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26 puts ("stdin ready"); 26 puts ("stdin ready");
27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher 27 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
28 // with its corresponding stop function. 28 // with its corresponding stop function.
29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 29 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
30 30
31 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating 31 // this causes all nested ev_run's to stop iterating
32 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); 32 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ALL);
33 } 33 }
34 34
35 // another callback, this time for a time-out 35 // another callback, this time for a time-out
36 static void 36 static void
37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 37 timeout_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
38 { 38 {
39 puts ("timeout"); 39 puts ("timeout");
40 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating 40 // this causes the innermost ev_run to stop iterating
41 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); 41 ev_break (EV_A_ EVBREAK_ONE);
42 } 42 }
43 43
44 int 44 int
45 main (void) 45 main (void)
46 { 46 {
47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs 47 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
48 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 48 struct ev_loop *loop = EV_DEFAULT;
49 49
50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it 50 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable 51 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 52 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 53 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout 56 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 57 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 59
60 // now wait for events to arrive 60 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_loop (loop, 0); 61 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 62
63 // unloop was called, so exit 63 // unloop was called, so exit
64 return 0; 64 return 0;
65 } 65 }
66 66
75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting 75While this document tries to be as complete as possible in documenting
76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial 76libev, its usage and the rationale behind its design, it is not a tutorial
77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming 77on event-based programming, nor will it introduce event-based programming
78with libev. 78with libev.
79 79
80Familarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed 80Familiarity with event based programming techniques in general is assumed
81throughout this document. 81throughout this document.
82
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>.
82 90
83=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
84 92
85Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
86file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
124this argument. 132this argument.
125 133
126=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION 134=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
127 135
128Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing 136Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing
129the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere 137the (fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (in practice
130near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This 138somewhere near the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't
131type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually 139ask). This type is called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use
132aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do any calculations 140too. It usually aliases to the C<double> type in C. When you need to do
133on it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name 141any calculations on it, you should treat it as some floating point value.
142
134component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences 143Unlike the name component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for
135throughout libev. 144time differences (e.g. delays) throughout libev.
136 145
137=head1 ERROR HANDLING 146=head1 ERROR HANDLING
138 147
139Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors 148Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
140and internal errors (bugs). 149and internal errors (bugs).
164 173
165=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 174=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
166 175
167Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
168C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
169you actually want to know. 178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>.
170 180
171=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
172 182
173Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
174either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
191as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 201as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
192compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 202compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
193not a problem. 203not a problem.
194 204
195Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 205Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
196version. 206version (note, however, that this will not detect other ABI mismatches,
207such as LFS or reentrancy).
197 208
198 assert (("libev version mismatch", 209 assert (("libev version mismatch",
199 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 210 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
200 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 211 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
201 212
212 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 223 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
213 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 224 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
214 225
215=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 226=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
216 227
217Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 228Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and
218recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 229also recommended for this platform, meaning it will work for most file
230descriptor types. This set is often smaller than the one returned by
219returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 231C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on most BSDs
220most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it 232and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it (assuming
221(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 233you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that libev will
222libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 234probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
223 235
224=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 236=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
225 237
226Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This 238Returns the set of backends that are embeddable in other event loops. This
227is the theoretical, all-platform, value. To find which backends 239value is platform-specific but can include backends not available on the
228might be supported on the current system, you would need to look at 240current system. To find which embeddable backends might be supported on
229C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
230recommended ones. 242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
231 243
232See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
233 245
234=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) [NOT REENTRANT] 246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
235 247
236Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
237semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
238used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
239when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
265 } 277 }
266 278
267 ... 279 ...
268 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
269 281
270=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); [NOT REENTRANT] 282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg))
271 283
272Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
273as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
274indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
275callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
287 } 299 }
288 300
289 ... 301 ...
290 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error); 302 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
291 303
304=item ev_feed_signal (int signum)
305
306This function can be used to "simulate" a signal receive. It is completely
307safe to call this function at any time, from any context, including signal
308handlers or random threads.
309
310Its main use is to customise signal handling in your process, especially
311in the presence of threads. For example, you could block signals
312by default in all threads (and specifying C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when
313creating any loops), and in one thread, use C<sigwait> or any other
314mechanism to wait for signals, then "deliver" them to libev by calling
315C<ev_feed_signal>.
316
292=back 317=back
293 318
294=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 319=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING EVENT LOOPS
295 320
296An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> 321An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *> (the C<struct> is
297is I<not> optional in this case, as there is also an C<ev_loop> 322I<not> optional in this case unless libev 3 compatibility is disabled, as
298I<function>). 323libev 3 had an C<ev_loop> function colliding with the struct name).
299 324
300The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which 325The library knows two types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which
301supports signals and child events, and dynamically created loops which do 326supports child process events, and dynamically created event loops which
302not. 327do not.
303 328
304=over 4 329=over 4
305 330
306=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 331=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
307 332
308This will initialise the default event loop if it hasn't been initialised 333This returns the "default" event loop object, which is what you should
309yet and return it. If the default loop could not be initialised, returns 334normally use when you just need "the event loop". Event loop objects and
310false. If it already was initialised it simply returns it (and ignores the 335the C<flags> parameter are described in more detail in the entry for
311flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 336C<ev_loop_new>.
337
338If the default loop is already initialised then this function simply
339returns it (and ignores the flags. If that is troubling you, check
340C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). Otherwise it will create it with the given
341flags, which should almost always be C<0>, unless the caller is also the
342one calling C<ev_run> or otherwise qualifies as "the main program".
312 343
313If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 344If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
314function. 345function (or via the C<EV_DEFAULT> macro).
315 346
316Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it 347Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
317from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely, 348from multiple threads, you have to employ some kind of mutex (note also
318as loops cannot be shared easily between threads anyway). 349that this case is unlikely, as loops cannot be shared easily between
350threads anyway).
319 351
320The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and 352The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_child> watchers,
321C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler 353and to do this, it always registers a handler for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is
322for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either 354a problem for your application you can either create a dynamic loop with
323create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you 355C<ev_loop_new> which doesn't do that, or you can simply overwrite the
324can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling 356C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling C<ev_default_init>.
325C<ev_default_init>. 357
358Example: This is the most typical usage.
359
360 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
361 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
362
363Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
364environment settings to be taken into account:
365
366 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
367
368=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
369
370This will create and initialise a new event loop object. If the loop
371could not be initialised, returns false.
372
373This function is thread-safe, and one common way to use libev with
374threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the default
375loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
326 376
327The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 377The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
328backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 378backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
329 379
330The following flags are supported: 380The following flags are supported:
365environment variable. 415environment variable.
366 416
367=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 417=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
368 418
369When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the 419When this flag is specified, then libev will not attempt to use the
370I<inotify> API for it's C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and 420I<inotify> API for its C<ev_stat> watchers. Apart from debugging and
371testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as 421testing, this flag can be useful to conserve inotify file descriptors, as
372otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle. 422otherwise each loop using C<ev_stat> watchers consumes one inotify handle.
373 423
374=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD> 424=item C<EVFLAG_SIGNALFD>
375 425
376When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the 426When this flag is specified, then libev will attempt to use the
377I<signalfd> API for it's C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API 427I<signalfd> API for its C<ev_signal> (and C<ev_child>) watchers. This API
378delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make 428delivers signals synchronously, which makes it both faster and might make
379it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal 429it possible to get the queued signal data. It can also simplify signal
380handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your 430handling with threads, as long as you properly block signals in your
381threads that are not interested in handling them. 431threads that are not interested in handling them.
382 432
383Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and 433Signalfd will not be used by default as this changes your signal mask, and
384there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for 434there are a lot of shoddy libraries and programs (glib's threadpool for
385example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them.
442
443This 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
445unblocking the signals.
446
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
386 448
387=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
388 450
389This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 451This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
390libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 452libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
426epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
427 489
428The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
429of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
430dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
431descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup and 493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
494returning before the timeout value, resulting in additional iterations
495(and only giving 5ms accuracy while select on the same platform gives
432so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program forks then 4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
433I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll set, which can 497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
434take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) and is of course 498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
435hard to detect. 499and is of course hard to detect.
436 500
437Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 501Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but
438of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally
439I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot
440even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially
441on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by
442employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the
443events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. 507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms.
444 512
445While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 513While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
446will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 514will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
447incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 515incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
448I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 516I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
514=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 582=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
515 583
516This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 584This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
517it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 585it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
518 586
519Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
520notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
521blocking when no data (or space) is available.
522
523While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active 587While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
524file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file 588file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
525descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend 589descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
526might perform better. 590might perform better.
527 591
528On the positive side, with the exception of the spurious readiness 592On the positive side, this backend actually performed fully to
529notifications, this backend actually performed fully to specification
530in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat among the 593specification in all tests and is fully embeddable, which is a rare feat
531OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed hacks). 594among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
595hacks).
596
597On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
598even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
599function sometimes returning events to the caller even though an error
600occured, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
601even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where
602you absolutely have to know whether an event occured or not because you
603have to re-arm the watcher.
604
605Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
532 606
533This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 607This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
534C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 608C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
535 609
536=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 610=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
537 611
538Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 612Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
539with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 613with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
540C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 614C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
541 615
542It is definitely not recommended to use this flag. 616It is definitely not recommended to use this flag, use whatever
617C<ev_recommended_backends ()> returns, or simply do not specify a backend
618at all.
619
620=item C<EVBACKEND_MASK>
621
622Not a backend at all, but a mask to select all backend bits from a
623C<flags> value, in case you want to mask out any backends from a flags
624value (e.g. when modifying the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> environment variable).
543 625
544=back 626=back
545 627
546If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value, 628If one or more of the backend flags are or'ed into the flags value,
547then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed 629then only these backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed
548here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends 630here). If none are specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends
549()> will be tried. 631()> will be tried.
550 632
551Example: This is the most typical usage.
552
553 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
554 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
555
556Example: Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
557environment settings to be taken into account:
558
559 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
560
561Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
562used if available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own
563private event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of
564fds):
565
566 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
567
568=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
569
570Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
571always distinct from the default loop.
572
573Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and one common way to use
574libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
575default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
576
577Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 633Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
578 634
579 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 635 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
580 if (!epoller) 636 if (!epoller)
581 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 637 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
582 638
639Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
640used if available.
641
642 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
643
583=item ev_default_destroy () 644=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
584 645
585Destroys the default loop (frees all memory and kernel state etc.). None 646Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
586of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal sense, so 647etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
587e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your responsibility to 648sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
588either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before> calling this function, 649responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
589or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually the easiest thing, you 650calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
590can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them for example). 651the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
652for example).
591 653
592Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal 654Note that certain global state, such as signal state (and installed signal
593handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such 655handlers), will not be freed by this function, and related watchers (such
594as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually. 656as signal and child watchers) would need to be stopped manually.
595 657
596In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the 658This function is normally used on loop objects allocated by
597rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling 659C<ev_loop_new>, but it can also be used on the default loop returned by
660C<ev_default_loop>, in which case it is not thread-safe.
661
662Note that it is not advisable to call this function on the default loop
663except in the rare occasion where you really need to free its resources.
598pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use 664If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
599C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 665and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
600 666
601=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 667=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
602 668
603Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
604earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
605
606=item ev_default_fork ()
607
608This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations 669This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to
609to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 670reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
610name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 671name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
611the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little 672the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the
612sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev 673child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
613functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
614 674
615Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 675Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
616a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 676a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
617because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 677because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
618during fork. 678during fork.
619 679
620On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 680On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
621process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If you 681process if and only if you want to use the event loop in the child. If
622just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to call 682you just fork+exec or create a new loop in the child, you don't have to
623it at all. 683call it at all (in fact, C<epoll> is so badly broken that it makes a
684difference, but libev will usually detect this case on its own and do a
685costly reset of the backend).
624 686
625The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 687The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
626it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 688it just in case after a fork.
627quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
628 689
690Example: Automate calling C<ev_loop_fork> on the default loop when
691using pthreads.
692
693 static void
694 post_fork_child (void)
695 {
696 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
697 }
698
699 ...
629 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 700 pthread_atfork (0, 0, post_fork_child);
630
631=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
632
633Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
634C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
635after fork that you want to re-use in the child, and how you keep track of
636them is entirely your own problem.
637 701
638=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop) 702=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
639 703
640Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false 704Returns true when the given loop is, in fact, the default loop, and false
641otherwise. 705otherwise.
642 706
643=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop) 707=item unsigned int ev_iteration (loop)
644 708
645Returns the current iteration count for the loop, which is identical to 709Returns the current iteration count for the event loop, which is identical
646the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and 710to the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0>
647happily wraps around with enough iterations. 711and happily wraps around with enough iterations.
648 712
649This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it 713This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
650"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with 714"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
651C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the 715C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls - and is incremented between the
652prepare and check phases. 716prepare and check phases.
653 717
654=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop) 718=item unsigned int ev_depth (loop)
655 719
656Returns the number of times C<ev_loop> was entered minus the number of 720Returns the number of times C<ev_run> was entered minus the number of
657times C<ev_loop> was exited, in other words, the recursion depth. 721times C<ev_run> was exited normally, in other words, the recursion depth.
658 722
659Outside C<ev_loop>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is 723Outside C<ev_run>, this number is zero. In a callback, this number is
660C<1>, unless C<ev_loop> was invoked recursively (or from another thread), 724C<1>, unless C<ev_run> was invoked recursively (or from another thread),
661in which case it is higher. 725in which case it is higher.
662 726
663Leaving C<ev_loop> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread 727Leaving C<ev_run> abnormally (setjmp/longjmp, cancelling the thread,
664etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this as a hint to avoid such 728throwing an exception etc.), doesn't count as "exit" - consider this
665ungentleman behaviour unless it's really convenient. 729as a hint to avoid such ungentleman-like behaviour unless it's really
730convenient, in which case it is fully supported.
666 731
667=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 732=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
668 733
669Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 734Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
670use. 735use.
679 744
680=item ev_now_update (loop) 745=item ev_now_update (loop)
681 746
682Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time 747Establishes the current time by querying the kernel, updating the time
683returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and 748returned by C<ev_now ()> in the progress. This is a costly operation and
684is usually done automatically within C<ev_loop ()>. 749is usually done automatically within C<ev_run ()>.
685 750
686This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 751This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
687very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 752very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
688the current time is a good idea. 753the current time is a good idea.
689 754
691 756
692=item ev_suspend (loop) 757=item ev_suspend (loop)
693 758
694=item ev_resume (loop) 759=item ev_resume (loop)
695 760
696These two functions suspend and resume a loop, for use when the loop is 761These two functions suspend and resume an event loop, for use when the
697not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed. 762loop is not used for a while and timeouts should not be processed.
698 763
699A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When 764A typical use case would be an interactive program such as a game: When
700the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it 765the user presses C<^Z> to suspend the game and resumes it an hour later it
701would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while 766would be best to handle timeouts as if no time had actually passed while
702the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend> 767the program was suspended. This can be achieved by calling C<ev_suspend>
704C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing. 769C<ev_resume> directly afterwards to resume timer processing.
705 770
706Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend 771Effectively, all C<ev_timer> watchers will be delayed by the time spend
707between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers 772between C<ev_suspend> and C<ev_resume>, and all C<ev_periodic> watchers
708will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have 773will be rescheduled (that is, they will lose any events that would have
709occured while suspended). 774occurred while suspended).
710 775
711After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the 776After calling C<ev_suspend> you B<must not> call I<any> function on the
712given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume> 777given loop other than C<ev_resume>, and you B<must not> call C<ev_resume>
713without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 778without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
714 779
715Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 780Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
716event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 781event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
717 782
718=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 783=item ev_run (loop, int flags)
719 784
720Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 785Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
721after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 786after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
722handling events. 787handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
788the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
789is why event loops are called I<loops>.
723 790
724If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will not return until 791If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
725either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_unloop> was called. 792until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
793called.
726 794
727Please note that an explicit C<ev_unloop> is usually better than 795Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
728relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 796relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
729finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 797finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
730that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 798that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
731of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 799of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
732beauty. 800beauty.
733 801
802This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of
803a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++
804exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
805will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
806
734A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 807A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
735those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not block your 808those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
736process in case there are no events and will return after one iteration of 809block your process in case there are no events and will return after one
737the loop. 810iteration of the loop. This is sometimes useful to poll and handle new
811events while doing lengthy calculations, to keep the program responsive.
738 812
739A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 813A flags value of C<EVRUN_ONCE> will look for new events (waiting if
740necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It 814necessary) and will handle those and any already outstanding ones. It
741will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could 815will block your process until at least one new event arrives (which could
742be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a 816be an event internal to libev itself, so there is no guarantee that a
743user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one 817user-registered callback will be called), and will return after one
744iteration of the loop. 818iteration of the loop.
745 819
746This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 820This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
747with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 821with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
748own C<ev_loop>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 822own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
749usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 823usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
750 824
751Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 825Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does:
752 826
827 - Increment loop depth.
828 - Reset the ev_break status.
753 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 829 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
830 LOOP:
754 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork. 831 - If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
755 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers. 832 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
756 - Queue and call all prepare watchers. 833 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
834 - If ev_break was called, goto FINISH.
757 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state 835 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
758 as to not disturb the other process. 836 as to not disturb the other process.
759 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 837 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
760 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()). 838 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
761 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all 839 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
762 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having 840 (active idle watchers, EVRUN_NOWAIT or not having
763 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping). 841 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
764 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so. 842 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
843 - Increment loop iteration counter.
765 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 844 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
766 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 845 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
767 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments. 846 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
768 - Queue all expired timers. 847 - Queue all expired timers.
769 - Queue all expired periodics. 848 - Queue all expired periodics.
770 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 849 - Queue all idle watchers with priority higher than that of pending events.
771 - Queue all check watchers. 850 - Queue all check watchers.
772 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 851 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
773 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 852 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
774 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 853 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
775 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 854 - If ev_break has been called, or EVRUN_ONCE or EVRUN_NOWAIT
776 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise 855 were used, or there are no active watchers, goto FINISH, otherwise
777 continue with step *. 856 continue with step LOOP.
857 FINISH:
858 - Reset the ev_break status iff it was EVBREAK_ONE.
859 - Decrement the loop depth.
860 - Return.
778 861
779Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding 862Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
780anymore. 863anymore.
781 864
782 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 865 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
783 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 866 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
784 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 867 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
785 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 868 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
786 869
787=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 870=item ev_break (loop, how)
788 871
789Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 872Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
790has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 873has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
791C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 874C<EVBREAK_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_run> call return, or
792C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 875C<EVBREAK_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_run> calls return.
793 876
794This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again. 877This "break state" will be cleared on the next call to C<ev_run>.
795 878
796It is safe to call C<ev_unloop> from otuside any C<ev_loop> calls. 879It is safe to call C<ev_break> from outside any C<ev_run> calls, too, in
880which case it will have no effect.
797 881
798=item ev_ref (loop) 882=item ev_ref (loop)
799 883
800=item ev_unref (loop) 884=item ev_unref (loop)
801 885
802Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event 886Ref/unref can be used to add or remove a reference count on the event
803loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference 887loop: Every watcher keeps one reference, and as long as the reference
804count is nonzero, C<ev_loop> will not return on its own. 888count is nonzero, C<ev_run> will not return on its own.
805 889
806This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to 890This is useful when you have a watcher that you never intend to
807unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_loop> from 891unregister, but that nevertheless should not keep C<ev_run> from
808returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref> 892returning. In such a case, call C<ev_unref> after starting, and C<ev_ref>
809before stopping it. 893before stopping it.
810 894
811As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It 895As an example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It
812is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from 896is not visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_run> from
813exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an 897exiting if no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an
814excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within 898excellent way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within
815third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref 899third-party libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref
816before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active 900before stop> (but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active
817before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself 901before, respectively. Note also that libev might stop watchers itself
818(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref> 902(e.g. non-repeating timers) in which case you have to C<ev_ref>
819in the callback). 903in the callback).
820 904
821Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 905Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_run>
822running when nothing else is active. 906running when nothing else is active.
823 907
824 ev_signal exitsig; 908 ev_signal exitsig;
825 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 909 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
826 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 910 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
827 evf_unref (loop); 911 ev_unref (loop);
828 912
829Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 913Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
830 914
831 ev_ref (loop); 915 ev_ref (loop);
832 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 916 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
871usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>, 955usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
872as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if 956as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems. Note that if
873you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the 957you do transactions with the outside world and you can't increase the
874parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you 958parallelity, then this setting will limit your transaction rate (if you
875need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01, 959need to poll once per transaction and the I/O collect interval is 0.01,
876then you can't do more than 100 transations per second). 960then you can't do more than 100 transactions per second).
877 961
878Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for 962Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
879saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that 963saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
880are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of 964are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
881times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to 965times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
889 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01); 973 ev_set_io_collect_interval (EV_DEFAULT_UC_ 0.01);
890 974
891=item ev_invoke_pending (loop) 975=item ev_invoke_pending (loop)
892 976
893This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their 977This call will simply invoke all pending watchers while resetting their
894pending state. Normally, C<ev_loop> does this automatically when required, 978pending state. Normally, C<ev_run> does this automatically when required,
895but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. 979but when overriding the invoke callback this call comes handy. This
980function can be invoked from a watcher - this can be useful for example
981when you want to do some lengthy calculation and want to pass further
982event handling to another thread (you still have to make sure only one
983thread executes within C<ev_invoke_pending> or C<ev_run> of course).
896 984
897=item int ev_pending_count (loop) 985=item int ev_pending_count (loop)
898 986
899Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers 987Returns the number of pending watchers - zero indicates that no watchers
900are pending. 988are pending.
901 989
902=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P)) 990=item ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (loop, void (*invoke_pending_cb)(EV_P))
903 991
904This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of 992This overrides the invoke pending functionality of the loop: Instead of
905invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_loop> will call 993invoking all pending watchers when there are any, C<ev_run> will call
906this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to 994this callback instead. This is useful, for example, when you want to
907invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 995invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
908 996
909If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 997If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
910callback. 998callback.
913 1001
914Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 1002Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
915can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 1003can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
916each call to a libev function. 1004each call to a libev function.
917 1005
918However, C<ev_loop> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible to 1006However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
919wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the loop via 1007to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
920C<ev_unloop> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these I<release> 1008loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these
921and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1009I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
922 1010
923When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1011When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
924suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1012suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
925afterwards. 1013afterwards.
926 1014
929 1017
930While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of 1018While event loop modifications are allowed between invocations of
931C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no 1019C<release> and C<acquire> (that's their only purpose after all), no
932modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will 1020modifications done will affect the event loop, i.e. adding watchers will
933have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time 1021have no effect on the set of file descriptors being watched, or the time
934waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_loop> when you want it 1022waited. Use an C<ev_async> watcher to wake up C<ev_run> when you want it
935to take note of any changes you made. 1023to take note of any changes you made.
936 1024
937In theory, threads executing C<ev_loop> will be async-cancel safe between 1025In theory, threads executing C<ev_run> will be async-cancel safe between
938invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>. 1026invocations of C<release> and C<acquire>.
939 1027
940See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this 1028See also the locking example in the C<THREADS> section later in this
941document. 1029document.
942 1030
943=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data) 1031=item ev_set_userdata (loop, void *data)
944 1032
945=item ev_userdata (loop) 1033=item void *ev_userdata (loop)
946 1034
947Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When 1035Set and retrieve a single C<void *> associated with a loop. When
948C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns 1036C<ev_set_userdata> has never been called, then C<ev_userdata> returns
949C<0.> 1037C<0>.
950 1038
951These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop, 1039These two functions can be used to associate arbitrary data with a loop,
952and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and 1040and are intended solely for the C<invoke_pending_cb>, C<release> and
953C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for 1041C<acquire> callbacks described above, but of course can be (ab-)used for
954any other purpose as well. 1042any other purpose as well.
955 1043
956=item ev_loop_verify (loop) 1044=item ev_verify (loop)
957 1045
958This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been 1046This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
959compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go 1047compiled in, which is the default for non-minimal builds. It tries to go
960through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything 1048through all internal structures and checks them for validity. If anything
961is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard 1049is found to be inconsistent, it will print an error message to standard
972 1060
973In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the 1061In the following description, uppercase C<TYPE> in names stands for the
974watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer 1062watcher type, e.g. C<ev_TYPE_start> can mean C<ev_timer_start> for timer
975watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers. 1063watchers and C<ev_io_start> for I/O watchers.
976 1064
977A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 1065A watcher is an opaque structure that you allocate and register to record
978interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 1066your interest in some event. To make a concrete example, imagine you want
979become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 1067to wait for STDIN to become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher
1068for that:
980 1069
981 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1070 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
982 { 1071 {
983 ev_io_stop (w); 1072 ev_io_stop (w);
984 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1073 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
985 } 1074 }
986 1075
987 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 1076 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
988 1077
989 ev_io stdin_watcher; 1078 ev_io stdin_watcher;
990 1079
991 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 1080 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
992 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1081 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
993 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 1082 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
994 1083
995 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1084 ev_run (loop, 0);
996 1085
997As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 1086As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
998watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the 1087watcher structures (and it is I<usually> a bad idea to do this on the
999stack). 1088stack).
1000 1089
1001Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE> 1090Each watcher has an associated watcher structure (called C<struct ev_TYPE>
1002or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs). 1091or simply C<ev_TYPE>, as typedefs are provided for all watcher structs).
1003 1092
1004Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 1093Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init (watcher
1005(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 1094*, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This callback is
1006callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O 1095invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O watchers, each
1007watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 1096time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given is readable
1008is readable and/or writable). 1097and/or writable).
1009 1098
1010Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >> 1099Each watcher type further has its own C<< ev_TYPE_set (watcher *, ...) >>
1011macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There 1100macro to configure it, with arguments specific to the watcher type. There
1012is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<< 1101is also a macro to combine initialisation and setting in one call: C<<
1013ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>. 1102ev_TYPE_init (watcher *, callback, ...) >>.
1064 1153
1065=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1154=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1066 1155
1067=item C<EV_CHECK> 1156=item C<EV_CHECK>
1068 1157
1069All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_loop> starts 1158All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts
1070to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1159to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after
1071C<ev_loop> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1160C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any
1072received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1161received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
1073many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1162many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
1074(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1163(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
1075C<ev_loop> from blocking). 1164C<ev_run> from blocking).
1076 1165
1077=item C<EV_EMBED> 1166=item C<EV_EMBED>
1078 1167
1079The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1168The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1080 1169
1081=item C<EV_FORK> 1170=item C<EV_FORK>
1082 1171
1083The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 1172The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
1084C<ev_fork>). 1173C<ev_fork>).
1174
1175=item C<EV_CLEANUP>
1176
1177The event loop is about to be destroyed (see C<ev_cleanup>).
1085 1178
1086=item C<EV_ASYNC> 1179=item C<EV_ASYNC>
1087 1180
1088The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>). 1181The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
1089 1182
1261 1354
1262See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1355See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1263functions that do not need a watcher. 1356functions that do not need a watcher.
1264 1357
1265=back 1358=back
1266
1267 1359
1268=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1360=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
1269 1361
1270Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change 1362Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1271and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used 1363and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1327 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1419 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1328 { 1420 {
1329 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *) 1421 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1330 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1422 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1331 } 1423 }
1424
1425=head2 WATCHER STATES
1426
1427There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1428active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to
1429transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1430rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1431
1432=over 4
1433
1434=item initialiased
1435
1436Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be
1437initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1438C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1439
1440In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use
1441in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will.
1442
1443=item started/running/active
1444
1445Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes
1446property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1447this state it cannot be accessed (except in a few documented ways), moved,
1448freed or anything else - the only legal thing is to keep a pointer to it,
1449and call libev functions on it that are documented to work on active watchers.
1450
1451=item pending
1452
1453If a watcher is active and libev determines that an event it is interested
1454in has occurred (such as a timer expiring), it will become pending. It will
1455stay in this pending state until either it is stopped or its callback is
1456about to be invoked, so it is not normally pending inside the watcher
1457callback.
1458
1459The watcher might or might not be active while it is pending (for example,
1460an expired non-repeating timer can be pending but no longer active). If it
1461is stopped, it can be freely accessed (e.g. by calling C<ev_TYPE_set>),
1462but it is still property of the event loop at this time, so cannot be
1463moved, freed or reused. And if it is active the rules described in the
1464previous item still apply.
1465
1466It is also possible to feed an event on a watcher that is not active (e.g.
1467via C<ev_feed_event>), in which case it becomes pending without being
1468active.
1469
1470=item stopped
1471
1472A watcher can be stopped implicitly by libev (in which case it might still
1473be pending), or explicitly by calling its C<ev_TYPE_stop> function. The
1474latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1475of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1476freeing it is often a good idea.
1477
1478While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1479initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1480you wish.
1481
1482=back
1332 1483
1333=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1484=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1334 1485
1335Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1486Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1336integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1487integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1379 1530
1380For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities, 1531For example, to emulate how many other event libraries handle priorities,
1381you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in 1532you can associate an C<ev_idle> watcher to each such watcher, and in
1382the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real 1533the normal watcher callback, you just start the idle watcher. The real
1383processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to 1534processing is done in the idle watcher callback. This causes libev to
1384continously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when 1535continuously poll and process kernel event data for the watcher, but when
1385the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is 1536the lock-out case is known to be rare (which in turn is rare :), this is
1386workable. 1537workable.
1387 1538
1388Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform 1539Usually, however, the lock-out model implemented that way will perform
1389miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case, 1540miserably under the type of load it was designed to handle. In that case,
1403 { 1554 {
1404 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but 1555 // stop the I/O watcher, we received the event, but
1405 // are not yet ready to handle it. 1556 // are not yet ready to handle it.
1406 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); 1557 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
1407 1558
1408 // start the idle watcher to ahndle the actual event. 1559 // start the idle watcher to handle the actual event.
1409 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers 1560 // it will not be executed as long as other watchers
1410 // with the default priority are receiving events. 1561 // with the default priority are receiving events.
1411 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle); 1562 ev_idle_start (EV_A_ &idle);
1412 } 1563 }
1413 1564
1467 1618
1468If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a 1619If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1469known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only 1620known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1470C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file 1621C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1471descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as 1622descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1472files) - libev doesn't guarentee any specific behaviour in that case. 1623files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1473 1624
1474Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1625Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1475receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1626receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
1476be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1627be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1477because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1628because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
1545somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue). 1696somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1546 1697
1547=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't 1698=head3 The special problem of accept()ing when you can't
1548 1699
1549Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example, 1700Many implementations of the POSIX C<accept> function (for example,
1550found in port-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a 1701found in post-2004 Linux) have the peculiar behaviour of not removing a
1551connection from the pending queue in all error cases. 1702connection from the pending queue in all error cases.
1552 1703
1553For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because 1704For example, larger servers often run out of file descriptors (because
1554of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not 1705of resource limits), causing C<accept> to fail with C<ENFILE> but not
1555rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on 1706rejecting the connection, leading to libev signalling readiness on
1621 ... 1772 ...
1622 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1773 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
1623 ev_io stdin_readable; 1774 ev_io stdin_readable;
1624 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1775 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
1625 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1776 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
1626 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1777 ev_run (loop, 0);
1627 1778
1628 1779
1629=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1780=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
1630 1781
1631Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1782Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
1640The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1791The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1641passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1792passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1642might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1793might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the
1643same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1794same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked
1644before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1795before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is
1645no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 1796no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1646 1797
1647=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1798=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1648 1799
1649Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1800Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1650recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1801recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1736 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1887 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.;
1737 1888
1738 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1889 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out
1739 if (timeout < now) 1890 if (timeout < now)
1740 { 1891 {
1741 // timeout occured, take action 1892 // timeout occurred, take action
1742 } 1893 }
1743 else 1894 else
1744 { 1895 {
1745 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1896 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm
1746 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1897 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is
1773 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER); 1924 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1774 1925
1775And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 1926And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1776C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 1927C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1777 1928
1778 last_actiivty = ev_now (loop); 1929 last_activity = ev_now (loop);
1779 1930
1780This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 1931This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1781time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 1932time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1782 1933
1783Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the 1934Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1821 1972
1822=head3 The special problem of time updates 1973=head3 The special problem of time updates
1823 1974
1824Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 1975Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at
1825least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 1976least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1826time only before and after C<ev_loop> collects new events, which causes a 1977time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1827growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 1978growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1828lots of events in one iteration. 1979lots of events in one iteration.
1829 1980
1830The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1981The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1831time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1982time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1948 } 2099 }
1949 2100
1950 ev_timer mytimer; 2101 ev_timer mytimer;
1951 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 2102 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
1952 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 2103 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
1953 ev_loop (loop, 0); 2104 ev_run (loop, 0);
1954 2105
1955 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 2106 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
1956 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 2107 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
1957 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 2108 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
1958 2109
1984 2135
1985As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2136As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1986point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2137point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
1987timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2138timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
1988earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2139earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
1989(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_loop> recursively). 2140(but this is no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1990 2141
1991=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2142=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1992 2143
1993=over 4 2144=over 4
1994 2145
2122Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 2273Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
2123system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 2274system time is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
2124potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability. 2275potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
2125 2276
2126 static void 2277 static void
2127 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 2278 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_periodic *w, int revents)
2128 { 2279 {
2129 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 2280 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
2130 } 2281 }
2131 2282
2132 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2283 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2155 2306
2156=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2307=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2157 2308
2158Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2309Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2159signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2310signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2160will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 2311will try its best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
2161normal event processing, like any other event. 2312normal event processing, like any other event.
2162 2313
2163If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use 2314If you want signals to be delivered truly asynchronously, just use
2164C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing 2315C<sigaction> as you would do without libev and forget about sharing
2165the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to 2316the signal. You can even use C<ev_async> from a signal handler to
2208 2359
2209So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when 2360So I can't stress this enough: I<If you do not reset your signal mask when
2210you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This 2361you expect it to be empty, you have a race condition in your code>. This
2211is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries. 2362is not a libev-specific thing, this is true for most event libraries.
2212 2363
2364=head3 The special problem of threads signal handling
2365
2366POSIX threads has problematic signal handling semantics, specifically,
2367a lot of functionality (sigfd, sigwait etc.) only really works if all
2368threads in a process block signals, which is hard to achieve.
2369
2370When you want to use sigwait (or mix libev signal handling with your own
2371for the same signals), you can tackle this problem by globally blocking
2372all signals before creating any threads (or creating them with a fully set
2373sigprocmask) and also specifying the C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> when creating
2374loops. Then designate one thread as "signal receiver thread" which handles
2375these signals. You can pass on any signals that libev might be interested
2376in by calling C<ev_feed_signal>.
2377
2213=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2378=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2214 2379
2215=over 4 2380=over 4
2216 2381
2217=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 2382=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
2232Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT. 2397Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT.
2233 2398
2234 static void 2399 static void
2235 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents) 2400 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_signal *w, int revents)
2236 { 2401 {
2237 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 2402 ev_break (loop, EVBREAK_ALL);
2238 } 2403 }
2239 2404
2240 ev_signal signal_watcher; 2405 ev_signal signal_watcher;
2241 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 2406 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
2242 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher); 2407 ev_signal_start (loop, &signal_watcher);
2628 2793
2629Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 2794Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs:
2630prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2795prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2631afterwards. 2796afterwards.
2632 2797
2633You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter 2798You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter
2634the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 2799the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
2635watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 2800watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
2636rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 2801rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
2637those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 2802those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
2638C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 2803C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
2806 2971
2807 if (timeout >= 0) 2972 if (timeout >= 0)
2808 // create/start timer 2973 // create/start timer
2809 2974
2810 // poll 2975 // poll
2811 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2976 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
2812 2977
2813 // stop timer again 2978 // stop timer again
2814 if (timeout >= 0) 2979 if (timeout >= 0)
2815 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to); 2980 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2816 2981
2894if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 3059if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
2895 3060
2896=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 3061=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
2897 3062
2898Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 3063Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
2899similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 3064similarly to C<ev_run (embedded_loop, EVRUN_NOWAIT)>, but in the most
2900appropriate way for embedded loops. 3065appropriate way for embedded loops.
2901 3066
2902=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only] 3067=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
2903 3068
2904The embedded event loop. 3069The embedded event loop.
2964C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3129C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
2965handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3130handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
2966 3131
2967=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3132=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
2968 3133
2969Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to ste 3134Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
2970up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3135up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
2971sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3136sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
2972 3137
2973This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3138This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
2974in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3139in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
2990disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support 3155disadvantage of having to use multiple event loops (which do not support
2991signal watchers). 3156signal watchers).
2992 3157
2993When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for 3158When this is not possible, or you want to use the default loop for
2994other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call 3159other reasons, then in the process that wants to start "fresh", call
2995C<ev_default_destroy ()> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>. Destroying 3160C<ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT)> followed by C<ev_default_loop (...)>.
2996the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered watchers, so you 3161Destroying the default loop will "orphan" (not stop) all registered
2997have to be careful not to execute code that modifies those watchers. Note 3162watchers, so you have to be careful not to execute code that modifies
2998also that in that case, you have to re-register any signal watchers. 3163those watchers. Note also that in that case, you have to re-register any
3164signal watchers.
2999 3165
3000=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3166=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3001 3167
3002=over 4 3168=over 4
3003 3169
3004=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 3170=item ev_fork_init (ev_fork *, callback)
3005 3171
3006Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 3172Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
3007kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 3173kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
3008believe me. 3174really.
3009 3175
3010=back 3176=back
3011 3177
3012 3178
3179=head2 C<ev_cleanup> - even the best things end
3180
3181Cleanup watchers are called just before the event loop is being destroyed
3182by a call to C<ev_loop_destroy>.
3183
3184While there is no guarantee that the event loop gets destroyed, cleanup
3185watchers provide a convenient method to install cleanup hooks for your
3186program, worker threads and so on - you just to make sure to destroy the
3187loop when you want them to be invoked.
3188
3189Cleanup watchers are invoked in the same way as any other watcher. Unlike
3190all other watchers, they do not keep a reference to the event loop (which
3191makes a lot of sense if you think about it). Like all other watchers, you
3192can call libev functions in the callback, except C<ev_cleanup_start>.
3193
3194=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
3195
3196=over 4
3197
3198=item ev_cleanup_init (ev_cleanup *, callback)
3199
3200Initialises and configures the cleanup watcher - it has no parameters of
3201any kind. There is a C<ev_cleanup_set> macro, but using it is utterly
3202pointless, I assure you.
3203
3204=back
3205
3206Example: Register an atexit handler to destroy the default loop, so any
3207cleanup functions are called.
3208
3209 static void
3210 program_exits (void)
3211 {
3212 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
3213 }
3214
3215 ...
3216 atexit (program_exits);
3217
3218
3013=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop 3219=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3014 3220
3015In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other 3221In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other
3016asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3222asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3017loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3223loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3018 3224
3019Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not 3225Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3020control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what 3226for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3021C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you 3227watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you can signal
3022can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal 3228it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3023safe.
3024 3229
3025This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3230This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3026too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3231too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3027(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3232(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3028C<ev_async_sent> calls). 3233C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3234of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3235signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3236even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3029 3237
3030Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not 3238Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
3031just the default loop. 3239just the default loop.
3032 3240
3033=head3 Queueing 3241=head3 Queueing
3209Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3417Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3210the given events it. 3418the given events it.
3211 3419
3212=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3420=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3213 3421
3214Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default 3422Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3215loop!). 3423which is async-safe.
3424
3425=back
3426
3427
3428=head1 COMMON OR USEFUL IDIOMS (OR BOTH)
3429
3430This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3431obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3432section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3433
3434=over 4
3435
3436=item Model/nested event loop invocations and exit conditions.
3437
3438Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3439I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3440invoking C<ev_run>.
3441
3442This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3443main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3444a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3445and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3446other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone.
3447
3448The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3449invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3450triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3451
3452 // main loop
3453 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3454
3455 while (!exit_main_loop)
3456 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3457
3458 // in a model watcher
3459 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3460
3461 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3462 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3463
3464To exit from any of these loops, just set the corresponding exit variable:
3465
3466 // exit modal loop
3467 exit_nested_loop = 1;
3468
3469 // exit main program, after modal loop is finished
3470 exit_main_loop = 1;
3471
3472 // exit both
3473 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3216 3474
3217=back 3475=back
3218 3476
3219 3477
3220=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 3478=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3221 3479
3222Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 3480Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3223emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints: 3481emulate the internals of libevent, so here are some usage hints:
3224 3482
3225=over 4 3483=over 4
3484
3485=item * Only the libevent-1.4.1-beta API is being emulated.
3486
3487This was the newest libevent version available when libev was implemented,
3488and is still mostly unchanged in 2010.
3226 3489
3227=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual. 3490=item * Use it by including <event.h>, as usual.
3228 3491
3229=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback, 3492=item * The following members are fully supported: ev_base, ev_callback,
3230ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events. 3493ev_arg, ev_fd, ev_res, ev_events.
3236=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 3499=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
3237will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 3500will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
3238is an ev_pri field. 3501is an ev_pri field.
3239 3502
3240=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the 3503=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
3241first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals. 3504base that registered the signal gets the signals.
3242 3505
3243=item * Other members are not supported. 3506=item * Other members are not supported.
3244 3507
3245=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 3508=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
3246to use the libev header file and library. 3509to use the libev header file and library.
3265Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++ 3528Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
3266classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer 3529classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
3267that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if 3530that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
3268you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev). 3531you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
3269 3532
3270Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be 3533Currently, functions, static and non-static member functions and classes
3271used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only 3534with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3272need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other 3535to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3273types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing 3536you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3274it). 3537(preferably after implementing it).
3275 3538
3276Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 3539Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3277 3540
3278=over 4 3541=over 4
3279 3542
3340 myclass obj; 3603 myclass obj;
3341 ev::io iow; 3604 ev::io iow;
3342 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj); 3605 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
3343 3606
3344=item w->set (object *) 3607=item w->set (object *)
3345
3346This is an B<experimental> feature that might go away in a future version.
3347 3608
3348This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call 3609This is a variation of a method callback - leaving out the method to call
3349will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use 3610will default the method to C<operator ()>, which makes it possible to use
3350functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all 3611functor objects without having to manually specify the C<operator ()> all
3351the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument 3612the time. Incidentally, you can then also leave out the template argument
3391Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 3652Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3392do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 3653do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3393 3654
3394=item w->set ([arguments]) 3655=item w->set ([arguments])
3395 3656
3396Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be 3657Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this
3397called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 3658method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the
3398automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this 3659C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted
3399method. 3660when reconfiguring it with this method.
3400 3661
3401=item w->start () 3662=item w->start ()
3402 3663
3403Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 3664Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3404constructor already stores the event loop. 3665constructor already stores the event loop.
3405 3666
3667=item w->start ([arguments])
3668
3669Instead of calling C<set> and C<start> methods separately, it is often
3670convenient to wrap them in one call. Uses the same type of arguments as
3671the configure C<set> method of the watcher.
3672
3406=item w->stop () 3673=item w->stop ()
3407 3674
3408Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 3675Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
3409 3676
3410=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only) 3677=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
3422 3689
3423=back 3690=back
3424 3691
3425=back 3692=back
3426 3693
3427Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 3694Example: Define a class with two I/O and idle watchers, start the I/O
3428the constructor. 3695watchers in the constructor.
3429 3696
3430 class myclass 3697 class myclass
3431 { 3698 {
3432 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 3699 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3700 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3433 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 3701 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3434 3702
3435 myclass (int fd) 3703 myclass (int fd)
3436 { 3704 {
3437 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 3705 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3706 io2 .set <myclass, &myclass::io2_cb > (this);
3438 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this); 3707 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
3439 3708
3440 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 3709 io.set (fd, ev::WRITE); // configure the watcher
3710 io.start (); // start it whenever convenient
3711
3712 io2.start (fd, ev::READ); // set + start in one call
3441 } 3713 }
3442 }; 3714 };
3443 3715
3444 3716
3445=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS 3717=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
3519loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 3791loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
3520C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 3792C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
3521 3793
3522 ev_unref (EV_A); 3794 ev_unref (EV_A);
3523 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 3795 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
3524 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 3796 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3525 3797
3526It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 3798It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
3527which is often provided by the following macro. 3799which is often provided by the following macro.
3528 3800
3529=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 3801=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
3569 } 3841 }
3570 3842
3571 ev_check check; 3843 ev_check check;
3572 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 3844 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
3573 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 3845 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
3574 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 3846 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
3575 3847
3576=head1 EMBEDDING 3848=head1 EMBEDDING
3577 3849
3578Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 3850Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
3579applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 3851applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
3664define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in 3936define before including (or compiling) any of its files. The default in
3665the absence of autoconf is documented for every option. 3937the absence of autoconf is documented for every option.
3666 3938
3667Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different 3939Symbols marked with "(h)" do not change the ABI, and can have different
3668values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible 3940values when compiling libev vs. including F<ev.h>, so it is permissible
3669to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breakign compatibility 3941to redefine them before including F<ev.h> without breaking compatibility
3670to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all 3942to a compiled library. All other symbols change the ABI, which means all
3671users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible 3943users of libev and the libev code itself must be compiled with compatible
3672settings. 3944settings.
3673 3945
3674=over 4 3946=over 4
3947
3948=item EV_COMPAT3 (h)
3949
3950Backwards compatibility is a major concern for libev. This is why this
3951release of libev comes with wrappers for the functions and symbols that
3952have been renamed between libev version 3 and 4.
3953
3954You can disable these wrappers (to test compatibility with future
3955versions) by defining C<EV_COMPAT3> to C<0> when compiling your
3956sources. This has the additional advantage that you can drop the C<struct>
3957from C<struct ev_loop> declarations, as libev will provide an C<ev_loop>
3958typedef in that case.
3959
3960In some future version, the default for C<EV_COMPAT3> will become C<0>,
3961and in some even more future version the compatibility code will be
3962removed completely.
3675 3963
3676=item EV_STANDALONE (h) 3964=item EV_STANDALONE (h)
3677 3965
3678Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which 3966Must always be C<1> if you do not use autoconf configuration, which
3679keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy 3967keeps libev from including F<config.h>, and it also defines dummy
3886EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE, 4174EV_PREPARE_ENABLE, EV_CHECK_ENABLE, EV_FORK_ENABLE, EV_SIGNAL_ENABLE,
3887EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE. 4175EV_ASYNC_ENABLE, EV_CHILD_ENABLE.
3888 4176
3889If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then 4177If undefined or defined to be C<1> (and the platform supports it), then
3890the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it 4178the respective watcher type is supported. If defined to be C<0>, then it
3891is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves codesize. 4179is not. Disabling watcher types mainly saves code size.
3892 4180
3893=item EV_FEATURES 4181=item EV_FEATURES
3894 4182
3895If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 4183If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
3896speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request 4184speed (but with the full API), you can define this symbol to request
3916 4204
3917=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4205=item C<1> - faster/larger code
3918 4206
3919Use larger code to speed up some operations. 4207Use larger code to speed up some operations.
3920 4208
3921Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the roughly 4209Currently this is used to override some inlining decisions (enlarging the
392230% code size on amd64. 4210code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
3923 4211
3924When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4212When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
3925gcc recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4213gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
3926assertions. 4214assertions.
3927 4215
3928=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4216=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
3929 4217
3930Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4218Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
3931hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase codesize 4219hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
3932and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4220and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
3933runtime. 4221runtime.
3934 4222
3935=item C<4> - full API configuration 4223=item C<4> - full API configuration
3936 4224
3973I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4261I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
3974 4262
3975=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4263=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
3976 4264
3977If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4265If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
3978functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the codesize 4266functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
3979somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your 4267somewhat, but if your program doesn't otherwise depend on stdio and your
3980libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite 4268libc allows it, this avoids linking in the stdio library which is quite
3981big. 4269big.
3982 4270
3983Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is 4271Note that error messages might become less precise when this option is
3987 4275
3988The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of 4276The highest supported signal number, +1 (or, the number of
3989signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals 4277signals): Normally, libev tries to deduce the maximum number of signals
3990automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be 4278automatically, but sometimes this fails, in which case it can be
3991specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be 4279specified. Also, using a lower number than detected (C<32> should be
3992good for about any system in existance) can save some memory, as libev 4280good for about any system in existence) can save some memory, as libev
3993statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number. 4281statically allocates some 12-24 bytes per signal number.
3994 4282
3995=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 4283=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
3996 4284
3997C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 4285C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
4029The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it 4317The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4030will be C<0>. 4318will be C<0>.
4031 4319
4032=item EV_VERIFY 4320=item EV_VERIFY
4033 4321
4034Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will 4322Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_verify ()>) will
4035be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled 4323be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
4036in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4324in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4037called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4325called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4038called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4326called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4039verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4327verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4043will be C<0>. 4331will be C<0>.
4044 4332
4045=item EV_COMMON 4333=item EV_COMMON
4046 4334
4047By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 4335By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
4048this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 4336this macro to something else you can include more and other types of
4049members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 4337members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
4050though, and it must be identical each time. 4338though, and it must be identical each time.
4051 4339
4052For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 4340For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
4053 4341
4254 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A); 4542 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4255 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock); 4543 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4256 } 4544 }
4257 4545
4258The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight 4546The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4259into C<ev_loop>: 4547into C<ev_run>:
4260 4548
4261 void * 4549 void *
4262 l_run (void *thr_arg) 4550 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4263 { 4551 {
4264 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg; 4552 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4265 4553
4266 l_acquire (EV_A); 4554 l_acquire (EV_A);
4267 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0); 4555 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4268 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 4556 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4269 l_release (EV_A); 4557 l_release (EV_A);
4270 4558
4271 return 0; 4559 return 0;
4272 } 4560 }
4273 4561
4325 4613
4326=head3 COROUTINES 4614=head3 COROUTINES
4327 4615
4328Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 4616Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4329libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 4617libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4330coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two 4618coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_run> on the same loop from two
4331different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running 4619different coroutines, and switch freely between both coroutines running
4332the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is 4620the loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is
4333that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks. 4621that you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
4334 4622
4335Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside 4623Care has been taken to ensure that libev does not keep local state inside
4336C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as 4624C<ev_run>, and other calls do not usually allow for coroutine switches as
4337they do not call any callbacks. 4625they do not call any callbacks.
4338 4626
4339=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS 4627=head2 COMPILER WARNINGS
4340 4628
4341Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a 4629Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
4352maintainable. 4640maintainable.
4353 4641
4354And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply 4642And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
4355wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message 4643wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
4356seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some 4644seems to warn about). For example, certain older gcc versions had some
4357warnings that resulted an extreme number of false positives. These have 4645warnings that resulted in an extreme number of false positives. These have
4358been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with 4646been fixed, but some people still insist on making code warn-free with
4359such buggy versions. 4647such buggy versions.
4360 4648
4361While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible, 4649While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
4362"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev 4650"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
4398I suggest using suppression lists. 4686I suggest using suppression lists.
4399 4687
4400 4688
4401=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES 4689=head1 PORTABILITY NOTES
4402 4690
4691=head2 GNU/LINUX 32 BIT LIMITATIONS
4692
4693GNU/Linux is the only common platform that supports 64 bit file/large file
4694interfaces but I<disables> them by default.
4695
4696That means that libev compiled in the default environment doesn't support
4697files larger than 2GiB or so, which mainly affects C<ev_stat> watchers.
4698
4699Unfortunately, many programs try to work around this GNU/Linux issue
4700by enabling the large file API, which makes them incompatible with the
4701standard libev compiled for their system.
4702
4703Likewise, libev cannot enable the large file API itself as this would
4704suddenly make it incompatible to the default compile time environment,
4705i.e. all programs not using special compile switches.
4706
4707=head2 OS/X AND DARWIN BUGS
4708
4709The whole thing is a bug if you ask me - basically any system interface
4710you touch is broken, whether it is locales, poll, kqueue or even the
4711OpenGL drivers.
4712
4713=head3 C<kqueue> is buggy
4714
4715The kqueue syscall is broken in all known versions - most versions support
4716only sockets, many support pipes.
4717
4718Libev tries to work around this by not using C<kqueue> by default on this
4719rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating a
4720loop - embedding a socket-only kqueue loop into a select-based one is
4721probably going to work well.
4722
4723=head3 C<poll> is buggy
4724
4725Instead of fixing C<kqueue>, Apple replaced their (working) C<poll>
4726implementation by something calling C<kqueue> internally around the 10.5.6
4727release, so now C<kqueue> I<and> C<poll> are broken.
4728
4729Libev tries to work around this by not using C<poll> by default on
4730this rotten platform, but of course you can still ask for it when creating
4731a loop.
4732
4733=head3 C<select> is buggy
4734
4735All that's left is C<select>, and of course Apple found a way to fuck this
4736one up as well: On OS/X, C<select> actively limits the number of file
4737descriptors you can pass in to 1024 - your program suddenly crashes when
4738you use more.
4739
4740There is an undocumented "workaround" for this - defining
4741C<_DARWIN_UNLIMITED_SELECT>, which libev tries to use, so select I<should>
4742work on OS/X.
4743
4744=head2 SOLARIS PROBLEMS AND WORKAROUNDS
4745
4746=head3 C<errno> reentrancy
4747
4748The default compile environment on Solaris is unfortunately so
4749thread-unsafe that you can't even use components/libraries compiled
4750without C<-D_REENTRANT> in a threaded program, which, of course, isn't
4751defined by default. A valid, if stupid, implementation choice.
4752
4753If you want to use libev in threaded environments you have to make sure
4754it's compiled with C<_REENTRANT> defined.
4755
4756=head3 Event port backend
4757
4758The scalable event interface for Solaris is called "event
4759ports". Unfortunately, this mechanism is very buggy in all major
4760releases. If you run into high CPU usage, your program freezes or you get
4761a large number of spurious wakeups, make sure you have all the relevant
4762and latest kernel patches applied. No, I don't know which ones, but there
4763are multiple ones to apply, and afterwards, event ports actually work
4764great.
4765
4766If you can't get it to work, you can try running the program by setting
4767the environment variable C<LIBEV_FLAGS=3> to only allow C<poll> and
4768C<select> backends.
4769
4770=head2 AIX POLL BUG
4771
4772AIX unfortunately has a broken C<poll.h> header. Libev works around
4773this by trying to avoid the poll backend altogether (i.e. it's not even
4774compiled in), which normally isn't a big problem as C<select> works fine
4775with large bitsets on AIX, and AIX is dead anyway.
4776
4403=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS 4777=head2 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
4778
4779=head3 General issues
4404 4780
4405Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev 4781Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
4406requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 4782requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4407model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 4783model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4408the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 4784the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4409descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 4785descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4410e.g. cygwin. 4786e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4787as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4788environment.
4411 4789
4412Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 4790Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4413re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of 4791re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4414things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable 4792then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4415way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man). 4793also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
4416 4794
4417There is no supported compilation method available on windows except 4795There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
4418embedding it into other applications. 4796embedding it into other applications.
4419 4797
4420Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev 4798Sensible signal handling is officially unsupported by Microsoft - libev
4448you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!): 4826you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded source files!):
4449 4827
4450 #include "evwrap.h" 4828 #include "evwrap.h"
4451 #include "ev.c" 4829 #include "ev.c"
4452 4830
4453=over 4
4454
4455=item The winsocket select function 4831=head3 The winsocket C<select> function
4456 4832
4457The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it 4833The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
4458requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is 4834requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
4459also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also 4835also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
4460requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft 4836requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
4469 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */ 4845 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
4470 4846
4471Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a 4847Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
4472complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32. 4848complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
4473 4849
4474=item Limited number of file descriptors 4850=head3 Limited number of file descriptors
4475 4851
4476Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things. 4852Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
4477 4853
4478Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum 4854Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
4479of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels 4855of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
4494runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets 4870runtime libraries. This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets
4495(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, 4871(depending on windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more,
4496you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but 4872you need to wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but
4497the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable. 4873the cost of calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
4498 4874
4499=back
4500
4501=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS 4875=head2 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
4502 4876
4503In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the 4877In addition to a working ISO-C implementation and of course the
4504backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions: 4878backend-specific APIs, libev relies on a few additional extensions:
4505 4879
4511Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal 4885Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
4512structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 4886structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4513assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 4887assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4514callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 4888callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4515calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 4889calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4890
4891=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4892
4893Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4894writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4516 4895
4517=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well 4896=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
4518 4897
4519The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as 4898The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
4520C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different 4899C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic with respect to accesses from different
4543watchers. 4922watchers.
4544 4923
4545=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy 4924=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
4546 4925
4547The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 4926The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4548have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good 4927have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4549enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by 4928good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4929(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4550implementations implementing IEEE 754, which is basically all existing 4930implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With
4551ones. With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 4931IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200.
45522200.
4553 4932
4554=back 4933=back
4555 4934
4556If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 4935If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4557 4936
4627=back 5006=back
4628 5007
4629 5008
4630=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 5009=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
4631 5010
4632The major version 4 introduced some minor incompatible changes to the API. 5011The major version 4 introduced some incompatible changes to the API.
4633 5012
4634At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file tries to implement superficial 5013At the moment, the C<ev.h> header file provides compatibility definitions
4635compatibility, so most programs should still compile. Those might be 5014for all changes, so most programs should still compile. The compatibility
4636removed in later versions of libev, so better update early than late. 5015layer might be removed in later versions of libev, so better update to the
5016new API early than late.
4637 5017
4638=over 4 5018=over 4
4639 5019
4640=item C<ev_loop_count> renamed to C<ev_iteration> 5020=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
4641 5021
4642=item C<ev_loop_depth> renamed to C<ev_depth> 5022The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5023C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING>
5024section.
4643 5025
4644=item C<ev_loop_verify> renamed to C<ev_verify> 5026=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5027
5028These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5029
5030 ev_loop_destroy (EV_DEFAULT_UC);
5031 ev_loop_fork (EV_DEFAULT);
5032
5033=item function/symbol renames
5034
5035A number of functions and symbols have been renamed:
5036
5037 ev_loop => ev_run
5038 EVLOOP_NONBLOCK => EVRUN_NOWAIT
5039 EVLOOP_ONESHOT => EVRUN_ONCE
5040
5041 ev_unloop => ev_break
5042 EVUNLOOP_CANCEL => EVBREAK_CANCEL
5043 EVUNLOOP_ONE => EVBREAK_ONE
5044 EVUNLOOP_ALL => EVBREAK_ALL
5045
5046 EV_TIMEOUT => EV_TIMER
5047
5048 ev_loop_count => ev_iteration
5049 ev_loop_depth => ev_depth
5050 ev_loop_verify => ev_verify
4645 5051
4646Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an 5052Most functions working on C<struct ev_loop> objects don't have an
4647C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is 5053C<ev_loop_> prefix, so it was removed; C<ev_loop>, C<ev_unloop> and
5054associated constants have been renamed to not collide with the C<struct
5055ev_loop> anymore and C<EV_TIMER> now follows the same naming scheme
5056as all other watcher types. Note that C<ev_loop_fork> is still called
4648still called C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the 5057C<ev_loop_fork> because it would otherwise clash with the C<ev_fork>
4649C<ev_frok> typedef. 5058typedef.
4650
4651=item C<EV_TIMEOUT> renamed to C<EV_TIMER> in C<revents>
4652
4653This is a simple rename - all other watcher types use their name
4654as revents flag, and now C<ev_timer> does, too.
4655
4656Both C<EV_TIMER> and C<EV_TIMEOUT> symbols were present in 3.x versions
4657and continue to be present for the forseeable future, so this is mostly a
4658documentation change.
4659 5059
4660=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES> 5060=item C<EV_MINIMAL> mechanism replaced by C<EV_FEATURES>
4661 5061
4662The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different 5062The preprocessor symbol C<EV_MINIMAL> has been replaced by a different
4663mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile 5063mechanism, C<EV_FEATURES>. Programs using C<EV_MINIMAL> usually compile
4670 5070
4671=over 4 5071=over 4
4672 5072
4673=item active 5073=item active
4674 5074
4675A watcher is active as long as it has been started (has been attached to 5075A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
4676an event loop) but not yet stopped (disassociated from the event loop). 5076See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4677 5077
4678=item application 5078=item application
4679 5079
4680In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5080In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5081
5082=item backend
5083
5084The part of the code dealing with the operating system interfaces.
4681 5085
4682=item callback 5086=item callback
4683 5087
4684The address of a function that is called when some event has been 5088The address of a function that is called when some event has been
4685detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that 5089detected. Callbacks are being passed the event loop, the watcher that
4686received the event, and the actual event bitset. 5090received the event, and the actual event bitset.
4687 5091
4688=item callback invocation 5092=item callback/watcher invocation
4689 5093
4690The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher. 5094The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4691 5095
4692=item event 5096=item event
4693 5097
4712The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes 5116The model used to describe how an event loop handles and processes
4713watchers and events. 5117watchers and events.
4714 5118
4715=item pending 5119=item pending
4716 5120
4717A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been detected, 5121A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
4718and stops being pending as soon as the watcher will be invoked or its 5122detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details.
4719pending status is explicitly cleared by the application.
4720
4721A watcher can be pending, but not active. Stopping a watcher also clears
4722its pending status.
4723 5123
4724=item real time 5124=item real time
4725 5125
4726The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5126The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
4727 5127
4734=item watcher 5134=item watcher
4735 5135
4736A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5136A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
4737to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events. 5137to be started (attached to an event loop) before they can receive events.
4738 5138
4739=item watcher invocation
4740
4741The act of calling the callback associated with a watcher.
4742
4743=back 5139=back
4744 5140
4745=head1 AUTHOR 5141=head1 AUTHOR
4746 5142
4747Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael Magnusson. 5143Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5144Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta.
4748 5145

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