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Revision 1.299 by sf-exg, Sat Aug 28 21:42:12 2010 UTC vs.
Revision 1.343 by root, Wed Nov 10 13:39:10 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
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
80Familiarity 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 (in practise 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
132too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
133any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
134 142
165 173
166=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
167 175
168Returns 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
169C<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
170you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
171 180
172=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
173 182
174Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
175either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
192as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
193compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
194not a problem. 203not a problem.
195 204
196Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
197version (note, however, that this will not detect ABI mismatches :). 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
198 208
199 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
200 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
201 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
202 212
213 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
214 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
215 225
216=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
217 227
218Return 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
219recommended 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
220returned 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
221most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
222(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
223libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
224 235
225=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
226 237
227Returns 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
228is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
229might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
230C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
231recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
232 243
233See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
234 245
235=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
236 247
237Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
238semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
239used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
240when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
266 } 277 }
267 278
268 ... 279 ...
269 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
270 281
271=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
272 283
273Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
274as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
275indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
276callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
290 ... 301 ...
291 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
292 303
293=back 304=back
294 305
295=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
296 307
297An 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
298is 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
299I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
300 311
301The 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
302supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
303not. 314do not.
304 315
305=over 4 316=over 4
306 317
307=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
308 319
309This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
310yet 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
311false. 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
312flags. 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".
313 330
314If 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
315function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
316 333
317Note 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
318from 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
319as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
320 338
321The 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,
322C<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
323for 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
324create 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
325can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
326C<ev_default_init>. 344
345Example: This is the most typical usage.
346
347 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
348 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
349
350Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
351environment settings to be taken into account:
352
353 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
354
355=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
356
357This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
358could not be initialised, returns false.
359
360This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
361threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
362loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
327 363
328The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
329backends 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>).
330 366
331The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
366environment variable. 402environment variable.
367 403
368=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 404=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
369 405
370When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 406When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
371I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 407I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
372testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 408testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
373otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 409otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
374 410
375=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 411=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
376 412
377When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 413When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
378I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 414I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
379delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make 415delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
380it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 416it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
381handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 417handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
382threads that are not interested in handling them. 418threads that are not interested in handling them.
383 419
427epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 463epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
428 464
429The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 465The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
430of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 466of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
431dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 467dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
432descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 468descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
469returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
470(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
433so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4710.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
434I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 472forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
435take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 473set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
436hard to detect. 474and is of course hard to detect.
437 475
438Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 476Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
439of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 477of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
440I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 478I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
441even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 479even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
442on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 480on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
443employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 481employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
444events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 482events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
483not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
484perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
485
486Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
445 487
446While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 488While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
447will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 489will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
448incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 490incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
449I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 491I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
547If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 589If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
548then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 590then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
549here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 591here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
550()> will be tried. 592()> will be tried.
551 593
552Example: This is the most typical usage.
553
554 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
555 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
556
557Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
558environment settings to be taken into account:
559
560 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
561
562Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
563used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
564private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
565fds):
566
567 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
568
569=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
570
571Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
572always distinct from the default loop.
573
574Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
575libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
576default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
577
578Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 594Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
579 595
580 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 596 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
581 if (!epoller) 597 if (!epoller)
582 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 598 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
583 599
600Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
601used if available.
602
603 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
604
584=item ev_default_destroy () 605=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
585 606
586Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 607Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
587of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 608etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
588e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your responsibility to 609sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
589either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> calling this function, 610responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
590or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 611calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
591can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 612the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
613for example).
592 614
593Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 615Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
594handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 616handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
595as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 617as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
596 618
597In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 619This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
598rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 620C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
621C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
622
623Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
624except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
599pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 625If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
600C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 626and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
601 627
602=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 628=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
603 629
604Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
605earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
606
607=item ev_default_fork ()
608
609This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 630This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
610to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 631reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
611name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 632name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
612the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 633the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
613sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 634child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
614functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
615 635
616Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 636Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
617a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 637a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
618because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 638because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
619during fork. 639during fork.
620 640
621On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 641On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
622process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If you 642process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
623just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to call 643you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
624it at all. 644call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
645difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
646costly reset of the backend).
625 647
626The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 648The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
627it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 649it just in case after a fork.
628quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
629 650
651Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
652using pthreads.
653
654 static void
655 post_fork_child (void)
656 {
657 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
658 }
659
660 ...
630 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 661 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
631
632=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
633
634Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
635C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
636after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you keep track of
637them is entirely your own problem.
638 662
639=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 663=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
640 664
641Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 665Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
642otherwise. 666otherwise.
643 667
644=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop) 668=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
645 669
646Returns the current iteration count for the loop, which is identical to 670Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
647the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 671to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
648happily wraps around with enough iterations. 672and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
649 673
650This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 674This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
651"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 675"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
652C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the 676C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
653prepare and check phases. 677prepare and check phases.
654 678
655=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 679=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
656 680
657Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 681Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
658times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 682times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
659 683
660Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 684Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
661C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 685C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
662in which case it is higher. 686in which case it is higher.
663 687
664Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 688Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
665etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 689throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
666ungentleman behaviour unless it's really convenient. 690as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
691convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
667 692
668=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 693=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
669 694
670Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 695Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
671use. 696use.
680 705
681=item ev_now_update (loop) 706=item ev_now_update (loop)
682 707
683Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 708Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
684returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 709returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
685is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 710is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
686 711
687This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 712This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
688very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 713very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
689the current time is a good idea. 714the current time is a good idea.
690 715
692 717
693=item ev_suspend (loop) 718=item ev_suspend (loop)
694 719
695=item ev_resume (loop) 720=item ev_resume (loop)
696 721
697These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 722These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
698not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 723loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
699 724
700A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 725A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
701the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 726the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
702would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 727would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
703the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 728the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
714without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 739without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
715 740
716Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 741Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
717event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 742event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
718 743
719=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 744=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
720 745
721Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 746Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
722after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 747after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
723handling events. 748handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
749the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
750is why event loops are called I<loops>.
724 751
725If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 752If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
726either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 753until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
754called.
727 755
728Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 756Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
729relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 757relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
730finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 758finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
731that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 759that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
732of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 760of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
733beauty. 761beauty.
734 762
763This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
764a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
765exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
766will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
767
735A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 768A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
736those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 769those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
737process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 770block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
738the loop. 771iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
772events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
739 773
740A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 774A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
741necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 775necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
742will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 776will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
743be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 777be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
744user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 778user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
745iteration of the loop. 779iteration of the loop.
746 780
747This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 781This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
748with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 782with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
749own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 783own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
750usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 784usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
751 785
752Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 786Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
753 787
788 - Increment loop depth.
789 - Reset the ev_break status.
754 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 790 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
791 LOOP:
755 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 792 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
756 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 793 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
757 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 794 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
795 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
758 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 796 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
759 as to not disturb the other process. 797 as to not disturb the other process.
760 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 798 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
761 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 799 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
762 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 800 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
763 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 801 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
764 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 802 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
765 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 803 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
804 - Increment loop iteration counter.
766 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 805 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
767 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 806 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
768 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 807 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
769 - Queue all expired timers. 808 - Queue all expired timers.
770 - Queue all expired periodics. 809 - Queue all expired periodics.
771 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 810 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
772 - Queue all check watchers. 811 - Queue all check watchers.
773 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 812 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
774 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 813 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
775 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 814 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
776 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 815 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
777 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 816 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
778 continue with step *. 817 continue with step LOOP.
818 FINISH:
819 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
820 - Decrement the loop depth.
821 - Return.
779 822
780Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 823Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
781anymore. 824anymore.
782 825
783 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 826 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
784 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 827 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
785 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 828 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
786 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 829 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
787 830
788=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 831=item ev_break (loop, how)
789 832
790Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 833Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
791has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 834has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
792C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 835C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
793C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 836C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
794 837
795This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 838This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
796 839
797It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from outside any C<ev_loop> calls. 840It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
841which case it will have no effect.
798 842
799=item ev_ref (loop) 843=item ev_ref (loop)
800 844
801=item ev_unref (loop) 845=item ev_unref (loop)
802 846
803Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 847Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
804loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 848loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
805count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 849count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
806 850
807This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 851This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
808unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 852unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
809returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref> 853returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
810before stopping it. 854before stopping it.
811 855
812As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 856As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
813is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 857is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
814exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 858exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
815excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 859excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
816third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 860third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
817before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 861before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
818before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 862before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
819(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 863(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
820in the callback). 864in the callback).
821 865
822Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 866Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
823running when nothing else is active. 867running when nothing else is active.
824 868
825 ev_signal exitsig; 869 ev_signal exitsig;
826 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 870 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
827 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 871 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
890 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 934 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
891 935
892=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 936=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
893 937
894This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 938This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
895pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 939pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
896but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 940but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
941function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
942when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
943event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
944thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
897 945
898=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 946=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
899 947
900Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 948Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
901are pending. 949are pending.
902 950
903=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 951=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
904 952
905This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 953This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
906invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 954invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
907this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 955this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
908invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 956invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
909 957
910If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 958If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
911callback. 959callback.
914 962
915Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 963Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
916can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 964can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
917each call to a libev function. 965each call to a libev function.
918 966
919However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 967However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
920wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 968to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
921C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 969loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
922and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 970I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
923 971
924When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 972When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
925suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 973suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
926afterwards. 974afterwards.
927 975
930 978
931While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 979While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
932C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 980C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
933modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 981modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
934have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 982have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
935waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 983waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
936to take note of any changes you made. 984to take note of any changes you made.
937 985
938In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 986In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
939invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 987invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
940 988
941See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 989See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
942document. 990document.
943 991
945 993
946=item ev_userdata (loop) 994=item ev_userdata (loop)
947 995
948Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 996Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
949C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 997C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
950C<0.> 998C<0>.
951 999
952These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1000These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
953and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1001and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
954C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1002C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
955any other purpose as well. 1003any other purpose as well.
956 1004
957=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1005=item ev_verify (loop)
958 1006
959This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1007This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
960compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1008compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
961through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1009through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
962is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1010is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
973 1021
974In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1022In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
975watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1023watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
976watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1024watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
977 1025
978A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1026A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
979interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1027your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
980become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1028to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1029for that:
981 1030
982 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1031 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
983 { 1032 {
984 ev_io_stop (w); 1033 ev_io_stop (w);
985 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1034 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
986 } 1035 }
987 1036
988 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1037 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
989 1038
990 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1039 ev_io stdin_watcher;
991 1040
992 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1041 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
993 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1042 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
994 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1043 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
995 1044
996 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1045 ev_run (loop, 0);
997 1046
998As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1047As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
999watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1048watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
1000stack). 1049stack).
1001 1050
1002Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1051Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
1003or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1052or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
1004 1053
1005Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1054Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
1006(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1055*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
1007callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1056invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
1008watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1057time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1009is readable and/or writable). 1058and/or writable).
1010 1059
1011Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1060Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1012macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1061macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1013is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1062is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1014ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1063ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1065 1114
1066=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1115=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1067 1116
1068=item C<EV_CHECK> 1117=item C<EV_CHECK>
1069 1118
1070All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1119All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1071to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1120to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1072C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1121C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1073received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1122received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1074many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1123many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1075(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1124(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1076C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1125C<ev_run> from blocking).
1077 1126
1078=item C<EV_EMBED> 1127=item C<EV_EMBED>
1079 1128
1080The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1129The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1081 1130
1082=item C<EV_FORK> 1131=item C<EV_FORK>
1083 1132
1084The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1133The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1085C<ev_fork>). 1134C<ev_fork>).
1135
1136=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1137
1138The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1086 1139
1087=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1140=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1088 1141
1089The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1142The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1090 1143
1262 1315
1263See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1316See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1264functions that do not need a watcher. 1317functions that do not need a watcher.
1265 1318
1266=back 1319=back
1267
1268 1320
1269=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1321=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1270 1322
1271Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1323Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1272and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1324and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1328 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1380 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1329 { 1381 {
1330 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1382 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1331 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1383 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1332 } 1384 }
1385
1386=head2 WATCHER STATES
1387
1388There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1389active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1390transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1391rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1392
1393=over 4
1394
1395=item initialiased
1396
1397Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1398initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1399C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1400
1401In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1402in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1403
1404=item started/running/active
1405
1406Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1407property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1408this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1409freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1410and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1411
1412=item pending
1413
1414If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1415in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1416stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1417about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1418callback.
1419
1420The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1421an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1422is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1423but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1424moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1425previous item still apply.
1426
1427It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1428via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1429active.
1430
1431=item stopped
1432
1433A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1434be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1435latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1436of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1437freeing it is often a good idea.
1438
1439While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1440initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1441you wish.
1442
1443=back
1333 1444
1334=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1445=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1335 1446
1336Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1447Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1337integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1448integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1622 ... 1733 ...
1623 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1734 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1624 ev_io stdin_readable; 1735 ev_io stdin_readable;
1625 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1736 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1626 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1737 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1627 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1738 ev_run (loop, 0);
1628 1739
1629 1740
1630=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1741=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1631 1742
1632Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1743Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1641The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1752The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1642passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1753passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1643might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1754might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1644same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1755same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1645before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1756before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1646no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1757no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1647 1758
1648=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1759=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1649 1760
1650Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1761Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1651recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1762recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1822 1933
1823=head3 The special problem of time updates 1934=head3 The special problem of time updates
1824 1935
1825Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1936Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1826least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1937least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1827time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1938time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1828growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1939growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1829lots of events in one iteration. 1940lots of events in one iteration.
1830 1941
1831The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1942The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1832time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1943time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1949 } 2060 }
1950 2061
1951 ev_timer mytimer; 2062 ev_timer mytimer;
1952 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2063 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1953 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2064 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1954 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2065 ev_run (loop, 0);
1955 2066
1956 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2067 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1957 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2068 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1958 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2069 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1959 2070
1985 2096
1986As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2097As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1987point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2098point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1988timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2099timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1989earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2100earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1990(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2101(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1991 2102
1992=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1993 2104
1994=over 4 2105=over 4
1995 2106
2123Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2234Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2124system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2235system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2125potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2236potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2126 2237
2127 static void 2238 static void
2128 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2239 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2129 { 2240 {
2130 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2241 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2131 } 2242 }
2132 2243
2133 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2244 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2156 2267
2157=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2268=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2158 2269
2159Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2270Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2160signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2271signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2161will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2272will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2162normal event processing, like any other event. 2273normal event processing, like any other event.
2163 2274
2164If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2275If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2165C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2276C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2166the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2277the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2233Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2344Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2234 2345
2235 static void 2346 static void
2236 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2347 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2237 { 2348 {
2238 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2349 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2239 } 2350 }
2240 2351
2241 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2352 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2242 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2353 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2243 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2354 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2629 2740
2630Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2741Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2631prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2742prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2632afterwards. 2743afterwards.
2633 2744
2634You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2745You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2635the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2746the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2636watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2747watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2637rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2748rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2638those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2749those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2639C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2750C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2807 2918
2808 if (timeout >= 0) 2919 if (timeout >= 0)
2809 // create/start timer 2920 // create/start timer
2810 2921
2811 // poll 2922 // poll
2812 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2923 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2813 2924
2814 // stop timer again 2925 // stop timer again
2815 if (timeout >= 0) 2926 if (timeout >= 0)
2816 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2927 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2817 2928
2895if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3006if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2896 3007
2897=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3008=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2898 3009
2899Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3010Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2900similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3011similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2901appropriate way for embedded loops. 3012appropriate way for embedded loops.
2902 3013
2903=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3014=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2904 3015
2905The embedded event loop. 3016The embedded event loop.
2965C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3076C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2966handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3077handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2967 3078
2968=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3079=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2969 3080
2970Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3081Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2971up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3082up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2972sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3083sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2973 3084
2974This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3085This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2975in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3086in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2991disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3102disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2992signal watchers). 3103signal watchers).
2993 3104
2994When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3105When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2995other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3106other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2996C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3107C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2997the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3108Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2998have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3109watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2999also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3110those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3111signal watchers.
3000 3112
3001=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3113=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3002 3114
3003=over 4 3115=over 4
3004 3116
3005=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3117=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3006 3118
3007Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3119Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3008kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3120kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3009believe me. 3121really.
3010 3122
3011=back 3123=back
3012 3124
3013 3125
3126=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3127
3128Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3129by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3130
3131While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3132watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3133program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3134loop when you want them to be invoked.
3135
3136Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3137all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3138makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3139can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3140
3141=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3142
3143=over 4
3144
3145=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3146
3147Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3148any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3149pointless, I assure you.
3150
3151=back
3152
3153Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3154cleanup functions are called.
3155
3156 static void
3157 program_exits (void)
3158 {
3159 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3160 }
3161
3162 ...
3163 atexit (program_exits);
3164
3165
3014=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3166=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3015 3167
3016In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3168In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
3017asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3169asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3018loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3170loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3019 3171
3020Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3172Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3021control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3173for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3022C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3174watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
3023can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3175it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3024safe.
3025 3176
3026This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3177This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3027too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3178too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3028(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3179(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3029C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3180C<ev_async_sent> calls).
3237=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3388=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3238will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3389will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3239is an ev_pri field. 3390is an ev_pri field.
3240 3391
3241=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3392=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3242first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3393base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3243 3394
3244=item * Other members are not supported. 3395=item * Other members are not supported.
3245 3396
3246=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3397=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3247to use the libev header file and library. 3398to use the libev header file and library.
3390Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3541Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3391do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3542do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3392 3543
3393=item w->set ([arguments]) 3544=item w->set ([arguments])
3394 3545
3395Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3546Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3396called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3547method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3397automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3548C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3398method. 3549when reconfiguring it with this method.
3399 3550
3400=item w->start () 3551=item w->start ()
3401 3552
3402Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3553Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3403constructor already stores the event loop. 3554constructor already stores the event loop.
3404 3555
3556=item w->start ([arguments])
3557
3558Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3559convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3560the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3561
3405=item w->stop () 3562=item w->stop ()
3406 3563
3407Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3564Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3408 3565
3409=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3566=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3421 3578
3422=back 3579=back
3423 3580
3424=back 3581=back
3425 3582
3426Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3583Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3427the constructor. 3584watchers in the constructor.
3428 3585
3429 class myclass 3586 class myclass
3430 { 3587 {
3431 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3588 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3589 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3432 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3590 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3433 3591
3434 myclass (int fd) 3592 myclass (int fd)
3435 { 3593 {
3436 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3594 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3595 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3437 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3596 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3438 3597
3439 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3598 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3599 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3600
3601 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3440 } 3602 }
3441 }; 3603 };
3442 3604
3443 3605
3444=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3606=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3518loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3680loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3519C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3681C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3520 3682
3521 ev_unref (EV_A); 3683 ev_unref (EV_A);
3522 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3684 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3523 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3685 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3524 3686
3525It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3687It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3526which is often provided by the following macro. 3688which is often provided by the following macro.
3527 3689
3528=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3690=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3568 } 3730 }
3569 3731
3570 ev_check check; 3732 ev_check check;
3571 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3733 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3572 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3734 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3573 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3735 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3574 3736
3575=head1 EMBEDDING 3737=head1 EMBEDDING
3576 3738
3577Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3739Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3578applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3740applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3669to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3831to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3670users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible 3832users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3671settings. 3833settings.
3672 3834
3673=over 4 3835=over 4
3836
3837=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3838
3839Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3840release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3841have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3842
3843You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3844versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3845sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3846from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3847typedef in that case.
3848
3849In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3850and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3851removed completely.
3674 3852
3675=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3853=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3676 3854
3677Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3855Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3678keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3856keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
4028The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it 4206The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4029will be C<0>. 4207will be C<0>.
4030 4208
4031=item EV_VERIFY 4209=item EV_VERIFY
4032 4210
4033Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4211Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4034be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4212be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4035in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4213in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4036called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4214called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4037called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4215called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4038verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4216verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4042will be C<0>. 4220will be C<0>.
4043 4221
4044=item EV_COMMON 4222=item EV_COMMON
4045 4223
4046By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4224By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
4047this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4225this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
4048members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4226members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4049though, and it must be identical each time. 4227though, and it must be identical each time.
4050 4228
4051For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4229For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4052 4230
4253 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4431 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4254 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4432 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4255 } 4433 }
4256 4434
4257The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4435The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4258into C<ev_loop>: 4436into C<ev_run>:
4259 4437
4260 void * 4438 void *
4261 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4439 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4262 { 4440 {
4263 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4441 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4264 4442
4265 l_acquire (EV_A); 4443 l_acquire (EV_A);
4266 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4444 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4267 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4445 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4268 l_release (EV_A); 4446 l_release (EV_A);
4269 4447
4270 return 0; 4448 return 0;
4271 } 4449 }
4272 4450
4324 4502
4325=head3 COROUTINES 4503=head3 COROUTINES
4326 4504
4327Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4505Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4328libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4506libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4329coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4507coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4330different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4508different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4331the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4509the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4332that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4510that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4333 4511
4334Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4512Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4335C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4513C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4336they do not call any callbacks. 4514they do not call any callbacks.
4337 4515
4338=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4516=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4339 4517
4340Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4518Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4351maintainable. 4529maintainable.
4352 4530
4353And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4531And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4354wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4532wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4355seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4533seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4356warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4534warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4357been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4535been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4358such buggy versions. 4536such buggy versions.
4359 4537
4360While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4538While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4361"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4539"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4397I suggest using suppression lists. 4575I suggest using suppression lists.
4398 4576
4399 4577
4400=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4578=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4401 4579
4580=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4581
4582GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4583interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4584
4585That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4586files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4587
4588Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4589by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4590standard libev compiled for their system.
4591
4592Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4593suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4594i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4595
4596=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4597
4598The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4599you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4600OpenGL drivers.
4601
4602=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4603
4604The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4605only sockets, many support pipes.
4606
4607Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4608rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4609loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4610probably going to work well.
4611
4612=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4613
4614Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4615implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4616release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4617
4618Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4619this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4620a loop.
4621
4622=head3 C<select> is buggy
4623
4624All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4625one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4626descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4627you use more.
4628
4629There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4630C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4631work on OS/X.
4632
4633=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4634
4635=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4636
4637The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4638thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4639without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4640defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4641
4642If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4643it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4644
4645=head3 Event port backend
4646
4647The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4648ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4649releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4650a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4651and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4652are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4653great.
4654
4655If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4656the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4657C<select> backends.
4658
4659=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4660
4661AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4662this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4663compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4664with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4665
4402=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4666=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4667
4668=head3 General issues
4403 4669
4404Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4670Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4405requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4671requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4406model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4672model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4407the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4673the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4408descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4674descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4409e.g. cygwin. 4675e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4676as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4677environment.
4410 4678
4411Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4679Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4412re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4680re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4413things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4681then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4414way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4682also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4415 4683
4416There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4684There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4417embedding it into other applications. 4685embedding it into other applications.
4418 4686
4419Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4687Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4447you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4715you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4448 4716
4449 #include "evwrap.h" 4717 #include "evwrap.h"
4450 #include "ev.c" 4718 #include "ev.c"
4451 4719
4452=over 4
4453
4454=item The winsocket select function 4720=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4455 4721
4456The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4722The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4457requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4723requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4458also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4724also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4459requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4725requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4468 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4734 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4469 4735
4470Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4736Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4471complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4737complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4472 4738
4473=item Limited number of file descriptors 4739=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4474 4740
4475Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4741Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4476 4742
4477Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4743Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4478of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4744of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4493runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4759runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4494(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4760(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4495you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4761you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4496the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4762the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4497 4763
4498=back
4499
4500=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4764=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4501 4765
4502In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4766In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4503backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4767backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4504 4768
4510Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4774Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4511structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4775structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4512assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4776assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4513callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4777callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4514calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4778calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4779
4780=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4781
4782Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4783writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4515 4784
4516=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4785=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4517 4786
4518The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4787The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4519C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4788C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4542watchers. 4811watchers.
4543 4812
4544=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4813=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4545 4814
4546The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4815The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4547have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4816have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4548enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4817good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4818(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4549implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4819implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4550ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4820IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45512200.
4552 4821
4553=back 4822=back
4554 4823
4555If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4824If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4556 4825
4626=back 4895=back
4627 4896
4628 4897
4629=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 4898=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4630 4899
4631The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 4900The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4632 4901
4633At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial 4902At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4634compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 4903for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4635removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 4904layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4905new API early than late.
4636 4906
4637=over 4 4907=over 4
4638 4908
4639=item C<ev_loop_count> renamed to C<ev_iteration> 4909=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4640 4910
4641=item C<ev_loop_depth> renamed to C<ev_depth> 4911The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4912C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4913section.
4642 4914
4643=item C<ev_loop_verify> renamed to C<ev_verify> 4915=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4916
4917These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4918
4919 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4920 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4921
4922=item function/symbol renames
4923
4924A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4925
4926 ev_loop => ev_run
4927 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4928 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4929
4930 ev_unloop => ev_break
4931 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4932 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4933 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4934
4935 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4936
4937 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4938 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4939 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4644 4940
4645Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an 4941Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4646C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is 4942C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4943associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4944ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4945as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4647still called C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the 4946C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4648C<ev_fork> typedef. 4947typedef.
4649
4650=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> renamed to C<EV_TIMER> in C<revents>
4651
4652This is a simple rename - all other watcher types use their name
4653as revents flag, and now C<ev_timer> does, too.
4654
4655Both C<EV_TIMER> and C<EV_TIMEOUT> symbols were present in 3.x versions
4656and continue to be present for the foreseeable future, so this is mostly a
4657documentation change.
4658 4948
4659=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 4949=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4660 4950
4661The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 4951The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4662mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 4952mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4669 4959
4670=over 4 4960=over 4
4671 4961
4672=item active 4962=item active
4673 4963
4674A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4964A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4675an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4965See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4676 4966
4677=item application 4967=item application
4678 4968
4679In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4969In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4970
4971=item backend
4972
4973The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4680 4974
4681=item callback 4975=item callback
4682 4976
4683The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4977The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4684detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4978detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4685received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4979received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4686 4980
4687=item callback invocation 4981=item callback/watcher invocation
4688 4982
4689The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4983The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4690 4984
4691=item event 4985=item event
4692 4986
4711The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5005The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4712watchers and events. 5006watchers and events.
4713 5007
4714=item pending 5008=item pending
4715 5009
4716A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5010A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4717and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5011detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4718pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4719
4720A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4721its pending status.
4722 5012
4723=item real time 5013=item real time
4724 5014
4725The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5015The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4726 5016
4733=item watcher 5023=item watcher
4734 5024
4735A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5025A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4736to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5026to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4737 5027
4738=item watcher invocation
4739
4740The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4741
4742=back 5028=back
4743 5029
4744=head1 AUTHOR 5030=head1 AUTHOR
4745 5031
4746Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5032Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5033Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4747 5034

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