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

Comparing libev/ev.pod (file contents):
Revision 1.327 by root, Sun Oct 24 20:05:43 2010 UTC vs.
Revision 1.426 by root, Sat Feb 23 23:06:40 2013 UTC

58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_run (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // break was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68 68
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L</ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L</EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L</GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L</WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
166=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
167 175
168Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
169C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
170you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
171C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>. 179C<ev_now_update> and C<ev_now>.
172 180
173=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
174 182
175Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked
176either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184until either it is interrupted or the given time interval has
185passed (approximately - it might return a bit earlier even if not
186interrupted). Returns immediately if C<< interval <= 0 >>.
187
177this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>. 188Basically this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
189
190The range of the C<interval> is limited - libev only guarantees to work
191with sleep times of up to one day (C<< interval <= 86400 >>).
178 192
179=item int ev_version_major () 193=item int ev_version_major ()
180 194
181=item int ev_version_minor () 195=item int ev_version_minor ()
182 196
233the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends () 247the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
234& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones. 248& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
235 249
236See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 250See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
237 251
238=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 252=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size) throw ())
239 253
240Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 254Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
241semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 255semantics 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 256used 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 257when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
269 } 283 }
270 284
271 ... 285 ...
272 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 286 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
273 287
274=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 288=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg) throw ())
275 289
276Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 290Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
277as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 291as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
278indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 292indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
279callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 293callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
291 } 305 }
292 306
293 ... 307 ...
294 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 308 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
295 309
310=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
311
312This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
313safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
314handlers or random threads.
315
316Its main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
317in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
318by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
319creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
320mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
321C<ev_feed_signal>.
322
296=back 323=back
297 324
298=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS 325=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
299 326
300An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is 327An 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 328I<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). 329libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
303 330
304The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 331The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
305supports signals and child events, and dynamically created event loops 332supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
306which do not. 333do not.
307 334
308=over 4 335=over 4
309 336
310=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 337=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
311 338
347=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 374=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
348 375
349This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop 376This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
350could not be initialised, returns false. 377could not be initialised, returns false.
351 378
352Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use 379This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
353libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the 380threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
354default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread. 381loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
355 382
356The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 383The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
357backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 384backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
358 385
359The following flags are supported: 386The following flags are supported:
394environment variable. 421environment variable.
395 422
396=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 423=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
397 424
398When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 425When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
399I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 426I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
400testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 427testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
401otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 428otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
402 429
403=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 430=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
404 431
405When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 432When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
406I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 433I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
407delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make 434delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
408it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 435it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
409handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 436handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
410threads that are not interested in handling them. 437threads that are not interested in handling them.
411 438
412Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and 439Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
413there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for 440there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
414example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 441example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
442
443=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
444
445When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
446mask. Specifically, this means you have to make sure signals are unblocked
447when you want to receive them.
448
449This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
450want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
451unblocking the signals.
452
453It's also required by POSIX in a threaded program, as libev calls
454C<sigprocmask>, whose behaviour is officially unspecified.
455
456This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
415 457
416=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 458=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
417 459
418This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 460This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
419libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 461libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
447=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 489=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
448 490
449Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9 491Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
450kernels). 492kernels).
451 493
452For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 494For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, but
453but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 495it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like
454like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 496O(total_fds) where total_fds is the total number of fds (or the highest
455epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 497fd), epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
456 498
457The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 499The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
458of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 500of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
459dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 501dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
460descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 502descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
503returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
504(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
461so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 5050.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
462I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 506forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
463take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 507set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
464hard to detect. 508and is of course hard to detect.
465 509
466Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 510Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work,
467of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 511but of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for
468I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 512totally I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so
469even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 513one cannot even remove them from the set) than registered in the set
470on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 514(especially on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious
471employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 515notifications by employing an additional generation counter and comparing
472events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last 516that against the events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set
517when required. Epoll also erroneously rounds down timeouts, but gives you
518no way to know when and by how much, so sometimes you have to busy-wait
519because epoll returns immediately despite a nonzero timeout. And last
473not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work 520not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
474perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...). 521perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
522
523Epoll is truly the train wreck among event poll mechanisms, a frankenpoll,
524cobbled together in a hurry, no thought to design or interaction with
525others. Oh, the pain, will it ever stop...
475 526
476While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 527While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
477will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 528will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
478incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 529incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
479I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 530I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
516 567
517It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 568It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
518kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 569kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
519course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 570course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
520cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 571cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
521two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but 572two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you
522sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect 573might have to leak fd's on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it
523cases 574drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
524 575
525This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 576This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
526 577
527While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 578While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
528everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 579everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
545=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 596=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
546 597
547This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 598This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
548it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 599it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
549 600
550Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
551notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
552blocking when no data (or space) is available.
553
554While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 601While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
555file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 602file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
556descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 603descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
557might perform better. 604might perform better.
558 605
559On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness 606On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to
560notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
561in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the 607specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat
562OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks). 608among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
609hacks).
610
611On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
612even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
613function sometimes returns events to the caller even though an error
614occurred, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
615even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where you
616absolutely have to know whether an event occurred or not because you have
617to re-arm the watcher.
618
619Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
563 620
564This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 621This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
565C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 622C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
566 623
567=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 624=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
568 625
569Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 626Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
570with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 627with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
571C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 628C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
572 629
573It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 630It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
631C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
632at all.
633
634=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
635
636Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
637C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
638value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
574 639
575=back 640=back
576 641
577If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 642If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
578then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 643then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
607This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by 672This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
608C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by 673C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
609C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe. 674C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
610 675
611Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop 676Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
612except in the rare occasion where you really need to free it's resources. 677except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
613If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new> 678If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
614and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 679and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
615 680
616=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 681=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
617 682
665prepare and check phases. 730prepare and check phases.
666 731
667=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 732=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
668 733
669Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of 734Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
670times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 735times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
671 736
672Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 737Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
673C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 738C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
674in which case it is higher. 739in which case it is higher.
675 740
676Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 741Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
677etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 742throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
678ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient. 743as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
744convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
679 745
680=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 746=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
681 747
682Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 748Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
683use. 749use.
698 764
699This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 765This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
700very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 766very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
701the current time is a good idea. 767the current time is a good idea.
702 768
703See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section. 769See also L</The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
704 770
705=item ev_suspend (loop) 771=item ev_suspend (loop)
706 772
707=item ev_resume (loop) 773=item ev_resume (loop)
708 774
726without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 792without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
727 793
728Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 794Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
729event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 795event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
730 796
731=item ev_run (loop, int flags) 797=item bool ev_run (loop, int flags)
732 798
733Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 799Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
734after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 800after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
735handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call 801handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
736the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This 802the watcher callbacks, and then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
737is why event loops are called I<loops>. 803is why event loops are called I<loops>.
738 804
739If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events 805If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
740until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was 806until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
741called. 807called.
808
809The return value is false if there are no more active watchers (which
810usually means "all jobs done" or "deadlock"), and true in all other cases
811(which usually means " you should call C<ev_run> again").
742 812
743Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than 813Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
744relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 814relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
745finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 815finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
746that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 816that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
747of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 817of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
748beauty. 818beauty.
749 819
820This function is I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of a
821C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
822exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
823will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
824
750A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle 825A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
751those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and 826those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
752block your process in case there are no events and will return after one 827block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
753iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new 828iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
754events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive. 829events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
763This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 838This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
764with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 839with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
765own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 840own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
766usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 841usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
767 842
768Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does: 843Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does (this is for your
844understanding, not a guarantee that things will work exactly like this in
845future versions):
769 846
770 - Increment loop depth. 847 - Increment loop depth.
771 - Reset the ev_break status. 848 - Reset the ev_break status.
772 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 849 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
773 LOOP: 850 LOOP:
806anymore. 883anymore.
807 884
808 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 885 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
809 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 886 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
810 ev_run (my_loop, 0); 887 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
811 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 888 ... jobs done or somebody called break. yeah!
812 889
813=item ev_break (loop, how) 890=item ev_break (loop, how)
814 891
815Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it 892Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
816has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 893has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
817C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or 894C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
818C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return. 895C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
819 896
820This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again. 897This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
821 898
822It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO## 899It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
900which case it will have no effect.
823 901
824=item ev_ref (loop) 902=item ev_ref (loop)
825 903
826=item ev_unref (loop) 904=item ev_unref (loop)
827 905
848running when nothing else is active. 926running when nothing else is active.
849 927
850 ev_signal exitsig; 928 ev_signal exitsig;
851 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 929 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
852 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 930 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
853 evf_unref (loop); 931 ev_unref (loop);
854 932
855Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 933Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
856 934
857 ev_ref (loop); 935 ev_ref (loop);
858 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 936 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
878overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 956overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
879 957
880By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 958By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
881time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 959time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
882at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 960at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
883C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 961C<ev_timer>) will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
884introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The 962introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
885sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then 963sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
886once per this interval, on average. 964once per this interval, on average (as long as the host time resolution is
965good enough).
887 966
888Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 967Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
889to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 968to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
890latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called 969latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
891later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null 970later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
937invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 1016invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
938 1017
939If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 1018If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
940callback. 1019callback.
941 1020
942=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P)) 1021=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P) throw (), void (*acquire)(EV_P) throw ())
943 1022
944Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 1023Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
945can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 1024can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
946each call to a libev function. 1025each call to a libev function.
947 1026
948However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible 1027However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
949to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event 1028to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
950loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these 1029loop via C<ev_break> and C<ev_async_send>, another way is to set these
951I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1030I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
952 1031
953When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1032When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
954suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1033suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
955afterwards. 1034afterwards.
970See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 1049See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
971document. 1050document.
972 1051
973=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 1052=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
974 1053
975=item ev_userdata (loop) 1054=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
976 1055
977Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 1056Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
978C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 1057C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
979C<0.> 1058C<0>.
980 1059
981These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1060These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
982and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1061and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
983C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1062C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
984any other purpose as well. 1063any other purpose as well.
1095 1174
1096=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1175=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1097 1176
1098=item C<EV_CHECK> 1177=item C<EV_CHECK>
1099 1178
1100All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts 1179All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts to
1101to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1180gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are queued (not invoked)
1102C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1181just after C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it queues any callbacks
1182for any received events. That means C<ev_prepare> watchers are the last
1183watchers invoked before the event loop sleeps or polls for new events, and
1184C<ev_check> watchers will be invoked before any other watchers of the same
1185or lower priority within an event loop iteration.
1186
1103received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1187Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as many watchers as
1104many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1188they want, and all of them will be taken into account (for example, a
1105(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1189C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep C<ev_run> from
1106C<ev_run> from blocking). 1190blocking).
1107 1191
1108=item C<EV_EMBED> 1192=item C<EV_EMBED>
1109 1193
1110The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1194The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1111 1195
1114The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1198The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1115C<ev_fork>). 1199C<ev_fork>).
1116 1200
1117=item C<EV_CLEANUP> 1201=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1118 1202
1119The event loop is abotu to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>). 1203The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1120 1204
1121=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1205=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1122 1206
1123The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1207The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1124 1208
1146programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another 1230programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1147thing, so beware. 1231thing, so beware.
1148 1232
1149=back 1233=back
1150 1234
1235=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1236
1237=over 4
1238
1239=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1240
1241This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
1242of the watcher object can be arbitrary (so C<malloc> will do). Only
1243the generic parts of the watcher are initialised, you I<need> to call
1244the type-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> macro afterwards to initialise the
1245type-specific parts. For each type there is also a C<ev_TYPE_init> macro
1246which rolls both calls into one.
1247
1248You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
1249(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
1250
1251The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
1252int revents)>.
1253
1254Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
1255
1256 ev_io w;
1257 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1258 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1259
1260=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1261
1262This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1263call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1264call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1265macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1266difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
1267
1268Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
1269(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
1270
1271See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
1272
1273=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
1274
1275This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
1276calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
1277a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
1278
1279Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1280
1281 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1282
1283=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1284
1285Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1286events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1287
1288Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1289whole section.
1290
1291 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1292
1293=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1294
1295Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1296the watcher was active or not).
1297
1298It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1299non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
1300calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
1301pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
1302therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
1303
1304=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1305
1306Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
1307and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1308it.
1309
1310=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1311
1312Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
1313events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
1314is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
1315C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
1316make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
1317it).
1318
1319=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1320
1321Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1322
1323=item ev_set_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1324
1325Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1326(modulo threads).
1327
1328=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1329
1330=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1331
1332Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1333integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1334(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
1335before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
1336from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
1337
1338If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
1339you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
1340
1341You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
1342pending.
1343
1344Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1345fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1346or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1347
1348The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1349always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1350
1351See L</WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1352priorities.
1353
1354=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1355
1356Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1357C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1358can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1359callback.
1360
1361=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1362
1363If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
1364returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1365watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1366
1367Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1368callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1369
1370=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1371
1372Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1373had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1374initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1375not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1376
1377Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1378C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1379not started in the first place.
1380
1381See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1382functions that do not need a watcher.
1383
1384=back
1385
1386See also the L</ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER> and L</BUILDING YOUR
1387OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS> idioms.
1388
1151=head2 WATCHER STATES 1389=head2 WATCHER STATES
1152 1390
1153There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual - 1391There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1154active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to 1392active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1155transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these 1393transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1156rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing". 1394rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1157 1395
1158=over 4 1396=over 4
1159 1397
1160=item initialiased 1398=item initialised
1161 1399
1162Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be 1400Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be
1163initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to 1401initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1164C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function. 1402C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1165 1403
1166In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use 1404In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for
1167in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will. 1405use in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at
1406will - as long as you either keep the memory contents intact, or call
1407C<ev_TYPE_init> again.
1168 1408
1169=item started/running/active 1409=item started/running/active
1170 1410
1171Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes 1411Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1172property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in 1412property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1200latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless 1440latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1201of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before 1441of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1202freeing it is often a good idea. 1442freeing it is often a good idea.
1203 1443
1204While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the 1444While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1205initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way 1445initialised state, that is, it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1206you wish. 1446you wish (but when you trash the memory block, you need to C<ev_TYPE_init>
1447it again).
1207 1448
1208=back 1449=back
1209
1210=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1211
1212=over 4
1213
1214=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1215
1216This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
1217of the watcher object can be arbitrary (so C<malloc> will do). Only
1218the generic parts of the watcher are initialised, you I<need> to call
1219the type-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> macro afterwards to initialise the
1220type-specific parts. For each type there is also a C<ev_TYPE_init> macro
1221which rolls both calls into one.
1222
1223You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
1224(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
1225
1226The callback is always of type C<void (*)(struct ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
1227int revents)>.
1228
1229Example: Initialise an C<ev_io> watcher in two steps.
1230
1231 ev_io w;
1232 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1233 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1234
1235=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1236
1237This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1238call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1239call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1240macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1241difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
1242
1243Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
1244(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
1245
1246See C<ev_init>, above, for an example.
1247
1248=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
1249
1250This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
1251calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
1252a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
1253
1254Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1255
1256 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1257
1258=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1259
1260Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1261events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1262
1263Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1264whole section.
1265
1266 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1267
1268=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1269
1270Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1271the watcher was active or not).
1272
1273It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1274non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending - but
1275calling C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor
1276pending. If you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is
1277therefore a good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
1278
1279=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1280
1281Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
1282and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
1283it.
1284
1285=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1286
1287Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
1288events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
1289is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
1290C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
1291make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
1292it).
1293
1294=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1295
1296Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1297
1298=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1299
1300Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1301(modulo threads).
1302
1303=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1304
1305=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1306
1307Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1308integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1309(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
1310before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
1311from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
1312
1313If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
1314you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
1315
1316You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
1317pending.
1318
1319Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
1320fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
1321or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1322
1323The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1324always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1325
1326See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1327priorities.
1328
1329=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1330
1331Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1332C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
1333can deal with that fact, as both are simply passed through to the
1334callback.
1335
1336=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1337
1338If the watcher is pending, this function clears its pending status and
1339returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1340watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1341
1342Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1343callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1344
1345=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1346
1347Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1348had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1349initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1350not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1351
1352Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1353C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1354not started in the first place.
1355
1356See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1357functions that do not need a watcher.
1358
1359=back
1360
1361
1362=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1363
1364Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1365and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1366to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
1367don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
1368member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1369data:
1370
1371 struct my_io
1372 {
1373 ev_io io;
1374 int otherfd;
1375 void *somedata;
1376 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1377 };
1378
1379 ...
1380 struct my_io w;
1381 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1382
1383And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1384can cast it back to your own type:
1385
1386 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1387 {
1388 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1389 ...
1390 }
1391
1392More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
1393instead have been omitted.
1394
1395Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
1396embedded watchers:
1397
1398 struct my_biggy
1399 {
1400 int some_data;
1401 ev_timer t1;
1402 ev_timer t2;
1403 }
1404
1405In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
1406complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1407in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1408some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1409programmers):
1410
1411 #include <stddef.h>
1412
1413 static void
1414 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1415 {
1416 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1417 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1418 }
1419
1420 static void
1421 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1422 {
1423 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1424 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1425 }
1426 1450
1427=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1451=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1428 1452
1429Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1453Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1430integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1454integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1557In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1581In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1558fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1582fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1559descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1583descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1560required if you know what you are doing). 1584required if you know what you are doing).
1561 1585
1562If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1563known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1564C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1565descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1566files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1567
1568Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1586Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1569receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1587receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is, your callback might
1570be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1588be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1571because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1589because there is no data. It is very easy to get into this situation even
1572lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1590with a relatively standard program structure. Thus it is best to always
1573this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1591use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning C<EAGAIN> is far
1574it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1575C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1592preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1576 1593
1577If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should 1594If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1578not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately 1595not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1579re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good 1596re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1580interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already 1597interface such as poll (fortunately in the case of Xlib, it already does
1581does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally 1598this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1582use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block 1599use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1583indefinitely. 1600indefinitely.
1584 1601
1585But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1602But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1586 1603
1614 1631
1615There is no workaround possible except not registering events 1632There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1616for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to 1633for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1617C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1634C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1618 1635
1636=head3 The special problem of files
1637
1638Many people try to use C<select> (or libev) on file descriptors
1639representing files, and expect it to become ready when their program
1640doesn't block on disk accesses (which can take a long time on their own).
1641
1642However, this cannot ever work in the "expected" way - you get a readiness
1643notification as soon as the kernel knows whether and how much data is
1644there, and in the case of open files, that's always the case, so you
1645always get a readiness notification instantly, and your read (or possibly
1646write) will still block on the disk I/O.
1647
1648Another way to view it is that in the case of sockets, pipes, character
1649devices and so on, there is another party (the sender) that delivers data
1650on its own, but in the case of files, there is no such thing: the disk
1651will not send data on its own, simply because it doesn't know what you
1652wish to read - you would first have to request some data.
1653
1654Since files are typically not-so-well supported by advanced notification
1655mechanism, libev tries hard to emulate POSIX behaviour with respect
1656to files, even though you should not use it. The reason for this is
1657convenience: sometimes you want to watch STDIN or STDOUT, which is
1658usually a tty, often a pipe, but also sometimes files or special devices
1659(for example, C<epoll> on Linux works with F</dev/random> but not with
1660F</dev/urandom>), and even though the file might better be served with
1661asynchronous I/O instead of with non-blocking I/O, it is still useful when
1662it "just works" instead of freezing.
1663
1664So avoid file descriptors pointing to files when you know it (e.g. use
1665libeio), but use them when it is convenient, e.g. for STDIN/STDOUT, or
1666when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1667reuse the same code path.
1668
1619=head3 The special problem of fork 1669=head3 The special problem of fork
1620 1670
1621Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1671Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1622useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1672useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1623it in the child. 1673it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the child.
1624 1674
1625To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1675To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1626C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1676()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1627enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1677C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1628C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1629 1678
1630=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1679=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1631 1680
1632While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>: 1681While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1633when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets 1682when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1731detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1780detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1732monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1781monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1733 1782
1734The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1783The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1735passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1784passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1736might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1785might introduce a small delay, see "the special problem of being too
1786early", below). If multiple timers become ready during the same loop
1737same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1787iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked before
1738before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1788ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is no
1739no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively). 1789longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1740 1790
1741=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1791=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1742 1792
1743Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1793Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1744recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1794recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1819 1869
1820In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone, 1870In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1821but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only 1871but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1822within the callback: 1872within the callback:
1823 1873
1874 ev_tstamp timeout = 60.;
1824 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity 1875 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1876 ev_timer timer;
1825 1877
1826 static void 1878 static void
1827 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1879 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1828 { 1880 {
1829 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A); 1881 // calculate when the timeout would happen
1830 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1882 ev_tstamp after = last_activity - ev_now (EV_A) + timeout;
1831 1883
1832 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1884 // if negative, it means we the timeout already occurred
1833 if (timeout < now) 1885 if (after < 0.)
1834 { 1886 {
1835 // timeout occurred, take action 1887 // timeout occurred, take action
1836 } 1888 }
1837 else 1889 else
1838 { 1890 {
1839 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1891 // callback was invoked, but there was some recent
1840 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1892 // activity. simply restart the timer to time out
1841 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive: 1893 // after "after" seconds, which is the earliest time
1842 w->repeat = timeout - now; 1894 // the timeout can occur.
1895 ev_timer_set (w, after, 0.);
1843 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w); 1896 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ w);
1844 } 1897 }
1845 } 1898 }
1846 1899
1847To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined 1900To summarise the callback: first calculate in how many seconds the
1848as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has 1901timeout will occur (by calculating the absolute time when it would occur,
1849been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise 1902C<last_activity + timeout>, and subtracting the current time, C<ev_now
1850the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so 1903(EV_A)> from that).
1851re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1852a timeout then.
1853 1904
1854Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the 1905If this value is negative, then we are already past the timeout, i.e. we
1855C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running. 1906timed out, and need to do whatever is needed in this case.
1907
1908Otherwise, we now the earliest time at which the timeout would trigger,
1909and simply start the timer with this timeout value.
1910
1911In other words, each time the callback is invoked it will check whether
1912the timeout occurred. If not, it will simply reschedule itself to check
1913again at the earliest time it could time out. Rinse. Repeat.
1856 1914
1857This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds 1915This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1858minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to 1916minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1859libev to change the timeout. 1917libev to change the timeout.
1860 1918
1861To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity> 1919To start the machinery, simply initialise the watcher and set
1862to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1920C<last_activity> to the current time (meaning there was some activity just
1863callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1921now), then call the callback, which will "do the right thing" and start
1922the timer:
1864 1923
1924 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1865 ev_init (timer, callback); 1925 ev_init (&timer, callback);
1866 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1926 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1867 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1868 1927
1869And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1928When there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1870C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1929C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1871 1930
1931 if (activity detected)
1872 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1932 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1933
1934When your timeout value changes, then the timeout can be changed by simply
1935providing a new value, stopping the timer and calling the callback, which
1936will again do the right thing (for example, time out immediately :).
1937
1938 timeout = new_value;
1939 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &timer);
1940 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1873 1941
1874This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1942This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1875time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1943time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1876
1877Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1878callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1879fix things for you.
1880 1944
1881=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts. 1945=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1882 1946
1883If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all 1947If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1884employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can 1948employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1911Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is 1975Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1912rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays 1976rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1913off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually 1977off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1914overkill :) 1978overkill :)
1915 1979
1980=head3 The special problem of being too early
1981
1982If you ask a timer to call your callback after three seconds, then
1983you expect it to be invoked after three seconds - but of course, this
1984cannot be guaranteed to infinite precision. Less obviously, it cannot be
1985guaranteed to any precision by libev - imagine somebody suspending the
1986process with a STOP signal for a few hours for example.
1987
1988So, libev tries to invoke your callback as soon as possible I<after> the
1989delay has occurred, but cannot guarantee this.
1990
1991A less obvious failure mode is calling your callback too early: many event
1992loops compare timestamps with a "elapsed delay >= requested delay", but
1993this can cause your callback to be invoked much earlier than you would
1994expect.
1995
1996To see why, imagine a system with a clock that only offers full second
1997resolution (think windows if you can't come up with a broken enough OS
1998yourself). If you schedule a one-second timer at the time 500.9, then the
1999event loop will schedule your timeout to elapse at a system time of 500
2000(500.9 truncated to the resolution) + 1, or 501.
2001
2002If an event library looks at the timeout 0.1s later, it will see "501 >=
2003501" and invoke the callback 0.1s after it was started, even though a
2004one-second delay was requested - this is being "too early", despite best
2005intentions.
2006
2007This is the reason why libev will never invoke the callback if the elapsed
2008delay equals the requested delay, but only when the elapsed delay is
2009larger than the requested delay. In the example above, libev would only invoke
2010the callback at system time 502, or 1.1s after the timer was started.
2011
2012So, while libev cannot guarantee that your callback will be invoked
2013exactly when requested, it I<can> and I<does> guarantee that the requested
2014delay has actually elapsed, or in other words, it always errs on the "too
2015late" side of things.
2016
1916=head3 The special problem of time updates 2017=head3 The special problem of time updates
1917 2018
1918Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 2019Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes
1919least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 2020at least one system call): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1920time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a 2021time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1921growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 2022growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1922lots of events in one iteration. 2023lots of events in one iteration.
1923 2024
1924The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2025The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1930 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 2031 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1931 2032
1932If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2033If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1933update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2034update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1934()>. 2035()>.
2036
2037=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks
2038
2039Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal
2040"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time
2041jumps).
2042
2043Neither of these clocks is synchronised with each other or any other clock
2044on the system, so C<ev_time ()> might return a considerably different time
2045than C<gettimeofday ()> or C<time ()>. On a GNU/Linux system, for example,
2046a call to C<gettimeofday> might return a second count that is one higher
2047than a directly following call to C<time>.
2048
2049The moral of this is to only compare libev-related timestamps with
2050C<ev_time ()> and C<ev_now ()>, at least if you want better precision than
2051a second or so.
2052
2053One more problem arises due to this lack of synchronisation: if libev uses
2054the system monotonic clock and you compare timestamps from C<ev_time>
2055or C<ev_now> from when you started your timer and when your callback is
2056invoked, you will find that sometimes the callback is a bit "early".
2057
2058This is because C<ev_timer>s work in real time, not wall clock time, so
2059libev makes sure your callback is not invoked before the delay happened,
2060I<measured according to the real time>, not the system clock.
2061
2062If your timeouts are based on a physical timescale (e.g. "time out this
2063connection after 100 seconds") then this shouldn't bother you as it is
2064exactly the right behaviour.
2065
2066If you want to compare wall clock/system timestamps to your timers, then
2067you need to use C<ev_periodic>s, as these are based on the wall clock
2068time, where your comparisons will always generate correct results.
1935 2069
1936=head3 The special problems of suspended animation 2070=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1937 2071
1938When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that 2072When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1939can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend? 2073can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
1983keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to 2117keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
1984do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 2118do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
1985 2119
1986=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 2120=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
1987 2121
1988This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 2122This will act as if the timer timed out, and restarts it again if it is
1989repeating. The exact semantics are: 2123repeating. It basically works like calling C<ev_timer_stop>, updating the
2124timeout to the C<repeat> value and calling C<ev_timer_start>.
1990 2125
2126The exact semantics are as in the following rules, all of which will be
2127applied to the watcher:
2128
2129=over 4
2130
1991If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 2131=item If the timer is pending, the pending status is always cleared.
1992 2132
1993If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 2133=item If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed
2134out, without invoking it).
1994 2135
1995If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 2136=item If the timer is repeating, make the C<repeat> value the new timeout
1996C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2137and start the timer, if necessary.
1997 2138
2139=back
2140
1998This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2141This sounds a bit complicated, see L</Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1999usage example. 2142usage example.
2000 2143
2001=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2144=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2002 2145
2003Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2146Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2123 2266
2124Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 2267Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
2125C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 2268C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
2126time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 2269time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
2127 2270
2128For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near 2271The C<interval> I<MUST> be positive, and for numerical stability, the
2129C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 2272interval value should be higher than C<1/8192> (which is around 100
2130this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 2273microseconds) and C<offset> should be higher than C<0> and should have
2274at most a similar magnitude as the current time (say, within a factor of
2275ten). Typical values for offset are, in fact, C<0> or something between
2276C<0> and C<interval>, which is also the recommended range.
2131 2277
2132Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU 2278Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
2133speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 2279speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
2134will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 2280will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
2135millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 2281millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
2249 2395
2250=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2396=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2251 2397
2252Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2398Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2253signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2399signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2254will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2400will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2255normal event processing, like any other event. 2401normal event processing, like any other event.
2256 2402
2257If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2403If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2258C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2404C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2259the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2405the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2278=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create 2424=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2279 2425
2280Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition 2426Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2281(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after 2427(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2282stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal, 2428stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2283and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler. 2429and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler (but
2430see C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>).
2284 2431
2285While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never 2432While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2286sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on 2433sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2287C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect 2434C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2288certain signals to be blocked. 2435certain signals to be blocked.
2301I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily. 2448I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2302 2449
2303So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when 2450So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2304you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This 2451you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2305is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries. 2452is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2453
2454=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2455
2456POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2457a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2458threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2459
2460When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2461for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2462all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2463sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2464loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2465these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2466in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
2306 2467
2307=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2468=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2308 2469
2309=over 4 2470=over 4
2310 2471
2445 2606
2446=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2607=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
2447 2608
2448This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2609This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
2449C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed) 2610C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
2450and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if 2611and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback
2451it did. 2612if it did. Starting the watcher C<stat>'s the file, so only changes that
2613happen after the watcher has been started will be reported.
2452 2614
2453The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2615The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
2454not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not 2616not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
2455exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the 2617exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
2456C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at 2618C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
2686Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 2848Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
2687effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 2849effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
2688"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 2850"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
2689event loop has handled all outstanding events. 2851event loop has handled all outstanding events.
2690 2852
2853=head3 Abusing an C<ev_idle> watcher for its side-effect
2854
2855As long as there is at least one active idle watcher, libev will never
2856sleep unnecessarily. Or in other words, it will loop as fast as possible.
2857For this to work, the idle watcher doesn't need to be invoked at all - the
2858lowest priority will do.
2859
2860This mode of operation can be useful together with an C<ev_check> watcher,
2861to do something on each event loop iteration - for example to balance load
2862between different connections.
2863
2864See L</Abusing an ev_check watcher for its side-effect> for a longer
2865example.
2866
2691=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2867=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2692 2868
2693=over 4 2869=over 4
2694 2870
2695=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback) 2871=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
2706callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2882callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
2707 2883
2708 static void 2884 static void
2709 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents) 2885 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
2710 { 2886 {
2887 // stop the watcher
2888 ev_idle_stop (loop, w);
2889
2890 // now we can free it
2711 free (w); 2891 free (w);
2892
2712 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2893 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
2713 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2894 // no longer anything immediate to do.
2714 } 2895 }
2715 2896
2716 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle)); 2897 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
2718 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher); 2899 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
2719 2900
2720 2901
2721=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2902=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2722 2903
2723Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2904Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs:
2724prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2905prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2725afterwards. 2906afterwards.
2726 2907
2727You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter 2908You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2728the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2909the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2756with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 2937with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
2757of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 2938of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
2758loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 2939loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
2759low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 2940low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
2760 2941
2761It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 2942When used for this purpose, it is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers
2762priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 2943highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) priority, to ensure that they are being run before
2763after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers). 2944any other watchers after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare>
2945watchers).
2764 2946
2765Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not 2947Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
2766activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they 2948activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
2767might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As 2949might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
2768C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event 2950C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
2769loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their 2951loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
2770C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with 2952C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
2771others). 2953others).
2954
2955=head3 Abusing an C<ev_check> watcher for its side-effect
2956
2957C<ev_check> (and less often also C<ev_prepare>) watchers can also be
2958useful because they are called once per event loop iteration. For
2959example, if you want to handle a large number of connections fairly, you
2960normally only do a bit of work for each active connection, and if there
2961is more work to do, you wait for the next event loop iteration, so other
2962connections have a chance of making progress.
2963
2964Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the
2965next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible -
2966without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked.
2967
2968This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a
2969single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active
2970C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop
2971will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets
2972invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that.
2772 2973
2773=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2974=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2774 2975
2775=over 4 2976=over 4
2776 2977
2977 3178
2978=over 4 3179=over 4
2979 3180
2980=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3181=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2981 3182
2982=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3183=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
2983 3184
2984Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 3185Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
2985embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 3186embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
2986invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 3187invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
2987to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 3188to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
3050 3251
3051=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3252=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
3052 3253
3053Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3254Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
3054whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling 3255whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
3055C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the 3256C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the event loop blocks next
3056event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3257and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, and only in the child
3057and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3258after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling C<ev_default_fork> cheats
3058C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3259and calls it in the wrong process, the fork handlers will be invoked, too,
3059handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3260of course.
3060 3261
3061=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3262=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3062 3263
3063Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set 3264Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3064up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3265up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3098 3299
3099=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback) 3300=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3100 3301
3101Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3302Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3102kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3303kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3103believe me. 3304really.
3104 3305
3105=back 3306=back
3106 3307
3107 3308
3108=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end 3309=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3109 3310
3110Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop they are registered 3311Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3111with is being destroyed. 3312by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3112 3313
3113While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup 3314While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3114watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your 3315watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3115program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the 3316program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3116loop when you want them to be invoked. 3317loop when you want them to be invoked.
3126 3327
3127=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback) 3328=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3128 3329
3129Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of 3330Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3130any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly 3331any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3131pointless, believe me. 3332pointless, I assure you.
3132 3333
3133=back 3334=back
3134 3335
3135Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any 3336Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3136cleanup functions are called. 3337cleanup functions are called.
3145 atexit (program_exits); 3346 atexit (program_exits);
3146 3347
3147 3348
3148=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop 3349=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3149 3350
3150In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other 3351In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
3151asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3352asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3152loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3353loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3153 3354
3154Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control, 3355Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3155for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async> 3356for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3157it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe. 3358it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3158 3359
3159This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3360This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3160too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3361too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3161(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3362(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3162C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3363C<ev_async_send> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3163 3364of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3164Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3365signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3165just the default loop. 3366even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3166 3367
3167=head3 Queueing 3368=head3 Queueing
3168 3369
3169C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3370C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
3170is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3371is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
3262trust me. 3463trust me.
3263 3464
3264=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 3465=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
3265 3466
3266Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 3467Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
3267an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 3468an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop, and instantly
3469returns.
3470
3268C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or 3471Unlike C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads,
3269similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 3472signal or similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the
3270section below on what exactly this means). 3473embedding section below on what exactly this means).
3271 3474
3272Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get 3475Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
3273compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this 3476compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at
3274is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>, 3477this is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered: they are set on
3275reset when the event loop detects that). 3478C<ev_async_send>, reset when the event loop detects that).
3276 3479
3277This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop 3480This call incurs the overhead of at most one extra system call per event
3278iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to 3481loop iteration, if the event loop is blocked, and no syscall at all if
3279repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop. 3482the event loop (or your program) is processing events. That means that
3483repeated calls are basically free (there is no need to avoid calls for
3484performance reasons) and that the overhead becomes smaller (typically
3485zero) under load.
3280 3486
3281=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 3487=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
3282 3488
3283Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 3489Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
3284watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 3490watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
3339 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3545 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3340 3546
3341=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents) 3547=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3342 3548
3343Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3549Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3344the given events it. 3550the given events.
3345 3551
3346=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3552=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3347 3553
3348Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3554Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3349loop!). 3555which is async-safe.
3350 3556
3351=back 3557=back
3558
3559
3560=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3561
3562This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3563obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3564section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3565
3566=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
3567
3568Each watcher has, by default, a C<void *data> member that you can read
3569or modify at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
3570to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
3571don't want to allocate memory separately and store a pointer to it in that
3572data member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
3573data:
3574
3575 struct my_io
3576 {
3577 ev_io io;
3578 int otherfd;
3579 void *somedata;
3580 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
3581 };
3582
3583 ...
3584 struct my_io w;
3585 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
3586
3587And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
3588can cast it back to your own type:
3589
3590 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
3591 {
3592 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
3593 ...
3594 }
3595
3596More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback
3597function type instead have been omitted.
3598
3599=head2 BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS
3600
3601Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
3602embedded watchers, in effect creating your own watcher that combines
3603multiple libev event sources into one "super-watcher":
3604
3605 struct my_biggy
3606 {
3607 int some_data;
3608 ev_timer t1;
3609 ev_timer t2;
3610 }
3611
3612In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
3613complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct in
3614the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies or C++ coders), or you need
3615to use some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for
3616real programmers):
3617
3618 #include <stddef.h>
3619
3620 static void
3621 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3622 {
3623 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3624 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
3625 }
3626
3627 static void
3628 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3629 {
3630 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3631 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
3632 }
3633
3634=head2 AVOIDING FINISHING BEFORE RETURNING
3635
3636Often you have structures like this in event-based programs:
3637
3638 callback ()
3639 {
3640 free (request);
3641 }
3642
3643 request = start_new_request (..., callback);
3644
3645The intent is to start some "lengthy" operation. The C<request> could be
3646used to cancel the operation, or do other things with it.
3647
3648It's not uncommon to have code paths in C<start_new_request> that
3649immediately invoke the callback, for example, to report errors. Or you add
3650some caching layer that finds that it can skip the lengthy aspects of the
3651operation and simply invoke the callback with the result.
3652
3653The problem here is that this will happen I<before> C<start_new_request>
3654has returned, so C<request> is not set.
3655
3656Even if you pass the request by some safer means to the callback, you
3657might want to do something to the request after starting it, such as
3658canceling it, which probably isn't working so well when the callback has
3659already been invoked.
3660
3661A common way around all these issues is to make sure that
3662C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If
3663C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially
3664delay invoking the callback by using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher for
3665example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher and
3666pushing it into the pending queue:
3667
3668 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback);
3669 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0);
3670
3671This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is
3672invoked, while not delaying callback invocation too much.
3673
3674=head2 MODEL/NESTED EVENT LOOP INVOCATIONS AND EXIT CONDITIONS
3675
3676Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3677I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3678invoking C<ev_run>.
3679
3680This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3681main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3682a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3683and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3684other combination: In these cases, a simple C<ev_break> will not work.
3685
3686The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3687invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3688triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3689
3690 // main loop
3691 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3692
3693 while (!exit_main_loop)
3694 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3695
3696 // in a modal watcher
3697 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3698
3699 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3700 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3701
3702To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3703
3704 // exit modal loop
3705 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3706
3707 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3708 exit_main_loop = 1;
3709
3710 // exit both
3711 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3712
3713=head2 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3714
3715Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
3716thread from where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
3717created/added/removed.
3718
3719For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
3720which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
3721languages).
3722
3723The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
3724variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
3725event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
3726
3727First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
3728
3729 typedef struct {
3730 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
3731 ev_async async_w;
3732 thread_t tid;
3733 cond_t invoke_cv;
3734 } userdata;
3735
3736 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
3737 {
3738 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
3739 static userdata u;
3740
3741 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
3742 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3743
3744 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
3745 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
3746
3747 // now associate this with the loop
3748 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
3749 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
3750 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
3751
3752 // then create the thread running ev_run
3753 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
3754 }
3755
3756The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
3757solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
3758that might have been added:
3759
3760 static void
3761 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
3762 {
3763 // just used for the side effects
3764 }
3765
3766The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
3767protecting the loop data, respectively.
3768
3769 static void
3770 l_release (EV_P)
3771 {
3772 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3773 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3774 }
3775
3776 static void
3777 l_acquire (EV_P)
3778 {
3779 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3780 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3781 }
3782
3783The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
3784into C<ev_run>:
3785
3786 void *
3787 l_run (void *thr_arg)
3788 {
3789 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
3790
3791 l_acquire (EV_A);
3792 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
3793 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3794 l_release (EV_A);
3795
3796 return 0;
3797 }
3798
3799Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
3800signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
3801writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
3802have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
3803and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
3804watchers is very beneficial):
3805
3806 static void
3807 l_invoke (EV_P)
3808 {
3809 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3810
3811 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
3812 {
3813 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
3814 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
3815 }
3816 }
3817
3818Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
3819will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
3820thread to continue:
3821
3822 static void
3823 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
3824 {
3825 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3826
3827 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3828 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
3829 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
3830 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3831 }
3832
3833Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
3834event loop, you will now have to lock:
3835
3836 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
3837 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3838
3839 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
3840
3841 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3842 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
3843 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3844 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3845
3846Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
3847an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
3848about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
3849watchers in the next event loop iteration.
3850
3851=head2 THREADS, COROUTINES, CONTINUATIONS, QUEUES... INSTEAD OF CALLBACKS
3852
3853While the overhead of a callback that e.g. schedules a thread is small, it
3854is still an overhead. If you embed libev, and your main usage is with some
3855kind of threads or coroutines, you might want to customise libev so that
3856doesn't need callbacks anymore.
3857
3858Imagine you have coroutines that you can switch to using a function
3859C<switch_to (coro)>, that libev runs in a coroutine called C<libev_coro>
3860and that due to some magic, the currently active coroutine is stored in a
3861global called C<current_coro>. Then you can build your own "wait for libev
3862event" primitive by changing C<EV_CB_DECLARE> and C<EV_CB_INVOKE> (note
3863the differing C<;> conventions):
3864
3865 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3866 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3867
3868That means instead of having a C callback function, you store the
3869coroutine to switch to in each watcher, and instead of having libev call
3870your callback, you instead have it switch to that coroutine.
3871
3872A coroutine might now wait for an event with a function called
3873C<wait_for_event>. (the watcher needs to be started, as always, but it doesn't
3874matter when, or whether the watcher is active or not when this function is
3875called):
3876
3877 void
3878 wait_for_event (ev_watcher *w)
3879 {
3880 ev_set_cb (w, current_coro);
3881 switch_to (libev_coro);
3882 }
3883
3884That basically suspends the coroutine inside C<wait_for_event> and
3885continues the libev coroutine, which, when appropriate, switches back to
3886this or any other coroutine.
3887
3888You can do similar tricks if you have, say, threads with an event queue -
3889instead of storing a coroutine, you store the queue object and instead of
3890switching to a coroutine, you push the watcher onto the queue and notify
3891any waiters.
3892
3893To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two
3894files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files:
3895
3896 // my_ev.h
3897 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3898 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb);
3899 #include "../libev/ev.h"
3900
3901 // my_ev.c
3902 #define EV_H "my_ev.h"
3903 #include "../libev/ev.c"
3904
3905And then use F<my_ev.h> when you would normally use F<ev.h>, and compile
3906F<my_ev.c> into your project. When properly specifying include paths, you
3907can even use F<ev.h> as header file name directly.
3352 3908
3353 3909
3354=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3910=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3355 3911
3356Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3912Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3357emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3913emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
3358 3914
3359=over 4 3915=over 4
3916
3917=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3918
3919This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3920and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
3360 3921
3361=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3922=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
3362 3923
3363=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3924=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
3364ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3925ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3370=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3931=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3371will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3932will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3372is an ev_pri field. 3933is an ev_pri field.
3373 3934
3374=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3935=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3375first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3936base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3376 3937
3377=item * Other members are not supported. 3938=item * Other members are not supported.
3378 3939
3379=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3940=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3380to use the libev header file and library. 3941to use the libev header file and library.
3381 3942
3382=back 3943=back
3383 3944
3384=head1 C++ SUPPORT 3945=head1 C++ SUPPORT
3946
3947=head2 C API
3948
3949The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the
3950libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API
3951will work fine.
3952
3953Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed
3954to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all
3955other callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic
3956reschedule callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<throw
3957()> specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C
3958and C++ you can use the C<EV_THROW> macro for this:
3959
3960 static void
3961 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_THROW
3962 {
3963 perror (msg);
3964 abort ();
3965 }
3966
3967 ...
3968 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
3969
3970The only API functions that can currently throw exceptions are C<ev_run>,
3971C<ev_invoke>, C<ev_invoke_pending> and C<ev_loop_destroy> (the latter
3972because it runs cleanup watchers).
3973
3974Throwing exceptions in watcher callbacks is only supported if libev itself
3975is compiled with a C++ compiler or your C and C++ environments allow
3976throwing exceptions through C libraries (most do).
3977
3978=head2 C++ API
3385 3979
3386Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 3980Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
3387you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 3981you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
3388the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 3982the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
3389 3983
3399Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 3993Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3400classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 3994classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3401that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 3995that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3402you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 3996you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3403 3997
3404Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 3998Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3405used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 3999with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3406need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 4000to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3407types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 4001you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3408it). 4002(preferably after implementing it).
4003
4004For all this to work, your C++ compiler either has to use the same calling
4005conventions as your C compiler (for static member functions), or you have
4006to embed libev and compile libev itself as C++.
3409 4007
3410Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 4008Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3411 4009
3412=over 4 4010=over 4
3413 4011
3423=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc. 4021=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc.
3424 4022
3425For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of 4023For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of
3426the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal> 4024the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal>
3427which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro 4025which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro
3428defines by many implementations. 4026defined by many implementations.
3429 4027
3430All of those classes have these methods: 4028All of those classes have these methods:
3431 4029
3432=over 4 4030=over 4
3433 4031
3523Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 4121Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3524do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 4122do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3525 4123
3526=item w->set ([arguments]) 4124=item w->set ([arguments])
3527 4125
3528Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this 4126Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set> (except for C<ev::embed> watchers>),
3529method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the 4127with the same arguments. Either this method or a suitable start method
3530C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted 4128must be called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher
3531when reconfiguring it with this method. 4129gets automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
4130method.
4131
4132For C<ev::embed> watchers this method is called C<set_embed>, to avoid
4133clashing with the C<set (loop)> method.
3532 4134
3533=item w->start () 4135=item w->start ()
3534 4136
3535Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 4137Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3536constructor already stores the event loop. 4138constructor already stores the event loop.
3566watchers in the constructor. 4168watchers in the constructor.
3567 4169
3568 class myclass 4170 class myclass
3569 { 4171 {
3570 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4172 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3571 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4173 ev::io io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3572 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 4174 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3573 4175
3574 myclass (int fd) 4176 myclass (int fd)
3575 { 4177 {
3576 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 4178 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3627L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>. 4229L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3628 4230
3629=item D 4231=item D
3630 4232
3631Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 4233Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
3632be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 4234be found at L<http://www.llucax.com.ar/proj/ev.d/index.html>.
3633 4235
3634=item Ocaml 4236=item Ocaml
3635 4237
3636Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 4238Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3637L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 4239L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3640 4242
3641Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the 4243Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3642time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 4244time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3643L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 4245L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3644 4246
4247=item Javascript
4248
4249Node.js (L<http://nodejs.org>) uses libev as the underlying event library.
4250
4251=item Others
4252
4253There are others, and I stopped counting.
4254
3645=back 4255=back
3646 4256
3647 4257
3648=head1 MACRO MAGIC 4258=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3649 4259
3685suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 4295suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
3686 4296
3687=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 4297=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
3688 4298
3689Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 4299Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
3690loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 4300loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). The default loop
4301will be initialised if it isn't already initialised.
4302
4303For non-multiplicity builds, these macros do nothing, so you always have
4304to initialise the loop somewhere.
3691 4305
3692=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_> 4306=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
3693 4307
3694Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the 4308Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
3695default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour 4309default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
3840supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 4454supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3841F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 4455F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3842 4456
3843In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 4457In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3844configuration, but has to be more conservative. 4458configuration, but has to be more conservative.
4459
4460=item EV_USE_FLOOR
4461
4462If defined to be C<1>, libev will use the C<floor ()> function for its
4463periodic reschedule calculations, otherwise libev will fall back on a
4464portable (slower) implementation. If you enable this, you usually have to
4465link against libm or something equivalent. Enabling this when the C<floor>
4466function is not available will fail, so the safe default is to not enable
4467this.
3845 4468
3846=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 4469=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3847 4470
3848If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 4471If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3849monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no 4472monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
3934 4557
3935If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this 4558If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3936macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister 4559macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3937file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close 4560file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3938the underlying OS handle. 4561the underlying OS handle.
4562
4563=item EV_USE_WSASOCKET
4564
4565If defined to be C<1>, libev will use C<WSASocket> to create its internal
4566communication socket, which works better in some environments. Otherwise,
4567the normal C<socket> function will be used, which works better in other
4568environments.
3939 4569
3940=item EV_USE_POLL 4570=item EV_USE_POLL
3941 4571
3942If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 4572If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3943backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 4573backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3979If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 4609If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
3980interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 4610interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
3981be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers 4611be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
3982indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4612indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
3983 4613
4614=item EV_NO_SMP
4615
4616If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that memory is always coherent
4617between threads, that is, threads can be used, but threads never run on
4618different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies
4619and makes libev faster.
4620
4621=item EV_NO_THREADS
4622
4623If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called from
4624different threads (that includes signal handlers), which is a stronger
4625assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, above. This reduces dependencies and makes
4626libev faster.
4627
3984=item EV_ATOMIC_T 4628=item EV_ATOMIC_T
3985 4629
3986Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 4630Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
3987access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 4631access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No
3988type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 4632such type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own
3989that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 4633type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal
3990as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4634handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async>
4635watchers.
3991 4636
3992In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4637In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3993(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4638(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3994 4639
3995=item EV_H (h) 4640=item EV_H (h)
4022will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 4667will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
4023additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 4668additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
4024for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 4669for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
4025argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 4670argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
4026 4671
4672Note that C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_> will no longer provide a
4673default loop when multiplicity is switched off - you always have to
4674initialise the loop manually in this case.
4675
4027=item EV_MINPRI 4676=item EV_MINPRI
4028 4677
4029=item EV_MAXPRI 4678=item EV_MAXPRI
4030 4679
4031The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to 4680The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
4067 #define EV_USE_POLL 1 4716 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4068 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1 4717 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4069 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1 4718 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4070 4719
4071The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following 4720The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4072values: 4721values (by default, all of these are enabled):
4073 4722
4074=over 4 4723=over 4
4075 4724
4076=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4725=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4077 4726
4081code size by roughly 30% on amd64). 4730code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4082 4731
4083When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4732When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4084gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4733gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4085assertions. 4734assertions.
4735
4736The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4737(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4086 4738
4087=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4739=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4088 4740
4089Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4741Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4090hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size 4742hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4091and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4743and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4092runtime. 4744runtime.
4093 4745
4746The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4747(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4748
4094=item C<4> - full API configuration 4749=item C<4> - full API configuration
4095 4750
4096This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and 4751This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4097enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1). 4752enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4098 4753
4128 4783
4129With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough 4784With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4130when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by 4785when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4131your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an 4786your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4132I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4787I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4788
4789=item EV_API_STATIC
4790
4791If this symbol is defined (by default it is not), then all identifiers
4792will have static linkage. This means that libev will not export any
4793identifiers, and you cannot link against libev anymore. This can be useful
4794when you embed libev, only want to use libev functions in a single file,
4795and do not want its identifiers to be visible.
4796
4797To use this, define C<EV_API_STATIC> and include F<ev.c> in the file that
4798wants to use libev.
4799
4800This option only works when libev is compiled with a C compiler, as C++
4801doesn't support the required declaration syntax.
4133 4802
4134=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4803=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4135 4804
4136If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4805If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4137functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size 4806functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4281And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4950And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4282 4951
4283 #include "ev_cpp.h" 4952 #include "ev_cpp.h"
4284 #include "ev.c" 4953 #include "ev.c"
4285 4954
4286=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES 4955=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS, LIBRARIES OR THE ENVIRONMENT
4287 4956
4288=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES 4957=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
4289 4958
4290=head3 THREADS 4959=head3 THREADS
4291 4960
4342default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 5011default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
4343watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 5012watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
4344 5013
4345=back 5014=back
4346 5015
4347=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE 5016See also L</THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE>.
4348
4349Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4350thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4351created/added/removed.
4352
4353For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4354which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4355languages).
4356
4357The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4358variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4359event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4360
4361First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4362
4363 typedef struct {
4364 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4365 ev_async async_w;
4366 thread_t tid;
4367 cond_t invoke_cv;
4368 } userdata;
4369
4370 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4371 {
4372 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4373 static userdata u;
4374
4375 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4376 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4377
4378 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4379 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4380
4381 // now associate this with the loop
4382 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4383 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4384 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4385
4386 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4387 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4388 }
4389
4390The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4391solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4392that might have been added:
4393
4394 static void
4395 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4396 {
4397 // just used for the side effects
4398 }
4399
4400The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4401protecting the loop data, respectively.
4402
4403 static void
4404 l_release (EV_P)
4405 {
4406 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4407 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4408 }
4409
4410 static void
4411 l_acquire (EV_P)
4412 {
4413 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4414 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4415 }
4416
4417The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4418into C<ev_run>:
4419
4420 void *
4421 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4422 {
4423 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4424
4425 l_acquire (EV_A);
4426 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4427 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4428 l_release (EV_A);
4429
4430 return 0;
4431 }
4432
4433Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4434signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4435writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4436have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4437and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4438watchers is very beneficial):
4439
4440 static void
4441 l_invoke (EV_P)
4442 {
4443 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4444
4445 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4446 {
4447 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4448 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4449 }
4450 }
4451
4452Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4453will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4454thread to continue:
4455
4456 static void
4457 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4458 {
4459 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4460
4461 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4462 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4463 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4464 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4465 }
4466
4467Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4468event loop, you will now have to lock:
4469
4470 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4471 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4472
4473 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4474
4475 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4476 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4477 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4478 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4479
4480Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4481an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4482about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4483watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4484 5017
4485=head3 COROUTINES 5018=head3 COROUTINES
4486 5019
4487Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 5020Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4488libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 5021libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4653requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 5186requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4654model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 5187model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4655the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 5188the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4656descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 5189descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4657e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers, 5190e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4658as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible 5191as every compiler comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4659environment. 5192environment.
4660 5193
4661Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 5194Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4662re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing, 5195re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4663then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note 5196then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4757structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 5290structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4758assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 5291assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4759callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 5292callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4760calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 5293calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4761 5294
5295=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
5296
5297Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
5298writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
5299
4762=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 5300=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4763 5301
4764The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 5302The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4765C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 5303C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4766threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is 5304threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
4774thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would 5312thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
4775be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and 5313be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
4776C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however. 5314C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
4777 5315
4778The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads 5316The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
4779except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 5317except the initial one, and run the signal handling loop in the initial
4780well. 5318thread as well.
4781 5319
4782=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 5320=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
4783 5321
4784To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally 5322To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
4785instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX 5323instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
4791 5329
4792The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 5330The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4793have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is 5331have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4794good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy 5332good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4795(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by 5333(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4796implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With 5334implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones.
5335
4797IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200. 5336With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least the
5337year 2255 (and millisecond accuracy till the year 287396 - by then, libev
5338is either obsolete or somebody patched it to use C<long double> or
5339something like that, just kidding).
4798 5340
4799=back 5341=back
4800 5342
4801If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 5343If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4802 5344
4864=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 5406=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
4865 5407
4866=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 5408=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
4867 5409
4868Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 5410Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
4869calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 5411calls in the current loop iteration and the loop is currently
5412blocked. Checking for async and signal events involves iterating over all
4870involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 5413running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4871 5414
4872=back 5415=back
4873 5416
4874 5417
4875=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 5418=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4876 5419
4877The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 5420The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4878 5421
4879At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial 5422At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4880compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 5423for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4881removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 5424layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5425new API early than late.
4882 5426
4883=over 4 5427=over 4
5428
5429=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5430
5431The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5432C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L</EMBEDDING>
5433section.
4884 5434
4885=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed 5435=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4886 5436
4887These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts: 5437These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4888 5438
4914ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme 5464ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4915as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called 5465as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4916C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork> 5466C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4917typedef. 5467typedef.
4918 5468
4919=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4920
4921The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4922C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4923section.
4924
4925=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 5469=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4926 5470
4927The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 5471The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4928mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 5472mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4929and work, but the library code will of course be larger. 5473and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4936=over 4 5480=over 4
4937 5481
4938=item active 5482=item active
4939 5483
4940A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped. 5484A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4941See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5485See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
4942 5486
4943=item application 5487=item application
4944 5488
4945In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5489In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4946 5490
4982watchers and events. 5526watchers and events.
4983 5527
4984=item pending 5528=item pending
4985 5529
4986A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been 5530A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4987detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5531detected. See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
4988 5532
4989=item real time 5533=item real time
4990 5534
4991The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5535The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4992 5536
4993=item wall-clock time 5537=item wall-clock time
4994 5538
4995The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually 5539The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
4996be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your 5540be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when you adjust your
4997clock. 5541clock.
4998 5542
4999=item watcher 5543=item watcher
5000 5544
5001A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5545A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
5003 5547
5004=back 5548=back
5005 5549
5006=head1 AUTHOR 5550=head1 AUTHOR
5007 5551
5008Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5552Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5553Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta, and minor corrections by many others.
5009 5554

Diff Legend

Removed lines
+ Added lines
< Changed lines
> Changed lines