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

Comparing libev/ev.pod (file contents):
Revision 1.321 by sf-exg, Fri Oct 22 10:50:24 2010 UTC vs.
Revision 1.443 by root, Thu Aug 30 21:51:15 2018 UTC

1=encoding utf-8
2
1=head1 NAME 3=head1 NAME
2 4
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 5libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 6
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 7=head1 SYNOPSIS
43 45
44 int 46 int
45 main (void) 47 main (void)
46 { 48 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 49 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 50 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 51
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 52 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 53 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 54 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 55 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 60 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 61
60 // now wait for events to arrive 62 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_run (loop, 0); 63 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 64
63 // unloop was called, so exit 65 // break was called, so exit
64 return 0; 66 return 0;
65 } 67 }
66 68
67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 69=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68 70
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 79on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 80with libev.
79 81
80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 82Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 83throughout this document.
84
85=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
86
87This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
88it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
89reading L</ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L</EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
90look up the missing functions in L</GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
91C<ev_timer> sections in L</WATCHER TYPES>.
82 92
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 93=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 94
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 95Libev 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 96file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
166=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 176=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
167 177
168Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 178Returns 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 179C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
170you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of 180you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
171C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>. 181C<ev_now_update> and C<ev_now>.
172 182
173=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 183=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
174 184
175Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 185Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked
176either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 186until either it is interrupted or the given time interval has
187passed (approximately - it might return a bit earlier even if not
188interrupted). Returns immediately if C<< interval <= 0 >>.
189
177this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>. 190Basically this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
191
192The range of the C<interval> is limited - libev only guarantees to work
193with sleep times of up to one day (C<< interval <= 86400 >>).
178 194
179=item int ev_version_major () 195=item int ev_version_major ()
180 196
181=item int ev_version_minor () 197=item int ev_version_minor ()
182 198
233the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends () 249the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
234& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones. 250& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
235 251
236See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 252See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
237 253
238=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 254=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size) throw ())
239 255
240Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 256Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
241semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 257semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
242used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 258used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
243when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 259when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
269 } 285 }
270 286
271 ... 287 ...
272 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 288 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
273 289
274=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 290=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg) throw ())
275 291
276Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 292Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
277as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 293as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
278indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 294indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
279callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 295callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
291 } 307 }
292 308
293 ... 309 ...
294 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 310 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
295 311
312=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
313
314This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
315safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
316handlers or random threads.
317
318Its main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
319in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
320by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
321creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
322mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
323C<ev_feed_signal>.
324
296=back 325=back
297 326
298=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 327=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
299 328
300An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is 329An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
301I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as 330I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
302libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name). 331libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
303 332
304The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 333The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
305supports signals and child events, and dynamically created event loops 334supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
306which do not. 335do not.
307 336
308=over 4 337=over 4
309 338
310=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 339=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
311 340
312This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 341This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
313yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 342normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
314false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 343the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
315flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 344C<ev_loop_new>.
345
346If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
347returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
348C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
349flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
350one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
316 351
317If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 352If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
318function. 353function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
319 354
320Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 355Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
321from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 356from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
322as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 357that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
358threads anyway).
323 359
324The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 360The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
325C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 361and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
326for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 362a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
327create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 363C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
328can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 364C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
329C<ev_default_init>. 365
366Example: This is the most typical usage.
367
368 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
369 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
370
371Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
372environment settings to be taken into account:
373
374 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
375
376=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
377
378This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
379could not be initialised, returns false.
380
381This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
382threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
383loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
330 384
331The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 385The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
332backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 386backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
333 387
334The following flags are supported: 388The following flags are supported:
344 398
345If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 399If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
346or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 400or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
347C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 401C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
348override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 402override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
349useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 403useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, to work
350around bugs. 404around bugs, or to make libev threadsafe (accessing environment variables
405cannot be done in a threadsafe way, but usually it works if no other
406thread modifies them).
351 407
352=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 408=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
353 409
354Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also 410Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
355make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag. 411make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
356 412
357This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 413This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
358and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 414and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
359iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 415iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
360GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 416GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn
361without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 417sequence without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux
362C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 418system also has C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). (Update: glibc
419versions 2.25 apparently removed the C<getpid> optimisation again).
363 420
364The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 421The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
365forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 422forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking, although you still
366flag. 423have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>) when you use this flag.
367 424
368This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 425This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
369environment variable. 426environment variable.
370 427
371=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 428=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
372 429
373When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 430When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
374I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 431I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
375testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 432testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
376otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 433otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
377 434
378=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 435=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
379 436
380When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 437When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
381I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 438I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
382delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make 439delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
383it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 440it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
384handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 441handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
385threads that are not interested in handling them. 442threads that are not interested in handling them.
386 443
387Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and 444Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
388there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for 445there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
389example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 446example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
447
448=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
449
450When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
451mask. Specifically, this means you have to make sure signals are unblocked
452when you want to receive them.
453
454This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
455want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
456unblocking the signals.
457
458It's also required by POSIX in a threaded program, as libev calls
459C<sigprocmask>, whose behaviour is officially unspecified.
460
461This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
390 462
391=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 463=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
392 464
393This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 465This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
394libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 466libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
422=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 494=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
423 495
424Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9 496Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
425kernels). 497kernels).
426 498
427For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 499For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, but
428but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 500it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like
429like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 501O(total_fds) where total_fds is the total number of fds (or the highest
430epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 502fd), epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
431 503
432The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 504The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
433of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 505of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
434dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 506dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
435descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 507descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
508returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
509(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
436so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 5100.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
437I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 511forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
438take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 512set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
439hard to detect. 513and is of course hard to detect.
440 514
441Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 515Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work,
442of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 516but of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for
443I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 517totally I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so
444even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 518one cannot even remove them from the set) than registered in the set
445on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 519(especially on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious
446employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 520notifications by employing an additional generation counter and comparing
447events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last 521that against the events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set
522when required. Epoll also erroneously rounds down timeouts, but gives you
523no way to know when and by how much, so sometimes you have to busy-wait
524because epoll returns immediately despite a nonzero timeout. And last
448not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work 525not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
449perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...). 526perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
527
528Epoll is truly the train wreck among event poll mechanisms, a frankenpoll,
529cobbled together in a hurry, no thought to design or interaction with
530others. Oh, the pain, will it ever stop...
450 531
451While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 532While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
452will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 533will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
453incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 534incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
454I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 535I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
491 572
492It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 573It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
493kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 574kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
494course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 575course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
495cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 576cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
496two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but 577two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you
497sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect 578might have to leak fd's on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it
498cases 579drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
499 580
500This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 581This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
501 582
502While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 583While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
503everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 584everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
520=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 601=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
521 602
522This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 603This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
523it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 604it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
524 605
525Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
526notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
527blocking when no data (or space) is available.
528
529While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 606While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
530file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 607file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
531descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 608descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
532might perform better. 609might perform better.
533 610
534On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness 611On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to
535notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
536in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the 612specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat
537OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks). 613among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
614hacks).
615
616On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
617even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
618function sometimes returns events to the caller even though an error
619occurred, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
620even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where you
621absolutely have to know whether an event occurred or not because you have
622to re-arm the watcher.
623
624Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
538 625
539This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 626This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
540C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 627C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
541 628
542=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 629=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
543 630
544Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 631Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
545with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 632with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
546C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 633C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
547 634
548It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 635It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
636C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
637at all.
638
639=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
640
641Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
642C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
643value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
549 644
550=back 645=back
551 646
552If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 647If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
553then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 648then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
554here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 649here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
555()> will be tried. 650()> will be tried.
556 651
557Example: This is the most typical usage.
558
559 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
560 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
561
562Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
563environment settings to be taken into account:
564
565 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
566
567Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
568used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
569private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
570fds):
571
572 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
573
574=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
575
576Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
577always distinct from the default loop.
578
579Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
580libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
581default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
582
583Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 652Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
584 653
585 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 654 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
586 if (!epoller) 655 if (!epoller)
587 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 656 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
588 657
658Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
659used if available.
660
661 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
662
589=item ev_default_destroy () 663=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
590 664
591Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 665Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
592of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 666etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
593e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your responsibility to 667sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
594either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> calling this function, 668responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
595or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 669calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
596can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 670the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
671for example).
597 672
598Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 673Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
599handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 674handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
600as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 675as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
601 676
602In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 677This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
603rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 678C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
679C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
680
681Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
682except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
604pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 683If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
605C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 684and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
606 685
607=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 686=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
608
609Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
610earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
611
612=item ev_default_fork ()
613 687
614This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations 688This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations
615to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 689to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite
616name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 690the name, you can call it anytime you are allowed to start or stop
617the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 691watchers (except inside an C<ev_prepare> callback), but it makes most
618sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 692sense after forking, in the child process. You I<must> call it (or use
619functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_run> iteration. 693C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
620 694
695In addition, if you want to reuse a loop (via this function or
696C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>), you I<also> have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>.
697
621Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 698Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
622a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 699a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
623because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 700because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
624during fork. 701during fork.
625 702
626On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 703On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
629call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a 706call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
630difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a 707difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
631costly reset of the backend). 708costly reset of the backend).
632 709
633The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 710The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
634it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 711it just in case after a fork.
635quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
636 712
713Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
714using pthreads.
715
716 static void
717 post_fork_child (void)
718 {
719 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
720 }
721
722 ...
637 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 723 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
638
639=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
640
641Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
642C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
643after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you keep track of
644them is entirely your own problem.
645 724
646=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 725=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
647 726
648Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 727Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
649otherwise. 728otherwise.
660prepare and check phases. 739prepare and check phases.
661 740
662=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 741=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
663 742
664Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of 743Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
665times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 744times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
666 745
667Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 746Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
668C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 747C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
669in which case it is higher. 748in which case it is higher.
670 749
671Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 750Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
672etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 751throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
673ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient. 752as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
753convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
674 754
675=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 755=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
676 756
677Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 757Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
678use. 758use.
693 773
694This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 774This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
695very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 775very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
696the current time is a good idea. 776the current time is a good idea.
697 777
698See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section. 778See also L</The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
699 779
700=item ev_suspend (loop) 780=item ev_suspend (loop)
701 781
702=item ev_resume (loop) 782=item ev_resume (loop)
703 783
721without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 801without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
722 802
723Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 803Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
724event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 804event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
725 805
726=item ev_run (loop, int flags) 806=item bool ev_run (loop, int flags)
727 807
728Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 808Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
729after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 809after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
730handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call 810handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
731the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This 811the watcher callbacks, and then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
732is why event loops are called I<loops>. 812is why event loops are called I<loops>.
733 813
734If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events 814If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
735until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was 815until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
736called. 816called.
817
818The return value is false if there are no more active watchers (which
819usually means "all jobs done" or "deadlock"), and true in all other cases
820(which usually means " you should call C<ev_run> again").
737 821
738Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than 822Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
739relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 823relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
740finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 824finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
741that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 825that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
742of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 826of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
743beauty. 827beauty.
744 828
829This function is I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of a
830C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
831exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
832will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
833
745A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle 834A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
746those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and 835those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
747block your process in case there are no events and will return after one 836block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
748iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new 837iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
749events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive. 838events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
758This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 847This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
759with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 848with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
760own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 849own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
761usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 850usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
762 851
763Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does: 852Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does (this is for your
853understanding, not a guarantee that things will work exactly like this in
854future versions):
764 855
765 - Increment loop depth. 856 - Increment loop depth.
766 - Reset the ev_break status. 857 - Reset the ev_break status.
767 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 858 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
768 LOOP: 859 LOOP:
801anymore. 892anymore.
802 893
803 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 894 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
804 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 895 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
805 ev_run (my_loop, 0); 896 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
806 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 897 ... jobs done or somebody called break. yeah!
807 898
808=item ev_break (loop, how) 899=item ev_break (loop, how)
809 900
810Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it 901Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
811has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 902has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
812C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or 903C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
813C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return. 904C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
814 905
815This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again. 906This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
816 907
817It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO## 908It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
909which case it will have no effect.
818 910
819=item ev_ref (loop) 911=item ev_ref (loop)
820 912
821=item ev_unref (loop) 913=item ev_unref (loop)
822 914
843running when nothing else is active. 935running when nothing else is active.
844 936
845 ev_signal exitsig; 937 ev_signal exitsig;
846 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 938 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
847 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 939 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
848 evf_unref (loop); 940 ev_unref (loop);
849 941
850Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 942Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
851 943
852 ev_ref (loop); 944 ev_ref (loop);
853 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 945 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
873overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 965overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
874 966
875By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 967By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
876time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 968time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
877at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 969at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
878C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 970C<ev_timer>) will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
879introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The 971introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
880sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then 972sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
881once per this interval, on average. 973once per this interval, on average (as long as the host time resolution is
974good enough).
882 975
883Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 976Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
884to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 977to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
885latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called 978latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
886later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null 979later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
932invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 1025invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
933 1026
934If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 1027If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
935callback. 1028callback.
936 1029
937=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P)) 1030=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P) throw (), void (*acquire)(EV_P) throw ())
938 1031
939Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 1032Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
940can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 1033can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
941each call to a libev function. 1034each call to a libev function.
942 1035
943However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible 1036However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
944to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event 1037to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
945loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these 1038loop via C<ev_break> and C<ev_async_send>, another way is to set these
946I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1039I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
947 1040
948When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1041When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
949suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1042suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
950afterwards. 1043afterwards.
965See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 1058See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
966document. 1059document.
967 1060
968=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 1061=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
969 1062
970=item ev_userdata (loop) 1063=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
971 1064
972Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 1065Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
973C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 1066C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
974C<0.> 1067C<0>.
975 1068
976These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1069These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
977and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1070and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
978C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1071C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
979any other purpose as well. 1072any other purpose as well.
1090 1183
1091=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1184=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1092 1185
1093=item C<EV_CHECK> 1186=item C<EV_CHECK>
1094 1187
1095All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts 1188All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts to
1096to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1189gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are queued (not invoked)
1097C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1190just after C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it queues any callbacks
1191for any received events. That means C<ev_prepare> watchers are the last
1192watchers invoked before the event loop sleeps or polls for new events, and
1193C<ev_check> watchers will be invoked before any other watchers of the same
1194or lower priority within an event loop iteration.
1195
1098received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1196Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as many watchers as
1099many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1197they want, and all of them will be taken into account (for example, a
1100(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1198C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep C<ev_run> from
1101C<ev_run> from blocking). 1199blocking).
1102 1200
1103=item C<EV_EMBED> 1201=item C<EV_EMBED>
1104 1202
1105The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1203The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1106 1204
1107=item C<EV_FORK> 1205=item C<EV_FORK>
1108 1206
1109The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1207The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1110C<ev_fork>). 1208C<ev_fork>).
1209
1210=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1211
1212The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1111 1213
1112=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1214=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1113 1215
1114The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1216The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1115 1217
1137programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another 1239programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1138thing, so beware. 1240thing, so beware.
1139 1241
1140=back 1242=back
1141 1243
1244=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1245
1246=over 4
1247
1248=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1249
1250This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
1251of the watcher object can be arbitrary (so C<malloc> will do). Only
1252the generic parts of the watcher are initialised, you I<need> to call
1253the type-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> macro afterwards to initialise the
1254type-specific parts. For each type there is also a C<ev_TYPE_init> macro
1255which rolls both calls into one.
1256
1257You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
1258(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
1259
1260The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
1261int revents)>.
1262
1263Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
1264
1265 ev_io w;
1266 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1267 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1268
1269=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1270
1271This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1272call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1273call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1274macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1275difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
1276
1277Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
1278(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
1279
1280See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
1281
1282=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
1283
1284This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
1285calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
1286a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
1287
1288Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1289
1290 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1291
1292=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1293
1294Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1295events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1296
1297Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1298whole section.
1299
1300 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1301
1302=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1303
1304Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1305the watcher was active or not).
1306
1307It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1308non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
1309calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
1310pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
1311therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
1312
1313=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1314
1315Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
1316and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1317it.
1318
1319=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1320
1321Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
1322events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
1323is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
1324C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
1325make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
1326it).
1327
1328=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1329
1330Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1331
1332=item ev_set_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1333
1334Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1335(modulo threads).
1336
1337=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1338
1339=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1340
1341Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1342integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1343(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
1344before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
1345from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
1346
1347If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
1348you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
1349
1350You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
1351pending.
1352
1353Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1354fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1355or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1356
1357The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1358always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1359
1360See L</WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1361priorities.
1362
1363=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1364
1365Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1366C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1367can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1368callback.
1369
1370=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1371
1372If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
1373returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1374watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1375
1376Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1377callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1378
1379=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1380
1381Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1382had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1383initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1384not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1385
1386Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1387C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1388not started in the first place.
1389
1390See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1391functions that do not need a watcher.
1392
1393=back
1394
1395See also the L</ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER> and L</BUILDING YOUR
1396OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS> idioms.
1397
1142=head2 WATCHER STATES 1398=head2 WATCHER STATES
1143 1399
1144There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual - 1400There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1145active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to 1401active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1146transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these 1402transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1147rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing". 1403rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1148 1404
1149=over 4 1405=over 4
1150 1406
1151=item initialiased 1407=item initialised
1152 1408
1153Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be 1409Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be
1154initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to 1410initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1155C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function. 1411C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1156 1412
1157In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use 1413In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for
1158in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will. 1414use in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at
1415will - as long as you either keep the memory contents intact, or call
1416C<ev_TYPE_init> again.
1159 1417
1160=item started/running/active 1418=item started/running/active
1161 1419
1162Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes 1420Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1163property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in 1421property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1191latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless 1449latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1192of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before 1450of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1193freeing it is often a good idea. 1451freeing it is often a good idea.
1194 1452
1195While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the 1453While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1196initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way 1454initialised state, that is, it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1197you wish. 1455you wish (but when you trash the memory block, you need to C<ev_TYPE_init>
1456it again).
1198 1457
1199=back 1458=back
1200
1201=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1202
1203=over 4
1204
1205=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1206
1207This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
1208of the watcher object can be arbitrary (so C<malloc> will do). Only
1209the generic parts of the watcher are initialised, you I<need> to call
1210the type-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> macro afterwards to initialise the
1211type-specific parts. For each type there is also a C<ev_TYPE_init> macro
1212which rolls both calls into one.
1213
1214You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
1215(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
1216
1217The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
1218int revents)>.
1219
1220Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
1221
1222 ev_io w;
1223 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1224 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1225
1226=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1227
1228This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1229call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1230call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1231macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1232difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
1233
1234Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
1235(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
1236
1237See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
1238
1239=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
1240
1241This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
1242calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
1243a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
1244
1245Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1246
1247 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1248
1249=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1250
1251Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1252events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1253
1254Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1255whole section.
1256
1257 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1258
1259=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1260
1261Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1262the watcher was active or not).
1263
1264It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1265non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
1266calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
1267pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
1268therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
1269
1270=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1271
1272Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
1273and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1274it.
1275
1276=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1277
1278Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
1279events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
1280is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
1281C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
1282make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
1283it).
1284
1285=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1286
1287Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1288
1289=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1290
1291Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1292(modulo threads).
1293
1294=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1295
1296=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1297
1298Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1299integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1300(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
1301before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
1302from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
1303
1304If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
1305you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
1306
1307You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
1308pending.
1309
1310Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1311fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1312or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1313
1314The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1315always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1316
1317See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1318priorities.
1319
1320=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1321
1322Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1323C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1324can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1325callback.
1326
1327=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1328
1329If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
1330returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1331watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1332
1333Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1334callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1335
1336=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1337
1338Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1339had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1340initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1341not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1342
1343Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1344C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1345not started in the first place.
1346
1347See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1348functions that do not need a watcher.
1349
1350=back
1351
1352
1353=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1354
1355Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1356and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1357to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
1358don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
1359member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1360data:
1361
1362 struct my_io
1363 {
1364 ev_io io;
1365 int otherfd;
1366 void *somedata;
1367 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1368 };
1369
1370 ...
1371 struct my_io w;
1372 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1373
1374And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1375can cast it back to your own type:
1376
1377 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1378 {
1379 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1380 ...
1381 }
1382
1383More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
1384instead have been omitted.
1385
1386Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
1387embedded watchers:
1388
1389 struct my_biggy
1390 {
1391 int some_data;
1392 ev_timer t1;
1393 ev_timer t2;
1394 }
1395
1396In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
1397complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1398in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1399some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1400programmers):
1401
1402 #include <stddef.h>
1403
1404 static void
1405 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1406 {
1407 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1408 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1409 }
1410
1411 static void
1412 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1413 {
1414 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1415 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1416 }
1417 1459
1418=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1460=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1419 1461
1420Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1462Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1421integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1463integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1548In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1590In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1549fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1591fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1550descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1592descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1551required if you know what you are doing). 1593required if you know what you are doing).
1552 1594
1553If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1554known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1555C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1556descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1557files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1558
1559Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1595Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1560receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1596receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is, your callback might
1561be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1597be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1562because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1598because there is no data. It is very easy to get into this situation even
1563lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1599with a relatively standard program structure. Thus it is best to always
1564this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1600use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning C<EAGAIN> is far
1565it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1566C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1601preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1567 1602
1568If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should 1603If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1569not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately 1604not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1570re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good 1605re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1571interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already 1606interface such as poll (fortunately in the case of Xlib, it already does
1572does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally 1607this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1573use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block 1608use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1574indefinitely. 1609indefinitely.
1575 1610
1576But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1611But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1577 1612
1605 1640
1606There is no workaround possible except not registering events 1641There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1607for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to 1642for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1608C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1643C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1609 1644
1645=head3 The special problem of files
1646
1647Many people try to use C<select> (or libev) on file descriptors
1648representing files, and expect it to become ready when their program
1649doesn't block on disk accesses (which can take a long time on their own).
1650
1651However, this cannot ever work in the "expected" way - you get a readiness
1652notification as soon as the kernel knows whether and how much data is
1653there, and in the case of open files, that's always the case, so you
1654always get a readiness notification instantly, and your read (or possibly
1655write) will still block on the disk I/O.
1656
1657Another way to view it is that in the case of sockets, pipes, character
1658devices and so on, there is another party (the sender) that delivers data
1659on its own, but in the case of files, there is no such thing: the disk
1660will not send data on its own, simply because it doesn't know what you
1661wish to read - you would first have to request some data.
1662
1663Since files are typically not-so-well supported by advanced notification
1664mechanism, libev tries hard to emulate POSIX behaviour with respect
1665to files, even though you should not use it. The reason for this is
1666convenience: sometimes you want to watch STDIN or STDOUT, which is
1667usually a tty, often a pipe, but also sometimes files or special devices
1668(for example, C<epoll> on Linux works with F</dev/random> but not with
1669F</dev/urandom>), and even though the file might better be served with
1670asynchronous I/O instead of with non-blocking I/O, it is still useful when
1671it "just works" instead of freezing.
1672
1673So avoid file descriptors pointing to files when you know it (e.g. use
1674libeio), but use them when it is convenient, e.g. for STDIN/STDOUT, or
1675when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1676reuse the same code path.
1677
1610=head3 The special problem of fork 1678=head3 The special problem of fork
1611 1679
1612Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1680Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1613useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1681useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1614it in the child. 1682it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the child.
1615 1683
1616To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1684To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1617C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1685()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1618enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1686C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1619C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1620 1687
1621=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1688=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1622 1689
1623While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>: 1690While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1624when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets 1691when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1722detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1789detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1723monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1790monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1724 1791
1725The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1792The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1726passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1793passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1727might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1794might introduce a small delay, see "the special problem of being too
1795early", below). If multiple timers become ready during the same loop
1728same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1796iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked before
1729before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1797ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is no
1730no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively). 1798longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1731 1799
1732=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1800=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1733 1801
1734Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1802Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1735recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1803recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1810 1878
1811In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone, 1879In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1812but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only 1880but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1813within the callback: 1881within the callback:
1814 1882
1883 ev_tstamp timeout = 60.;
1815 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity 1884 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1885 ev_timer timer;
1816 1886
1817 static void 1887 static void
1818 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1888 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1819 { 1889 {
1820 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A); 1890 // calculate when the timeout would happen
1821 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1891 ev_tstamp after = last_activity - ev_now (EV_A) + timeout;
1822 1892
1823 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1893 // if negative, it means we the timeout already occurred
1824 if (timeout < now) 1894 if (after < 0.)
1825 { 1895 {
1826 // timeout occurred, take action 1896 // timeout occurred, take action
1827 } 1897 }
1828 else 1898 else
1829 { 1899 {
1830 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1900 // callback was invoked, but there was some recent
1831 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1901 // activity. simply restart the timer to time out
1832 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive: 1902 // after "after" seconds, which is the earliest time
1833 w->repeat = timeout - now; 1903 // the timeout can occur.
1904 ev_timer_set (w, after, 0.);
1834 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w); 1905 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ w);
1835 } 1906 }
1836 } 1907 }
1837 1908
1838To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined 1909To summarise the callback: first calculate in how many seconds the
1839as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has 1910timeout will occur (by calculating the absolute time when it would occur,
1840been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise 1911C<last_activity + timeout>, and subtracting the current time, C<ev_now
1841the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so 1912(EV_A)> from that).
1842re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1843a timeout then.
1844 1913
1845Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the 1914If this value is negative, then we are already past the timeout, i.e. we
1846C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running. 1915timed out, and need to do whatever is needed in this case.
1916
1917Otherwise, we now the earliest time at which the timeout would trigger,
1918and simply start the timer with this timeout value.
1919
1920In other words, each time the callback is invoked it will check whether
1921the timeout occurred. If not, it will simply reschedule itself to check
1922again at the earliest time it could time out. Rinse. Repeat.
1847 1923
1848This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds 1924This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1849minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to 1925minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1850libev to change the timeout. 1926libev to change the timeout.
1851 1927
1852To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity> 1928To start the machinery, simply initialise the watcher and set
1853to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1929C<last_activity> to the current time (meaning there was some activity just
1854callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1930now), then call the callback, which will "do the right thing" and start
1931the timer:
1855 1932
1933 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1856 ev_init (timer, callback); 1934 ev_init (&timer, callback);
1857 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1935 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1858 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1859 1936
1860And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1937When there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1861C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1938C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1862 1939
1940 if (activity detected)
1863 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1941 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1942
1943When your timeout value changes, then the timeout can be changed by simply
1944providing a new value, stopping the timer and calling the callback, which
1945will again do the right thing (for example, time out immediately :).
1946
1947 timeout = new_value;
1948 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &timer);
1949 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1864 1950
1865This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1951This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1866time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1952time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1867
1868Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1869callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1870fix things for you.
1871 1953
1872=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts. 1954=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1873 1955
1874If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all 1956If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1875employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can 1957employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1902Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is 1984Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1903rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays 1985rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1904off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually 1986off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1905overkill :) 1987overkill :)
1906 1988
1989=head3 The special problem of being too early
1990
1991If you ask a timer to call your callback after three seconds, then
1992you expect it to be invoked after three seconds - but of course, this
1993cannot be guaranteed to infinite precision. Less obviously, it cannot be
1994guaranteed to any precision by libev - imagine somebody suspending the
1995process with a STOP signal for a few hours for example.
1996
1997So, libev tries to invoke your callback as soon as possible I<after> the
1998delay has occurred, but cannot guarantee this.
1999
2000A less obvious failure mode is calling your callback too early: many event
2001loops compare timestamps with a "elapsed delay >= requested delay", but
2002this can cause your callback to be invoked much earlier than you would
2003expect.
2004
2005To see why, imagine a system with a clock that only offers full second
2006resolution (think windows if you can't come up with a broken enough OS
2007yourself). If you schedule a one-second timer at the time 500.9, then the
2008event loop will schedule your timeout to elapse at a system time of 500
2009(500.9 truncated to the resolution) + 1, or 501.
2010
2011If an event library looks at the timeout 0.1s later, it will see "501 >=
2012501" and invoke the callback 0.1s after it was started, even though a
2013one-second delay was requested - this is being "too early", despite best
2014intentions.
2015
2016This is the reason why libev will never invoke the callback if the elapsed
2017delay equals the requested delay, but only when the elapsed delay is
2018larger than the requested delay. In the example above, libev would only invoke
2019the callback at system time 502, or 1.1s after the timer was started.
2020
2021So, while libev cannot guarantee that your callback will be invoked
2022exactly when requested, it I<can> and I<does> guarantee that the requested
2023delay has actually elapsed, or in other words, it always errs on the "too
2024late" side of things.
2025
1907=head3 The special problem of time updates 2026=head3 The special problem of time updates
1908 2027
1909Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 2028Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes
1910least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 2029at least one system call): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1911time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a 2030time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1912growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 2031growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1913lots of events in one iteration. 2032lots of events in one iteration.
1914 2033
1915The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2034The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1916time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 2035time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1917of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 2036of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1918you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the 2037you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1919timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 2038timeout on the current time, use something like the following to adjust
2039for it:
1920 2040
1921 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 2041 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + (ev_time () - ev_now ()), 0.);
1922 2042
1923If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2043If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1924update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2044update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1925()>. 2045()>, although that will push the event time of all outstanding events
2046further into the future.
2047
2048=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks
2049
2050Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal
2051"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time
2052jumps).
2053
2054Neither of these clocks is synchronised with each other or any other clock
2055on the system, so C<ev_time ()> might return a considerably different time
2056than C<gettimeofday ()> or C<time ()>. On a GNU/Linux system, for example,
2057a call to C<gettimeofday> might return a second count that is one higher
2058than a directly following call to C<time>.
2059
2060The moral of this is to only compare libev-related timestamps with
2061C<ev_time ()> and C<ev_now ()>, at least if you want better precision than
2062a second or so.
2063
2064One more problem arises due to this lack of synchronisation: if libev uses
2065the system monotonic clock and you compare timestamps from C<ev_time>
2066or C<ev_now> from when you started your timer and when your callback is
2067invoked, you will find that sometimes the callback is a bit "early".
2068
2069This is because C<ev_timer>s work in real time, not wall clock time, so
2070libev makes sure your callback is not invoked before the delay happened,
2071I<measured according to the real time>, not the system clock.
2072
2073If your timeouts are based on a physical timescale (e.g. "time out this
2074connection after 100 seconds") then this shouldn't bother you as it is
2075exactly the right behaviour.
2076
2077If you want to compare wall clock/system timestamps to your timers, then
2078you need to use C<ev_periodic>s, as these are based on the wall clock
2079time, where your comparisons will always generate correct results.
1926 2080
1927=head3 The special problems of suspended animation 2081=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1928 2082
1929When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that 2083When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1930can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend? 2084can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1960 2114
1961=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2115=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1962 2116
1963=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2117=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
1964 2118
1965Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> 2119Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds (fractional and
1966is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is 2120negative values are supported). If C<repeat> is C<0.>, then it will
1967reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be 2121automatically be stopped once the timeout is reached. If it is positive,
1968configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again, 2122then the timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat>
1969until stopped manually. 2123seconds later, again, and again, until stopped manually.
1970 2124
1971The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if 2125The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
1972you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally 2126you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
1973trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot 2127trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
1974keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to 2128keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1975do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 2129do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1976 2130
1977=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 2131=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1978 2132
1979This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 2133This will act as if the timer timed out, and restarts it again if it is
1980repeating. The exact semantics are: 2134repeating. It basically works like calling C<ev_timer_stop>, updating the
2135timeout to the C<repeat> value and calling C<ev_timer_start>.
1981 2136
2137The exact semantics are as in the following rules, all of which will be
2138applied to the watcher:
2139
2140=over 4
2141
1982If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 2142=item If the timer is pending, the pending status is always cleared.
1983 2143
1984If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 2144=item If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed
2145out, without invoking it).
1985 2146
1986If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 2147=item If the timer is repeating, make the C<repeat> value the new timeout
1987C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2148and start the timer, if necessary.
1988 2149
2150=back
2151
1989This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2152This sounds a bit complicated, see L</Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1990usage example. 2153usage example.
1991 2154
1992=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2155=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
1993 2156
1994Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2157Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2047Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 2210Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
2048(and unfortunately a bit complex). 2211(and unfortunately a bit complex).
2049 2212
2050Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or 2213Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or
2051relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time 2214relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
2052(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calender or clock). The 2215(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calendar or clock). The
2053difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real 2216difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real
2054time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your 2217time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your
2055wrist-watch). 2218wrist-watch).
2056 2219
2057You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point 2220You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point
2114 2277
2115Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 2278Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
2116C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 2279C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
2117time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 2280time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
2118 2281
2119For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near 2282The C<interval> I<MUST> be positive, and for numerical stability, the
2120C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 2283interval value should be higher than C<1/8192> (which is around 100
2121this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 2284microseconds) and C<offset> should be higher than C<0> and should have
2285at most a similar magnitude as the current time (say, within a factor of
2286ten). Typical values for offset are, in fact, C<0> or something between
2287C<0> and C<interval>, which is also the recommended range.
2122 2288
2123Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU 2289Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
2124speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 2290speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
2125will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 2291will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
2126millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 2292millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
2234 2400
2235 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2401 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2236 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 2402 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
2237 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 2403 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
2238 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2404 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
2239 2405
2240 2406
2241=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2407=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2242 2408
2243Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2409Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2244signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2410signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2245will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2411will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2246normal event processing, like any other event. 2412normal event processing, like any other event.
2247 2413
2248If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2414If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2249C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2415C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2250the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2416the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2254only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your 2420only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2255default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for 2421default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2256C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At 2422C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2257the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop. 2423the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2258 2424
2259When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2425Only after the first watcher for a signal is started will libev actually
2260with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2426register something with the kernel. It thus coexists with your own signal
2261you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2427handlers as long as you don't register any with libev for the same signal.
2262 2428
2263If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2429If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2264C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2430C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2265not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2431not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2266interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2432interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2269=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create 2435=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2270 2436
2271Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition 2437Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2272(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after 2438(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2273stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal, 2439stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2274and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler. 2440and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler (but
2441see C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>).
2275 2442
2276While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never 2443While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2277sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on 2444sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2278C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect 2445C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2279certain signals to be blocked. 2446certain signals to be blocked.
2292I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily. 2459I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2293 2460
2294So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when 2461So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2295you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This 2462you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2296is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries. 2463is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2464
2465=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2466
2467POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2468a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2469threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2470
2471When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2472for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2473all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2474sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2475loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2476these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2477in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
2297 2478
2298=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2479=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2299 2480
2300=over 4 2481=over 4
2301 2482
2436 2617
2437=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2618=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
2438 2619
2439This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2620This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
2440C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed) 2621C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
2441and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if 2622and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback
2442it did. 2623if it did. Starting the watcher C<stat>'s the file, so only changes that
2624happen after the watcher has been started will be reported.
2443 2625
2444The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2626The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
2445not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not 2627not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
2446exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the 2628exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
2447C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at 2629C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
2677Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 2859Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
2678effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 2860effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
2679"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 2861"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
2680event loop has handled all outstanding events. 2862event loop has handled all outstanding events.
2681 2863
2864=head3 Abusing an C<ev_idle> watcher for its side-effect
2865
2866As long as there is at least one active idle watcher, libev will never
2867sleep unnecessarily. Or in other words, it will loop as fast as possible.
2868For this to work, the idle watcher doesn't need to be invoked at all - the
2869lowest priority will do.
2870
2871This mode of operation can be useful together with an C<ev_check> watcher,
2872to do something on each event loop iteration - for example to balance load
2873between different connections.
2874
2875See L</Abusing an ev_check watcher for its side-effect> for a longer
2876example.
2877
2682=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2878=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2683 2879
2684=over 4 2880=over 4
2685 2881
2686=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback) 2882=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
2697callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2893callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
2698 2894
2699 static void 2895 static void
2700 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents) 2896 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
2701 { 2897 {
2898 // stop the watcher
2899 ev_idle_stop (loop, w);
2900
2901 // now we can free it
2702 free (w); 2902 free (w);
2903
2703 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2904 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
2704 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2905 // no longer anything immediate to do.
2705 } 2906 }
2706 2907
2707 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle)); 2908 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
2709 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher); 2910 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
2710 2911
2711 2912
2712=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2913=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2713 2914
2714Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2915Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs:
2715prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2916prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2716afterwards. 2917afterwards.
2717 2918
2718You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter 2919You I<must not> call C<ev_run> (or similar functions that enter the
2719the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2920current event loop) or C<ev_loop_fork> from either C<ev_prepare> or
2720watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2921C<ev_check> watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine,
2721rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2922however. The rationale behind this is that you do not need to check
2722those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2923for recursion in those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be
2723C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2924C<ev_prepare>, blocking, C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each
2724called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 2925kind they will always be called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
2725 2926
2726Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 2927Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
2727their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track 2928their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
2728variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 2929variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
2729coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 2930coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
2747with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 2948with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
2748of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 2949of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
2749loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 2950loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
2750low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 2951low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
2751 2952
2752It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 2953When used for this purpose, it is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers
2753priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 2954highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) priority, to ensure that they are being run before
2754after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers). 2955any other watchers after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare>
2956watchers).
2755 2957
2756Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not 2958Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
2757activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they 2959activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
2758might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As 2960might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
2759C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event 2961C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
2760loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their 2962loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
2761C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with 2963C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
2762others). 2964others).
2965
2966=head3 Abusing an C<ev_check> watcher for its side-effect
2967
2968C<ev_check> (and less often also C<ev_prepare>) watchers can also be
2969useful because they are called once per event loop iteration. For
2970example, if you want to handle a large number of connections fairly, you
2971normally only do a bit of work for each active connection, and if there
2972is more work to do, you wait for the next event loop iteration, so other
2973connections have a chance of making progress.
2974
2975Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the
2976next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible -
2977without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked.
2978
2979This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a
2980single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active
2981C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop
2982will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets
2983invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that.
2763 2984
2764=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2985=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2765 2986
2766=over 4 2987=over 4
2767 2988
2968 3189
2969=over 4 3190=over 4
2970 3191
2971=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3192=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2972 3193
2973=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3194=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2974 3195
2975Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 3196Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2976embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 3197embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2977invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 3198invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2978to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 3199to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
2999used). 3220used).
3000 3221
3001 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 3222 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
3002 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 3223 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
3003 ev_embed embed; 3224 ev_embed embed;
3004 3225
3005 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 3226 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
3006 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 3227 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
3007 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 3228 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
3008 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 3229 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
3009 : 0; 3230 : 0;
3023C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 3244C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
3024 3245
3025 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 3246 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
3026 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 3247 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
3027 ev_embed embed; 3248 ev_embed embed;
3028 3249
3029 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 3250 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
3030 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 3251 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
3031 { 3252 {
3032 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 3253 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
3033 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 3254 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
3041 3262
3042=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3263=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
3043 3264
3044Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3265Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
3045whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling 3266whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
3046C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the 3267C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the event loop blocks next
3047event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3268and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, and only in the child
3048and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3269after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling C<ev_default_fork> cheats
3049C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3270and calls it in the wrong process, the fork handlers will be invoked, too,
3050handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3271of course.
3051 3272
3052=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3273=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3053 3274
3054Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set 3275Most uses of C<fork ()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3055up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3276up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3056sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3277sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
3057 3278
3058This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3279This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
3059in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3280in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
3075disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3296disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
3076signal watchers). 3297signal watchers).
3077 3298
3078When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3299When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
3079other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3300other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
3080C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3301C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
3081the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3302Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
3082have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3303watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
3083also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3304those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3305signal watchers.
3084 3306
3085=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3307=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3086 3308
3087=over 4 3309=over 4
3088 3310
3089=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3311=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3090 3312
3091Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3313Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3092kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3314kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3093believe me. 3315really.
3094 3316
3095=back 3317=back
3096 3318
3097 3319
3320=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3321
3322Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3323by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3324
3325While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3326watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3327program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3328loop when you want them to be invoked.
3329
3330Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3331all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3332makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3333can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3334
3335=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3336
3337=over 4
3338
3339=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3340
3341Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3342any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3343pointless, I assure you.
3344
3345=back
3346
3347Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3348cleanup functions are called.
3349
3350 static void
3351 program_exits (void)
3352 {
3353 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3354 }
3355
3356 ...
3357 atexit (program_exits);
3358
3359
3098=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop 3360=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3099 3361
3100In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other 3362In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
3101asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3363asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3102loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3364loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3103 3365
3104Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control, 3366Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3105for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async> 3367for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3107it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe. 3369it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3108 3370
3109This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3371This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3110too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3372too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3111(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3373(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3112C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3374C<ev_async_send> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3113 3375of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3114Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3376signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3115just the default loop. 3377even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3116 3378
3117=head3 Queueing 3379=head3 Queueing
3118 3380
3119C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3381C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
3120is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3382is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
3212trust me. 3474trust me.
3213 3475
3214=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 3476=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
3215 3477
3216Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 3478Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
3217an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 3479an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop, and instantly
3480returns.
3481
3218C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or 3482Unlike C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads,
3219similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 3483signal or similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the
3220section below on what exactly this means). 3484embedding section below on what exactly this means).
3221 3485
3222Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get 3486Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
3223compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this 3487compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at
3224is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>, 3488this is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered: they are set on
3225reset when the event loop detects that). 3489C<ev_async_send>, reset when the event loop detects that).
3226 3490
3227This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop 3491This call incurs the overhead of at most one extra system call per event
3228iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to 3492loop iteration, if the event loop is blocked, and no syscall at all if
3229repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop. 3493the event loop (or your program) is processing events. That means that
3494repeated calls are basically free (there is no need to avoid calls for
3495performance reasons) and that the overhead becomes smaller (typically
3496zero) under load.
3230 3497
3231=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 3498=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
3232 3499
3233Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 3500Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
3234watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 3501watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
3251 3518
3252There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now. 3519There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now.
3253 3520
3254=over 4 3521=over 4
3255 3522
3256=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback) 3523=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback, arg)
3257 3524
3258This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your 3525This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your
3259callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both 3526callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both
3260watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd 3527watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd
3261or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 3528or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
3289 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3556 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3290 3557
3291=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents) 3558=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3292 3559
3293Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3560Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3294the given events it. 3561the given events.
3295 3562
3296=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3563=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3297 3564
3298Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3565Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3299loop!). 3566which is async-safe.
3300 3567
3301=back 3568=back
3569
3570
3571=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3572
3573This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3574obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3575section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3576
3577=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
3578
3579Each watcher has, by default, a C<void *data> member that you can read
3580or modify at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
3581to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
3582don't want to allocate memory separately and store a pointer to it in that
3583data member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
3584data:
3585
3586 struct my_io
3587 {
3588 ev_io io;
3589 int otherfd;
3590 void *somedata;
3591 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
3592 };
3593
3594 ...
3595 struct my_io w;
3596 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
3597
3598And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
3599can cast it back to your own type:
3600
3601 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
3602 {
3603 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
3604 ...
3605 }
3606
3607More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback
3608function type instead have been omitted.
3609
3610=head2 BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS
3611
3612Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
3613embedded watchers, in effect creating your own watcher that combines
3614multiple libev event sources into one "super-watcher":
3615
3616 struct my_biggy
3617 {
3618 int some_data;
3619 ev_timer t1;
3620 ev_timer t2;
3621 }
3622
3623In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
3624complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct in
3625the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies or C++ coders), or you need
3626to use some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for
3627real programmers):
3628
3629 #include <stddef.h>
3630
3631 static void
3632 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3633 {
3634 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3635 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
3636 }
3637
3638 static void
3639 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3640 {
3641 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3642 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
3643 }
3644
3645=head2 AVOIDING FINISHING BEFORE RETURNING
3646
3647Often you have structures like this in event-based programs:
3648
3649 callback ()
3650 {
3651 free (request);
3652 }
3653
3654 request = start_new_request (..., callback);
3655
3656The intent is to start some "lengthy" operation. The C<request> could be
3657used to cancel the operation, or do other things with it.
3658
3659It's not uncommon to have code paths in C<start_new_request> that
3660immediately invoke the callback, for example, to report errors. Or you add
3661some caching layer that finds that it can skip the lengthy aspects of the
3662operation and simply invoke the callback with the result.
3663
3664The problem here is that this will happen I<before> C<start_new_request>
3665has returned, so C<request> is not set.
3666
3667Even if you pass the request by some safer means to the callback, you
3668might want to do something to the request after starting it, such as
3669canceling it, which probably isn't working so well when the callback has
3670already been invoked.
3671
3672A common way around all these issues is to make sure that
3673C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If
3674C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially
3675delay invoking the callback by using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher for
3676example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher and
3677pushing it into the pending queue:
3678
3679 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback);
3680 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0);
3681
3682This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is
3683invoked, while not delaying callback invocation too much.
3684
3685=head2 MODEL/NESTED EVENT LOOP INVOCATIONS AND EXIT CONDITIONS
3686
3687Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3688I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3689invoking C<ev_run>.
3690
3691This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3692main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3693a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3694and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3695other combination: In these cases, a simple C<ev_break> will not work.
3696
3697The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3698invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3699triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3700
3701 // main loop
3702 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3703
3704 while (!exit_main_loop)
3705 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3706
3707 // in a modal watcher
3708 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3709
3710 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3711 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3712
3713To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3714
3715 // exit modal loop
3716 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3717
3718 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3719 exit_main_loop = 1;
3720
3721 // exit both
3722 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3723
3724=head2 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3725
3726Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
3727thread from where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
3728created/added/removed.
3729
3730For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
3731which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
3732languages).
3733
3734The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
3735variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
3736event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
3737
3738First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
3739
3740 typedef struct {
3741 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
3742 ev_async async_w;
3743 thread_t tid;
3744 cond_t invoke_cv;
3745 } userdata;
3746
3747 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
3748 {
3749 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
3750 static userdata u;
3751
3752 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
3753 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3754
3755 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
3756 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
3757
3758 // now associate this with the loop
3759 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
3760 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
3761 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
3762
3763 // then create the thread running ev_run
3764 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
3765 }
3766
3767The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
3768solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
3769that might have been added:
3770
3771 static void
3772 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
3773 {
3774 // just used for the side effects
3775 }
3776
3777The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
3778protecting the loop data, respectively.
3779
3780 static void
3781 l_release (EV_P)
3782 {
3783 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3784 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3785 }
3786
3787 static void
3788 l_acquire (EV_P)
3789 {
3790 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3791 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3792 }
3793
3794The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
3795into C<ev_run>:
3796
3797 void *
3798 l_run (void *thr_arg)
3799 {
3800 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
3801
3802 l_acquire (EV_A);
3803 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
3804 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3805 l_release (EV_A);
3806
3807 return 0;
3808 }
3809
3810Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
3811signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
3812writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
3813have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
3814and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
3815watchers is very beneficial):
3816
3817 static void
3818 l_invoke (EV_P)
3819 {
3820 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3821
3822 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
3823 {
3824 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
3825 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
3826 }
3827 }
3828
3829Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
3830will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
3831thread to continue:
3832
3833 static void
3834 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
3835 {
3836 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3837
3838 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3839 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
3840 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
3841 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3842 }
3843
3844Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
3845event loop, you will now have to lock:
3846
3847 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
3848 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3849
3850 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
3851
3852 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3853 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
3854 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3855 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3856
3857Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
3858an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
3859about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
3860watchers in the next event loop iteration.
3861
3862=head2 THREADS, COROUTINES, CONTINUATIONS, QUEUES... INSTEAD OF CALLBACKS
3863
3864While the overhead of a callback that e.g. schedules a thread is small, it
3865is still an overhead. If you embed libev, and your main usage is with some
3866kind of threads or coroutines, you might want to customise libev so that
3867doesn't need callbacks anymore.
3868
3869Imagine you have coroutines that you can switch to using a function
3870C<switch_to (coro)>, that libev runs in a coroutine called C<libev_coro>
3871and that due to some magic, the currently active coroutine is stored in a
3872global called C<current_coro>. Then you can build your own "wait for libev
3873event" primitive by changing C<EV_CB_DECLARE> and C<EV_CB_INVOKE> (note
3874the differing C<;> conventions):
3875
3876 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3877 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3878
3879That means instead of having a C callback function, you store the
3880coroutine to switch to in each watcher, and instead of having libev call
3881your callback, you instead have it switch to that coroutine.
3882
3883A coroutine might now wait for an event with a function called
3884C<wait_for_event>. (the watcher needs to be started, as always, but it doesn't
3885matter when, or whether the watcher is active or not when this function is
3886called):
3887
3888 void
3889 wait_for_event (ev_watcher *w)
3890 {
3891 ev_set_cb (w, current_coro);
3892 switch_to (libev_coro);
3893 }
3894
3895That basically suspends the coroutine inside C<wait_for_event> and
3896continues the libev coroutine, which, when appropriate, switches back to
3897this or any other coroutine.
3898
3899You can do similar tricks if you have, say, threads with an event queue -
3900instead of storing a coroutine, you store the queue object and instead of
3901switching to a coroutine, you push the watcher onto the queue and notify
3902any waiters.
3903
3904To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two
3905files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files:
3906
3907 // my_ev.h
3908 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3909 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3910 #include "../libev/ev.h"
3911
3912 // my_ev.c
3913 #define EV_H "my_ev.h"
3914 #include "../libev/ev.c"
3915
3916And then use F<my_ev.h> when you would normally use F<ev.h>, and compile
3917F<my_ev.c> into your project. When properly specifying include paths, you
3918can even use F<ev.h> as header file name directly.
3302 3919
3303 3920
3304=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3921=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3305 3922
3306Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3923Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3307emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3924emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
3308 3925
3309=over 4 3926=over 4
3927
3928=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3929
3930This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3931and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
3310 3932
3311=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3933=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
3312 3934
3313=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3935=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
3314ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3936ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3320=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3942=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3321will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3943will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3322is an ev_pri field. 3944is an ev_pri field.
3323 3945
3324=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3946=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3325first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3947base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3326 3948
3327=item * Other members are not supported. 3949=item * Other members are not supported.
3328 3950
3329=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3951=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3330to use the libev header file and library. 3952to use the libev header file and library.
3331 3953
3332=back 3954=back
3333 3955
3334=head1 C++ SUPPORT 3956=head1 C++ SUPPORT
3957
3958=head2 C API
3959
3960The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the
3961libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API
3962will work fine.
3963
3964Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed
3965to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all
3966other callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic
3967reschedule callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<throw
3968()> specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C
3969and C++ you can use the C<EV_THROW> macro for this:
3970
3971 static void
3972 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_THROW
3973 {
3974 perror (msg);
3975 abort ();
3976 }
3977
3978 ...
3979 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
3980
3981The only API functions that can currently throw exceptions are C<ev_run>,
3982C<ev_invoke>, C<ev_invoke_pending> and C<ev_loop_destroy> (the latter
3983because it runs cleanup watchers).
3984
3985Throwing exceptions in watcher callbacks is only supported if libev itself
3986is compiled with a C++ compiler or your C and C++ environments allow
3987throwing exceptions through C libraries (most do).
3988
3989=head2 C++ API
3335 3990
3336Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 3991Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
3337you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 3992you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
3338the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 3993the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
3339 3994
3340To use it, 3995To use it,
3341 3996
3342 #include <ev++.h> 3997 #include <ev++.h>
3343 3998
3344This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 3999This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
3345of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 4000of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
3346put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 4001put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
3349Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 4004Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3350classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 4005classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3351that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 4006that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3352you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 4007you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3353 4008
3354Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 4009Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3355used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 4010with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3356need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 4011to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3357types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 4012you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3358it). 4013(preferably after implementing it).
4014
4015For all this to work, your C++ compiler either has to use the same calling
4016conventions as your C compiler (for static member functions), or you have
4017to embed libev and compile libev itself as C++.
3359 4018
3360Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 4019Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3361 4020
3362=over 4 4021=over 4
3363 4022
3373=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc. 4032=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc.
3374 4033
3375For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of 4034For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of
3376the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal> 4035the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal>
3377which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro 4036which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro
3378defines by many implementations. 4037defined by many implementations.
3379 4038
3380All of those classes have these methods: 4039All of those classes have these methods:
3381 4040
3382=over 4 4041=over 4
3383 4042
3445 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents) 4104 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
3446 { 4105 {
3447 ... 4106 ...
3448 } 4107 }
3449 } 4108 }
3450 4109
3451 myfunctor f; 4110 myfunctor f;
3452 4111
3453 ev::io w; 4112 ev::io w;
3454 w.set (&f); 4113 w.set (&f);
3455 4114
3473Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 4132Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3474do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 4133do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3475 4134
3476=item w->set ([arguments]) 4135=item w->set ([arguments])
3477 4136
3478Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this 4137Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set> (except for C<ev::embed> watchers>),
3479method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the 4138with the same arguments. Either this method or a suitable start method
3480C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted 4139must be called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher
3481when reconfiguring it with this method. 4140gets automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
4141method.
4142
4143For C<ev::embed> watchers this method is called C<set_embed>, to avoid
4144clashing with the C<set (loop)> method.
3482 4145
3483=item w->start () 4146=item w->start ()
3484 4147
3485Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 4148Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3486constructor already stores the event loop. 4149constructor already stores the event loop.
3516watchers in the constructor. 4179watchers in the constructor.
3517 4180
3518 class myclass 4181 class myclass
3519 { 4182 {
3520 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4183 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3521 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4184 ev::io io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3522 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 4185 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3523 4186
3524 myclass (int fd) 4187 myclass (int fd)
3525 { 4188 {
3526 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 4189 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3577L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>. 4240L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3578 4241
3579=item D 4242=item D
3580 4243
3581Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 4244Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
3582be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 4245be found at L<http://www.llucax.com.ar/proj/ev.d/index.html>.
3583 4246
3584=item Ocaml 4247=item Ocaml
3585 4248
3586Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 4249Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3587L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 4250L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3590 4253
3591Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the 4254Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3592time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 4255time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3593L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 4256L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3594 4257
4258=item Javascript
4259
4260Node.js (L<http://nodejs.org>) uses libev as the underlying event library.
4261
4262=item Others
4263
4264There are others, and I stopped counting.
4265
3595=back 4266=back
3596 4267
3597 4268
3598=head1 MACRO MAGIC 4269=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3599 4270
3635suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 4306suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
3636 4307
3637=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 4308=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
3638 4309
3639Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 4310Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
3640loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 4311loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). The default loop
4312will be initialised if it isn't already initialised.
4313
4314For non-multiplicity builds, these macros do nothing, so you always have
4315to initialise the loop somewhere.
3641 4316
3642=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_> 4317=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
3643 4318
3644Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the 4319Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
3645default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour 4320default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
3712 ev_vars.h 4387 ev_vars.h
3713 ev_wrap.h 4388 ev_wrap.h
3714 4389
3715 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 4390 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
3716 4391
3717 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 4392 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled
3718 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4393 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled
3719 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4394 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled
3720 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4395 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled
3721 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4396 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled
3722 4397
3723F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 4398F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
3724to compile this single file. 4399to compile this single file.
3725 4400
3726=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 4401=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
3790supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 4465supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3791F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 4466F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3792 4467
3793In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 4468In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3794configuration, but has to be more conservative. 4469configuration, but has to be more conservative.
4470
4471=item EV_USE_FLOOR
4472
4473If defined to be C<1>, libev will use the C<floor ()> function for its
4474periodic reschedule calculations, otherwise libev will fall back on a
4475portable (slower) implementation. If you enable this, you usually have to
4476link against libm or something equivalent. Enabling this when the C<floor>
4477function is not available will fail, so the safe default is to not enable
4478this.
3795 4479
3796=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 4480=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3797 4481
3798If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 4482If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3799monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no 4483monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
3884 4568
3885If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this 4569If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3886macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister 4570macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3887file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close 4571file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3888the underlying OS handle. 4572the underlying OS handle.
4573
4574=item EV_USE_WSASOCKET
4575
4576If defined to be C<1>, libev will use C<WSASocket> to create its internal
4577communication socket, which works better in some environments. Otherwise,
4578the normal C<socket> function will be used, which works better in other
4579environments.
3889 4580
3890=item EV_USE_POLL 4581=item EV_USE_POLL
3891 4582
3892If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 4583If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3893backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 4584backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3929If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 4620If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
3930interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 4621interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
3931be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers 4622be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
3932indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4623indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
3933 4624
4625=item EV_NO_SMP
4626
4627If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that memory is always coherent
4628between threads, that is, threads can be used, but threads never run on
4629different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies
4630and makes libev faster.
4631
4632=item EV_NO_THREADS
4633
4634If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called from
4635different threads (that includes signal handlers), which is a stronger
4636assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, above. This reduces dependencies and makes
4637libev faster.
4638
3934=item EV_ATOMIC_T 4639=item EV_ATOMIC_T
3935 4640
3936Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 4641Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
3937access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 4642access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No
3938type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 4643such type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own
3939that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 4644type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal
3940as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4645handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async>
4646watchers.
3941 4647
3942In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4648In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3943(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4649(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3944 4650
3945=item EV_H (h) 4651=item EV_H (h)
3972will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 4678will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
3973additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 4679additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
3974for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 4680for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
3975argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 4681argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
3976 4682
4683Note that C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_> will no longer provide a
4684default loop when multiplicity is switched off - you always have to
4685initialise the loop manually in this case.
4686
3977=item EV_MINPRI 4687=item EV_MINPRI
3978 4688
3979=item EV_MAXPRI 4689=item EV_MAXPRI
3980 4690
3981The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to 4691The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
4017 #define EV_USE_POLL 1 4727 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4018 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1 4728 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4019 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1 4729 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4020 4730
4021The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following 4731The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4022values: 4732values (by default, all of these are enabled):
4023 4733
4024=over 4 4734=over 4
4025 4735
4026=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4736=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4027 4737
4031code size by roughly 30% on amd64). 4741code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4032 4742
4033When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4743When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4034gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4744gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4035assertions. 4745assertions.
4746
4747The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4748(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4036 4749
4037=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4750=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4038 4751
4039Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4752Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4040hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size 4753hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4041and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4754and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4042runtime. 4755runtime.
4043 4756
4757The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4758(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4759
4044=item C<4> - full API configuration 4760=item C<4> - full API configuration
4045 4761
4046This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and 4762This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4047enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1). 4763enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4048 4764
4078 4794
4079With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough 4795With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4080when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by 4796when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4081your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an 4797your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4082I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4798I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4799
4800=item EV_API_STATIC
4801
4802If this symbol is defined (by default it is not), then all identifiers
4803will have static linkage. This means that libev will not export any
4804identifiers, and you cannot link against libev anymore. This can be useful
4805when you embed libev, only want to use libev functions in a single file,
4806and do not want its identifiers to be visible.
4807
4808To use this, define C<EV_API_STATIC> and include F<ev.c> in the file that
4809wants to use libev.
4810
4811This option only works when libev is compiled with a C compiler, as C++
4812doesn't support the required declaration syntax.
4083 4813
4084=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4814=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4085 4815
4086If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4816If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4087functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size 4817functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4231And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4961And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4232 4962
4233 #include "ev_cpp.h" 4963 #include "ev_cpp.h"
4234 #include "ev.c" 4964 #include "ev.c"
4235 4965
4236=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES 4966=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS, LIBRARIES OR THE ENVIRONMENT
4237 4967
4238=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES 4968=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
4239 4969
4240=head3 THREADS 4970=head3 THREADS
4241 4971
4292default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 5022default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
4293watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 5023watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
4294 5024
4295=back 5025=back
4296 5026
4297=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE 5027See also L</THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE>.
4298
4299Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4300thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4301created/added/removed.
4302
4303For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4304which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4305languages).
4306
4307The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4308variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4309event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4310
4311First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4312
4313 typedef struct {
4314 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4315 ev_async async_w;
4316 thread_t tid;
4317 cond_t invoke_cv;
4318 } userdata;
4319
4320 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4321 {
4322 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4323 static userdata u;
4324
4325 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4326 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4327
4328 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4329 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4330
4331 // now associate this with the loop
4332 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4333 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4334 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4335
4336 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4337 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4338 }
4339
4340The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4341solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4342that might have been added:
4343
4344 static void
4345 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4346 {
4347 // just used for the side effects
4348 }
4349
4350The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4351protecting the loop data, respectively.
4352
4353 static void
4354 l_release (EV_P)
4355 {
4356 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4357 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4358 }
4359
4360 static void
4361 l_acquire (EV_P)
4362 {
4363 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4364 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4365 }
4366
4367The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4368into C<ev_run>:
4369
4370 void *
4371 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4372 {
4373 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4374
4375 l_acquire (EV_A);
4376 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4377 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4378 l_release (EV_A);
4379
4380 return 0;
4381 }
4382
4383Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4384signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4385writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4386have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4387and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4388watchers is very beneficial):
4389
4390 static void
4391 l_invoke (EV_P)
4392 {
4393 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4394
4395 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4396 {
4397 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4398 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4399 }
4400 }
4401
4402Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4403will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4404thread to continue:
4405
4406 static void
4407 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4408 {
4409 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4410
4411 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4412 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4413 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4414 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4415 }
4416
4417Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4418event loop, you will now have to lock:
4419
4420 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4421 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4422
4423 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4424
4425 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4426 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4427 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4428 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4429
4430Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4431an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4432about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4433watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4434 5028
4435=head3 COROUTINES 5029=head3 COROUTINES
4436 5030
4437Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 5031Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4438libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 5032libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4603requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 5197requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4604model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 5198model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4605the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 5199the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4606descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 5200descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4607e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers, 5201e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4608as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible 5202as every compiler comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4609environment. 5203environment.
4610 5204
4611Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 5205Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4612re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing, 5206re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4613then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note 5207then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4707structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 5301structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4708assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 5302assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4709callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 5303callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4710calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 5304calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4711 5305
5306=item null pointers and integer zero are represented by 0 bytes
5307
5308Libev uses C<memset> to initialise structs and arrays to C<0> bytes, and
5309relies on this setting pointers and integers to null.
5310
5311=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
5312
5313Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
5314writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
5315
4712=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 5316=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4713 5317
4714The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 5318The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4715C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 5319C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4716threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is 5320threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
4724thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would 5328thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
4725be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and 5329be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
4726C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however. 5330C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
4727 5331
4728The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads 5332The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
4729except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 5333except the initial one, and run the signal handling loop in the initial
4730well. 5334thread as well.
4731 5335
4732=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 5336=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
4733 5337
4734To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally 5338To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
4735instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX 5339instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
4741 5345
4742The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 5346The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4743have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is 5347have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4744good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy 5348good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4745(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by 5349(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4746implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With 5350implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones.
5351
4747IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200. 5352With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least the
5353year 2255 (and millisecond accuracy till the year 287396 - by then, libev
5354is either obsolete or somebody patched it to use C<long double> or
5355something like that, just kidding).
4748 5356
4749=back 5357=back
4750 5358
4751If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 5359If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4752 5360
4814=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 5422=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
4815 5423
4816=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 5424=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
4817 5425
4818Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 5426Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
4819calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 5427calls in the current loop iteration and the loop is currently
5428blocked. Checking for async and signal events involves iterating over all
4820involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 5429running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4821 5430
4822=back 5431=back
4823 5432
4824 5433
4825=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 5434=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4826 5435
4827The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 5436The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4828 5437
4829At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial 5438At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4830compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 5439for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4831removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 5440layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5441new API early than late.
4832 5442
4833=over 4 5443=over 4
5444
5445=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5446
5447The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5448C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</"PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS"> in the L</EMBEDDING>
5449section.
5450
5451=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5452
5453These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5454
5455 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
5456 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4834 5457
4835=item function/symbol renames 5458=item function/symbol renames
4836 5459
4837A number of functions and symbols have been renamed: 5460A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4838 5461
4857ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme 5480ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4858as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called 5481as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4859C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork> 5482C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4860typedef. 5483typedef.
4861 5484
4862=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4863
4864The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4865C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4866section.
4867
4868=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 5485=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4869 5486
4870The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 5487The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4871mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 5488mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4872and work, but the library code will of course be larger. 5489and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4879=over 4 5496=over 4
4880 5497
4881=item active 5498=item active
4882 5499
4883A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped. 5500A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4884See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5501See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
4885 5502
4886=item application 5503=item application
4887 5504
4888In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5505In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4889 5506
4925watchers and events. 5542watchers and events.
4926 5543
4927=item pending 5544=item pending
4928 5545
4929A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been 5546A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4930detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5547detected. See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
4931 5548
4932=item real time 5549=item real time
4933 5550
4934The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5551The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4935 5552
4936=item wall-clock time 5553=item wall-clock time
4937 5554
4938The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually 5555The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
4939be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your 5556be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when you adjust your
4940clock. 5557clock.
4941 5558
4942=item watcher 5559=item watcher
4943 5560
4944A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5561A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4946 5563
4947=back 5564=back
4948 5565
4949=head1 AUTHOR 5566=head1 AUTHOR
4950 5567
4951Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5568Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5569Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta, and minor corrections by many others.
4952 5570

Diff Legend

Removed lines
+ Added lines
< Changed lines
> Changed lines