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Revision 1.334 by root, Mon Oct 25 10:30:23 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
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
124this argument. 132this argument.
125 133
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 135
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
132aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
133on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 145
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 147
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
164 173
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 175
167Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
168C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
169you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 180
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 182
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 203not a problem.
194 204
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 208
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 212
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 225
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 227
217Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
218recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
219returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
220most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
221(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 235
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 237
226Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 243
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 245
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT]
235 247
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
292=back 304=back
293 305
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 307
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 308An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
297is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 309I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 311
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 312The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 314do not.
303 315
304=over 4 316=over 4
305 317
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 319
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 321normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
310false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 322the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 323C<ev_loop_new>.
324
325If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
326returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
327C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
328flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
329one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 330
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 331If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 333
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 334Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
317from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 335from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
319 338
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 339The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
321C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 340and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
322for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 341a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
323create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 342C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 344
345Example: This is the most typical usage.
346
347 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
348 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
349
350Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
351environment settings to be taken into account:
352
353 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
354
355=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
356
357This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
358could not be initialised, returns false.
359
360Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
361libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
362default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 363
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
328backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 365backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 366
330The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
438of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 475of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
439I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 476I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
440even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 477even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
441on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 478on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
442employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 479employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
443events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 480events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
481not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
482perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
444 483
445While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 484While 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 485will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
447incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 486incident (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 487I<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, 585If 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 586then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
548here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 587here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
549()> will be tried. 588()> will be tried.
550 589
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. 590Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
578 591
579 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 592 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
580 if (!epoller) 593 if (!epoller)
581 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 594 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
582 595
596Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
597used if available.
598
599 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
600
583=item ev_default_destroy () 601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
584 602
585Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 603Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
586of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 604etc.). 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 605sense, 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, 606responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
589or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 607calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
590can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 608the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
609for example).
591 610
592Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 611Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
593handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 612handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
594as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 613as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
595 614
596In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 615This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
597rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 616C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
617C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
618
619Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
620except 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 621If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
599C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 622and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
600 623
601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 624=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
602 625
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 626This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
609to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 627reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
610name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 628name, 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 629the 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 630child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
613functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
614 631
615Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 632Again, 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 633a 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 634because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
618during fork. 635during fork.
619 636
620On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 637On 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 638process 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 639you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
623it at all. 640call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
641difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
642costly reset of the backend).
624 643
625The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 644The 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 645it just in case after a fork.
627quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
628 646
647Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
648using pthreads.
649
650 static void
651 post_fork_child (void)
652 {
653 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
654 }
655
656 ...
629 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 657 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.
637 658
638=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 659=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
639 660
640Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 661Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
641otherwise. 662otherwise.
642 663
643=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop) 664=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
644 665
645Returns the current iteration count for the loop, which is identical to 666Returns 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 667to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
647happily wraps around with enough iterations. 668and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
648 669
649This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 670This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
650"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 671"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
651C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the 672C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
652prepare and check phases. 673prepare and check phases.
653 674
654=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 675=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
655 676
656Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 677Returns 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. 678times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
658 679
659Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 680Outside 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), 681C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
661in which case it is higher. 682in which case it is higher.
662 683
663Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 684Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
664etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 685etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
665ungentleman behaviour unless it's really convenient. 686ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
666 687
667=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 688=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
668 689
669Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 690Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
670use. 691use.
679 700
680=item ev_now_update (loop) 701=item ev_now_update (loop)
681 702
682Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 703Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
683returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 704returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
684is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 705is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
685 706
686This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 707This 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 708very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
688the current time is a good idea. 709the current time is a good idea.
689 710
691 712
692=item ev_suspend (loop) 713=item ev_suspend (loop)
693 714
694=item ev_resume (loop) 715=item ev_resume (loop)
695 716
696These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 717These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
697not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 718loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
698 719
699A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 720A 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 721the 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 722would 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> 723the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
704C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 725C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
705 726
706Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 727Effectively, 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 728between 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 729will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
709occured while suspended). 730occurred while suspended).
710 731
711After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 732After 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> 733given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
713without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 734without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
714 735
715Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 736Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
716event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 737event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
717 738
718=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 739=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
719 740
720Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 741Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
721after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 742after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
722handling events. 743handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
744the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
745is why event loops are called I<loops>.
723 746
724If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 747If 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. 748until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
749called.
726 750
727Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 751Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
728relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 752relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
729finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 753finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
730that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 754that 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 755of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
732beauty. 756beauty.
733 757
734A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 758A 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 759those 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 760block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
737the loop. 761iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
762events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
738 763
739A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 764A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
740necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 765necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
741will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 766will 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 767be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
743user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 768user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
744iteration of the loop. 769iteration of the loop.
745 770
746This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 771This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
747with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 772with 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 773own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
749usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 774usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
750 775
751Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 776Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
752 777
778 - Increment loop depth.
779 - Reset the ev_break status.
753 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 780 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
781 LOOP:
754 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 782 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
755 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 783 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
756 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 784 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
785 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
757 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 786 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
758 as to not disturb the other process. 787 as to not disturb the other process.
759 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 788 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
760 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 789 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
761 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 790 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
762 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 791 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
763 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 792 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
764 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 793 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
794 - Increment loop iteration counter.
765 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 795 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
766 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 796 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
767 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 797 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
768 - Queue all expired timers. 798 - Queue all expired timers.
769 - Queue all expired periodics. 799 - Queue all expired periodics.
770 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 800 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
771 - Queue all check watchers. 801 - Queue all check watchers.
772 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 802 - 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 803 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
774 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 804 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
775 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 805 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
776 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 806 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
777 continue with step *. 807 continue with step LOOP.
808 FINISH:
809 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
810 - Decrement the loop depth.
811 - Return.
778 812
779Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 813Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
780anymore. 814anymore.
781 815
782 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 816 ... 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..) 817 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
784 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 818 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
785 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 819 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
786 820
787=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 821=item ev_break (loop, how)
788 822
789Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 823Can 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 824has 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 825C<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. 826C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
793 827
794This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 828This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
795 829
796It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 830It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO##
797 831
798=item ev_ref (loop) 832=item ev_ref (loop)
799 833
800=item ev_unref (loop) 834=item ev_unref (loop)
801 835
802Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 836Ref/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 837loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
804count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 838count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
805 839
806This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 840This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
807unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 841unregister, 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> 842returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
809before stopping it. 843before stopping it.
810 844
811As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 845As 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 846is 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 847exiting 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 848excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
815third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 849third-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 850before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
817before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 851before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
818(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 852(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
819in the callback). 853in the callback).
820 854
821Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 855Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
822running when nothing else is active. 856running when nothing else is active.
823 857
824 ev_signal exitsig; 858 ev_signal exitsig;
825 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 859 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
826 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 860 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
871usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 905usually 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 906as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
873you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 907you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
874parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 908parallelity, 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, 909need 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). 910then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
877 911
878Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 912Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
879saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 913saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
880are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 914are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
881times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 915times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
889 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 923 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
890 924
891=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 925=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
892 926
893This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 927This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
894pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 928pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
895but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 929but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
930function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
931when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
932event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
933thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
896 934
897=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 935=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
898 936
899Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 937Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
900are pending. 938are pending.
901 939
902=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 940=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
903 941
904This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 942This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
905invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 943invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
906this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 944this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
907invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 945invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
908 946
909If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 947If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
910callback. 948callback.
913 951
914Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 952Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
915can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 953can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
916each call to a libev function. 954each call to a libev function.
917 955
918However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 956However, 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 957to 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> 958loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
921and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 959I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
922 960
923When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 961When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
924suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 962suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
925afterwards. 963afterwards.
926 964
929 967
930While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 968While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
931C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 969C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
932modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 970modifications 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 971have 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 972waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
935to take note of any changes you made. 973to take note of any changes you made.
936 974
937In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 975In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
938invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 976invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
939 977
940See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 978See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
941document. 979document.
942 980
951These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 989These 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 990and 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 991C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
954any other purpose as well. 992any other purpose as well.
955 993
956=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 994=item ev_verify (loop)
957 995
958This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 996This 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 997compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
960through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 998through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
961is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 999is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
972 1010
973In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1011In 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 1012watcher 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. 1013watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
976 1014
977A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1015A 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 1016your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
979become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1017to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1018for that:
980 1019
981 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1020 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
982 { 1021 {
983 ev_io_stop (w); 1022 ev_io_stop (w);
984 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1023 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
985 } 1024 }
986 1025
987 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1026 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
988 1027
989 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1028 ev_io stdin_watcher;
990 1029
991 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1030 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
992 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1031 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
993 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1032 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
994 1033
995 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1034 ev_run (loop, 0);
996 1035
997As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1036As 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 1037watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
999stack). 1038stack).
1000 1039
1001Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1040Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
1002or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1041or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
1003 1042
1004Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1043Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
1005(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1044*, 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 1045invoked 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 1046time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1008is readable and/or writable). 1047and/or writable).
1009 1048
1010Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1049Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1011macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1050macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1012is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1051is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1013ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1052ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1064 1103
1065=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1104=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1066 1105
1067=item C<EV_CHECK> 1106=item C<EV_CHECK>
1068 1107
1069All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1108All 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 1109to 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 1110C<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 1111received 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 1112many 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 1113(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1075C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1114C<ev_run> from blocking).
1076 1115
1077=item C<EV_EMBED> 1116=item C<EV_EMBED>
1078 1117
1079The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1118The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1080 1119
1081=item C<EV_FORK> 1120=item C<EV_FORK>
1082 1121
1083The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1122The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1084C<ev_fork>). 1123C<ev_fork>).
1124
1125=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1126
1127The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1085 1128
1086=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1129=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1087 1130
1088The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1131The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1089 1132
1108example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if your 1151example 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 1152callbacks 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 1153the 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 1154programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1112thing, so beware. 1155thing, so beware.
1156
1157=back
1158
1159=head2 WATCHER STATES
1160
1161There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1162active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1163transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1164rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1165
1166=over 4
1167
1168=item initialiased
1169
1170Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1171initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1172C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1173
1174In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1175in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1176
1177=item started/running/active
1178
1179Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1180property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1181this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1182freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1183and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1184
1185=item pending
1186
1187If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1188in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1189stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1190about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1191callback.
1192
1193The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1194an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1195is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1196but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1197moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1198previous item still apply.
1199
1200It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1201via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1202active.
1203
1204=item stopped
1205
1206A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1207be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1208latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1209of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1210freeing it is often a good idea.
1211
1212While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1213initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1214you wish.
1113 1215
1114=back 1216=back
1115 1217
1116=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 1218=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1117 1219
1379 1481
1380For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1482For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1381you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1483you 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 1484the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1383processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1485processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1384continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1486continuously 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 1487the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1386workable. 1488workable.
1387 1489
1388Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1490Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1389miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1491miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1403 { 1505 {
1404 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1506 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1405 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1507 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1406 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1508 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1407 1509
1408 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1510 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1409 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1511 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1410 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1512 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1411 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1513 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1412 } 1514 }
1413 1515
1467 1569
1468If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1570If 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 1571known-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 1572C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1471descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1573descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1472files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1574files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1473 1575
1474Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1576Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1475receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1577receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1476be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1578be 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 1579because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1621 ... 1723 ...
1622 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1724 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1623 ev_io stdin_readable; 1725 ev_io stdin_readable;
1624 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1726 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1625 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1727 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1626 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1728 ev_run (loop, 0);
1627 1729
1628 1730
1629=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1731=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1630 1732
1631Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1733Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1640The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1742The 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 1743passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1642might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1744might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1643same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1745same 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 1746before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1645no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1747no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1646 1748
1647=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1749=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1648 1750
1649Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1751Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1650recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1752recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1736 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1838 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1737 1839
1738 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1840 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1739 if (timeout < now) 1841 if (timeout < now)
1740 { 1842 {
1741 // timeout occured, take action 1843 // timeout occurred, take action
1742 } 1844 }
1743 else 1845 else
1744 { 1846 {
1745 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1847 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1746 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1848 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1773 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER); 1875 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1774 1876
1775And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1877And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1776C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1878C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1777 1879
1778 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1880 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1779 1881
1780This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1882This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1781time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1883time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1782 1884
1783Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1885Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1821 1923
1822=head3 The special problem of time updates 1924=head3 The special problem of time updates
1823 1925
1824Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1926Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1825least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1927least 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 1928time 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 1929growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1828lots of events in one iteration. 1930lots of events in one iteration.
1829 1931
1830The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1932The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1831time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1933time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1948 } 2050 }
1949 2051
1950 ev_timer mytimer; 2052 ev_timer mytimer;
1951 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2053 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1952 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2054 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1953 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2055 ev_run (loop, 0);
1954 2056
1955 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2057 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1956 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2058 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1957 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2059 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1958 2060
1984 2086
1985As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2087As 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 2088point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1987timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2089timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1988earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2090earlier 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). 2091(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1990 2092
1991=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2093=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1992 2094
1993=over 4 2095=over 4
1994 2096
2122Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2224Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2123system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2225system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2124potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2226potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2125 2227
2126 static void 2228 static void
2127 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2229 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2128 { 2230 {
2129 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2231 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2130 } 2232 }
2131 2233
2132 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2234 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2232Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2334Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2233 2335
2234 static void 2336 static void
2235 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2337 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2236 { 2338 {
2237 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2339 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2238 } 2340 }
2239 2341
2240 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2342 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2241 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2343 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2242 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2344 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2628 2730
2629Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2731Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2630prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2732prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2631afterwards. 2733afterwards.
2632 2734
2633You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2735You 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> 2736the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2635watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2737watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2636rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2738rationale 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, 2739those 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 2740C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2806 2908
2807 if (timeout >= 0) 2909 if (timeout >= 0)
2808 // create/start timer 2910 // create/start timer
2809 2911
2810 // poll 2912 // poll
2811 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2913 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2812 2914
2813 // stop timer again 2915 // stop timer again
2814 if (timeout >= 0) 2916 if (timeout >= 0)
2815 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2917 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2816 2918
2894if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2996if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2895 2997
2896=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2998=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2897 2999
2898Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3000Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2899similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3001similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2900appropriate way for embedded loops. 3002appropriate way for embedded loops.
2901 3003
2902=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3004=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2903 3005
2904The embedded event loop. 3006The embedded event loop.
2964C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3066C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2965handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3067handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2966 3068
2967=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3069=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2968 3070
2969Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3071Most 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 3072up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2971sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3073sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2972 3074
2973This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3075This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2974in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3076in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2990disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3092disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2991signal watchers). 3093signal watchers).
2992 3094
2993When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3095When 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 3096other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2995C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3097C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2996the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3098Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2997have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3099watchers, 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. 3100those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3101signal watchers.
2999 3102
3000=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3001 3104
3002=over 4 3105=over 4
3003 3106
3004=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3107=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3005 3108
3006Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3109Initialises 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, 3110kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3008believe me. 3111really.
3009 3112
3010=back 3113=back
3011 3114
3012 3115
3116=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3117
3118Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3119by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3120
3121While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3122watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3123program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3124loop when you want them to be invoked.
3125
3126Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3127all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3128makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3129can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3130
3131=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3132
3133=over 4
3134
3135=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3136
3137Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3138any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3139pointless, I assure you.
3140
3141=back
3142
3143Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3144cleanup functions are called.
3145
3146 static void
3147 program_exits (void)
3148 {
3149 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3150 }
3151
3152 ...
3153 atexit (program_exits);
3154
3155
3013=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3156=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3014 3157
3015In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3158In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
3016asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3159asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3017loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3160loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3018 3161
3019Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3162Sometimes, 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 3163for 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 3164watchers 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 3165it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3023safe.
3024 3166
3025This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3167This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3026too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3168too, 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 3169(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3028C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3170C<ev_async_sent> calls).
3340 myclass obj; 3482 myclass obj;
3341 ev::io iow; 3483 ev::io iow;
3342 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3484 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3343 3485
3344=item w->set (object *) 3486=item w->set (object *)
3345
3346This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3347 3487
3348This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3488This 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 3489will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3350functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3490functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3351the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3491the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3391Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3531Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3392do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3532do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3393 3533
3394=item w->set ([arguments]) 3534=item w->set ([arguments])
3395 3535
3396Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3536Basically 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 3537method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3398automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3538C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3399method. 3539when reconfiguring it with this method.
3400 3540
3401=item w->start () 3541=item w->start ()
3402 3542
3403Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3543Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3404constructor already stores the event loop. 3544constructor already stores the event loop.
3405 3545
3546=item w->start ([arguments])
3547
3548Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3549convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3550the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3551
3406=item w->stop () 3552=item w->stop ()
3407 3553
3408Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3554Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3409 3555
3410=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3556=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3422 3568
3423=back 3569=back
3424 3570
3425=back 3571=back
3426 3572
3427Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3573Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3428the constructor. 3574watchers in the constructor.
3429 3575
3430 class myclass 3576 class myclass
3431 { 3577 {
3432 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3578 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3579 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3433 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3580 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3434 3581
3435 myclass (int fd) 3582 myclass (int fd)
3436 { 3583 {
3437 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3584 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3585 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3438 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3586 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3439 3587
3440 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3588 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3589 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3590
3591 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3441 } 3592 }
3442 }; 3593 };
3443 3594
3444 3595
3445=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3596=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3519loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3670loop 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: 3671C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3521 3672
3522 ev_unref (EV_A); 3673 ev_unref (EV_A);
3523 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3674 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3524 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3675 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3525 3676
3526It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3677It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3527which is often provided by the following macro. 3678which is often provided by the following macro.
3528 3679
3529=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3680=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3569 } 3720 }
3570 3721
3571 ev_check check; 3722 ev_check check;
3572 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3723 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3573 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3724 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3574 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3725 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3575 3726
3576=head1 EMBEDDING 3727=head1 EMBEDDING
3577 3728
3578Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3729Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3579applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3730applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3670to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3821to 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 3822users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3672settings. 3823settings.
3673 3824
3674=over 4 3825=over 4
3826
3827=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3828
3829Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3830release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3831have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3832
3833You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3834versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3835sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3836from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3837typedef in that case.
3838
3839In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3840and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3841removed completely.
3675 3842
3676=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3843=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3677 3844
3678Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3845Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3679keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3846keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3886EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE, 4053EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
3887EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE. 4054EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3888 4055
3889If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then 4056If 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 4057the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3891is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves codesize. 4058is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3892 4059
3893=item EV_FEATURES 4060=item EV_FEATURES
3894 4061
3895If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4062If 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 4063speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3916 4083
3917=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4084=item C<1> - faster/larger code
3918 4085
3919Use larger code to speed up some operations. 4086Use larger code to speed up some operations.
3920 4087
3921Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the roughly 4088Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
392230% code size on amd64. 4089code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
3923 4090
3924When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4091When 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 4092gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
3926assertions. 4093assertions.
3927 4094
3928=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4095=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
3929 4096
3930Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4097Replaces 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 4098hash 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 4099and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
3933runtime. 4100runtime.
3934 4101
3935=item C<4> - full API configuration 4102=item C<4> - full API configuration
3936 4103
3973I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4140I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
3974 4141
3975=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4142=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
3976 4143
3977If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4144If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
3978functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the codesize 4145functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
3979somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your 4146somewhat, 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 4147libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
3981big. 4148big.
3982 4149
3983Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is 4150Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
3987 4154
3988The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4155The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3989signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4156signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3990automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4157automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3991specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4158specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3992good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4159good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3993statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4160statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3994 4161
3995=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4162=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3996 4163
3997C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4164C<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 4196The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4030will be C<0>. 4197will be C<0>.
4031 4198
4032=item EV_VERIFY 4199=item EV_VERIFY
4033 4200
4034Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4201Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4035be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4202be 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 4203in. 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 4204called. 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 4205called 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 4206verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4043will be C<0>. 4210will be C<0>.
4044 4211
4045=item EV_COMMON 4212=item EV_COMMON
4046 4213
4047By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4214By 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 4215this 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, 4216members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4050though, and it must be identical each time. 4217though, and it must be identical each time.
4051 4218
4052For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4219For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4053 4220
4254 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4421 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4255 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4422 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4256 } 4423 }
4257 4424
4258The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4425The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4259into C<ev_loop>: 4426into C<ev_run>:
4260 4427
4261 void * 4428 void *
4262 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4429 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4263 { 4430 {
4264 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4431 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4265 4432
4266 l_acquire (EV_A); 4433 l_acquire (EV_A);
4267 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4434 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4268 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4435 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4269 l_release (EV_A); 4436 l_release (EV_A);
4270 4437
4271 return 0; 4438 return 0;
4272 } 4439 }
4273 4440
4325 4492
4326=head3 COROUTINES 4493=head3 COROUTINES
4327 4494
4328Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4495Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4329libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4496libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4330coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4497coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4331different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4498different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4332the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4499the 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. 4500that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4334 4501
4335Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4502Care 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 4503C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4337they do not call any callbacks. 4504they do not call any callbacks.
4338 4505
4339=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4506=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4340 4507
4341Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4508Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4352maintainable. 4519maintainable.
4353 4520
4354And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4521And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4355wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4522wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4356seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4523seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4357warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4524warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4358been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4525been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4359such buggy versions. 4526such buggy versions.
4360 4527
4361While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4528While 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 4529"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4398I suggest using suppression lists. 4565I suggest using suppression lists.
4399 4566
4400 4567
4401=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4568=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4402 4569
4570=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4571
4572GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4573interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4574
4575That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4576files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4577
4578Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4579by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4580standard libev compiled for their system.
4581
4582Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4583suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4584i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4585
4586=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4587
4588The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4589you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4590OpenGL drivers.
4591
4592=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4593
4594The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4595only sockets, many support pipes.
4596
4597Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4598rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4599loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4600probably going to work well.
4601
4602=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4603
4604Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4605implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4606release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4607
4608Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4609this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4610a loop.
4611
4612=head3 C<select> is buggy
4613
4614All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4615one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4616descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4617you use more.
4618
4619There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4620C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4621work on OS/X.
4622
4623=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4624
4625=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4626
4627The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4628thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4629without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4630defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4631
4632If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4633it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4634
4635=head3 Event port backend
4636
4637The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4638ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4639releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4640a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4641and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4642are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4643great.
4644
4645If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4646the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4647C<select> backends.
4648
4649=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4650
4651AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4652this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4653compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4654with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4655
4403=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4656=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4657
4658=head3 General issues
4404 4659
4405Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4660Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4406requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4661requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4407model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4662model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4408the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4663the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4409descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4664descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4410e.g. cygwin. 4665e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4666as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4667environment.
4411 4668
4412Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4669Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4413re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4670re-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 4671then 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). 4672also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4416 4673
4417There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4674There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4418embedding it into other applications. 4675embedding it into other applications.
4419 4676
4420Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4677Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4448you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4705you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4449 4706
4450 #include "evwrap.h" 4707 #include "evwrap.h"
4451 #include "ev.c" 4708 #include "ev.c"
4452 4709
4453=over 4
4454
4455=item The winsocket select function 4710=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4456 4711
4457The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4712The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4458requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4713requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4459also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4714also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4460requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4715requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4469 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4724 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4470 4725
4471Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4726Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4472complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4727complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4473 4728
4474=item Limited number of file descriptors 4729=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4475 4730
4476Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4731Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4477 4732
4478Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4733Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4479of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4734of 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 4749runtime 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, 4750(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 4751you 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. 4752the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4498 4753
4499=back
4500
4501=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4754=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4502 4755
4503In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4756In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4504backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4757backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4505 4758
4511Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4764Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4512structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4765structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4513assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4766assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4514callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4767callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4515calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4768calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4769
4770=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4771
4772Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4773writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4516 4774
4517=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4775=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4518 4776
4519The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4777The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4520C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4778C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4543watchers. 4801watchers.
4544 4802
4545=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4803=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4546 4804
4547The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4805The 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 4806have 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 4807good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4808(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4550implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4809implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4551ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4810IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45522200.
4553 4811
4554=back 4812=back
4555 4813
4556If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4814If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4557 4815
4627=back 4885=back
4628 4886
4629 4887
4630=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 4888=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4631 4889
4632The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 4890The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4633 4891
4634At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial 4892At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4635compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 4893for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4636removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 4894layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4895new API early than late.
4637 4896
4638=over 4 4897=over 4
4639 4898
4640=item C<ev_loop_count> renamed to C<ev_iteration> 4899=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4641 4900
4642=item C<ev_loop_depth> renamed to C<ev_depth> 4901The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4902C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4903section.
4643 4904
4644=item C<ev_loop_verify> renamed to C<ev_verify> 4905=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4906
4907These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4908
4909 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4910 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4911
4912=item function/symbol renames
4913
4914A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4915
4916 ev_loop => ev_run
4917 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4918 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4919
4920 ev_unloop => ev_break
4921 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4922 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4923 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4924
4925 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4926
4927 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4928 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4929 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4645 4930
4646Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an 4931Most 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 4932C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4933associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4934ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4935as 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 4936C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4649C<ev_fork> typedef. 4937typedef.
4650
4651=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> renamed to C<EV_TIMER> in C<revents>
4652
4653This is a simple rename - all other watcher types use their name
4654as revents flag, and now C<ev_timer> does, too.
4655
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 4938
4660=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 4939=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4661 4940
4662The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 4941The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4663mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 4942mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4670 4949
4671=over 4 4950=over 4
4672 4951
4673=item active 4952=item active
4674 4953
4675A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4954A 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). 4955See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4677 4956
4678=item application 4957=item application
4679 4958
4680In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4959In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4960
4961=item backend
4962
4963The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4681 4964
4682=item callback 4965=item callback
4683 4966
4684The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4967The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4685detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4968detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4686received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4969received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4687 4970
4688=item callback invocation 4971=item callback/watcher invocation
4689 4972
4690The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4973The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4691 4974
4692=item event 4975=item event
4693 4976
4712The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 4995The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4713watchers and events. 4996watchers and events.
4714 4997
4715=item pending 4998=item pending
4716 4999
4717A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5000A 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 5001detected. 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 5002
4724=item real time 5003=item real time
4725 5004
4726The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5005The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4727 5006
4734=item watcher 5013=item watcher
4735 5014
4736A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5015A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4737to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5016to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4738 5017
4739=item watcher invocation
4740
4741The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4742
4743=back 5018=back
4744 5019
4745=head1 AUTHOR 5020=head1 AUTHOR
4746 5021
4747Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5022Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5023Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4748 5024

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