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Revision 1.35 by root, Fri Nov 23 19:35:09 2007 UTC vs.
Revision 1.57 by root, Wed Nov 28 11:27:29 2007 UTC

3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10
11 #include <ev.h>
12
13 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */
17 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */
23 }
24
25 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */
30 }
31
32 int
33 main (void)
34 {
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */
46 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47
48 return 0;
49 }
8 50
9=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
10 52
11Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
12file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage
21details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 63details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
22watcher. 64watcher.
23 65
24=head1 FEATURES 66=head1 FEATURES
25 67
26Libev supports select, poll, the linux-specific epoll and the bsd-specific 68Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the linux-specific C<epoll>, the
27kqueue mechanisms for file descriptor events, relative timers, absolute 69bsd-specific C<kqueue> and the solaris-specific event port mechanisms
28timers with customised rescheduling, signal events, process status change 70for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>),
29events (related to SIGCHLD), and event watchers dealing with the event 71absolute timers with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous
30loop mechanism itself (idle, prepare and check watchers). It also is quite 72signals (C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and
73event watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>,
74C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as
75file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events
76(C<ev_fork>).
77
78It also is quite fast (see this
31fast (see this L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing 79L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
32it to libevent for example). 80for example).
33 81
34=head1 CONVENTIONS 82=head1 CONVENTIONS
35 83
36Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration 84Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will
37will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info 85be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about
38about various configuration options please have a look at the file 86various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in
39F<README.embed> in the libev distribution. If libev was configured without 87this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event
40support for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial 88loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop>
41argument of name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) 89(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument.
42will not have this argument.
43 90
44=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 91=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION
45 92
46Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 93Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
47(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 94(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
48the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 95the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
49called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 96called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
50to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 97to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
51it, you should treat it as such. 98it, you should treat it as such.
52 99
53
54=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 100=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
55 101
56These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 102These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
57library in any way. 103library in any way.
58 104
77Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 123Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
78as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 124as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
79compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 125compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
80not a problem. 126not a problem.
81 127
82Example: make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 128Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
83version: 129version.
84 130
85 assert (("libev version mismatch", 131 assert (("libev version mismatch",
86 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 132 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
87 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 133 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
88 134
116C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 162C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for
117recommended ones. 163recommended ones.
118 164
119See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 165See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
120 166
121=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 167=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, size_t size))
122 168
123Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar to the 169Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype and semantics are
124realloc C function, the semantics are identical). It is used to allocate 170identical to the realloc C function). It is used to allocate and free
125and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory 171memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory needs to be
126needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially 172allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially destructive
127destructive action. The default is your system realloc function. 173action. The default is your system realloc function.
128 174
129You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 175You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
130free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 176free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
131or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 177or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
132 178
133Example: replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 179Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
134retries: better than mine). 180retries).
135 181
136 static void * 182 static void *
137 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, long size) 183 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
138 { 184 {
139 for (;;) 185 for (;;)
140 { 186 {
141 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 187 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
142 188
158callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 204callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no
159matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 205matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
160requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 206requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
161(such as abort). 207(such as abort).
162 208
163Example: do the same thing as libev does internally: 209Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
164 210
165 static void 211 static void
166 fatal_error (const char *msg) 212 fatal_error (const char *msg)
167 { 213 {
168 perror (msg); 214 perror (msg);
314Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 360Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
315always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 361always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
316handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 362handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
317undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 363undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
318 364
319Example: try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 365Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
320 366
321 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 367 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
322 if (!epoller) 368 if (!epoller)
323 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 369 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
324 370
325=item ev_default_destroy () 371=item ev_default_destroy ()
326 372
327Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 373Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
328etc.). This stops all registered event watchers (by not touching them in 374etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
329any way whatsoever, although you cannot rely on this :). 375sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
376responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
377calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
378the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
379for example).
330 380
331=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 381=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
332 382
333Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 383Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
334earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 384earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
419 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 469 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
420 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 470 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
421 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 471 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
422 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 472 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *.
423 473
424Example: queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 474Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding
425anymore. 475anymore.
426 476
427 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 477 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
428 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 478 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
429 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 479 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
449visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 499visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
450no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 500no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
451way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 501way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
452libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 502libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>.
453 503
454Example: create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 504Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
455running when nothing else is active. 505running when nothing else is active.
456 506
457 struct dv_signal exitsig; 507 struct ev_signal exitsig;
458 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 508 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
459 ev_signal_start (myloop, &exitsig); 509 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
460 evf_unref (myloop); 510 evf_unref (loop);
461 511
462Example: for some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 512Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
463 513
464 ev_ref (myloop); 514 ev_ref (loop);
465 ev_signal_stop (myloop, &exitsig); 515 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
466 516
467=back 517=back
518
468 519
469=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 520=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
470 521
471A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 522A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
472interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 523interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
505*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the 556*) >>), and you can stop watching for events at any time by calling the
506corresponding stop function (C<< ev_<type>_stop (loop, watcher *) >>. 557corresponding stop function (C<< ev_<type>_stop (loop, watcher *) >>.
507 558
508As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you 559As long as your watcher is active (has been started but not stopped) you
509must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never 560must not touch the values stored in it. Most specifically you must never
510reinitialise it or call its set macro. 561reinitialise it or call its C<set> macro.
511
512You can check whether an event is active by calling the C<ev_is_active
513(watcher *)> macro. To see whether an event is outstanding (but the
514callback for it has not been called yet) you can use the C<ev_is_pending
515(watcher *)> macro.
516 562
517Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the 563Each and every callback receives the event loop pointer as first, the
518registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as 564registered watcher structure as second, and a bitset of received events as
519third argument. 565third argument.
520 566
544The signal specified in the C<ev_signal> watcher has been received by a thread. 590The signal specified in the C<ev_signal> watcher has been received by a thread.
545 591
546=item C<EV_CHILD> 592=item C<EV_CHILD>
547 593
548The pid specified in the C<ev_child> watcher has received a status change. 594The pid specified in the C<ev_child> watcher has received a status change.
595
596=item C<EV_STAT>
597
598The path specified in the C<ev_stat> watcher changed its attributes somehow.
549 599
550=item C<EV_IDLE> 600=item C<EV_IDLE>
551 601
552The C<ev_idle> watcher has determined that you have nothing better to do. 602The C<ev_idle> watcher has determined that you have nothing better to do.
553 603
561received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 611received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
562many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 612many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
563(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 613(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
564C<ev_loop> from blocking). 614C<ev_loop> from blocking).
565 615
616=item C<EV_EMBED>
617
618The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
619
620=item C<EV_FORK>
621
622The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
623C<ev_fork>).
624
566=item C<EV_ERROR> 625=item C<EV_ERROR>
567 626
568An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 627An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might
569happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 628happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
570ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 629ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
576your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 635your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
577with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 636with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded
578programs, though, so beware. 637programs, though, so beware.
579 638
580=back 639=back
640
641=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
642
643In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type,
644e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers.
645
646=over 4
647
648=item C<ev_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
649
650This macro initialises the generic portion of a watcher. The contents
651of the watcher object can be arbitrary (so C<malloc> will do). Only
652the generic parts of the watcher are initialised, you I<need> to call
653the type-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> macro afterwards to initialise the
654type-specific parts. For each type there is also a C<ev_TYPE_init> macro
655which rolls both calls into one.
656
657You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
658(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
659
660The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
661int revents)>.
662
663=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args])
664
665This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
666call C<ev_init> at least once before you call this macro, but you can
667call C<ev_TYPE_set> any number of times. You must not, however, call this
668macro on a watcher that is active (it can be pending, however, which is a
669difference to the C<ev_init> macro).
670
671Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
672(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
673
674=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
675
676This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
677calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise
678a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
679
680=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
681
682Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
683events. If the watcher is already active nothing will happen.
684
685=item C<ev_TYPE_stop> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
686
687Stops the given watcher again (if active) and clears the pending
688status. It is possible that stopped watchers are pending (for example,
689non-repeating timers are being stopped when they become pending), but
690C<ev_TYPE_stop> ensures that the watcher is neither active nor pending. If
691you want to free or reuse the memory used by the watcher it is therefore a
692good idea to always call its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function.
693
694=item bool ev_is_active (ev_TYPE *watcher)
695
696Returns a true value iff the watcher is active (i.e. it has been started
697and not yet been stopped). As long as a watcher is active you must not modify
698it.
699
700=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
701
702Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
703events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
704is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
705C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to
706libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it).
707
708=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
709
710Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
711
712=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
713
714Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
715(modulo threads).
716
717=back
718
581 719
582=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 720=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
583 721
584Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 722Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
585and read at any time, libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 723and read at any time, libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
603 { 741 {
604 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 742 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
605 ... 743 ...
606 } 744 }
607 745
608More interesting and less C-conformant ways of catsing your callback type 746More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
609have been omitted.... 747instead have been omitted.
748
749Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
750watchers:
751
752 struct my_biggy
753 {
754 int some_data;
755 ev_timer t1;
756 ev_timer t2;
757 }
758
759In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
760you need to use C<offsetof>:
761
762 #include <stddef.h>
763
764 static void
765 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
766 {
767 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
768 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
769 }
770
771 static void
772 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
773 {
774 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
775 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
776 }
610 777
611 778
612=head1 WATCHER TYPES 779=head1 WATCHER TYPES
613 780
614This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 781This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
615information given in the last section. 782information given in the last section. Any initialisation/set macros,
783functions and members specific to the watcher type are explained.
616 784
785Members are additionally marked with either I<[read-only]>, meaning that,
786while the watcher is active, you can look at the member and expect some
787sensible content, but you must not modify it (you can modify it while the
788watcher is stopped to your hearts content), or I<[read-write]>, which
789means you can expect it to have some sensible content while the watcher
790is active, but you can also modify it. Modifying it may not do something
791sensible or take immediate effect (or do anything at all), but libev will
792not crash or malfunction in any way.
617 793
794
618=head2 C<ev_io> - is this file descriptor readable or writable 795=head2 C<ev_io> - is this file descriptor readable or writable?
619 796
620I/O watchers check whether a file descriptor is readable or writable 797I/O watchers check whether a file descriptor is readable or writable
621in each iteration of the event loop (This behaviour is called 798in each iteration of the event loop, or, more precisely, when reading
622level-triggering because you keep receiving events as long as the 799would not block the process and writing would at least be able to write
623condition persists. Remember you can stop the watcher if you don't want to 800some data. This behaviour is called level-triggering because you keep
624act on the event and neither want to receive future events). 801receiving events as long as the condition persists. Remember you can stop
802the watcher if you don't want to act on the event and neither want to
803receive future events.
625 804
626In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 805In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
627fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 806fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
628descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 807descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
629required if you know what you are doing). 808required if you know what you are doing).
630 809
631You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends 810You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends
632(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file 811(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file
633descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing 812descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing
634to the same underlying file/socket etc. description (that is, they share 813to the same underlying file/socket/etc. description (that is, they share
635the same underlying "file open"). 814the same underlying "file open").
636 815
637If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 816If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
638(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 817(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
639C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 818C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
640 819
820Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
821receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might
822be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
823because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
824lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
825this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
826it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
827C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
828
829If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
830play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
831wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
832such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
833its own, so its quite safe to use).
834
641=over 4 835=over 4
642 836
643=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 837=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
644 838
645=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 839=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
646 840
647Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The fd is the file descriptor to rceeive 841Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
648events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_READ | 842rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
649EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 843C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
650 844
651Please note that most of the more scalable backend mechanisms (for example 845=item int fd [read-only]
652epoll and solaris ports) can result in spurious readyness notifications 846
653for file descriptors, so you practically need to use non-blocking I/O (and 847The file descriptor being watched.
654treat callback invocation as hint only), or retest separately with a safe 848
655interface before doing I/O (XLib can do this), or force the use of either 849=item int events [read-only]
656C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>, which don't suffer from this 850
657problem. Also note that it is quite easy to have your callback invoked 851The events being watched.
658when the readyness condition is no longer valid even when employing
659typical ways of handling events, so its a good idea to use non-blocking
660I/O unconditionally.
661 852
662=back 853=back
663 854
664Example: call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 855Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
665readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 856readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
666attempt to read a whole line in the callback: 857attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
667 858
668 static void 859 static void
669 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 860 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
670 { 861 {
671 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 862 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
678 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 869 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
679 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 870 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
680 ev_loop (loop, 0); 871 ev_loop (loop, 0);
681 872
682 873
683=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally recurring timeouts 874=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
684 875
685Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 876Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
686given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 877given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
687 878
688The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 879The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
729 920
730If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 921If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat
731value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 922value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value.
732 923
733This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 924This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
734example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 925example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called
735timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 926idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been,
736seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 927say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do
737configure an C<ev_timer> with after=repeat=60 and calling ev_timer_again each 928this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling
738time you successfully read or write some data. If you go into an idle 929C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
739state where you do not expect data to travel on the socket, you can stop 930you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
740the timer, and again will automatically restart it if need be. 931socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if
932need be.
933
934You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether
935and only ever use the C<repeat> value:
936
937 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
938 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
939 ...
940 timer->again = 17.;
941 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
942 ...
943 timer->again = 10.;
944 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
945
946This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want
947to modify its timeout value.
948
949=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
950
951The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
952or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
953which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
741 954
742=back 955=back
743 956
744Example: create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 957Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
745 958
746 static void 959 static void
747 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 960 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
748 { 961 {
749 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 962 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
751 964
752 struct ev_timer mytimer; 965 struct ev_timer mytimer;
753 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 966 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
754 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 967 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
755 968
756Example: create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 969Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
757inactivity. 970inactivity.
758 971
759 static void 972 static void
760 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 973 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
761 { 974 {
770 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 983 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
771 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 984 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
772 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 985 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
773 986
774 987
775=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron 988=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
776 989
777Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 990Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
778(and unfortunately a bit complex). 991(and unfortunately a bit complex).
779 992
780Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 993Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
781but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 994but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
782to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 995to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
783periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. c<ev_now () 996periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
784+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 997+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
785take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 998take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
786roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 999roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time
787again). 1000again).
788 1001
872Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1085Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
873when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1086when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
874a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1087a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
875program when the crontabs have changed). 1088program when the crontabs have changed).
876 1089
1090=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1091
1092The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1093take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1094called.
1095
1096=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1097
1098The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1099switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1100the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1101
877=back 1102=back
878 1103
879Example: call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1104Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
880system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1105system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
881potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1106potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability.
882 1107
883 static void 1108 static void
884 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1109 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
888 1113
889 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1114 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
890 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1115 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
891 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1116 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
892 1117
893Example: the same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1118Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
894 1119
895 #include <math.h> 1120 #include <math.h>
896 1121
897 static ev_tstamp 1122 static ev_tstamp
898 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1123 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
900 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1125 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
901 } 1126 }
902 1127
903 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1128 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
904 1129
905Example: call a callback every hour, starting now: 1130Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
906 1131
907 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1132 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
908 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1133 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
909 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1134 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
910 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1135 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
911 1136
912 1137
913=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled 1138=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
914 1139
915Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1140Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
916signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 1141signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
917will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 1142will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
918normal event processing, like any other event. 1143normal event processing, like any other event.
931=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1156=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
932 1157
933Configures the watcher to trigger on the given signal number (usually one 1158Configures the watcher to trigger on the given signal number (usually one
934of the C<SIGxxx> constants). 1159of the C<SIGxxx> constants).
935 1160
1161=item int signum [read-only]
1162
1163The signal the watcher watches out for.
1164
936=back 1165=back
937 1166
938 1167
939=head2 C<ev_child> - wait for pid status changes 1168=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
940 1169
941Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1170Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
942some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1171some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies).
943 1172
944=over 4 1173=over 4
952at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see 1181at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see
953the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems 1182the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems
954C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the 1183C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the
955process causing the status change. 1184process causing the status change.
956 1185
1186=item int pid [read-only]
1187
1188The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id.
1189
1190=item int rpid [read-write]
1191
1192The process id that detected a status change.
1193
1194=item int rstatus [read-write]
1195
1196The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1197C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1198
957=back 1199=back
958 1200
959Example: try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1201Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
960 1202
961 static void 1203 static void
962 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1204 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
963 { 1205 {
964 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1206 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
967 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1209 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
968 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1210 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
969 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1211 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
970 1212
971 1213
1214=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1215
1216This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1217C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1218compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1219
1220The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1221not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1222not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1223otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1224the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1225
1226Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1227calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1228can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1229a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1230unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around
1231five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also
1232impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats
1233usually overkill.
1234
1235This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1236as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1237resource-intensive.
1238
1239At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1240implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1241reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1242semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1243to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1244usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1245polling.
1246
1247=over 4
1248
1249=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1250
1251=item ev_stat_set (ev_stat *, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1252
1253Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of the given
1254C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1255be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1256a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1257path for as long as the watcher is active.
1258
1259The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected,
1260relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the
1261last change was detected).
1262
1263=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *)
1264
1265Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1266watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid
1267detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be
1268useful simply to find out the new values.
1269
1270=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1271
1272The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of
1273C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1274suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there
1275was some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1276
1277=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1278
1279The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1280C<prev> != C<attr>.
1281
1282=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1283
1284The specified interval.
1285
1286=item const char *path [read-only]
1287
1288The filesystem path that is being watched.
1289
1290=back
1291
1292Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1293
1294 static void
1295 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1296 {
1297 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1298 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1299 {
1300 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1301 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1302 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1303 }
1304 else
1305 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1306 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1307 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1308 }
1309
1310 ...
1311 ev_stat passwd;
1312
1313 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd");
1314 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1315
1316
972=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do 1317=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
973 1318
974Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1319Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending
975(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1320(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long
976as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1321as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals,
977imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1322imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle
995kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1340kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
996believe me. 1341believe me.
997 1342
998=back 1343=back
999 1344
1000Example: dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle>, start it, and in the 1345Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1001callback, free it. Alos, use no error checking, as usual. 1346callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1002 1347
1003 static void 1348 static void
1004 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1349 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1005 { 1350 {
1006 free (w); 1351 free (w);
1011 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1356 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1012 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1357 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1013 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1358 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1014 1359
1015 1360
1016=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop 1361=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1017 1362
1018Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1363Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1019prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 1364prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
1020afterwards. 1365afterwards.
1021 1366
1367You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter
1368the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
1369watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
1370rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
1371those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
1372C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
1373called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
1374
1022Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 1375Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
1023their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track 1376their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track
1024variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 1377variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
1025coroutine library and lots more. 1378coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
1379you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example,
1380in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare>
1381watcher).
1026 1382
1027This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1383This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1028to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1384to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1029them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1385them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1030provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1386provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1052parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1408parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1053macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1409macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1054 1410
1055=back 1411=back
1056 1412
1057Example: *TODO*. 1413Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers
1414and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and
1415in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is
1416pseudo-code only of course:
1058 1417
1418 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1419 static ev_timer tw;
1059 1420
1421 static void
1422 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1423 {
1424 // set the relevant poll flags
1425 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1426 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1427 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1428 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1429 }
1430
1431 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1432 static void
1433 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1434 {
1435 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd];
1436 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1437 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1438
1439 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1440 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1441 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1442
1443 // create on ev_io per pollfd
1444 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1445 {
1446 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1447 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1448 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1449
1450 fds [i].revents = 0;
1451 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1452 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1453 }
1454 }
1455
1456 // stop all watchers after blocking
1457 static void
1458 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1459 {
1460 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1461
1462 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1463 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1464
1465 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1466 }
1467
1468
1060=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough 1469=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1061 1470
1062This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 1471This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1063into another. 1472into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded
1473loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect
1474fashion and must not be used).
1064 1475
1065There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and 1476There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and
1066prioritise I/O. 1477prioritise I/O.
1067 1478
1068As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support 1479As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support
1076As for prioritising I/O: rarely you have the case where some fds have 1487As for prioritising I/O: rarely you have the case where some fds have
1077to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency), and even 1488to be watched and handled very quickly (with low latency), and even
1078priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In this case 1489priorities and idle watchers might have too much overhead. In this case
1079you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all the rest in 1490you would put all the high priority stuff in one loop and all the rest in
1080a second one, and embed the second one in the first. 1491a second one, and embed the second one in the first.
1492
1493As long as the watcher is active, the callback will be invoked every time
1494there might be events pending in the embedded loop. The callback must then
1495call C<ev_embed_sweep (mainloop, watcher)> to make a single sweep and invoke
1496their callbacks (you could also start an idle watcher to give the embedded
1497loop strictly lower priority for example). You can also set the callback
1498to C<0>, in which case the embed watcher will automatically execute the
1499embedded loop sweep.
1081 1500
1082As long as the watcher is started it will automatically handle events. The 1501As long as the watcher is started it will automatically handle events. The
1083callback will be invoked whenever some events have been handled. You can 1502callback will be invoked whenever some events have been handled. You can
1084set the callback to C<0> to avoid having to specify one if you are not 1503set the callback to C<0> to avoid having to specify one if you are not
1085interested in that. 1504interested in that.
1117 else 1536 else
1118 loop_lo = loop_hi; 1537 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1119 1538
1120=over 4 1539=over 4
1121 1540
1122=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *loop) 1541=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1123 1542
1124=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *loop) 1543=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1125 1544
1126Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be embeddable. 1545Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
1546embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
1547invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
1548to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
1549if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
1550
1551=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
1552
1553Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1554similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1555apropriate way for embedded loops.
1556
1557=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only]
1558
1559The embedded event loop.
1560
1561=back
1562
1563
1564=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
1565
1566Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
1567whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
1568C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the
1569event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1570and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1571C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1572handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1573
1574=over 4
1575
1576=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1577
1578Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1579kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1580believe me.
1127 1581
1128=back 1582=back
1129 1583
1130 1584
1131=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 1585=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
1164 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 1618 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
1165 } 1619 }
1166 1620
1167 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 1621 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
1168 1622
1169=item ev_feed_event (loop, watcher, int events) 1623=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
1170 1624
1171Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 1625Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1172had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 1626had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1173initialised but not necessarily started event watcher). 1627initialised but not necessarily started event watcher).
1174 1628
1175=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents) 1629=item ev_feed_fd_event (ev_loop *, int fd, int revents)
1176 1630
1177Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 1631Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
1178the given events it. 1632the given events it.
1179 1633
1180=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 1634=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
1181 1635
1182Feed an event as if the given signal occured (loop must be the default loop!). 1636Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default
1637loop!).
1183 1638
1184=back 1639=back
1185 1640
1186 1641
1187=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 1642=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
1211 1666
1212=back 1667=back
1213 1668
1214=head1 C++ SUPPORT 1669=head1 C++ SUPPORT
1215 1670
1216TBD. 1671Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
1672you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
1673the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
1674
1675To use it,
1676
1677 #include <ev++.h>
1678
1679(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h>
1680and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global
1681namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace.
1682
1683It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably
1684C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1685
1686Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1687
1688=over 4
1689
1690=item C<ev::READ>, C<ev::WRITE> etc.
1691
1692These are just enum values with the same values as the C<EV_READ> etc.
1693macros from F<ev.h>.
1694
1695=item C<ev::tstamp>, C<ev::now>
1696
1697Aliases to the same types/functions as with the C<ev_> prefix.
1698
1699=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc.
1700
1701For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of
1702the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal>
1703which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro
1704defines by many implementations.
1705
1706All of those classes have these methods:
1707
1708=over 4
1709
1710=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *)
1711
1712=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *)
1713
1714=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1715
1716The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to
1717the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls
1718C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method
1719before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor
1720automatically associates the default loop with this watcher.
1721
1722The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
1723
1724=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1725
1726Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1727do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1728
1729=item w->set ([args])
1730
1731Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1732called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1733automatically stopped and restarted.
1734
1735=item w->start ()
1736
1737Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the
1738constructor already takes the loop.
1739
1740=item w->stop ()
1741
1742Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1743
1744=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only
1745
1746For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1747C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1748
1749=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only
1750
1751Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1752
1753=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only
1754
1755Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1756
1757=back
1758
1759=back
1760
1761Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
1762the constructor.
1763
1764 class myclass
1765 {
1766 ev_io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
1767 ev_idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
1768
1769 myclass ();
1770 }
1771
1772 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1773 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1774 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1775 {
1776 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1777 }
1778
1779
1780=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1781
1782Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is
1783C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and
1784callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1785
1786To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1787following macros are defined:
1788
1789=over 4
1790
1791=item C<EV_A>, C<EV_A_>
1792
1793This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1794loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
1795C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
1796
1797 ev_unref (EV_A);
1798 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
1799 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1800
1801It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
1802which is often provided by the following macro.
1803
1804=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
1805
1806This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1807loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
1808C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
1809
1810 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
1811 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
1812
1813 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
1814 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1815
1816It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
1817suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
1818
1819=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
1820
1821Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1822loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1823
1824=back
1825
1826Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of
1827wether multiple loops are supported or not.
1828
1829 static void
1830 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1831 {
1832 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1833 }
1834
1835 ev_check check;
1836 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1837 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1838 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1839
1840
1841=head1 EMBEDDING
1842
1843Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1844applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1845Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1846and rxvt-unicode.
1847
1848The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your
1849source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1850you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1851libev somewhere in your source tree).
1852
1853=head2 FILESETS
1854
1855Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
1856in your app.
1857
1858=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
1859
1860To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
1861configuration (no autoconf):
1862
1863 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
1864 #include "ev.c"
1865
1866This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
1867single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
1868it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
1869done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
1870where you can put other configuration options):
1871
1872 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
1873 #include "ev.h"
1874
1875Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
1876compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
1877as a bug).
1878
1879You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
1880in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
1881
1882 ev.h
1883 ev.c
1884 ev_vars.h
1885 ev_wrap.h
1886
1887 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1888
1889 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default)
1890 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1891 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1892 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1893 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1894
1895F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
1896to compile this single file.
1897
1898=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
1899
1900To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
1901
1902 #include "event.c"
1903
1904in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
1905
1906 #include "event.h"
1907
1908in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
1909
1910You need the following additional files for this:
1911
1912 event.h
1913 event.c
1914
1915=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
1916
1917Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in
1918whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
1919F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
1920include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
1921
1922For this of course you need the m4 file:
1923
1924 libev.m4
1925
1926=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
1927
1928Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define
1929before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity
1930and only include the select backend.
1931
1932=over 4
1933
1934=item EV_STANDALONE
1935
1936Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
1937keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
1938implementations for some libevent functions (such as logging, which is not
1939supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
1940F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
1941
1942=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
1943
1944If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1945monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
1946of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
1947usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1948the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have
1949to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
1950function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1951
1952=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1953
1954If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1955realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
1956runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
1957be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1958(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries
1959in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
1960
1961=item EV_USE_SELECT
1962
1963If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
1964C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no
1965other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
1966will not be compiled in.
1967
1968=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
1969
1970If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
1971structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
1972C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on
1973exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
1974low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
1975allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
1976influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
1977
1978=item EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET
1979
1980When defined to C<1>, the select backend will assume that
1981select/socket/connect etc. don't understand file descriptors but
1982wants osf handles on win32 (this is the case when the select to
1983be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
1984C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
1985it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
1986on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
1987
1988=item EV_USE_POLL
1989
1990If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
1991backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
1992takes precedence over select.
1993
1994=item EV_USE_EPOLL
1995
1996If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
1997C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
1998otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the
1999preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems.
2000
2001=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2002
2003If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2004C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2005otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2006backend for BSD and BSD-like systems, although on most BSDs kqueue only
2007supports some types of fds correctly (the only platform we found that
2008supports ptys for example was NetBSD), so kqueue might be compiled in, but
2009not be used unless explicitly requested. The best way to use it is to find
2010out whether kqueue supports your type of fd properly and use an embedded
2011kqueue loop.
2012
2013=item EV_USE_PORT
2014
2015If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Solaris
201610 port style backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
2017otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2018backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2019
2020=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2021
2022reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2023
2024=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2025
2026If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2027interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2028be detected at runtime.
2029
2030=item EV_H
2031
2032The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2033undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This
2034can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
2035
2036=item EV_CONFIG_H
2037
2038If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
2039F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
2040C<EV_H>, above.
2041
2042=item EV_EVENT_H
2043
2044Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
2045of how the F<event.h> header can be found.
2046
2047=item EV_PROTOTYPES
2048
2049If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
2050prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
2051occasionally useful if you want to provide your own wrapper functions
2052around libev functions.
2053
2054=item EV_MULTIPLICITY
2055
2056If undefined or defined to C<1>, then all event-loop-specific functions
2057will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
2058additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
2059for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
2060argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
2061
2062=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2063
2064If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2065defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2066code.
2067
2068=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2069
2070If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
2071defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2072
2073=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
2074
2075If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
2076defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2077
2078=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2079
2080If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2081defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2082
2083=item EV_MINIMAL
2084
2085If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2086speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override
2087some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64.
2088
2089=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2090
2091C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2092pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2093than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2094increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2095
2096=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2097
2098C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2099inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2100usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2101watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2102two).
2103
2104=item EV_COMMON
2105
2106By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2107this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2108members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2109though, and it must be identical each time.
2110
2111For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2112
2113 #define EV_COMMON \
2114 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2115 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2116
2117=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2118
2119=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2120
2121=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2122
2123Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2124and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2125definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for
2126their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2127avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2128method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2129
2130=head2 EXAMPLES
2131
2132For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2133verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2134(L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV.html>). It has the libev files in
2135the F<libev/> subdirectory and includes them in the F<EV/EVAPI.h> (public
2136interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
2137will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
2138file.
2139
2140The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2141that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices:
2142
2143 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2144 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2145 #define EV_PERIODICS 0
2146 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2147
2148 #include "ev++.h"
2149
2150And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2151
2152 #include "ev_cpp.h"
2153 #include "ev.c"
2154
2155
2156=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2157
2158In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2159libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2160documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2161
2162=over 4
2163
2164=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2165
2166=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2167
2168=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
2169
2170=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
2171
2172=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2173
2174=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
2175
2176=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2177
2178=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
2179
2180=back
2181
1217 2182
1218=head1 AUTHOR 2183=head1 AUTHOR
1219 2184
1220Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 2185Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
1221 2186

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