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1=encoding utf-8
2
1=head1 NAME 3=head1 NAME
2 4
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 5libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 6
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 7=head1 SYNOPSIS
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 60 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 61
60 // now wait for events to arrive 62 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_run (loop, 0); 63 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 64
63 // unloop was called, so exit 65 // break was called, so exit
64 return 0; 66 return 0;
65 } 67 }
66 68
67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 69=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68 70
82 84
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY 85=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84 86
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes 87This 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 88it 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 89reading 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 90look up the missing functions in L</GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>. 91C<ev_timer> sections in L</WATCHER TYPES>.
90 92
91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 93=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
92 94
93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 95Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 96file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
174=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 176=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
175 177
176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 178Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 179C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of 180you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>. 181C<ev_now_update> and C<ev_now>.
180 182
181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 183=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
182 184
183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 185Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked
184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 186until either it is interrupted or the given time interval has
187passed (approximately - it might return a bit earlier even if not
188interrupted). Returns immediately if C<< interval <= 0 >>.
189
185this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>. 190Basically this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
191
192The range of the C<interval> is limited - libev only guarantees to work
193with sleep times of up to one day (C<< interval <= 86400 >>).
186 194
187=item int ev_version_major () 195=item int ev_version_major ()
188 196
189=item int ev_version_minor () 197=item int ev_version_minor ()
190 198
241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends () 249the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones. 250& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
243 251
244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 252See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
245 253
246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 254=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size) throw ())
247 255
248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 256Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 257semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 258used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 259when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
277 } 285 }
278 286
279 ... 287 ...
280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 288 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
281 289
282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)) 290=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg) throw ())
283 291
284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 292Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 293as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 294indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 295callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
390 398
391If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 399If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
392or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 400or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
393C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 401C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
394override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 402override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
395useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 403useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, to work
396around bugs. 404around bugs, or to make libev threadsafe (accessing environment variables
405cannot be done in a threadsafe way, but usually it works if no other
406thread modifies them).
397 407
398=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 408=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
399 409
400Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also 410Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
401make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag. 411make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 445example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436 446
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> 447=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438 448
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal 449When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked 450mask. Specifically, this means you have to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them. 451when you want to receive them.
442 452
443This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or 453This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or
444want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev 454want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
445unblocking the signals. 455unblocking the signals.
456
457It's also required by POSIX in a threaded program, as libev calls
458C<sigprocmask>, whose behaviour is officially unspecified.
446 459
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev. 460This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
448 461
449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 462=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
450 463
480=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 493=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
481 494
482Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9 495Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
483kernels). 496kernels).
484 497
485For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 498For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, but
486but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 499it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like
487like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 500O(total_fds) where total_fds is the total number of fds (or the highest
488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 501fd), epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
489 502
490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 503The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 504of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 505dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup, 506descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program 5090.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll 510forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) 511set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
499and is of course hard to detect. 512and is of course hard to detect.
500 513
501Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 514Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work,
502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 515but of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for
503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 516totally I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so
504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 517one cannot even remove them from the set) than registered in the set
505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 518(especially on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious
506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 519notifications by employing an additional generation counter and comparing
507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last 520that against the events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set
521when required. Epoll also erroneously rounds down timeouts, but gives you
522no way to know when and by how much, so sometimes you have to busy-wait
523because epoll returns immediately despite a nonzero timeout. And last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work 524not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...). 525perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510 526
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms. 527Epoll is truly the train wreck among event poll mechanisms, a frankenpoll,
528cobbled together in a hurry, no thought to design or interaction with
529others. Oh, the pain, will it ever stop...
512 530
513While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 531While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
514will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 532will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
515incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 533incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
516I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 534I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
553 571
554It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 572It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
555kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 573kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
556course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 574course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
557cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 575cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
558two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but 576two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you
559sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect 577might have to leak fd's on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it
560cases 578drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
561 579
562This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 580This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
563 581
564While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 582While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
565everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 583everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
592On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to 610On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to
593specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat 611specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat
594among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed 612among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
595hacks). 613hacks).
596 614
597On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre>, with the event polling 615On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
616even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
598function sometimes returning events to the caller even though an error 617function sometimes returns events to the caller even though an error
599occured, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's 618occurred, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
600even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces, but 619even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where you
620absolutely have to know whether an event occurred or not because you have
621to re-arm the watcher.
622
601fortunately libev seems to be able to work around it. 623Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
602 624
603This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 625This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
604C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 626C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
605 627
606=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 628=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
660If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new> 682If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
661and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 683and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
662 684
663=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 685=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
664 686
665This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to 687This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations
666reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 688to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite
667name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 689the name, you can call it anytime you are allowed to start or stop
668the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the 690watchers (except inside an C<ev_prepare> callback), but it makes most
691sense after forking, in the child process. You I<must> call it (or use
669child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>. 692C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
670 693
671Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 694Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
672a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 695a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
673because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 696because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
674during fork. 697during fork.
675 698
676On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 699On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
746 769
747This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 770This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
748very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 771very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
749the current time is a good idea. 772the current time is a good idea.
750 773
751See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section. 774See also L</The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
752 775
753=item ev_suspend (loop) 776=item ev_suspend (loop)
754 777
755=item ev_resume (loop) 778=item ev_resume (loop)
756 779
774without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 797without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
775 798
776Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 799Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
777event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 800event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
778 801
779=item ev_run (loop, int flags) 802=item bool ev_run (loop, int flags)
780 803
781Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 804Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
782after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 805after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
783handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call 806handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
784the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This 807the watcher callbacks, and then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
785is why event loops are called I<loops>. 808is why event loops are called I<loops>.
786 809
787If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events 810If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
788until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was 811until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
789called. 812called.
813
814The return value is false if there are no more active watchers (which
815usually means "all jobs done" or "deadlock"), and true in all other cases
816(which usually means " you should call C<ev_run> again").
790 817
791Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than 818Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
792relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 819relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
793finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 820finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
794that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 821that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
795of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 822of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
796beauty. 823beauty.
797 824
798This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of 825This function is I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of a
799a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++ 826C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
800exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor 827exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
801will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks. 828will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
802 829
803A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle 830A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
804those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and 831those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
816This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 843This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
817with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 844with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
818own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 845own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
819usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 846usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
820 847
821Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does: 848Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does (this is for your
849understanding, not a guarantee that things will work exactly like this in
850future versions):
822 851
823 - Increment loop depth. 852 - Increment loop depth.
824 - Reset the ev_break status. 853 - Reset the ev_break status.
825 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 854 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
826 LOOP: 855 LOOP:
859anymore. 888anymore.
860 889
861 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 890 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
862 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 891 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
863 ev_run (my_loop, 0); 892 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
864 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 893 ... jobs done or somebody called break. yeah!
865 894
866=item ev_break (loop, how) 895=item ev_break (loop, how)
867 896
868Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it 897Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
869has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 898has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
932overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 961overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
933 962
934By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 963By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
935time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 964time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
936at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 965at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
937C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 966C<ev_timer>) will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
938introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The 967introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
939sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then 968sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
940once per this interval, on average. 969once per this interval, on average (as long as the host time resolution is
970good enough).
941 971
942Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 972Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
943to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 973to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
944latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called 974latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
945later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null 975later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
991invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 1021invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
992 1022
993If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 1023If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
994callback. 1024callback.
995 1025
996=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P)) 1026=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P) throw (), void (*acquire)(EV_P) throw ())
997 1027
998Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 1028Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
999can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 1029can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
1000each call to a libev function. 1030each call to a libev function.
1001 1031
1002However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible 1032However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
1003to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event 1033to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
1004loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these 1034loop via C<ev_break> and C<ev_async_send>, another way is to set these
1005I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1035I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
1006 1036
1007When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1037When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
1008suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1038suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
1009afterwards. 1039afterwards.
1149 1179
1150=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1180=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1151 1181
1152=item C<EV_CHECK> 1182=item C<EV_CHECK>
1153 1183
1154All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts 1184All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts to
1155to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1185gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are queued (not invoked)
1156C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1186just after C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it queues any callbacks
1187for any received events. That means C<ev_prepare> watchers are the last
1188watchers invoked before the event loop sleeps or polls for new events, and
1189C<ev_check> watchers will be invoked before any other watchers of the same
1190or lower priority within an event loop iteration.
1191
1157received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1192Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as many watchers as
1158many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1193they want, and all of them will be taken into account (for example, a
1159(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1194C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep C<ev_run> from
1160C<ev_run> from blocking). 1195blocking).
1161 1196
1162=item C<EV_EMBED> 1197=item C<EV_EMBED>
1163 1198
1164The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1199The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1165 1200
1288 1323
1289=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1324=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1290 1325
1291Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 1326Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1292 1327
1293=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1328=item ev_set_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1294 1329
1295Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1330Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1296(modulo threads). 1331(modulo threads).
1297 1332
1298=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority) 1333=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1316or might not have been clamped to the valid range. 1351or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1317 1352
1318The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is 1353The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1319always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :). 1354always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1320 1355
1321See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of 1356See L</WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1322priorities. 1357priorities.
1323 1358
1324=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1359=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1325 1360
1326Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1361Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1351See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1386See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1352functions that do not need a watcher. 1387functions that do not need a watcher.
1353 1388
1354=back 1389=back
1355 1390
1356=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1391See also the L</ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER> and L</BUILDING YOUR
1357 1392OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS> idioms.
1358Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1359and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1360to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
1361don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
1362member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1363data:
1364
1365 struct my_io
1366 {
1367 ev_io io;
1368 int otherfd;
1369 void *somedata;
1370 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1371 };
1372
1373 ...
1374 struct my_io w;
1375 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1376
1377And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1378can cast it back to your own type:
1379
1380 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1381 {
1382 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1383 ...
1384 }
1385
1386More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
1387instead have been omitted.
1388
1389Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
1390embedded watchers:
1391
1392 struct my_biggy
1393 {
1394 int some_data;
1395 ev_timer t1;
1396 ev_timer t2;
1397 }
1398
1399In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
1400complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1401in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1402some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1403programmers):
1404
1405 #include <stddef.h>
1406
1407 static void
1408 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1409 {
1410 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1411 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1412 }
1413
1414 static void
1415 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1416 {
1417 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1418 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1419 }
1420 1393
1421=head2 WATCHER STATES 1394=head2 WATCHER STATES
1422 1395
1423There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual - 1396There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1424active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to 1397active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1425transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these 1398transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1426rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing". 1399rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1427 1400
1428=over 4 1401=over 4
1429 1402
1430=item initialiased 1403=item initialised
1431 1404
1432Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be 1405Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be
1433initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to 1406initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1434C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function. 1407C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1435 1408
1436In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use 1409In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for
1437in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will. 1410use in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at
1411will - as long as you either keep the memory contents intact, or call
1412C<ev_TYPE_init> again.
1438 1413
1439=item started/running/active 1414=item started/running/active
1440 1415
1441Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes 1416Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1442property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in 1417property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1470latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless 1445latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1471of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before 1446of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1472freeing it is often a good idea. 1447freeing it is often a good idea.
1473 1448
1474While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the 1449While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1475initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way 1450initialised state, that is, it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1476you wish. 1451you wish (but when you trash the memory block, you need to C<ev_TYPE_init>
1452it again).
1477 1453
1478=back 1454=back
1479 1455
1480=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1456=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1481 1457
1610In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1586In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1611fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1587fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1612descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1588descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1613required if you know what you are doing). 1589required if you know what you are doing).
1614 1590
1615If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1616known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1617C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1618descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1619files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1620
1621Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1591Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1622receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1592receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is, your callback might
1623be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1593be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1624because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1594because there is no data. It is very easy to get into this situation even
1625lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1595with a relatively standard program structure. Thus it is best to always
1626this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1596use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning C<EAGAIN> is far
1627it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1628C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1597preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1629 1598
1630If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should 1599If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1631not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately 1600not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1632re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good 1601re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1633interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already 1602interface such as poll (fortunately in the case of Xlib, it already does
1634does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally 1603this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1635use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block 1604use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1636indefinitely. 1605indefinitely.
1637 1606
1638But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1607But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1639 1608
1667 1636
1668There is no workaround possible except not registering events 1637There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1669for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to 1638for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1670C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1639C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1671 1640
1641=head3 The special problem of files
1642
1643Many people try to use C<select> (or libev) on file descriptors
1644representing files, and expect it to become ready when their program
1645doesn't block on disk accesses (which can take a long time on their own).
1646
1647However, this cannot ever work in the "expected" way - you get a readiness
1648notification as soon as the kernel knows whether and how much data is
1649there, and in the case of open files, that's always the case, so you
1650always get a readiness notification instantly, and your read (or possibly
1651write) will still block on the disk I/O.
1652
1653Another way to view it is that in the case of sockets, pipes, character
1654devices and so on, there is another party (the sender) that delivers data
1655on its own, but in the case of files, there is no such thing: the disk
1656will not send data on its own, simply because it doesn't know what you
1657wish to read - you would first have to request some data.
1658
1659Since files are typically not-so-well supported by advanced notification
1660mechanism, libev tries hard to emulate POSIX behaviour with respect
1661to files, even though you should not use it. The reason for this is
1662convenience: sometimes you want to watch STDIN or STDOUT, which is
1663usually a tty, often a pipe, but also sometimes files or special devices
1664(for example, C<epoll> on Linux works with F</dev/random> but not with
1665F</dev/urandom>), and even though the file might better be served with
1666asynchronous I/O instead of with non-blocking I/O, it is still useful when
1667it "just works" instead of freezing.
1668
1669So avoid file descriptors pointing to files when you know it (e.g. use
1670libeio), but use them when it is convenient, e.g. for STDIN/STDOUT, or
1671when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1672reuse the same code path.
1673
1672=head3 The special problem of fork 1674=head3 The special problem of fork
1673 1675
1674Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1676Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1675useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1677useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1676it in the child. 1678it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the child.
1677 1679
1678To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1680To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1679C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1681()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1680enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1682C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1681C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1682 1683
1683=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1684=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1684 1685
1685While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>: 1686While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1686when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets 1687when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1784detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1785detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1785monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1786monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1786 1787
1787The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1788The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1788passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1789passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1789might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1790might introduce a small delay, see "the special problem of being too
1791early", below). If multiple timers become ready during the same loop
1790same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1792iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked before
1791before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1793ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is no
1792no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively). 1794longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1793 1795
1794=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1796=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1795 1797
1796Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1798Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1797recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1799recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1872 1874
1873In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone, 1875In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1874but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only 1876but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1875within the callback: 1877within the callback:
1876 1878
1879 ev_tstamp timeout = 60.;
1877 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity 1880 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1881 ev_timer timer;
1878 1882
1879 static void 1883 static void
1880 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1884 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1881 { 1885 {
1882 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A); 1886 // calculate when the timeout would happen
1883 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1887 ev_tstamp after = last_activity - ev_now (EV_A) + timeout;
1884 1888
1885 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1889 // if negative, it means we the timeout already occurred
1886 if (timeout < now) 1890 if (after < 0.)
1887 { 1891 {
1888 // timeout occurred, take action 1892 // timeout occurred, take action
1889 } 1893 }
1890 else 1894 else
1891 { 1895 {
1892 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1896 // callback was invoked, but there was some recent
1893 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1897 // activity. simply restart the timer to time out
1894 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive: 1898 // after "after" seconds, which is the earliest time
1895 w->repeat = timeout - now; 1899 // the timeout can occur.
1900 ev_timer_set (w, after, 0.);
1896 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w); 1901 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ w);
1897 } 1902 }
1898 } 1903 }
1899 1904
1900To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined 1905To summarise the callback: first calculate in how many seconds the
1901as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has 1906timeout will occur (by calculating the absolute time when it would occur,
1902been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise 1907C<last_activity + timeout>, and subtracting the current time, C<ev_now
1903the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so 1908(EV_A)> from that).
1904re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1905a timeout then.
1906 1909
1907Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the 1910If this value is negative, then we are already past the timeout, i.e. we
1908C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running. 1911timed out, and need to do whatever is needed in this case.
1912
1913Otherwise, we now the earliest time at which the timeout would trigger,
1914and simply start the timer with this timeout value.
1915
1916In other words, each time the callback is invoked it will check whether
1917the timeout occurred. If not, it will simply reschedule itself to check
1918again at the earliest time it could time out. Rinse. Repeat.
1909 1919
1910This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds 1920This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1911minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to 1921minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1912libev to change the timeout. 1922libev to change the timeout.
1913 1923
1914To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity> 1924To start the machinery, simply initialise the watcher and set
1915to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 1925C<last_activity> to the current time (meaning there was some activity just
1916callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 1926now), then call the callback, which will "do the right thing" and start
1927the timer:
1917 1928
1929 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1918 ev_init (timer, callback); 1930 ev_init (&timer, callback);
1919 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1931 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1920 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1921 1932
1922And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1933When there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1923C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1934C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1924 1935
1936 if (activity detected)
1925 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 1937 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1938
1939When your timeout value changes, then the timeout can be changed by simply
1940providing a new value, stopping the timer and calling the callback, which
1941will again do the right thing (for example, time out immediately :).
1942
1943 timeout = new_value;
1944 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &timer);
1945 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1926 1946
1927This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1947This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1928time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1948time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1929
1930Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1931callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1932fix things for you.
1933 1949
1934=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts. 1950=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1935 1951
1936If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all 1952If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1937employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can 1953employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1964Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is 1980Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1965rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays 1981rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1966off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually 1982off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1967overkill :) 1983overkill :)
1968 1984
1985=head3 The special problem of being too early
1986
1987If you ask a timer to call your callback after three seconds, then
1988you expect it to be invoked after three seconds - but of course, this
1989cannot be guaranteed to infinite precision. Less obviously, it cannot be
1990guaranteed to any precision by libev - imagine somebody suspending the
1991process with a STOP signal for a few hours for example.
1992
1993So, libev tries to invoke your callback as soon as possible I<after> the
1994delay has occurred, but cannot guarantee this.
1995
1996A less obvious failure mode is calling your callback too early: many event
1997loops compare timestamps with a "elapsed delay >= requested delay", but
1998this can cause your callback to be invoked much earlier than you would
1999expect.
2000
2001To see why, imagine a system with a clock that only offers full second
2002resolution (think windows if you can't come up with a broken enough OS
2003yourself). If you schedule a one-second timer at the time 500.9, then the
2004event loop will schedule your timeout to elapse at a system time of 500
2005(500.9 truncated to the resolution) + 1, or 501.
2006
2007If an event library looks at the timeout 0.1s later, it will see "501 >=
2008501" and invoke the callback 0.1s after it was started, even though a
2009one-second delay was requested - this is being "too early", despite best
2010intentions.
2011
2012This is the reason why libev will never invoke the callback if the elapsed
2013delay equals the requested delay, but only when the elapsed delay is
2014larger than the requested delay. In the example above, libev would only invoke
2015the callback at system time 502, or 1.1s after the timer was started.
2016
2017So, while libev cannot guarantee that your callback will be invoked
2018exactly when requested, it I<can> and I<does> guarantee that the requested
2019delay has actually elapsed, or in other words, it always errs on the "too
2020late" side of things.
2021
1969=head3 The special problem of time updates 2022=head3 The special problem of time updates
1970 2023
1971Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 2024Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes
1972least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 2025at least one system call): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1973time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a 2026time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1974growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 2027growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1975lots of events in one iteration. 2028lots of events in one iteration.
1976 2029
1977The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2030The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1983 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 2036 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
1984 2037
1985If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2038If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1986update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2039update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1987()>. 2040()>.
2041
2042=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks
2043
2044Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal
2045"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time
2046jumps).
2047
2048Neither of these clocks is synchronised with each other or any other clock
2049on the system, so C<ev_time ()> might return a considerably different time
2050than C<gettimeofday ()> or C<time ()>. On a GNU/Linux system, for example,
2051a call to C<gettimeofday> might return a second count that is one higher
2052than a directly following call to C<time>.
2053
2054The moral of this is to only compare libev-related timestamps with
2055C<ev_time ()> and C<ev_now ()>, at least if you want better precision than
2056a second or so.
2057
2058One more problem arises due to this lack of synchronisation: if libev uses
2059the system monotonic clock and you compare timestamps from C<ev_time>
2060or C<ev_now> from when you started your timer and when your callback is
2061invoked, you will find that sometimes the callback is a bit "early".
2062
2063This is because C<ev_timer>s work in real time, not wall clock time, so
2064libev makes sure your callback is not invoked before the delay happened,
2065I<measured according to the real time>, not the system clock.
2066
2067If your timeouts are based on a physical timescale (e.g. "time out this
2068connection after 100 seconds") then this shouldn't bother you as it is
2069exactly the right behaviour.
2070
2071If you want to compare wall clock/system timestamps to your timers, then
2072you need to use C<ev_periodic>s, as these are based on the wall clock
2073time, where your comparisons will always generate correct results.
1988 2074
1989=head3 The special problems of suspended animation 2075=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1990 2076
1991When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that 2077When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1992can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend? 2078can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
2036keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to 2122keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
2037do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 2123do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
2038 2124
2039=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 2125=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
2040 2126
2041This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 2127This will act as if the timer timed out, and restarts it again if it is
2042repeating. The exact semantics are: 2128repeating. It basically works like calling C<ev_timer_stop>, updating the
2129timeout to the C<repeat> value and calling C<ev_timer_start>.
2043 2130
2131The exact semantics are as in the following rules, all of which will be
2132applied to the watcher:
2133
2134=over 4
2135
2044If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 2136=item If the timer is pending, the pending status is always cleared.
2045 2137
2046If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 2138=item If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed
2139out, without invoking it).
2047 2140
2048If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 2141=item If the timer is repeating, make the C<repeat> value the new timeout
2049C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2142and start the timer, if necessary.
2050 2143
2144=back
2145
2051This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2146This sounds a bit complicated, see L</Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
2052usage example. 2147usage example.
2053 2148
2054=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2149=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2055 2150
2056Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2151Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2176 2271
2177Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 2272Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
2178C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 2273C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
2179time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 2274time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
2180 2275
2181For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near 2276The C<interval> I<MUST> be positive, and for numerical stability, the
2182C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 2277interval value should be higher than C<1/8192> (which is around 100
2183this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 2278microseconds) and C<offset> should be higher than C<0> and should have
2279at most a similar magnitude as the current time (say, within a factor of
2280ten). Typical values for offset are, in fact, C<0> or something between
2281C<0> and C<interval>, which is also the recommended range.
2184 2282
2185Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU 2283Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
2186speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 2284speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
2187will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 2285will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
2188millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 2286millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
2296 2394
2297 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2395 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2298 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 2396 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
2299 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 2397 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
2300 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2398 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
2301 2399
2302 2400
2303=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2401=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2304 2402
2305Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2403Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2306signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2404signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2316only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your 2414only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2317default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for 2415default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2318C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At 2416C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2319the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop. 2417the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2320 2418
2321When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2419Only after the first watcher for a signal is started will libev actually
2322with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2420register something with the kernel. It thus coexists with your own signal
2323you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2421handlers as long as you don't register any with libev for the same signal.
2324 2422
2325If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2423If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2326C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2424C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2327not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2425not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2328interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2426interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2331=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create 2429=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2332 2430
2333Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition 2431Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2334(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after 2432(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2335stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal, 2433stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2336and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler. 2434and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler (but
2435see C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>).
2337 2436
2338While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never 2437While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2339sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on 2438sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2340C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect 2439C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2341certain signals to be blocked. 2440certain signals to be blocked.
2512 2611
2513=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2612=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
2514 2613
2515This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2614This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
2516C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed) 2615C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
2517and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if 2616and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback
2518it did. 2617if it did. Starting the watcher C<stat>'s the file, so only changes that
2618happen after the watcher has been started will be reported.
2519 2619
2520The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2620The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
2521not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not 2621not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
2522exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the 2622exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
2523C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at 2623C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
2753Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 2853Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
2754effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 2854effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
2755"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 2855"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
2756event loop has handled all outstanding events. 2856event loop has handled all outstanding events.
2757 2857
2858=head3 Abusing an C<ev_idle> watcher for its side-effect
2859
2860As long as there is at least one active idle watcher, libev will never
2861sleep unnecessarily. Or in other words, it will loop as fast as possible.
2862For this to work, the idle watcher doesn't need to be invoked at all - the
2863lowest priority will do.
2864
2865This mode of operation can be useful together with an C<ev_check> watcher,
2866to do something on each event loop iteration - for example to balance load
2867between different connections.
2868
2869See L</Abusing an ev_check watcher for its side-effect> for a longer
2870example.
2871
2758=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2872=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2759 2873
2760=over 4 2874=over 4
2761 2875
2762=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback) 2876=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
2773callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2887callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
2774 2888
2775 static void 2889 static void
2776 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents) 2890 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
2777 { 2891 {
2892 // stop the watcher
2893 ev_idle_stop (loop, w);
2894
2895 // now we can free it
2778 free (w); 2896 free (w);
2897
2779 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2898 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
2780 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2899 // no longer anything immediate to do.
2781 } 2900 }
2782 2901
2783 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle)); 2902 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
2785 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher); 2904 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
2786 2905
2787 2906
2788=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 2907=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2789 2908
2790Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2909Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs:
2791prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2910prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2792afterwards. 2911afterwards.
2793 2912
2794You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter 2913You I<must not> call C<ev_run> (or similar functions that enter the
2795the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2914current event loop) or C<ev_loop_fork> from either C<ev_prepare> or
2796watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2915C<ev_check> watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine,
2797rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2916however. The rationale behind this is that you do not need to check
2798those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2917for recursion in those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be
2799C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2918C<ev_prepare>, blocking, C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each
2800called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 2919kind they will always be called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
2801 2920
2802Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 2921Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
2803their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track 2922their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
2804variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 2923variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
2805coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 2924coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
2823with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 2942with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
2824of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 2943of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
2825loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 2944loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
2826low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 2945low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
2827 2946
2828It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 2947When used for this purpose, it is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers
2829priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 2948highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) priority, to ensure that they are being run before
2830after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers). 2949any other watchers after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare>
2950watchers).
2831 2951
2832Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not 2952Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
2833activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they 2953activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
2834might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As 2954might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
2835C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event 2955C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
2836loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their 2956loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
2837C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with 2957C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
2838others). 2958others).
2959
2960=head3 Abusing an C<ev_check> watcher for its side-effect
2961
2962C<ev_check> (and less often also C<ev_prepare>) watchers can also be
2963useful because they are called once per event loop iteration. For
2964example, if you want to handle a large number of connections fairly, you
2965normally only do a bit of work for each active connection, and if there
2966is more work to do, you wait for the next event loop iteration, so other
2967connections have a chance of making progress.
2968
2969Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the
2970next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible -
2971without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked.
2972
2973This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a
2974single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active
2975C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop
2976will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets
2977invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that.
2839 2978
2840=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2979=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2841 2980
2842=over 4 2981=over 4
2843 2982
3044 3183
3045=over 4 3184=over 4
3046 3185
3047=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3186=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3048 3187
3049=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3188=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3050 3189
3051Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 3190Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
3052embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 3191embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
3053invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 3192invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
3054to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 3193to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
3075used). 3214used).
3076 3215
3077 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 3216 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
3078 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 3217 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
3079 ev_embed embed; 3218 ev_embed embed;
3080 3219
3081 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 3220 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
3082 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 3221 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
3083 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 3222 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
3084 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 3223 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
3085 : 0; 3224 : 0;
3099C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 3238C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
3100 3239
3101 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 3240 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
3102 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 3241 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
3103 ev_embed embed; 3242 ev_embed embed;
3104 3243
3105 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 3244 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
3106 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 3245 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
3107 { 3246 {
3108 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 3247 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
3109 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 3248 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
3117 3256
3118=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3257=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
3119 3258
3120Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3259Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
3121whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling 3260whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
3122C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the 3261C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the event loop blocks next
3123event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3262and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, and only in the child
3124and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3263after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling C<ev_default_fork> cheats
3125C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3264and calls it in the wrong process, the fork handlers will be invoked, too,
3126handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3265of course.
3127 3266
3128=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3267=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3129 3268
3130Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set 3269Most uses of C<fork ()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3131up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3270up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3132sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3271sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
3133 3272
3134This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3273This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
3135in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3274in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
3212 atexit (program_exits); 3351 atexit (program_exits);
3213 3352
3214 3353
3215=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop 3354=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3216 3355
3217In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other 3356In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
3218asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3357asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3219loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3358loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3220 3359
3221Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control, 3360Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3222for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async> 3361for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3224it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe. 3363it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3225 3364
3226This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3365This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3227too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3366too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3228(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3367(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3229C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind 3368C<ev_async_send> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3230of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused 3369of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3231signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread, 3370signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3232even without knowing which loop owns the signal. 3371even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3233
3234Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
3235just the default loop.
3236 3372
3237=head3 Queueing 3373=head3 Queueing
3238 3374
3239C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3375C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
3240is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3376is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
3332trust me. 3468trust me.
3333 3469
3334=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 3470=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
3335 3471
3336Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 3472Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
3337an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 3473an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop, and instantly
3474returns.
3475
3338C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or 3476Unlike C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads,
3339similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 3477signal or similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the
3340section below on what exactly this means). 3478embedding section below on what exactly this means).
3341 3479
3342Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get 3480Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
3343compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this 3481compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at
3344is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>, 3482this is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered: they are set on
3345reset when the event loop detects that). 3483C<ev_async_send>, reset when the event loop detects that).
3346 3484
3347This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop 3485This call incurs the overhead of at most one extra system call per event
3348iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to 3486loop iteration, if the event loop is blocked, and no syscall at all if
3349repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop. 3487the event loop (or your program) is processing events. That means that
3488repeated calls are basically free (there is no need to avoid calls for
3489performance reasons) and that the overhead becomes smaller (typically
3490zero) under load.
3350 3491
3351=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 3492=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
3352 3493
3353Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 3494Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
3354watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 3495watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
3409 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3550 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3410 3551
3411=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents) 3552=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3412 3553
3413Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3554Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3414the given events it. 3555the given events.
3415 3556
3416=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3557=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3417 3558
3418Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>, 3559Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3419which is async-safe. 3560which is async-safe.
3425 3566
3426This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately 3567This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3427obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this 3568obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3428section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else. 3569section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3429 3570
3430=over 4 3571=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
3431 3572
3432=item Model/nested event loop invocations and exit conditions. 3573Each watcher has, by default, a C<void *data> member that you can read
3574or modify at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
3575to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
3576don't want to allocate memory separately and store a pointer to it in that
3577data member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
3578data:
3579
3580 struct my_io
3581 {
3582 ev_io io;
3583 int otherfd;
3584 void *somedata;
3585 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
3586 };
3587
3588 ...
3589 struct my_io w;
3590 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
3591
3592And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
3593can cast it back to your own type:
3594
3595 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
3596 {
3597 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
3598 ...
3599 }
3600
3601More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback
3602function type instead have been omitted.
3603
3604=head2 BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS
3605
3606Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
3607embedded watchers, in effect creating your own watcher that combines
3608multiple libev event sources into one "super-watcher":
3609
3610 struct my_biggy
3611 {
3612 int some_data;
3613 ev_timer t1;
3614 ev_timer t2;
3615 }
3616
3617In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
3618complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct in
3619the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies or C++ coders), or you need
3620to use some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for
3621real programmers):
3622
3623 #include <stddef.h>
3624
3625 static void
3626 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3627 {
3628 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3629 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
3630 }
3631
3632 static void
3633 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3634 {
3635 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3636 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
3637 }
3638
3639=head2 AVOIDING FINISHING BEFORE RETURNING
3640
3641Often you have structures like this in event-based programs:
3642
3643 callback ()
3644 {
3645 free (request);
3646 }
3647
3648 request = start_new_request (..., callback);
3649
3650The intent is to start some "lengthy" operation. The C<request> could be
3651used to cancel the operation, or do other things with it.
3652
3653It's not uncommon to have code paths in C<start_new_request> that
3654immediately invoke the callback, for example, to report errors. Or you add
3655some caching layer that finds that it can skip the lengthy aspects of the
3656operation and simply invoke the callback with the result.
3657
3658The problem here is that this will happen I<before> C<start_new_request>
3659has returned, so C<request> is not set.
3660
3661Even if you pass the request by some safer means to the callback, you
3662might want to do something to the request after starting it, such as
3663canceling it, which probably isn't working so well when the callback has
3664already been invoked.
3665
3666A common way around all these issues is to make sure that
3667C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If
3668C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially
3669delay invoking the callback by using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher for
3670example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher and
3671pushing it into the pending queue:
3672
3673 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback);
3674 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0);
3675
3676This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is
3677invoked, while not delaying callback invocation too much.
3678
3679=head2 MODEL/NESTED EVENT LOOP INVOCATIONS AND EXIT CONDITIONS
3433 3680
3434Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have 3681Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3435I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively 3682I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3436invoking C<ev_run>. 3683invoking C<ev_run>.
3437 3684
3438This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the 3685This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3439main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but 3686main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3440a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one 3687a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3441and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some 3688and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3442other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone. 3689other combination: In these cases, a simple C<ev_break> will not work.
3443 3690
3444The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run> 3691The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3445invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is 3692invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3446triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>: 3693triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3447 3694
3449 int exit_main_loop = 0; 3696 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3450 3697
3451 while (!exit_main_loop) 3698 while (!exit_main_loop)
3452 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE); 3699 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3453 3700
3454 // in a model watcher 3701 // in a modal watcher
3455 int exit_nested_loop = 0; 3702 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3456 3703
3457 while (!exit_nested_loop) 3704 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3458 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE); 3705 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3459 3706
3466 exit_main_loop = 1; 3713 exit_main_loop = 1;
3467 3714
3468 // exit both 3715 // exit both
3469 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1; 3716 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3470 3717
3471=back 3718=head2 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3719
3720Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
3721thread from where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
3722created/added/removed.
3723
3724For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
3725which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
3726languages).
3727
3728The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
3729variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
3730event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
3731
3732First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
3733
3734 typedef struct {
3735 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
3736 ev_async async_w;
3737 thread_t tid;
3738 cond_t invoke_cv;
3739 } userdata;
3740
3741 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
3742 {
3743 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
3744 static userdata u;
3745
3746 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
3747 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3748
3749 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
3750 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
3751
3752 // now associate this with the loop
3753 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
3754 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
3755 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
3756
3757 // then create the thread running ev_run
3758 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
3759 }
3760
3761The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
3762solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
3763that might have been added:
3764
3765 static void
3766 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
3767 {
3768 // just used for the side effects
3769 }
3770
3771The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
3772protecting the loop data, respectively.
3773
3774 static void
3775 l_release (EV_P)
3776 {
3777 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3778 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3779 }
3780
3781 static void
3782 l_acquire (EV_P)
3783 {
3784 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3785 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3786 }
3787
3788The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
3789into C<ev_run>:
3790
3791 void *
3792 l_run (void *thr_arg)
3793 {
3794 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
3795
3796 l_acquire (EV_A);
3797 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
3798 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3799 l_release (EV_A);
3800
3801 return 0;
3802 }
3803
3804Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
3805signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
3806writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
3807have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
3808and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
3809watchers is very beneficial):
3810
3811 static void
3812 l_invoke (EV_P)
3813 {
3814 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3815
3816 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
3817 {
3818 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
3819 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
3820 }
3821 }
3822
3823Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
3824will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
3825thread to continue:
3826
3827 static void
3828 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
3829 {
3830 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3831
3832 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3833 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
3834 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
3835 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3836 }
3837
3838Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
3839event loop, you will now have to lock:
3840
3841 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
3842 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3843
3844 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
3845
3846 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3847 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
3848 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3849 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3850
3851Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
3852an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
3853about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
3854watchers in the next event loop iteration.
3855
3856=head2 THREADS, COROUTINES, CONTINUATIONS, QUEUES... INSTEAD OF CALLBACKS
3857
3858While the overhead of a callback that e.g. schedules a thread is small, it
3859is still an overhead. If you embed libev, and your main usage is with some
3860kind of threads or coroutines, you might want to customise libev so that
3861doesn't need callbacks anymore.
3862
3863Imagine you have coroutines that you can switch to using a function
3864C<switch_to (coro)>, that libev runs in a coroutine called C<libev_coro>
3865and that due to some magic, the currently active coroutine is stored in a
3866global called C<current_coro>. Then you can build your own "wait for libev
3867event" primitive by changing C<EV_CB_DECLARE> and C<EV_CB_INVOKE> (note
3868the differing C<;> conventions):
3869
3870 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3871 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3872
3873That means instead of having a C callback function, you store the
3874coroutine to switch to in each watcher, and instead of having libev call
3875your callback, you instead have it switch to that coroutine.
3876
3877A coroutine might now wait for an event with a function called
3878C<wait_for_event>. (the watcher needs to be started, as always, but it doesn't
3879matter when, or whether the watcher is active or not when this function is
3880called):
3881
3882 void
3883 wait_for_event (ev_watcher *w)
3884 {
3885 ev_set_cb (w, current_coro);
3886 switch_to (libev_coro);
3887 }
3888
3889That basically suspends the coroutine inside C<wait_for_event> and
3890continues the libev coroutine, which, when appropriate, switches back to
3891this or any other coroutine.
3892
3893You can do similar tricks if you have, say, threads with an event queue -
3894instead of storing a coroutine, you store the queue object and instead of
3895switching to a coroutine, you push the watcher onto the queue and notify
3896any waiters.
3897
3898To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two
3899files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files:
3900
3901 // my_ev.h
3902 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3903 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb);
3904 #include "../libev/ev.h"
3905
3906 // my_ev.c
3907 #define EV_H "my_ev.h"
3908 #include "../libev/ev.c"
3909
3910And then use F<my_ev.h> when you would normally use F<ev.h>, and compile
3911F<my_ev.c> into your project. When properly specifying include paths, you
3912can even use F<ev.h> as header file name directly.
3472 3913
3473 3914
3474=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3915=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3475 3916
3476Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3917Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3506 3947
3507=back 3948=back
3508 3949
3509=head1 C++ SUPPORT 3950=head1 C++ SUPPORT
3510 3951
3952=head2 C API
3953
3954The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the
3955libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API
3956will work fine.
3957
3958Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed
3959to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all
3960other callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic
3961reschedule callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<throw
3962()> specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C
3963and C++ you can use the C<EV_THROW> macro for this:
3964
3965 static void
3966 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_THROW
3967 {
3968 perror (msg);
3969 abort ();
3970 }
3971
3972 ...
3973 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
3974
3975The only API functions that can currently throw exceptions are C<ev_run>,
3976C<ev_invoke>, C<ev_invoke_pending> and C<ev_loop_destroy> (the latter
3977because it runs cleanup watchers).
3978
3979Throwing exceptions in watcher callbacks is only supported if libev itself
3980is compiled with a C++ compiler or your C and C++ environments allow
3981throwing exceptions through C libraries (most do).
3982
3983=head2 C++ API
3984
3511Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 3985Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
3512you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 3986you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
3513the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 3987the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
3514 3988
3515To use it, 3989To use it,
3516 3990
3517 #include <ev++.h> 3991 #include <ev++.h>
3518 3992
3519This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 3993This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
3520of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 3994of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
3521put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 3995put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
3530with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy 4004with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3531to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If 4005to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3532you need support for other types of functors please contact the author 4006you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3533(preferably after implementing it). 4007(preferably after implementing it).
3534 4008
4009For all this to work, your C++ compiler either has to use the same calling
4010conventions as your C compiler (for static member functions), or you have
4011to embed libev and compile libev itself as C++.
4012
3535Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 4013Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3536 4014
3537=over 4 4015=over 4
3538 4016
3539=item C<ev::READ>, C<ev::WRITE> etc. 4017=item C<ev::READ>, C<ev::WRITE> etc.
3548=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc. 4026=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc.
3549 4027
3550For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of 4028For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of
3551the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal> 4029the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal>
3552which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro 4030which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro
3553defines by many implementations. 4031defined by many implementations.
3554 4032
3555All of those classes have these methods: 4033All of those classes have these methods:
3556 4034
3557=over 4 4035=over 4
3558 4036
3620 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents) 4098 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
3621 { 4099 {
3622 ... 4100 ...
3623 } 4101 }
3624 } 4102 }
3625 4103
3626 myfunctor f; 4104 myfunctor f;
3627 4105
3628 ev::io w; 4106 ev::io w;
3629 w.set (&f); 4107 w.set (&f);
3630 4108
3648Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 4126Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3649do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 4127do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3650 4128
3651=item w->set ([arguments]) 4129=item w->set ([arguments])
3652 4130
3653Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this 4131Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set> (except for C<ev::embed> watchers>),
3654method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the 4132with the same arguments. Either this method or a suitable start method
3655C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted 4133must be called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher
3656when reconfiguring it with this method. 4134gets automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
4135method.
4136
4137For C<ev::embed> watchers this method is called C<set_embed>, to avoid
4138clashing with the C<set (loop)> method.
3657 4139
3658=item w->start () 4140=item w->start ()
3659 4141
3660Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 4142Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3661constructor already stores the event loop. 4143constructor already stores the event loop.
3691watchers in the constructor. 4173watchers in the constructor.
3692 4174
3693 class myclass 4175 class myclass
3694 { 4176 {
3695 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4177 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3696 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4178 ev::io io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3697 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 4179 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3698 4180
3699 myclass (int fd) 4181 myclass (int fd)
3700 { 4182 {
3701 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 4183 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3752L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>. 4234L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3753 4235
3754=item D 4236=item D
3755 4237
3756Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 4238Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
3757be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 4239be found at L<http://www.llucax.com.ar/proj/ev.d/index.html>.
3758 4240
3759=item Ocaml 4241=item Ocaml
3760 4242
3761Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 4243Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3762L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 4244L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3765 4247
3766Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the 4248Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3767time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 4249time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3768L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 4250L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3769 4251
4252=item Javascript
4253
4254Node.js (L<http://nodejs.org>) uses libev as the underlying event library.
4255
4256=item Others
4257
4258There are others, and I stopped counting.
4259
3770=back 4260=back
3771 4261
3772 4262
3773=head1 MACRO MAGIC 4263=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3774 4264
3810suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 4300suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
3811 4301
3812=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 4302=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
3813 4303
3814Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 4304Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
3815loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 4305loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). The default loop
4306will be initialised if it isn't already initialised.
4307
4308For non-multiplicity builds, these macros do nothing, so you always have
4309to initialise the loop somewhere.
3816 4310
3817=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_> 4311=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
3818 4312
3819Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the 4313Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
3820default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour 4314default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
3965supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 4459supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3966F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 4460F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3967 4461
3968In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 4462In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3969configuration, but has to be more conservative. 4463configuration, but has to be more conservative.
4464
4465=item EV_USE_FLOOR
4466
4467If defined to be C<1>, libev will use the C<floor ()> function for its
4468periodic reschedule calculations, otherwise libev will fall back on a
4469portable (slower) implementation. If you enable this, you usually have to
4470link against libm or something equivalent. Enabling this when the C<floor>
4471function is not available will fail, so the safe default is to not enable
4472this.
3970 4473
3971=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 4474=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3972 4475
3973If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 4476If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3974monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no 4477monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
4059 4562
4060If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this 4563If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
4061macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister 4564macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
4062file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close 4565file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
4063the underlying OS handle. 4566the underlying OS handle.
4567
4568=item EV_USE_WSASOCKET
4569
4570If defined to be C<1>, libev will use C<WSASocket> to create its internal
4571communication socket, which works better in some environments. Otherwise,
4572the normal C<socket> function will be used, which works better in other
4573environments.
4064 4574
4065=item EV_USE_POLL 4575=item EV_USE_POLL
4066 4576
4067If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 4577If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
4068backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 4578backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
4104If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 4614If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
4105interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 4615interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
4106be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers 4616be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
4107indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4617indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
4108 4618
4619=item EV_NO_SMP
4620
4621If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that memory is always coherent
4622between threads, that is, threads can be used, but threads never run on
4623different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies
4624and makes libev faster.
4625
4626=item EV_NO_THREADS
4627
4628If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called from
4629different threads (that includes signal handlers), which is a stronger
4630assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, above. This reduces dependencies and makes
4631libev faster.
4632
4109=item EV_ATOMIC_T 4633=item EV_ATOMIC_T
4110 4634
4111Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 4635Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
4112access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 4636access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No
4113type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 4637such type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own
4114that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 4638type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal
4115as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4639handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async>
4640watchers.
4116 4641
4117In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4642In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
4118(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4643(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
4119 4644
4120=item EV_H (h) 4645=item EV_H (h)
4147will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 4672will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
4148additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 4673additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
4149for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 4674for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
4150argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 4675argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
4151 4676
4677Note that C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_> will no longer provide a
4678default loop when multiplicity is switched off - you always have to
4679initialise the loop manually in this case.
4680
4152=item EV_MINPRI 4681=item EV_MINPRI
4153 4682
4154=item EV_MAXPRI 4683=item EV_MAXPRI
4155 4684
4156The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to 4685The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
4192 #define EV_USE_POLL 1 4721 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4193 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1 4722 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4194 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1 4723 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4195 4724
4196The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following 4725The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4197values: 4726values (by default, all of these are enabled):
4198 4727
4199=over 4 4728=over 4
4200 4729
4201=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4730=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4202 4731
4206code size by roughly 30% on amd64). 4735code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4207 4736
4208When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4737When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4209gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4738gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4210assertions. 4739assertions.
4740
4741The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4742(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4211 4743
4212=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4744=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4213 4745
4214Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4746Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4215hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size 4747hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4216and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4748and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4217runtime. 4749runtime.
4218 4750
4751The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4752(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4753
4219=item C<4> - full API configuration 4754=item C<4> - full API configuration
4220 4755
4221This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and 4756This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4222enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1). 4757enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4223 4758
4253 4788
4254With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough 4789With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4255when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by 4790when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4256your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an 4791your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4257I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4792I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4793
4794=item EV_API_STATIC
4795
4796If this symbol is defined (by default it is not), then all identifiers
4797will have static linkage. This means that libev will not export any
4798identifiers, and you cannot link against libev anymore. This can be useful
4799when you embed libev, only want to use libev functions in a single file,
4800and do not want its identifiers to be visible.
4801
4802To use this, define C<EV_API_STATIC> and include F<ev.c> in the file that
4803wants to use libev.
4804
4805This option only works when libev is compiled with a C compiler, as C++
4806doesn't support the required declaration syntax.
4258 4807
4259=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4808=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4260 4809
4261If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4810If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4262functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size 4811functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4406And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 4955And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4407 4956
4408 #include "ev_cpp.h" 4957 #include "ev_cpp.h"
4409 #include "ev.c" 4958 #include "ev.c"
4410 4959
4411=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES 4960=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS, LIBRARIES OR THE ENVIRONMENT
4412 4961
4413=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES 4962=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
4414 4963
4415=head3 THREADS 4964=head3 THREADS
4416 4965
4467default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 5016default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
4468watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 5017watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
4469 5018
4470=back 5019=back
4471 5020
4472=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE 5021See also L</THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE>.
4473
4474Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4475thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4476created/added/removed.
4477
4478For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4479which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4480languages).
4481
4482The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4483variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4484event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4485
4486First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4487
4488 typedef struct {
4489 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4490 ev_async async_w;
4491 thread_t tid;
4492 cond_t invoke_cv;
4493 } userdata;
4494
4495 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4496 {
4497 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4498 static userdata u;
4499
4500 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4501 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4502
4503 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4504 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4505
4506 // now associate this with the loop
4507 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4508 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4509 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4510
4511 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4512 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4513 }
4514
4515The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4516solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4517that might have been added:
4518
4519 static void
4520 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4521 {
4522 // just used for the side effects
4523 }
4524
4525The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4526protecting the loop data, respectively.
4527
4528 static void
4529 l_release (EV_P)
4530 {
4531 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4532 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4533 }
4534
4535 static void
4536 l_acquire (EV_P)
4537 {
4538 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4539 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4540 }
4541
4542The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4543into C<ev_run>:
4544
4545 void *
4546 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4547 {
4548 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4549
4550 l_acquire (EV_A);
4551 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4552 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4553 l_release (EV_A);
4554
4555 return 0;
4556 }
4557
4558Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4559signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4560writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4561have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4562and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4563watchers is very beneficial):
4564
4565 static void
4566 l_invoke (EV_P)
4567 {
4568 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4569
4570 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4571 {
4572 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4573 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4574 }
4575 }
4576
4577Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4578will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4579thread to continue:
4580
4581 static void
4582 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4583 {
4584 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4585
4586 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4587 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4588 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4589 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4590 }
4591
4592Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4593event loop, you will now have to lock:
4594
4595 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4596 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4597
4598 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4599
4600 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4601 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4602 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4603 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4604
4605Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4606an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4607about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4608watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4609 5022
4610=head3 COROUTINES 5023=head3 COROUTINES
4611 5024
4612Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 5025Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4613libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 5026libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4778requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 5191requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4779model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 5192model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4780the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 5193the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4781descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 5194descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4782e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers, 5195e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4783as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible 5196as every compiler comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4784environment. 5197environment.
4785 5198
4786Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 5199Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4787re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing, 5200re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4788then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note 5201then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4904thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would 5317thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
4905be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and 5318be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
4906C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however. 5319C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
4907 5320
4908The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads 5321The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
4909except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 5322except the initial one, and run the signal handling loop in the initial
4910well. 5323thread as well.
4911 5324
4912=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 5325=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
4913 5326
4914To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally 5327To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
4915instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX 5328instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
4921 5334
4922The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 5335The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4923have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is 5336have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4924good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy 5337good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4925(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by 5338(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4926implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With 5339implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones.
5340
4927IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200. 5341With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least the
5342year 2255 (and millisecond accuracy till the year 287396 - by then, libev
5343is either obsolete or somebody patched it to use C<long double> or
5344something like that, just kidding).
4928 5345
4929=back 5346=back
4930 5347
4931If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 5348If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4932 5349
4994=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 5411=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
4995 5412
4996=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 5413=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
4997 5414
4998Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 5415Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
4999calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 5416calls in the current loop iteration and the loop is currently
5417blocked. Checking for async and signal events involves iterating over all
5000involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 5418running async watchers or all signal numbers.
5001 5419
5002=back 5420=back
5003 5421
5004 5422
5005=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 5423=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
5014=over 4 5432=over 4
5015 5433
5016=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism 5434=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5017 5435
5018The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by 5436The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5019C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING> 5437C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</"PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS"> in the L</EMBEDDING>
5020section. 5438section.
5021 5439
5022=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed 5440=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5023 5441
5024These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts: 5442These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5067=over 4 5485=over 4
5068 5486
5069=item active 5487=item active
5070 5488
5071A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped. 5489A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
5072See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5490See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
5073 5491
5074=item application 5492=item application
5075 5493
5076In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5494In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5077 5495
5113watchers and events. 5531watchers and events.
5114 5532
5115=item pending 5533=item pending
5116 5534
5117A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been 5535A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
5118detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5536detected. See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
5119 5537
5120=item real time 5538=item real time
5121 5539
5122The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5540The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
5123 5541
5124=item wall-clock time 5542=item wall-clock time
5125 5543
5126The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually 5544The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
5127be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your 5545be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when you adjust your
5128clock. 5546clock.
5129 5547
5130=item watcher 5548=item watcher
5131 5549
5132A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5550A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
5135=back 5553=back
5136 5554
5137=head1 AUTHOR 5555=head1 AUTHOR
5138 5556
5139Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael 5557Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5140Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta. 5558Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta, and minor corrections by many others.
5141 5559

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