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26 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
28 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 30
31 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
33 } 33 }
34 34
35 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
36 static void 36 static void
37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
38 { 38 {
39 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
42 } 42 }
43 43
44 int 44 int
45 main (void) 45 main (void)
46 { 46 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 49
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting 75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial 76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
98=head2 FEATURES 106=head2 FEATURES
99 107
100Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 108Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
101BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 109BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
102for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 110for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
103(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 111(for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner
104with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals 112inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative
105(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event 113timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling
106watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, 114(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status
107C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as 115change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event
108file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events 116loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and
109(C<ev_fork>). 117C<ev_check> watchers) as well as file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even
118limited support for fork events (C<ev_fork>).
110 119
111It also is quite fast (see this 120It also is quite fast (see this
112L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 121L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
113for example). 122for example).
114 123
117Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common) 126Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
118configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For 127configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
119more info about various configuration options please have a look at 128more info about various configuration options please have a look at
120B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support 129B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
121for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of 130for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
122name C<loop> (which is always of type C<ev_loop *>) will not have 131name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
123this argument. 132this argument.
124 133
125=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
126 135
127Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
128the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
129near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
130type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
131aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
132on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
133component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
134throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
135 145
136=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
137 147
138Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
139and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
163 173
164=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
165 175
166Returns 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
167C<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
168you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
169 180
170=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
171 182
172Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
173either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
190as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
191compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
192not a problem. 203not a problem.
193 204
194Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
195version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
196 208
197 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
198 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
199 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
200 212
211 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
212 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
213 225
214=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
215 227
216Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
217recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
218returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
219most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
220(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
221libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
222 235
223=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
224 237
225Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
226is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
227might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
228C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
229recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
230 243
231See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
232 245
233=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT]
234 247
288 ... 301 ...
289 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
290 303
291=back 304=back
292 305
293=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 306=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
294 307
295An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 308An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
296is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 309I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
297I<function>). 310libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
298 311
299The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 312The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
300supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 313supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
301not. 314do not.
302 315
303=over 4 316=over 4
304 317
305=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 318=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
306 319
307This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 320This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
308yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 321normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
309false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 322the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
310flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 323C<ev_loop_new>.
324
325If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
326returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
327C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
328flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
329one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
311 330
312If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 331If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
313function. 332function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
314 333
315Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 334Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
316from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 335from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
317as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 336that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
337threads anyway).
318 338
319The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 339The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
320C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 340and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
321for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 341a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
322create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 342C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
323can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 343C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
324C<ev_default_init>. 344
345Example: This is the most typical usage.
346
347 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
348 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
349
350Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
351environment settings to be taken into account:
352
353 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
354
355=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
356
357This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
358could not be initialised, returns false.
359
360Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
361libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
362default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
325 363
326The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 364The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
327backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 365backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
328 366
329The following flags are supported: 367The following flags are supported:
344useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 382useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
345around bugs. 383around bugs.
346 384
347=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 385=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
348 386
349Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after 387Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
350a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by 388make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
351enabling this flag.
352 389
353This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 390This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
354and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 391and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
355iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 392iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
356GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 393GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
369When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 406When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
370I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 407I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
371testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 408testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
372otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 409otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
373 410
374=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGNALFD> 411=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
375 412
376When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 413When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
377I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This is 414I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
378probably only useful to work around any bugs in libev. Consequently, this 415delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
379flag might go away once the signalfd functionality is considered stable, 416it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
380so it's useful mostly in environment variables and not in program code. 417handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
418threads that are not interested in handling them.
419
420Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
421there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
422example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
381 423
382=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 424=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
383 425
384This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 426This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
385libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 427libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
409 451
410This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and 452This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
411C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 453C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
412 454
413=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 455=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
456
457Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
458kernels).
414 459
415For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 460For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
416but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 461but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
417like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 462like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
418epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 463epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
430of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 475of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
431I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 476I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
432even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 477even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
433on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 478on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
434employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 479employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
435events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 480events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
481not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
482perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
436 483
437While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 484While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
438will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 485will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
439incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 486incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
440I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 487I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
538If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 585If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
539then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 586then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
540here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 587here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
541()> will be tried. 588()> will be tried.
542 589
543Example: This is the most typical usage.
544
545 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
546 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
547
548Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
549environment settings to be taken into account:
550
551 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
552
553Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
554used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
555private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
556fds):
557
558 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
559
560=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
561
562Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
563always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
564handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
565undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
566
567Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
568libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
569default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
570
571Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 590Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
572 591
573 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 592 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
574 if (!epoller) 593 if (!epoller)
575 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 594 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
576 595
596Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
597used if available.
598
599 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
600
577=item ev_default_destroy () 601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
578 602
579Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 603Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
580etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 604etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
581sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 605sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
582responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> 606responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
583calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 607calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
584the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 608the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
586 610
587Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 611Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
588handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 612handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
589as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 613as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
590 614
591In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 615This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
592rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 616C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
617C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
618
619Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
620except in the rare occasion where you really need to free it's resources.
593pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 621If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
594C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>). 622and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
595 623
596=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 624=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
597 625
598Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
599earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
600
601=item ev_default_fork ()
602
603This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 626This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
604to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 627reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
605name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 628name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
606the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 629the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
607sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 630child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
608functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration. 631
632Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
633a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
634because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
635during fork.
609 636
610On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 637On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
611process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If 638process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
612you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all. 639you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
640call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
641difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
642costly reset of the backend).
613 643
614The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 644The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
615it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 645it just in case after a fork.
616quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
617 646
647Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
648using pthreads.
649
650 static void
651 post_fork_child (void)
652 {
653 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
654 }
655
656 ...
618 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 657 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
619
620=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
621
622Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
623C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
624after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you do this is
625entirely your own problem.
626 658
627=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 659=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
628 660
629Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 661Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
630otherwise. 662otherwise.
631 663
632=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop) 664=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
633 665
634Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to 666Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
635the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 667to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
636happily wraps around with enough iterations. 668and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
637 669
638This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 670This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
639"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 671"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
640C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls. 672C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
673prepare and check phases.
641 674
642=item unsigned int ev_loop_depth (loop) 675=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
643 676
644Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 677Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
645times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 678times C<ev_run> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth.
646 679
647Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 680Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
648C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 681C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
649in which case it is higher. 682in which case it is higher.
650 683
651Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 684Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread
652etc.), doesn't count as exit. 685etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such
686ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really convenient.
653 687
654=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 688=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
655 689
656Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 690Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
657use. 691use.
666 700
667=item ev_now_update (loop) 701=item ev_now_update (loop)
668 702
669Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 703Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
670returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 704returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
671is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 705is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
672 706
673This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 707This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
674very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 708very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
675the current time is a good idea. 709the current time is a good idea.
676 710
678 712
679=item ev_suspend (loop) 713=item ev_suspend (loop)
680 714
681=item ev_resume (loop) 715=item ev_resume (loop)
682 716
683These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 717These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
684not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 718loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
685 719
686A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 720A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
687the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 721the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
688would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 722would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
689the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 723the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
691C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 725C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
692 726
693Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 727Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
694between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 728between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
695will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 729will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
696occured while suspended). 730occurred while suspended).
697 731
698After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 732After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
699given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 733given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
700without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 734without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
701 735
702Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 736Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
703event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 737event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
704 738
705=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 739=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
706 740
707Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 741Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
708after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 742after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
709events. 743handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
744the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
745is why event loops are called I<loops>.
710 746
711If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 747If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
712either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 748until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
749called.
713 750
714Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 751Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
715relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 752relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
716finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 753finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
717that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 754that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
718of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 755of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
719beauty. 756beauty.
720 757
721A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 758A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
722those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 759those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
723process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 760block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
724the loop. 761iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
762events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
725 763
726A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 764A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
727necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 765necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
728will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 766will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
729be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 767be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
730user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 768user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
731iteration of the loop. 769iteration of the loop.
732 770
733This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 771This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
734with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 772with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
735own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 773own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
736usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 774usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
737 775
738Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 776Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
739 777
778 - Increment loop depth.
779 - Reset the ev_break status.
740 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 780 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
781 LOOP:
741 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 782 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
742 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 783 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
743 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 784 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
785 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
744 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 786 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
745 as to not disturb the other process. 787 as to not disturb the other process.
746 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 788 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
747 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 789 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
748 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 790 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
749 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 791 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
750 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 792 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
751 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 793 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
794 - Increment loop iteration counter.
752 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 795 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
753 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 796 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
754 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 797 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
755 - Queue all expired timers. 798 - Queue all expired timers.
756 - Queue all expired periodics. 799 - Queue all expired periodics.
757 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 800 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
758 - Queue all check watchers. 801 - Queue all check watchers.
759 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 802 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
760 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 803 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
761 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 804 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
762 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 805 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
763 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 806 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
764 continue with step *. 807 continue with step LOOP.
808 FINISH:
809 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
810 - Decrement the loop depth.
811 - Return.
765 812
766Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 813Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
767anymore. 814anymore.
768 815
769 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 816 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
770 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 817 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
771 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 818 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
772 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 819 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
773 820
774=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 821=item ev_break (loop, how)
775 822
776Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 823Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
777has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 824has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
778C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 825C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
779C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 826C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
780 827
781This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 828This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_run> again.
782 829
783It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 830It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls. ##TODO##
784 831
785=item ev_ref (loop) 832=item ev_ref (loop)
786 833
787=item ev_unref (loop) 834=item ev_unref (loop)
788 835
789Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 836Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
790loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 837loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
791count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 838count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
792 839
793If you have a watcher you never unregister that should not keep C<ev_loop> 840This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
794from returning, call ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before 841unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
842returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
795stopping it. 843before stopping it.
796 844
797As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 845As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
798is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 846is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
799exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 847exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
800excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 848excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
801third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 849third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
802before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 850before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
803before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 851before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
804(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 852(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
805in the callback). 853in the callback).
806 854
807Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 855Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
808running when nothing else is active. 856running when nothing else is active.
809 857
810 ev_signal exitsig; 858 ev_signal exitsig;
811 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 859 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
812 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 860 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
857usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 905usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
858as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 906as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
859you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 907you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
860parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 908parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
861need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 909need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
862then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 910then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
863 911
864Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 912Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
865saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 913saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
866are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 914are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
867times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 915times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
875 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 923 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
876 924
877=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 925=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
878 926
879This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 927This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
880pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 928pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
881but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 929but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
930function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
931when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
932event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
933thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
882 934
883=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 935=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
884 936
885Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 937Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
886are pending. 938are pending.
887 939
888=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 940=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
889 941
890This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 942This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
891invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 943invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
892this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 944this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
893invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 945invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
894 946
895If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 947If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
896callback. 948callback.
899 951
900Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 952Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
901can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 953can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
902each call to a libev function. 954each call to a libev function.
903 955
904However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 956However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
905wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 957to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
906C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 958loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
907and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 959I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
908 960
909When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 961When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
910suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 962suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
911afterwards. 963afterwards.
912 964
915 967
916While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 968While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
917C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 969C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
918modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 970modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
919have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 971have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
920waited. USe an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 972waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
921to take note of any changes you made. 973to take note of any changes you made.
922 974
923In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 975In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
924invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 976invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
925 977
926See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 978See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
927document. 979document.
928 980
937These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 989These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
938and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 990and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
939C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 991C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
940any other purpose as well. 992any other purpose as well.
941 993
942=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 994=item ev_verify (loop)
943 995
944This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 996This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
945compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 997compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
946through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 998through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
947is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 999is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
958 1010
959In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1011In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
960watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1012watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
961watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1013watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
962 1014
963A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1015A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
964interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1016your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
965become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1017to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1018for that:
966 1019
967 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1020 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
968 { 1021 {
969 ev_io_stop (w); 1022 ev_io_stop (w);
970 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1023 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
971 } 1024 }
972 1025
973 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1026 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
974 1027
975 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1028 ev_io stdin_watcher;
976 1029
977 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1030 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
978 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1031 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
979 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1032 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
980 1033
981 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1034 ev_run (loop, 0);
982 1035
983As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1036As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
984watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1037watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
985stack). 1038stack).
986 1039
987Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1040Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
988or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1041or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
989 1042
990Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1043Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
991(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1044*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
992callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1045invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
993watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1046time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
994is readable and/or writable). 1047and/or writable).
995 1048
996Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1049Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
997macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1050macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
998is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1051is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
999ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1052ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1022=item C<EV_WRITE> 1075=item C<EV_WRITE>
1023 1076
1024The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or 1077The file descriptor in the C<ev_io> watcher has become readable and/or
1025writable. 1078writable.
1026 1079
1027=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> 1080=item C<EV_TIMER>
1028 1081
1029The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out. 1082The C<ev_timer> watcher has timed out.
1030 1083
1031=item C<EV_PERIODIC> 1084=item C<EV_PERIODIC>
1032 1085
1050 1103
1051=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1104=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1052 1105
1053=item C<EV_CHECK> 1106=item C<EV_CHECK>
1054 1107
1055All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1108All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1056to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1109to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1057C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1110C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1058received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1111received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1059many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1112many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1060(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1113(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1061C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1114C<ev_run> from blocking).
1062 1115
1063=item C<EV_EMBED> 1116=item C<EV_EMBED>
1064 1117
1065The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1118The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1066 1119
1067=item C<EV_FORK> 1120=item C<EV_FORK>
1068 1121
1069The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1122The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1070C<ev_fork>). 1123C<ev_fork>).
1124
1125=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1126
1127The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1071 1128
1072=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1129=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1073 1130
1074The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1131The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1075 1132
1097programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another 1154programs, though, as the fd could already be closed and reused for another
1098thing, so beware. 1155thing, so beware.
1099 1156
1100=back 1157=back
1101 1158
1159=head2 WATCHER STATES
1160
1161There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1162active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1163transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1164rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1165
1166=over 4
1167
1168=item initialiased
1169
1170Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1171initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1172C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1173
1174In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1175in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1176
1177=item started/running/active
1178
1179Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1180property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1181this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1182freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1183and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1184
1185=item pending
1186
1187If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1188in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1189stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1190about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1191callback.
1192
1193The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1194an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1195is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1196but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1197moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1198previous item still apply.
1199
1200It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1201via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1202active.
1203
1204=item stopped
1205
1206A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1207be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1208latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1209of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1210freeing it is often a good idea.
1211
1212While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1213initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1214you wish.
1215
1216=back
1217
1102=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 1218=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
1103 1219
1104=over 4 1220=over 4
1105 1221
1106=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1222=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1122 1238
1123 ev_io w; 1239 ev_io w;
1124 ev_init (&w, my_cb); 1240 ev_init (&w, my_cb);
1125 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1241 ev_io_set (&w, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1126 1242
1127=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 1243=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *watcher, [args])
1128 1244
1129This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 1245This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
1130call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can 1246call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
1131call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this 1247call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
1132macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a 1248macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
1145 1261
1146Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step. 1262Example: Initialise and set an C<ev_io> watcher in one step.
1147 1263
1148 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1264 ev_io_init (&w, my_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1149 1265
1150=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1266=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1151 1267
1152Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 1268Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
1153events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen. 1269events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
1154 1270
1155Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this 1271Example: Start the C<ev_io> watcher that is being abused as example in this
1156whole section. 1272whole section.
1157 1273
1158 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w); 1274 ev_io_start (EV_DEFAULT_UC, &w);
1159 1275
1160=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 1276=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
1161 1277
1162Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether 1278Stops the given watcher if active, and clears the pending status (whether
1163the watcher was active or not). 1279the watcher was active or not).
1164 1280
1165It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example, 1281It is possible that stopped watchers are pending - for example,
1190=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1306=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1191 1307
1192Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1308Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1193(modulo threads). 1309(modulo threads).
1194 1310
1195=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority) 1311=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1196 1312
1197=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1313=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1198 1314
1199Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small 1315Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
1200integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI> 1316integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
1231returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the 1347returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
1232watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>. 1348watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
1233 1349
1234Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its 1350Sometimes it can be useful to "poll" a watcher instead of waiting for its
1235callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function. 1351callback to be invoked, which can be accomplished with this function.
1352
1353=item ev_feed_event (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1354
1355Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1356had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1357initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). Obviously you must
1358not free the watcher as long as it has pending events.
1359
1360Stopping the watcher, letting libev invoke it, or calling
1361C<ev_clear_pending> will clear the pending event, even if the watcher was
1362not started in the first place.
1363
1364See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1365functions that do not need a watcher.
1236 1366
1237=back 1367=back
1238 1368
1239 1369
1240=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1370=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1351 1481
1352For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1482For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1353you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1483you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1354the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1484the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1355processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1485processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1356continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1486continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1357the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1487the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1358workable. 1488workable.
1359 1489
1360Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1490Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1361miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1491miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1375 { 1505 {
1376 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1506 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1377 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1507 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1378 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1508 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1379 1509
1380 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1510 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1381 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1511 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1382 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1512 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1383 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1513 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1384 } 1514 }
1385 1515
1439 1569
1440If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1570If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1441known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1571known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1442C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1572C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1443descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1573descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1444files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1574files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1445 1575
1446Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1576Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1447receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1577receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1448be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1578be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1449because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1579because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1514 1644
1515So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you 1645So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1516ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon 1646ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1517somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1647somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1518 1648
1649=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1650
1651Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1652found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1653connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1654
1655For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1656of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1657rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1658the next iteration again (the connection still exists after all), and
1659typically causing the program to loop at 100% CPU usage.
1660
1661Unfortunately, the set of errors that cause this issue differs between
1662operating systems, there is usually little the app can do to remedy the
1663situation, and no known thread-safe method of removing the connection to
1664cope with overload is known (to me).
1665
1666One of the easiest ways to handle this situation is to just ignore it
1667- when the program encounters an overload, it will just loop until the
1668situation is over. While this is a form of busy waiting, no OS offers an
1669event-based way to handle this situation, so it's the best one can do.
1670
1671A better way to handle the situation is to log any errors other than
1672C<EAGAIN> and C<EWOULDBLOCK>, making sure not to flood the log with such
1673messages, and continue as usual, which at least gives the user an idea of
1674what could be wrong ("raise the ulimit!"). For extra points one could stop
1675the C<ev_io> watcher on the listening fd "for a while", which reduces CPU
1676usage.
1677
1678If your program is single-threaded, then you could also keep a dummy file
1679descriptor for overload situations (e.g. by opening F</dev/null>), and
1680when you run into C<ENFILE> or C<EMFILE>, close it, run C<accept>,
1681close that fd, and create a new dummy fd. This will gracefully refuse
1682clients under typical overload conditions.
1683
1684The last way to handle it is to simply log the error and C<exit>, as
1685is often done with C<malloc> failures, but this results in an easy
1686opportunity for a DoS attack.
1519 1687
1520=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions 1688=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1521 1689
1522=over 4 1690=over 4
1523 1691
1555 ... 1723 ...
1556 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1724 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1557 ev_io stdin_readable; 1725 ev_io stdin_readable;
1558 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1726 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1559 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1727 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1560 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1728 ev_run (loop, 0);
1561 1729
1562 1730
1563=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1731=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1564 1732
1565Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1733Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1574The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1742The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1575passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1743passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1576might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1744might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1577same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1745same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1578before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1746before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1579no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1747no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1580 1748
1581=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1749=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1582 1750
1583Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1751Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1584recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1752recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1670 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1838 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1671 1839
1672 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1840 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1673 if (timeout < now) 1841 if (timeout < now)
1674 { 1842 {
1675 // timeout occured, take action 1843 // timeout occurred, take action
1676 } 1844 }
1677 else 1845 else
1678 { 1846 {
1679 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1847 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1680 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1848 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1702to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1870to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the
1703callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1871callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer:
1704 1872
1705 ev_init (timer, callback); 1873 ev_init (timer, callback);
1706 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1874 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1707 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMEOUT); 1875 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1708 1876
1709And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1877And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1710C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1878C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1711 1879
1712 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1880 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1713 1881
1714This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1882This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1715time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1883time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1716 1884
1717Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1885Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1755 1923
1756=head3 The special problem of time updates 1924=head3 The special problem of time updates
1757 1925
1758Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1926Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1759least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1927least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1760time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1928time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1761growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1929growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1762lots of events in one iteration. 1930lots of events in one iteration.
1763 1931
1764The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1932The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1765time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1933time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1836C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2004C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
1837 2005
1838This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2006This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
1839usage example. 2007usage example.
1840 2008
1841=item ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2009=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
1842 2010
1843Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2011Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
1844then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's 2012then this time is relative to the current event loop time, otherwise it's
1845the timeout value currently configured. 2013the timeout value currently configured.
1846 2014
1847That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns 2015That is, after an C<ev_timer_set (w, 5, 7)>, C<ev_timer_remaining> returns
1848C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remain> 2016C<5>. When the timer is started and one second passes, C<ev_timer_remaining>
1849will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return 2017will return C<4>. When the timer expires and is restarted, it will return
1850roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time, 2018roughly C<7> (likely slightly less as callback invocation takes some time,
1851too), and so on. 2019too), and so on.
1852 2020
1853=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 2021=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
1882 } 2050 }
1883 2051
1884 ev_timer mytimer; 2052 ev_timer mytimer;
1885 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2053 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1886 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2054 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1887 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2055 ev_run (loop, 0);
1888 2056
1889 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2057 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1890 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2058 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1891 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2059 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1892 2060
1918 2086
1919As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2087As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1920point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2088point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1921timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2089timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1922earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2090earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1923(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2091(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1924 2092
1925=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2093=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1926 2094
1927=over 4 2095=over 4
1928 2096
2056Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2224Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2057system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2225system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2058potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2226potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2059 2227
2060 static void 2228 static void
2061 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2229 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2062 { 2230 {
2063 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2231 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2064 } 2232 }
2065 2233
2066 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2234 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2107 2275
2108When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2276When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something
2109with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2277with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as
2110you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2278you don't register any with libev for the same signal).
2111 2279
2112Both the signal mask state (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal handler state
2113(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2114sotpping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2115and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2116
2117If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2280If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2118C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2281C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2119not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2282not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2120interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2283interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2121and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher. 2284and unblock them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
2122 2285
2286=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2287
2288Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2289(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2290stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2291and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler.
2292
2293While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2294sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2295C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2296certain signals to be blocked.
2297
2298This means that before calling C<exec> (from the child) you should reset
2299the signal mask to whatever "default" you expect (all clear is a good
2300choice usually).
2301
2302The simplest way to ensure that the signal mask is reset in the child is
2303to install a fork handler with C<pthread_atfork> that resets it. That will
2304catch fork calls done by libraries (such as the libc) as well.
2305
2306In current versions of libev, the signal will not be blocked indefinitely
2307unless you use the C<signalfd> API (C<EV_SIGNALFD>). While this reduces
2308the window of opportunity for problems, it will not go away, as libev
2309I<has> to modify the signal mask, at least temporarily.
2310
2311So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2312you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2313is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2314
2123=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2315=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2124 2316
2125=over 4 2317=over 4
2126 2318
2127=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 2319=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
2142Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2334Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2143 2335
2144 static void 2336 static void
2145 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2337 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2146 { 2338 {
2147 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2339 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2148 } 2340 }
2149 2341
2150 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2342 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2151 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2343 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2152 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2344 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2538 2730
2539Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2731Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2540prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2732prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2541afterwards. 2733afterwards.
2542 2734
2543You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2735You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2544the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2736the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2545watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2737watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2546rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2738rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2547those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2739those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2548C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2740C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2716 2908
2717 if (timeout >= 0) 2909 if (timeout >= 0)
2718 // create/start timer 2910 // create/start timer
2719 2911
2720 // poll 2912 // poll
2721 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2913 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2722 2914
2723 // stop timer again 2915 // stop timer again
2724 if (timeout >= 0) 2916 if (timeout >= 0)
2725 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2917 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2726 2918
2804if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2996if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2805 2997
2806=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2998=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2807 2999
2808Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3000Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2809similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3001similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2810appropriate way for embedded loops. 3002appropriate way for embedded loops.
2811 3003
2812=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3004=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2813 3005
2814The embedded event loop. 3006The embedded event loop.
2874C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3066C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2875handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3067handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2876 3068
2877=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3069=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2878 3070
2879Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3071Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2880up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3072up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2881sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3073sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2882 3074
2883This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3075This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2884in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3076in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2900disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3092disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2901signal watchers). 3093signal watchers).
2902 3094
2903When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3095When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2904other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3096other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2905C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3097C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2906the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3098Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2907have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3099watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2908also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3100those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3101signal watchers.
2909 3102
2910=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3103=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2911 3104
2912=over 4 3105=over 4
2913 3106
2914=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3107=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
2915 3108
2916Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3109Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
2917kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3110kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2918believe me. 3111really.
2919 3112
2920=back 3113=back
2921 3114
2922 3115
3116=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3117
3118Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3119by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3120
3121While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3122watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3123program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3124loop when you want them to be invoked.
3125
3126Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3127all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3128makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3129can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3130
3131=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3132
3133=over 4
3134
3135=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3136
3137Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3138any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3139pointless, I assure you.
3140
3141=back
3142
3143Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3144cleanup functions are called.
3145
3146 static void
3147 program_exits (void)
3148 {
3149 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3150 }
3151
3152 ...
3153 atexit (program_exits);
3154
3155
2923=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3156=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
2924 3157
2925In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3158In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
2926asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3159asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2927loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3160loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2928 3161
2929Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3162Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
2930control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3163for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
2931C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3164watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
2932can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3165it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
2933safe.
2934 3166
2935This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3167This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2936too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3168too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2937(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3169(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2938C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3170C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2943=head3 Queueing 3175=head3 Queueing
2944 3176
2945C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3177C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2946is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3178is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2947multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't 3179multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2948need elaborate support such as pthreads. 3180need elaborate support such as pthreads or unportable memory access
3181semantics.
2949 3182
2950That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own 3183That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2951queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your 3184queue. But at least I can tell you how to implement locking around your
2952queue: 3185queue:
2953 3186
3092 3325
3093If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 3326If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
3094started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 3327started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
3095repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout. 3328repeat = 0) will be started. C<0> is a valid timeout.
3096 3329
3097The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 3330The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and is
3098passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 3331passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
3099C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 3332C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMER>) and the C<arg>
3100value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both> 3333value passed to C<ev_once>. Note that it is possible to receive I<both>
3101a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io 3334a timeout and an io event at the same time - you probably should give io
3102events precedence. 3335events precedence.
3103 3336
3104Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO. 3337Example: wait up to ten seconds for data to appear on STDIN_FILENO.
3105 3338
3106 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 3339 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
3107 { 3340 {
3108 if (revents & EV_READ) 3341 if (revents & EV_READ)
3109 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 3342 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
3110 else if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 3343 else if (revents & EV_TIMER)
3111 /* doh, nothing entered */; 3344 /* doh, nothing entered */;
3112 } 3345 }
3113 3346
3114 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3347 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3115 3348
3116=item ev_feed_event (struct ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
3117
3118Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
3119had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
3120initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
3121
3122=item ev_feed_fd_event (struct ev_loop *, int fd, int revents) 3349=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3123 3350
3124Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3351Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3125the given events it. 3352the given events it.
3126 3353
3127=item ev_feed_signal_event (struct ev_loop *loop, int signum) 3354=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3128 3355
3129Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3356Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
3130loop!). 3357loop!).
3131 3358
3132=back 3359=back
3212 3439
3213=over 4 3440=over 4
3214 3441
3215=item ev::TYPE::TYPE () 3442=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
3216 3443
3217=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *) 3444=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (loop)
3218 3445
3219=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 3446=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
3220 3447
3221The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher 3448The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
3222with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>. 3449with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
3255 myclass obj; 3482 myclass obj;
3256 ev::io iow; 3483 ev::io iow;
3257 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3484 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3258 3485
3259=item w->set (object *) 3486=item w->set (object *)
3260
3261This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3262 3487
3263This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3488This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3264will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3489will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3265functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3490functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3266the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3491the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3299Example: Use a plain function as callback. 3524Example: Use a plain function as callback.
3300 3525
3301 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { } 3526 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
3302 iow.set <io_cb> (); 3527 iow.set <io_cb> ();
3303 3528
3304=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 3529=item w->set (loop)
3305 3530
3306Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3531Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3307do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3532do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3308 3533
3309=item w->set ([arguments]) 3534=item w->set ([arguments])
3310 3535
3311Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3536Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3312called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3537method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3313automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3538C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3314method. 3539when reconfiguring it with this method.
3315 3540
3316=item w->start () 3541=item w->start ()
3317 3542
3318Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3543Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3319constructor already stores the event loop. 3544constructor already stores the event loop.
3320 3545
3546=item w->start ([arguments])
3547
3548Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3549convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3550the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3551
3321=item w->stop () 3552=item w->stop ()
3322 3553
3323Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3554Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3324 3555
3325=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3556=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3337 3568
3338=back 3569=back
3339 3570
3340=back 3571=back
3341 3572
3342Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3573Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3343the constructor. 3574watchers in the constructor.
3344 3575
3345 class myclass 3576 class myclass
3346 { 3577 {
3347 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3578 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3579 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3348 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3580 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3349 3581
3350 myclass (int fd) 3582 myclass (int fd)
3351 { 3583 {
3352 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3584 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3585 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3353 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3586 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3354 3587
3355 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3588 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3589 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3590
3591 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3356 } 3592 }
3357 }; 3593 };
3358 3594
3359 3595
3360=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3596=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3406=item Ocaml 3642=item Ocaml
3407 3643
3408Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 3644Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3409L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 3645L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3410 3646
3647=item Lua
3648
3649Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3650time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3651L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3652
3411=back 3653=back
3412 3654
3413 3655
3414=head1 MACRO MAGIC 3656=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3415 3657
3428loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3670loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3429C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3671C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3430 3672
3431 ev_unref (EV_A); 3673 ev_unref (EV_A);
3432 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3674 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3433 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3675 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3434 3676
3435It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3677It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3436which is often provided by the following macro. 3678which is often provided by the following macro.
3437 3679
3438=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3680=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3478 } 3720 }
3479 3721
3480 ev_check check; 3722 ev_check check;
3481 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3723 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3482 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3724 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3483 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3725 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3484 3726
3485=head1 EMBEDDING 3727=head1 EMBEDDING
3486 3728
3487Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3729Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3488applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3730applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3568 libev.m4 3810 libev.m4
3569 3811
3570=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 3812=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
3571 3813
3572Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to 3814Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
3573define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of 3815define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3574autoconf is documented for every option. 3816the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3817
3818Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3819values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3820to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3821to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3822users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3823settings.
3575 3824
3576=over 4 3825=over 4
3577 3826
3827=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3828
3829Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3830release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3831have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3832
3833You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3834versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3835sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3836from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3837typedef in that case.
3838
3839In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3840and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3841removed completely.
3842
3578=item EV_STANDALONE 3843=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3579 3844
3580Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3845Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3581keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3846keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3582implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not 3847implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
3583supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 3848supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3584F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 3849F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3585 3850
3586In stanbdalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 3851In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3587configuration, but has to be more conservative. 3852configuration, but has to be more conservative.
3588 3853
3589=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 3854=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3590 3855
3591If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 3856If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3656be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 3921be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
3657C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 3922C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
3658it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 3923it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
3659on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 3924on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
3660 3925
3661=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE 3926=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE(fd)
3662 3927
3663If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map 3928If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
3664file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the 3929file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
3665default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually 3930default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
3666correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management, 3931correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
3667in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles. 3932in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
3933
3934=item EV_WIN32_HANDLE_TO_FD(handle)
3935
3936If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> then libev maps handles to file descriptors
3937using the standard C<_open_osfhandle> function. For programs implementing
3938their own fd to handle mapping, overwriting this function makes it easier
3939to do so. This can be done by defining this macro to an appropriate value.
3940
3941=item EV_WIN32_CLOSE_FD(fd)
3942
3943If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
3944macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
3945file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
3946the underlying OS handle.
3668 3947
3669=item EV_USE_POLL 3948=item EV_USE_POLL
3670 3949
3671If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 3950If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
3672backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 3951backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
3719as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 3998as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
3720 3999
3721In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4000In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
3722(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4001(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
3723 4002
3724=item EV_H 4003=item EV_H (h)
3725 4004
3726The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4005The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
3727undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4006undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
3728used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 4007used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
3729 4008
3730=item EV_CONFIG_H 4009=item EV_CONFIG_H (h)
3731 4010
3732If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 4011If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
3733F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 4012F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
3734C<EV_H>, above. 4013C<EV_H>, above.
3735 4014
3736=item EV_EVENT_H 4015=item EV_EVENT_H (h)
3737 4016
3738Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 4017Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
3739of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">. 4018of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
3740 4019
3741=item EV_PROTOTYPES 4020=item EV_PROTOTYPES (h)
3742 4021
3743If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 4022If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
3744prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 4023prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
3745occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions 4024occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
3746around libev functions. 4025around libev functions.
3768fine. 4047fine.
3769 4048
3770If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these 4049If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these
3771both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU. 4050both to C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3772 4051
3773=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 4052=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE, EV_IDLE_ENABLE, EV_EMBED_ENABLE, EV_STAT_ENABLE,
4053EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
4054EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3774 4055
3775If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 4056If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3776defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 4057the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3777code. 4058is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3778 4059
3779=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE 4060=item EV_FEATURES
3780
3781If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3782defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3783code.
3784
3785=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
3786
3787If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
3788defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Embed watchers rely on most other
3789watcher types, which therefore must not be disabled.
3790
3791=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
3792
3793If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
3794defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3795
3796=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
3797
3798If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
3799defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3800
3801=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3802
3803If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3804defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3805
3806=item EV_MINIMAL
3807 4061
3808If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4062If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3809speed (but with the full API), define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this 4063speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3810is used to override some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size 4064certain subsets of functionality. The default is to enable all features
3811on amd64. It also selects a much smaller 2-heap for timer management over 4065that can be enabled on the platform.
3812the default 4-heap.
3813 4066
3814You can save even more by disabling watcher types you do not need 4067A typical way to use this symbol is to define it to C<0> (or to a bitset
3815and setting C<EV_MAXPRI> == C<EV_MINPRI>. Also, disabling C<assert> 4068with some broad features you want) and then selectively re-enable
3816(C<-DNDEBUG>) will usually reduce code size a lot. 4069additional parts you want, for example if you want everything minimal,
4070but multiple event loop support, async and child watchers and the poll
4071backend, use this:
3817 4072
3818Defining C<EV_MINIMAL> to C<2> will additionally reduce the core API to 4073 #define EV_FEATURES 0
3819provide a bare-bones event library. See C<ev.h> for details on what parts 4074 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 1
3820of the API are still available, and do not complain if this subset changes 4075 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
3821over time. 4076 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4077 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4078
4079The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4080values:
4081
4082=over 4
4083
4084=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4085
4086Use larger code to speed up some operations.
4087
4088Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
4089code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4090
4091When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4092gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4093assertions.
4094
4095=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4096
4097Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4098hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4099and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4100runtime.
4101
4102=item C<4> - full API configuration
4103
4104This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4105enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4106
4107=item C<8> - full API
4108
4109This enables a lot of the "lesser used" API functions. See C<ev.h> for
4110details on which parts of the API are still available without this
4111feature, and do not complain if this subset changes over time.
4112
4113=item C<16> - enable all optional watcher types
4114
4115Enables all optional watcher types. If you want to selectively enable
4116only some watcher types other than I/O and timers (e.g. prepare,
4117embed, async, child...) you can enable them manually by defining
4118C<EV_watchertype_ENABLE> to C<1> instead.
4119
4120=item C<32> - enable all backends
4121
4122This enables all backends - without this feature, you need to enable at
4123least one backend manually (C<EV_USE_SELECT> is a good choice).
4124
4125=item C<64> - enable OS-specific "helper" APIs
4126
4127Enable inotify, eventfd, signalfd and similar OS-specific helper APIs by
4128default.
4129
4130=back
4131
4132Compiling with C<gcc -Os -DEV_STANDALONE -DEV_USE_EPOLL=1 -DEV_FEATURES=0>
4133reduces the compiled size of libev from 24.7Kb code/2.8Kb data to 6.5Kb
4134code/0.3Kb data on my GNU/Linux amd64 system, while still giving you I/O
4135watchers, timers and monotonic clock support.
4136
4137With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4138when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4139your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4140I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4141
4142=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4143
4144If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4145functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4146somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
4147libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
4148big.
4149
4150Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
4151enabled.
3822 4152
3823=item EV_NSIG 4153=item EV_NSIG
3824 4154
3825The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4155The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3826signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4156signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3827automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4157automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3828specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4158specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3829good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4159good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3830statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4160statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3831 4161
3832=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4162=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3833 4163
3834C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4164C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3835pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 4165pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES> disabled),
3836than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 4166usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you
3837increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 4167might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
3838 4168
3839=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 4169=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
3840 4170
3841C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4171C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
3842inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 4172inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_FEATURES>
3843usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 4173disabled), usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of
3844watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 4174C<ev_stat> watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a
3845two). 4175power of two).
3846 4176
3847=item EV_USE_4HEAP 4177=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3848 4178
3849Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4179Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3850timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined 4180timer and periodics heaps, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3851to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably 4181to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has noticeably
3852faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers. 4182faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3853 4183
3854The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4184The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3855(disabled). 4185will be C<0>.
3856 4186
3857=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT 4187=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3858 4188
3859Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the 4189Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3860timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within 4190timer and periodics heaps, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3861the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>), 4191the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3862which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code, 4192which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3863but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance 4193but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3864noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers. 4194noticeably with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3865 4195
3866The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0> 4196The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3867(disabled). 4197will be C<0>.
3868 4198
3869=item EV_VERIFY 4199=item EV_VERIFY
3870 4200
3871Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4201Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
3872be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4202be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3873in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4203in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3874called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4204called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3875called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4205called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3876verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4206verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3877libev considerably. 4207libev considerably.
3878 4208
3879The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be 4209The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
3880C<0>. 4210will be C<0>.
3881 4211
3882=item EV_COMMON 4212=item EV_COMMON
3883 4213
3884By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4214By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
3885this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4215this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
3886members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4216members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
3887though, and it must be identical each time. 4217though, and it must be identical each time.
3888 4218
3889For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4219For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
3890 4220
3943file. 4273file.
3944 4274
3945The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 4275The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
3946that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices: 4276that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
3947 4277
3948 #define EV_MINIMAL 1 4278 #define EV_FEATURES 8
3949 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 4279 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3950 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
3951 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0 4280 #define EV_PREPARE_ENABLE 1
4281 #define EV_IDLE_ENABLE 1
3952 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0 4282 #define EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE 1
3953 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0 4283 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4284 #define EV_USE_STDEXCEPT 0
3954 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 4285 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3955 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3956 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
3957 4286
3958 #include "ev++.h" 4287 #include "ev++.h"
3959 4288
3960And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4289And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
3961 4290
4092 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4421 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4093 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4422 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4094 } 4423 }
4095 4424
4096The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4425The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4097into C<ev_loop>: 4426into C<ev_run>:
4098 4427
4099 void * 4428 void *
4100 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4429 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4101 { 4430 {
4102 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4431 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4103 4432
4104 l_acquire (EV_A); 4433 l_acquire (EV_A);
4105 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4434 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4106 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4435 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4107 l_release (EV_A); 4436 l_release (EV_A);
4108 4437
4109 return 0; 4438 return 0;
4110 } 4439 }
4111 4440
4163 4492
4164=head3 COROUTINES 4493=head3 COROUTINES
4165 4494
4166Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4495Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4167libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4496libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4168coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4497coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4169different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4498different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4170the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4499the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4171that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4500that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4172 4501
4173Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4502Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4174C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4503C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4175they do not call any callbacks. 4504they do not call any callbacks.
4176 4505
4177=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4506=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4178 4507
4179Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4508Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4190maintainable. 4519maintainable.
4191 4520
4192And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4521And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4193wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4522wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4194seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4523seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4195warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4524warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4196been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4525been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4197such buggy versions. 4526such buggy versions.
4198 4527
4199While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4528While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4200"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4529"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4236I suggest using suppression lists. 4565I suggest using suppression lists.
4237 4566
4238 4567
4239=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4568=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4240 4569
4570=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4571
4572GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4573interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4574
4575That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4576files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4577
4578Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4579by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4580standard libev compiled for their system.
4581
4582Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4583suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4584i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4585
4586=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4587
4588The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4589you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4590OpenGL drivers.
4591
4592=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4593
4594The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4595only sockets, many support pipes.
4596
4597Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4598rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4599loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4600probably going to work well.
4601
4602=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4603
4604Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4605implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4606release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4607
4608Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4609this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4610a loop.
4611
4612=head3 C<select> is buggy
4613
4614All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4615one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4616descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4617you use more.
4618
4619There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4620C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4621work on OS/X.
4622
4623=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4624
4625=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4626
4627The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4628thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4629without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4630defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4631
4632If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4633it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4634
4635=head3 Event port backend
4636
4637The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4638ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4639releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4640a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4641and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4642are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4643great.
4644
4645If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4646the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4647C<select> backends.
4648
4649=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4650
4651AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4652this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4653compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4654with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4655
4241=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4656=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4657
4658=head3 General issues
4242 4659
4243Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4660Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4244requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4661requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4245model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4662model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4246the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4663the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4247descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4664descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4248e.g. cygwin. 4665e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4666as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4667environment.
4249 4668
4250Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4669Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4251re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4670re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4252things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4671then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4253way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4672also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4254 4673
4255There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4674There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4256embedding it into other applications. 4675embedding it into other applications.
4257 4676
4258Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4677Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4286you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4705you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4287 4706
4288 #include "evwrap.h" 4707 #include "evwrap.h"
4289 #include "ev.c" 4708 #include "ev.c"
4290 4709
4291=over 4
4292
4293=item The winsocket select function 4710=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4294 4711
4295The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4712The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4296requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4713requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4297also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4714also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4298requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4715requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4307 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4724 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4308 4725
4309Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4726Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4310complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4727complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4311 4728
4312=item Limited number of file descriptors 4729=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4313 4730
4314Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4731Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4315 4732
4316Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4733Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4317of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4734of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4332runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4749runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4333(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4750(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4334you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4751you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4335the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4752the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4336 4753
4337=back
4338
4339=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4754=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4340 4755
4341In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4756In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4342backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4757backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4343 4758
4349Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4764Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4350structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4765structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4351assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4766assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4352callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4767callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4353calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4768calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4769
4770=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4771
4772Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4773writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4354 4774
4355=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4775=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4356 4776
4357The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4777The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4358C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4778C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4381watchers. 4801watchers.
4382 4802
4383=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4803=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4384 4804
4385The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4805The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4386have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4806have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4387enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4807good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4808(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4388implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4809implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4389ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4810IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
43902200.
4391 4811
4392=back 4812=back
4393 4813
4394If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4814If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4395 4815
4463involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 4883involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
4464 4884
4465=back 4885=back
4466 4886
4467 4887
4888=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4889
4890The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4891
4892At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4893for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4894layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
4895new API early than late.
4896
4897=over 4
4898
4899=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4900
4901The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
4902C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
4903section.
4904
4905=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
4906
4907These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
4908
4909 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
4910 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
4911
4912=item function/symbol renames
4913
4914A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
4915
4916 ev_loop => ev_run
4917 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
4918 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
4919
4920 ev_unloop => ev_break
4921 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
4922 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
4923 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
4924
4925 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
4926
4927 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
4928 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
4929 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4930
4931Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4932C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
4933associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
4934ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
4935as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4936C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4937typedef.
4938
4939=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4940
4941The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4942mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4943and work, but the library code will of course be larger.
4944
4945=back
4946
4947
4468=head1 GLOSSARY 4948=head1 GLOSSARY
4469 4949
4470=over 4 4950=over 4
4471 4951
4472=item active 4952=item active
4473 4953
4474A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 4954A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4475an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 4955See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4476 4956
4477=item application 4957=item application
4478 4958
4479In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 4959In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
4960
4961=item backend
4962
4963The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4480 4964
4481=item callback 4965=item callback
4482 4966
4483The address of a function that is called when some event has been 4967The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4484detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 4968detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4485received the event, and the actual event bitset. 4969received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4486 4970
4487=item callback invocation 4971=item callback/watcher invocation
4488 4972
4489The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 4973The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4490 4974
4491=item event 4975=item event
4492 4976
4493A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available 4977A change of state of some external event, such as data now being available
4494for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having 4978for reading on a file descriptor, time having passed or simply not having
4495any other events happening anymore. 4979any other events happening anymore.
4496 4980
4497In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or 4981In libev, events are represented as single bits (such as C<EV_READ> or
4498C<EV_TIMEOUT>). 4982C<EV_TIMER>).
4499 4983
4500=item event library 4984=item event library
4501 4985
4502A software package implementing an event model and loop. 4986A software package implementing an event model and loop.
4503 4987
4511The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 4995The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4512watchers and events. 4996watchers and events.
4513 4997
4514=item pending 4998=item pending
4515 4999
4516A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5000A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4517and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5001detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4518pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4519
4520A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4521its pending status.
4522 5002
4523=item real time 5003=item real time
4524 5004
4525The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5005The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4526 5006
4533=item watcher 5013=item watcher
4534 5014
4535A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5015A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4536to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5016to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4537 5017
4538=item watcher invocation
4539
4540The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4541
4542=back 5018=back
4543 5019
4544=head1 AUTHOR 5020=head1 AUTHOR
4545 5021
4546Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5022Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5023Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4547 5024

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