079gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
3926assertions. 4080assertions.
3927 4081
3928=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4082=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
3929 4083
3930Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4084Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
3931hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase codesize 4085hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
3932and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4086and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
3933runtime. 4087runtime.
3934 4088
3935=item C<4> - full API configuration 4089=item C<4> - full API configuration
3936 4090
3973I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4127I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
3974 4128
3975=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4129=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
3976 4130
3977If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4131If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
3978functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the codesize 4132functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
3979somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your 4133somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
3980libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite 4134libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
3981big. 4135big.
3982 4136
3983Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is 4137Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
3987 4141
3988The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4142The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3989signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4143signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3990automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4144automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3991specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4145specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3992good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4146good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3993statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4147statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3994 4148
3995=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4149=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3996 4150
3997C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4151C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
4029The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it 4183The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4030will be C<0>. 4184will be C<0>.
4031 4185
4032=item EV_VERIFY 4186=item EV_VERIFY
4033 4187
4034Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4188Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4035be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4189be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4036in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4190in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4037called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4191called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4038called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4192called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4039verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4193verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4043will be C<0>. 4197will be C<0>.
4044 4198
4045=item EV_COMMON 4199=item EV_COMMON
4046 4200
4047By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4201By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
4048this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4202this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
4049members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4203members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4050though, and it must be identical each time. 4204though, and it must be identical each time.
4051 4205
4052For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4206For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4053 4207
4254 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4408 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4255 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4409 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4256 } 4410 }
4257 4411
4258The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4412The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4259into C<ev_loop>: 4413into C<ev_run>:
4260 4414
4261 void * 4415 void *
4262 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4416 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4263 { 4417 {
4264 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4418 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4265 4419
4266 l_acquire (EV_A); 4420 l_acquire (EV_A);
4267 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4421 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4268 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4422 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4269 l_release (EV_A); 4423 l_release (EV_A);
4270 4424
4271 return 0; 4425 return 0;
4272 } 4426 }
4273 4427
4325 4479
4326=head3 COROUTINES 4480=head3 COROUTINES
4327 4481
4328Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4482Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4329libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4483libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4330coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4484coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4331different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4485different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4332the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4486the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4333that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4487that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4334 4488
4335Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4489Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4336C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4490C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4337they do not call any callbacks. 4491they do not call any callbacks.
4338 4492
4339=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4493=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4340 4494
4341Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4495Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4352maintainable. 4506maintainable.
4353 4507
4354And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4508And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4355wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4509wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4356seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4510seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4357warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4511warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4358been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4512been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4359such buggy versions. 4513such buggy versions.
4360 4514
4361While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4515While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4362"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4516"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4398I suggest using suppression lists. 4552I suggest using suppression lists.
4399 4553
4400 4554
4401=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4555=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4402 4556
4557=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4558
4559GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4560interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4561
4562That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4563files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4564
4565Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4566by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4567standard libev compiled for their system.
4568
4569Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4570suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4571i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4572
4573=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4574
4575The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4576you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4577OpenGL drivers.
4578
4579=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4580
4581The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4582only sockets, many support pipes.
4583
4584Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4585rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4586loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4587probably going to work well.
4588
4589=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4590
4591Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4592implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4593release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4594
4595Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4596this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4597a loop.
4598
4599=head3 C<select> is buggy
4600
4601All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4602one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4603descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4604you use more.
4605
4606There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4607C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4608work on OS/X.
4609
4610=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4611
4612=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4613
4614The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4615thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4616without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4617defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4618
4619If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4620it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4621
4622=head3 Event port backend
4623
4624The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4625ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4626releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4627a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4628and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4629are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4630great.
4631
4632If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4633the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4634C<select> backends.
4635
4636=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4637
4638AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4639this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4640compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4641with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4642
4403=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4643=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4644
4645=head3 General issues
4404 4646
4405Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4647Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4406requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4648requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4407model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4649model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4408the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4650the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4409descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4651descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4410e.g. cygwin. 4652e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4653as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4654environment.
4411 4655
4412Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4656Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4413re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4657re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4414things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4658then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4415way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4659also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4416 4660
4417There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4661There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4418embedding it into other applications. 4662embedding it into other applications.
4419 4663
4420Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4664Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4448you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4692you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4449 4693
4450 #include "evwrap.h" 4694 #include "evwrap.h"
4451 #include "ev.c" 4695 #include "ev.c"
4452 4696
4453=over 4
4454
4455=item The winsocket select function 4697=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4456 4698
4457The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4699The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4458requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4700requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4459also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4701also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4460requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4702requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4469 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4711 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4470 4712
4471Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4713Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4472complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4714complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4473 4715
4474=item Limited number of file descriptors 4716=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4475 4717
4476Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4718Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4477 4719
4478Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4720Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4479of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4721of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4494runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4736runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4495(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4737(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4496you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4738you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4497the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4739the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4498 4740
4499=back
4500
4501=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4741=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4502 4742
4503In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4743In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4504backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4744backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4505 4745
4543watchers. 4783watchers.
4544 4784
4545=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4785=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4546 4786
4547The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4787The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4548have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4788have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4549enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4789good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4790(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4550implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4791implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4551ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4792IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45522200.
4553 4793
4554=back 4794=back
4555 4795
4556If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4796If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4557 4797
4635compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 4875compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be
4636removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 4876removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late.
4637 4877
4638=over 4 4878=over 4
4639 4879
4640=item C<ev_loop_count> renamed to C<ev_iteration> 4880=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4641 4881
4642=item C<ev_loop_depth> renamed to C<ev_depth> 4882These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4643 4883
4644=item C<ev_loop_verify> renamed to C<ev_verify> 4884 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4885 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4886
4887=item function/symbol renames
4888
4889A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4890
4891 ev_loop => ev_run
4892 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4893 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4894
4895 ev_unloop => ev_break
4896 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4897 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4898 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4899
4900 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4901
4902 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4903 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4904 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4645 4905
4646Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an 4906Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4647C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is 4907C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4908associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4909ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4910as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4648still called C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the 4911C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4649C<ev_fork> typedef. 4912typedef.
4650 4913
4651=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> renamed to C<EV_TIMER> in C<revents> 4914=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4652 4915
4653This is a simple rename - all other watcher types use their name 4916The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4654as revents flag, and now C<ev_timer> does, too. 4917C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4655 4918section.
4656Both C<EV_TIMER> and C<EV_TIMEOUT> symbols were present in 3.x versions
4657and continue to be present for the forseeable future, so this is mostly a
4658documentation change.
4659 4919
4660=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 4920=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4661 4921
4662The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 4922The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4663mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 4923mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4670 4930
4671=over 4 4931=over 4
4672 4932
4673=item active 4933=item active
4674 4934
4675A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4935A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4676an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4936See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4677 4937
4678=item application 4938=item application
4679 4939
4680In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4940In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4941
4942=item backend
4943
4944The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4681 4945
4682=item callback 4946=item callback
4683 4947
4684The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4948The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4685detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4949detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4686received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4950received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4687 4951
4688=item callback invocation 4952=item callback/watcher invocation
4689 4953
4690The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4954The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4691 4955
4692=item event 4956=item event
4693 4957
4712The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 4976The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4713watchers and events. 4977watchers and events.
4714 4978
4715=item pending 4979=item pending
4716 4980
4717A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 4981A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4718and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 4982detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4719pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4720
4721A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4722its pending status.
4723 4983
4724=item real time 4984=item real time
4725 4985
4726The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 4986The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4727 4987
4734=item watcher 4994=item watcher
4735 4995
4736A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 4996A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4737to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 4997to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4738 4998
4739=item watcher invocation
4740
4741The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4742
4743=back 4999=back
4744 5000
4745=head1 AUTHOR 5001=head1 AUTHOR
4746 5002
4747Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5003Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson.

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