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1=encoding utf-8
2
1=head1 NAME 3=head1 NAME
2 4
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 5libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 6
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 7=head1 SYNOPSIS
58 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 60 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
59 61
60 // now wait for events to arrive 62 // now wait for events to arrive
61 ev_run (loop, 0); 63 ev_run (loop, 0);
62 64
63 // unloop was called, so exit 65 // break was called, so exit
64 return 0; 66 return 0;
65 } 67 }
66 68
67=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 69=head1 ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
68 70
82 84
83=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY 85=head1 WHAT TO READ WHEN IN A HURRY
84 86
85This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes 87This manual tries to be very detailed, but unfortunately, this also makes
86it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest 88it very long. If you just want to know the basics of libev, I suggest
87reading L<ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L<EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and 89reading L</ANATOMY OF A WATCHER>, then the L</EXAMPLE PROGRAM> above and
88look up the missing functions in L<GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and 90look up the missing functions in L</GLOBAL FUNCTIONS> and the C<ev_io> and
89C<ev_timer> sections in L<WATCHER TYPES>. 91C<ev_timer> sections in L</WATCHER TYPES>.
90 92
91=head1 ABOUT LIBEV 93=head1 ABOUT LIBEV
92 94
93Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 95Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
94file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage 96file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
103details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 105details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
104watcher. 106watcher.
105 107
106=head2 FEATURES 108=head2 FEATURES
107 109
108Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 110Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific aio and C<epoll>
109BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 111interfaces, the BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port
110for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 112mechanisms for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify>
111(for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner 113interface (for C<ev_stat>), Linux eventfd/signalfd (for faster and cleaner
112inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative 114inter-thread wakeup (C<ev_async>)/signal handling (C<ev_signal>)) relative
113timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling 115timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers with customised rescheduling
114(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status 116(C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals (C<ev_signal>), process status
115change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event 117change events (C<ev_child>), and event watchers dealing with the event
116loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and 118loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>, C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and
157When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then 159When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then
158it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism, 160it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism,
159so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in 161so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in
160the libev caller and need to be fixed there. 162the libev caller and need to be fixed there.
161 163
164Via the C<EV_FREQUENT> macro you can compile in and/or enable extensive
165consistency checking code inside libev that can be used to check for
166internal inconsistencies, suually caused by application bugs.
167
162Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions, and also has 168Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions. These do not
163extensive consistency checking code. These do not trigger under normal
164circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev or worse. 169trigger under normal circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev
170or worse.
165 171
166 172
167=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 173=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
168 174
169These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 175These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
174=item ev_tstamp ev_time () 180=item ev_tstamp ev_time ()
175 181
176Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 182Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
177C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 183C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
178you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of 184you actually want to know. Also interesting is the combination of
179C<ev_update_now> and C<ev_now>. 185C<ev_now_update> and C<ev_now>.
180 186
181=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval) 187=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
182 188
183Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until 189Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked
184either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically 190until either it is interrupted or the given time interval has
191passed (approximately - it might return a bit earlier even if not
192interrupted). Returns immediately if C<< interval <= 0 >>.
193
185this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>. 194Basically this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
195
196The range of the C<interval> is limited - libev only guarantees to work
197with sleep times of up to one day (C<< interval <= 86400 >>).
186 198
187=item int ev_version_major () 199=item int ev_version_major ()
188 200
189=item int ev_version_minor () 201=item int ev_version_minor ()
190 202
241the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends () 253the current system, you would need to look at C<ev_embeddable_backends ()
242& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones. 254& ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for recommended ones.
243 255
244See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 256See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
245 257
246=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 258=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size) throw ())
247 259
248Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the 260Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
249semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is 261semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
250used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero 262used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
251when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort 263when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
257 269
258You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 270You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
259free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 271free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
260or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 272or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
261 273
274Example: The following is the C<realloc> function that libev itself uses
275which should work with C<realloc> and C<free> functions of all kinds and
276is probably a good basis for your own implementation.
277
278 static void *
279 ev_realloc_emul (void *ptr, long size) EV_NOEXCEPT
280 {
281 if (size)
282 return realloc (ptr, size);
283
284 free (ptr);
285 return 0;
286 }
287
262Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 288Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
263retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>). 289retries.
264 290
265 static void * 291 static void *
266 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 292 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
267 { 293 {
294 if (!size)
295 {
296 free (ptr);
297 return 0;
298 }
299
268 for (;;) 300 for (;;)
269 { 301 {
270 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 302 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
271 303
272 if (newptr) 304 if (newptr)
277 } 309 }
278 310
279 ... 311 ...
280 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 312 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
281 313
282=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)) 314=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg) throw ())
283 315
284Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such 316Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
285as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 317as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
286indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 318indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
287callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no 319callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
390 422
391If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 423If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
392or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 424or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
393C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 425C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
394override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 426override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
395useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 427useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, to work
396around bugs. 428around bugs, or to make libev threadsafe (accessing environment variables
429cannot be done in a threadsafe way, but usually it works if no other
430thread modifies them).
397 431
398=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 432=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
399 433
400Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also 434Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
401make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag. 435make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
402 436
403This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 437This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
404and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 438and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
405iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 439iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
406GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 440GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn
407without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 441sequence without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux
408C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 442system also has C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). (Update: glibc
443versions 2.25 apparently removed the C<getpid> optimisation again).
409 444
410The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 445The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
411forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 446forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking, although you still
412flag. 447have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>) when you use this flag.
413 448
414This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 449This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
415environment variable. 450environment variable.
416 451
417=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 452=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
435example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks. 470example) that can't properly initialise their signal masks.
436 471
437=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK> 472=item C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>
438 473
439When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal 474When this flag is specified, then libev will avoid to modify the signal
440mask. Specifically, this means you ahve to make sure signals are unblocked 475mask. Specifically, this means you have to make sure signals are unblocked
441when you want to receive them. 476when you want to receive them.
442 477
443This behaviour is useful when you want to do your own signal handling, or 478This 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 479want to handle signals only in specific threads and want to avoid libev
445unblocking the signals. 480unblocking the signals.
481
482It's also required by POSIX in a threaded program, as libev calls
483C<sigprocmask>, whose behaviour is officially unspecified.
446 484
447This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev. 485This flag's behaviour will become the default in future versions of libev.
448 486
449=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 487=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
450 488
477This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and 515This backend maps C<EV_READ> to C<POLLIN | POLLERR | POLLHUP>, and
478C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>. 516C<EV_WRITE> to C<POLLOUT | POLLERR | POLLHUP>.
479 517
480=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 518=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
481 519
482Use the linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9 520Use the Linux-specific epoll(7) interface (for both pre- and post-2.6.9
483kernels). 521kernels).
484 522
485For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 523For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, but
486but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale 524it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like
487like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), 525O(total_fds) where total_fds is the total number of fds (or the highest
488epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). 526fd), epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds).
489 527
490The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned 528The epoll mechanism deserves honorable mention as the most misdesigned
491of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently 529of the more advanced event mechanisms: mere annoyances include silently
492dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file 530dropping file descriptors, requiring a system call per change per file
493descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup, 531descriptor (and unnecessary guessing of parameters), problems with dup,
4960.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program 5340.1ms) and so on. The biggest issue is fork races, however - if a program
497forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll 535forks then I<both> parent and child process have to recreate the epoll
498set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor) 536set, which can take considerable time (one syscall per file descriptor)
499and is of course hard to detect. 537and is of course hard to detect.
500 538
501Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work, but 539Epoll is also notoriously buggy - embedding epoll fds I<should> work,
502of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for totally 540but of course I<doesn't>, and epoll just loves to report events for
503I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so one cannot 541totally I<different> file descriptors (even already closed ones, so
504even remove them from the set) than registered in the set (especially 542one cannot even remove them from the set) than registered in the set
505on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious notifications by 543(especially on SMP systems). Libev tries to counter these spurious
506employing an additional generation counter and comparing that against the 544notifications by employing an additional generation counter and comparing
507events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set when required. Last 545that against the events to filter out spurious ones, recreating the set
546when required. Epoll also erroneously rounds down timeouts, but gives you
547no way to know when and by how much, so sometimes you have to busy-wait
548because epoll returns immediately despite a nonzero timeout. And last
508not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work 549not least, it also refuses to work with some file descriptors which work
509perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...). 550perfectly fine with C<select> (files, many character devices...).
510 551
511Epoll is truly the train wreck analog among event poll mechanisms. 552Epoll is truly the train wreck among event poll mechanisms, a frankenpoll,
553cobbled together in a hurry, no thought to design or interaction with
554others. Oh, the pain, will it ever stop...
512 555
513While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration 556While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
514will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such 557will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such
515incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different 558incident (because the same I<file descriptor> could point to a different
516I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed 559I<file description> now), so its best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed
528All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or 571All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or
529faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on 572faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on
530the usage. So sad. 573the usage. So sad.
531 574
532While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in 575While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
533all kernel versions tested so far. 576a lot of kernel revisions, but probably(!) works in current versions.
534 577
535This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 578This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
536C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 579C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
537 580
581=item C<EVBACKEND_LINUXAIO> (value 64, Linux)
582
583Use the Linux-specific Linux AIO (I<not> C<< aio(7) >> but C<<
584io_submit(2) >>) event interface available in post-4.18 kernels (but libev
585only tries to use it in 4.19+).
586
587This is another Linux train wreck of an event interface.
588
589If this backend works for you (as of this writing, it was very
590experimental), it is the best event interface available on Linux and might
591be well worth enabling it - if it isn't available in your kernel this will
592be detected and this backend will be skipped.
593
594This backend can batch oneshot requests and supports a user-space ring
595buffer to receive events. It also doesn't suffer from most of the design
596problems of epoll (such as not being able to remove event sources from
597the epoll set), and generally sounds too good to be true. Because, this
598being the Linux kernel, of course it suffers from a whole new set of
599limitations, forcing you to fall back to epoll, inheriting all its design
600issues.
601
602For one, it is not easily embeddable (but probably could be done using
603an event fd at some extra overhead). It also is subject to a system wide
604limit that can be configured in F</proc/sys/fs/aio-max-nr>. If no AIO
605requests are left, this backend will be skipped during initialisation, and
606will switch to epoll when the loop is active.
607
608Most problematic in practice, however, is that not all file descriptors
609work with it. For example, in Linux 5.1, TCP sockets, pipes, event fds,
610files, F</dev/null> and many others are supported, but ttys do not work
611properly (a known bug that the kernel developers don't care about, see
612L<https://lore.kernel.org/patchwork/patch/1047453/>), so this is not
613(yet?) a generic event polling interface.
614
615Overall, it seems the Linux developers just don't want it to have a
616generic event handling mechanism other than C<select> or C<poll>.
617
618To work around all these problem, the current version of libev uses its
619epoll backend as a fallback for file descriptor types that do not work. Or
620falls back completely to epoll if the kernel acts up.
621
622This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
623C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
624
538=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 625=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
539 626
540Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 627Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time this backend was
541was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably 628implemented, it was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't
542with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course 629work reliably with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin,
543it's completely useless). Unlike epoll, however, whose brokenness 630where of course it's completely useless). Unlike epoll, however, whose
544is by design, these kqueue bugs can (and eventually will) be fixed 631brokenness is by design, these kqueue bugs can be (and mostly have been)
545without API changes to existing programs. For this reason it's not being 632fixed without API changes to existing programs. For this reason it's not
546"auto-detected" unless you explicitly specify it in the flags (i.e. using 633being "auto-detected" on all platforms unless you explicitly specify it
547C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough) 634in the flags (i.e. using C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a
548system like NetBSD. 635known-to-be-good (-enough) system like NetBSD.
549 636
550You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it 637You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
551only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on 638only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
552the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 639the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
553 640
554It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 641It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
555kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 642kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
556course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 643course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
557cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 644cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
558two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (but 645two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you
559sane, unlike epoll) and it drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect 646might have to leak fds on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it
560cases 647drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
561 648
562This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 649This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
563 650
564While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 651While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
565everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 652everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
594among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed 681among the OS-specific backends (I vastly prefer correctness over speed
595hacks). 682hacks).
596 683
597On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that 684On the negative side, the interface is I<bizarre> - so bizarre that
598even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling 685even sun itself gets it wrong in their code examples: The event polling
599function sometimes returning events to the caller even though an error 686function sometimes returns events to the caller even though an error
600occured, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's 687occurred, but with no indication whether it has done so or not (yes, it's
601even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where 688even documented that way) - deadly for edge-triggered interfaces where you
602you absolutely have to know whether an event occured or not because you 689absolutely have to know whether an event occurred or not because you have
603have to re-arm the watcher. 690to re-arm the watcher.
604 691
605Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies. 692Fortunately libev seems to be able to work around these idiocies.
606 693
607This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 694This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
608C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 695C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
638 725
639Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is 726Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
640used if available. 727used if available.
641 728
642 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 729 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
730
731Example: Similarly, on linux, you mgiht want to take advantage of the
732linux aio backend if possible, but fall back to something else if that
733isn't available.
734
735 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_LINUXAIO);
643 736
644=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 737=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
645 738
646Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state 739Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
647etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 740etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
664If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new> 757If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
665and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 758and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
666 759
667=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 760=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
668 761
669This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to 762This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations
670reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 763to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite
671name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 764the name, you can call it anytime you are allowed to start or stop
672the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the 765watchers (except inside an C<ev_prepare> callback), but it makes most
766sense after forking, in the child process. You I<must> call it (or use
673child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>. 767C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
674 768
769In addition, if you want to reuse a loop (via this function or
770C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>), you I<also> have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>.
771
675Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 772Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
676a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 773a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
677because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 774because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
678during fork. 775during fork.
679 776
680On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 777On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
750 847
751This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a 848This function is rarely useful, but when some event callback runs for a
752very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of 849very long time without entering the event loop, updating libev's idea of
753the current time is a good idea. 850the current time is a good idea.
754 851
755See also L<The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section. 852See also L</The special problem of time updates> in the C<ev_timer> section.
756 853
757=item ev_suspend (loop) 854=item ev_suspend (loop)
758 855
759=item ev_resume (loop) 856=item ev_resume (loop)
760 857
778without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>. 875without a previous call to C<ev_suspend>.
779 876
780Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the 877Calling C<ev_suspend>/C<ev_resume> has the side effect of updating the
781event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>). 878event loop time (see C<ev_now_update>).
782 879
783=item ev_run (loop, int flags) 880=item bool ev_run (loop, int flags)
784 881
785Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 882Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
786after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start 883after you have initialised all your watchers and you want to start
787handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call 884handling events. It will ask the operating system for any new events, call
788the watcher callbacks, an then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This 885the watcher callbacks, and then repeat the whole process indefinitely: This
789is why event loops are called I<loops>. 886is why event loops are called I<loops>.
790 887
791If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events 888If the flags argument is specified as C<0>, it will keep handling events
792until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was 889until either no event watchers are active anymore or C<ev_break> was
793called. 890called.
891
892The return value is false if there are no more active watchers (which
893usually means "all jobs done" or "deadlock"), and true in all other cases
894(which usually means " you should call C<ev_run> again").
794 895
795Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than 896Please note that an explicit C<ev_break> is usually better than
796relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has 897relying on all watchers to be stopped when deciding when a program has
797finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program 898finished (especially in interactive programs), but having a program
798that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue 899that automatically loops as long as it has to and no longer by virtue
799of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of 900of relying on its watchers stopping correctly, that is truly a thing of
800beauty. 901beauty.
801 902
802This function is also I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of 903This function is I<mostly> exception-safe - you can break out of a
803a C<ev_run> call by calling C<longjmp> in a callback, throwing a C++ 904C<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 905exception and so on. This does not decrement the C<ev_depth> value, nor
805will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks. 906will it clear any outstanding C<EVBREAK_ONE> breaks.
806 907
807A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle 908A flags value of C<EVRUN_NOWAIT> will look for new events, will handle
808those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and 909those events and any already outstanding ones, but will not wait and
820This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction 921This is useful if you are waiting for some external event in conjunction
821with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your 922with something not expressible using other libev watchers (i.e. "roll your
822own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 923own C<ev_run>"). However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
823usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 924usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
824 925
825Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does: 926Here are the gory details of what C<ev_run> does (this is for your
927understanding, not a guarantee that things will work exactly like this in
928future versions):
826 929
827 - Increment loop depth. 930 - Increment loop depth.
828 - Reset the ev_break status. 931 - Reset the ev_break status.
829 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers. 932 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
830 LOOP: 933 LOOP:
863anymore. 966anymore.
864 967
865 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 968 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
866 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 969 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
867 ev_run (my_loop, 0); 970 ev_run (my_loop, 0);
868 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah! 971 ... jobs done or somebody called break. yeah!
869 972
870=item ev_break (loop, how) 973=item ev_break (loop, how)
871 974
872Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it 975Can be used to make a call to C<ev_run> return early (but only after it
873has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 976has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
936overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once. 1039overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
937 1040
938By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more 1041By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
939time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration, 1042time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
940at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and 1043at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
941C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will 1044C<ev_timer>) will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
942introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The 1045introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations. The
943sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then 1046sleep time ensures that libev will not poll for I/O events more often then
944once per this interval, on average. 1047once per this interval, on average (as long as the host time resolution is
1048good enough).
945 1049
946Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev 1050Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
947to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased 1051to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
948latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called 1052latency/jitter/inexactness (the watcher callback will be called
949later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null 1053later). C<ev_io> watchers will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null
995invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.). 1099invoke the actual watchers inside another context (another thread etc.).
996 1100
997If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new 1101If you want to reset the callback, use C<ev_invoke_pending> as new
998callback. 1102callback.
999 1103
1000=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P), void (*acquire)(EV_P)) 1104=item ev_set_loop_release_cb (loop, void (*release)(EV_P) throw (), void (*acquire)(EV_P) throw ())
1001 1105
1002Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This 1106Sometimes you want to share the same loop between multiple threads. This
1003can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around 1107can be done relatively simply by putting mutex_lock/unlock calls around
1004each call to a libev function. 1108each call to a libev function.
1005 1109
1006However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible 1110However, C<ev_run> can run an indefinite time, so it is not feasible
1007to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event 1111to wait for it to return. One way around this is to wake up the event
1008loop via C<ev_break> and C<av_async_send>, another way is to set these 1112loop via C<ev_break> and C<ev_async_send>, another way is to set these
1009I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop. 1113I<release> and I<acquire> callbacks on the loop.
1010 1114
1011When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is 1115When set, then C<release> will be called just before the thread is
1012suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just 1116suspended waiting for new events, and C<acquire> is called just
1013afterwards. 1117afterwards.
1153 1257
1154=item C<EV_PREPARE> 1258=item C<EV_PREPARE>
1155 1259
1156=item C<EV_CHECK> 1260=item C<EV_CHECK>
1157 1261
1158All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts 1262All C<ev_prepare> watchers are invoked just I<before> C<ev_run> starts to
1159to gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are invoked just after 1263gather new events, and all C<ev_check> watchers are queued (not invoked)
1160C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it invokes any callbacks for any 1264just after C<ev_run> has gathered them, but before it queues any callbacks
1265for any received events. That means C<ev_prepare> watchers are the last
1266watchers invoked before the event loop sleeps or polls for new events, and
1267C<ev_check> watchers will be invoked before any other watchers of the same
1268or lower priority within an event loop iteration.
1269
1161received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 1270Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as many watchers as
1162many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 1271they want, and all of them will be taken into account (for example, a
1163(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 1272C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep C<ev_run> from
1164C<ev_run> from blocking). 1273blocking).
1165 1274
1166=item C<EV_EMBED> 1275=item C<EV_EMBED>
1167 1276
1168The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention. 1277The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
1169 1278
1292 1401
1293=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 1402=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
1294 1403
1295Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 1404Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
1296 1405
1297=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 1406=item ev_set_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
1298 1407
1299Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 1408Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
1300(modulo threads). 1409(modulo threads).
1301 1410
1302=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority) 1411=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, int priority)
1320or might not have been clamped to the valid range. 1429or might not have been clamped to the valid range.
1321 1430
1322The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is 1431The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
1323always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :). 1432always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
1324 1433
1325See L<WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of 1434See L</WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS>, below, for a more thorough treatment of
1326priorities. 1435priorities.
1327 1436
1328=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents) 1437=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
1329 1438
1330Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither 1439Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
1355See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related 1464See also C<ev_feed_fd_event> and C<ev_feed_signal_event> for related
1356functions that do not need a watcher. 1465functions that do not need a watcher.
1357 1466
1358=back 1467=back
1359 1468
1360=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 1469See also the L</ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER> and L</BUILDING YOUR
1361 1470OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS> idioms.
1362Each watcher has, by default, a member C<void *data> that you can change
1363and read at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
1364to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
1365don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
1366member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
1367data:
1368
1369 struct my_io
1370 {
1371 ev_io io;
1372 int otherfd;
1373 void *somedata;
1374 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
1375 };
1376
1377 ...
1378 struct my_io w;
1379 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
1380
1381And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
1382can cast it back to your own type:
1383
1384 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
1385 {
1386 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
1387 ...
1388 }
1389
1390More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
1391instead have been omitted.
1392
1393Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
1394embedded watchers:
1395
1396 struct my_biggy
1397 {
1398 int some_data;
1399 ev_timer t1;
1400 ev_timer t2;
1401 }
1402
1403In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
1404complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct
1405in the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies), or you need to use
1406some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for real
1407programmers):
1408
1409 #include <stddef.h>
1410
1411 static void
1412 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1413 {
1414 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1415 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
1416 }
1417
1418 static void
1419 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1420 {
1421 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
1422 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
1423 }
1424 1471
1425=head2 WATCHER STATES 1472=head2 WATCHER STATES
1426 1473
1427There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual - 1474There are various watcher states mentioned throughout this manual -
1428active, pending and so on. In this section these states and the rules to 1475active, 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 1476transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1430rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing". 1477rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1431 1478
1432=over 4 1479=over 4
1433 1480
1434=item initialiased 1481=item initialised
1435 1482
1436Before a watcher can be registered with the event looop it has to be 1483Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be
1437initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to 1484initialised. 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. 1485C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1439 1486
1440In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for use 1487In this state it is simply some block of memory that is suitable for
1441in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at will. 1488use in an event loop. It can be moved around, freed, reused etc. at
1489will - as long as you either keep the memory contents intact, or call
1490C<ev_TYPE_init> again.
1442 1491
1443=item started/running/active 1492=item started/running/active
1444 1493
1445Once a watcher has been started with a call to C<ev_TYPE_start> it becomes 1494Once 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 1495property of the event loop, and is actively waiting for events. While in
1474latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless 1523latter will clear any pending state the watcher might be in, regardless
1475of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before 1524of whether it was active or not, so stopping a watcher explicitly before
1476freeing it is often a good idea. 1525freeing it is often a good idea.
1477 1526
1478While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the 1527While stopped (and not pending) the watcher is essentially in the
1479initialised state, that is it can be reused, moved, modified in any way 1528initialised state, that is, it can be reused, moved, modified in any way
1480you wish. 1529you wish (but when you trash the memory block, you need to C<ev_TYPE_init>
1530it again).
1481 1531
1482=back 1532=back
1483 1533
1484=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS 1534=head2 WATCHER PRIORITY MODELS
1485 1535
1486Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small 1536Many event loops support I<watcher priorities>, which are usually small
1487integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation 1537integers that influence the ordering of event callback invocation
1488between watchers in some way, all else being equal. 1538between watchers in some way, all else being equal.
1489 1539
1490In libev, Watcher priorities can be set using C<ev_set_priority>. See its 1540In libev, watcher priorities can be set using C<ev_set_priority>. See its
1491description for the more technical details such as the actual priority 1541description for the more technical details such as the actual priority
1492range. 1542range.
1493 1543
1494There are two common ways how these these priorities are being interpreted 1544There are two common ways how these these priorities are being interpreted
1495by event loops: 1545by event loops:
1614In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1664In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
1615fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1665fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
1616descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1666descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
1617required if you know what you are doing). 1667required if you know what you are doing).
1618 1668
1619If you cannot use non-blocking mode, then force the use of a
1620known-to-be-good backend (at the time of this writing, this includes only
1621C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). The same applies to file
1622descriptors for which non-blocking operation makes no sense (such as
1623files) - libev doesn't guarantee any specific behaviour in that case.
1624
1625Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1669Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
1626receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might 1670receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is, your callback might
1627be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1671be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
1628because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1672because there is no data. It is very easy to get into this situation even
1629lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1673with a relatively standard program structure. Thus it is best to always
1630this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1674use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning C<EAGAIN> is far
1631it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
1632C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1675preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
1633 1676
1634If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should 1677If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should
1635not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately 1678not play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately
1636re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good 1679re-test whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good
1637interface such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already 1680interface such as poll (fortunately in the case of Xlib, it already does
1638does this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally 1681this on its own, so its quite safe to use). Some people additionally
1639use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block 1682use C<SIGALRM> and an interval timer, just to be sure you won't block
1640indefinitely. 1683indefinitely.
1641 1684
1642But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1685But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1643 1686
1644=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1687=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1645 1688
1646Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file 1689Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll, linuxaio) need to be told about closing
1647descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other means, 1690a file descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other
1648such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some file 1691means, such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some
1649descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop 1692file descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently
1650this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is 1693drop this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then
1651registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in 1694is registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is,
1652fact, a different file descriptor. 1695in fact, a different file descriptor.
1653 1696
1654To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows 1697To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
1655the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev 1698the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
1656will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise 1699will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
1657it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that 1700it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
1671 1714
1672There is no workaround possible except not registering events 1715There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1673for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to 1716for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1674C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1717C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1675 1718
1719=head3 The special problem of files
1720
1721Many people try to use C<select> (or libev) on file descriptors
1722representing files, and expect it to become ready when their program
1723doesn't block on disk accesses (which can take a long time on their own).
1724
1725However, this cannot ever work in the "expected" way - you get a readiness
1726notification as soon as the kernel knows whether and how much data is
1727there, and in the case of open files, that's always the case, so you
1728always get a readiness notification instantly, and your read (or possibly
1729write) will still block on the disk I/O.
1730
1731Another way to view it is that in the case of sockets, pipes, character
1732devices and so on, there is another party (the sender) that delivers data
1733on its own, but in the case of files, there is no such thing: the disk
1734will not send data on its own, simply because it doesn't know what you
1735wish to read - you would first have to request some data.
1736
1737Since files are typically not-so-well supported by advanced notification
1738mechanism, libev tries hard to emulate POSIX behaviour with respect
1739to files, even though you should not use it. The reason for this is
1740convenience: sometimes you want to watch STDIN or STDOUT, which is
1741usually a tty, often a pipe, but also sometimes files or special devices
1742(for example, C<epoll> on Linux works with F</dev/random> but not with
1743F</dev/urandom>), and even though the file might better be served with
1744asynchronous I/O instead of with non-blocking I/O, it is still useful when
1745it "just works" instead of freezing.
1746
1747So avoid file descriptors pointing to files when you know it (e.g. use
1748libeio), but use them when it is convenient, e.g. for STDIN/STDOUT, or
1749when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1750reuse the same code path.
1751
1676=head3 The special problem of fork 1752=head3 The special problem of fork
1677 1753
1678Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1754Some backends (epoll, kqueue, linuxaio, iouring) do not support C<fork ()>
1679useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1755at all or exhibit useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs
1680it in the child. 1756to be told about it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the
1757child.
1681 1758
1682To support fork in your programs, you either have to call 1759To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1683C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child, 1760()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1684enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or 1761C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1685C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1686 1762
1687=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE 1763=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1688 1764
1689While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>: 1765While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about C<SIGPIPE>:
1690when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets 1766when writing to a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program gets
1788detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1864detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
1789monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1865monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
1790 1866
1791The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has 1867The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only I<after> its timeout has
1792passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this 1868passed (not I<at>, so on systems with very low-resolution clocks this
1793might introduce a small delay). If multiple timers become ready during the 1869might introduce a small delay, see "the special problem of being too
1870early", below). If multiple timers become ready during the same loop
1794same loop iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked 1871iteration then the ones with earlier time-out values are invoked before
1795before ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is 1872ones of the same priority with later time-out values (but this is no
1796no longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively). 1873longer true when a callback calls C<ev_run> recursively).
1797 1874
1798=head3 Be smart about timeouts 1875=head3 Be smart about timeouts
1799 1876
1800Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error 1877Many real-world problems involve some kind of timeout, usually for error
1801recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs, 1878recovery. A typical example is an HTTP request - if the other side hangs,
1876 1953
1877In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone, 1954In this case, it would be more efficient to leave the C<ev_timer> alone,
1878but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only 1955but remember the time of last activity, and check for a real timeout only
1879within the callback: 1956within the callback:
1880 1957
1958 ev_tstamp timeout = 60.;
1881 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity 1959 ev_tstamp last_activity; // time of last activity
1960 ev_timer timer;
1882 1961
1883 static void 1962 static void
1884 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 1963 callback (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1885 { 1964 {
1886 ev_tstamp now = ev_now (EV_A); 1965 // calculate when the timeout would happen
1887 ev_tstamp timeout = last_activity + 60.; 1966 ev_tstamp after = last_activity - ev_now (EV_A) + timeout;
1888 1967
1889 // if last_activity + 60. is older than now, we did time out 1968 // if negative, it means we the timeout already occurred
1890 if (timeout < now) 1969 if (after < 0.)
1891 { 1970 {
1892 // timeout occurred, take action 1971 // timeout occurred, take action
1893 } 1972 }
1894 else 1973 else
1895 { 1974 {
1896 // callback was invoked, but there was some activity, re-arm 1975 // callback was invoked, but there was some recent
1897 // the watcher to fire in last_activity + 60, which is 1976 // activity. simply restart the timer to time out
1898 // guaranteed to be in the future, so "again" is positive: 1977 // after "after" seconds, which is the earliest time
1899 w->repeat = timeout - now; 1978 // the timeout can occur.
1979 ev_timer_set (w, after, 0.);
1900 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ w); 1980 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ w);
1901 } 1981 }
1902 } 1982 }
1903 1983
1904To summarise the callback: first calculate the real timeout (defined 1984To summarise the callback: first calculate in how many seconds the
1905as "60 seconds after the last activity"), then check if that time has 1985timeout will occur (by calculating the absolute time when it would occur,
1906been reached, which means something I<did>, in fact, time out. Otherwise 1986C<last_activity + timeout>, and subtracting the current time, C<ev_now
1907the callback was invoked too early (C<timeout> is in the future), so 1987(EV_A)> from that).
1908re-schedule the timer to fire at that future time, to see if maybe we have
1909a timeout then.
1910 1988
1911Note how C<ev_timer_again> is used, taking advantage of the 1989If this value is negative, then we are already past the timeout, i.e. we
1912C<ev_timer_again> optimisation when the timer is already running. 1990timed out, and need to do whatever is needed in this case.
1991
1992Otherwise, we now the earliest time at which the timeout would trigger,
1993and simply start the timer with this timeout value.
1994
1995In other words, each time the callback is invoked it will check whether
1996the timeout occurred. If not, it will simply reschedule itself to check
1997again at the earliest time it could time out. Rinse. Repeat.
1913 1998
1914This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds 1999This scheme causes more callback invocations (about one every 60 seconds
1915minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to 2000minus half the average time between activity), but virtually no calls to
1916libev to change the timeout. 2001libev to change the timeout.
1917 2002
1918To start the timer, simply initialise the watcher and set C<last_activity> 2003To start the machinery, simply initialise the watcher and set
1919to the current time (meaning we just have some activity :), then call the 2004C<last_activity> to the current time (meaning there was some activity just
1920callback, which will "do the right thing" and start the timer: 2005now), then call the callback, which will "do the right thing" and start
2006the timer:
1921 2007
2008 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
1922 ev_init (timer, callback); 2009 ev_init (&timer, callback);
1923 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 2010 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1924 callback (loop, timer, EV_TIMER);
1925 2011
1926And when there is some activity, simply store the current time in 2012When there is some activity, simply store the current time in
1927C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all: 2013C<last_activity>, no libev calls at all:
1928 2014
2015 if (activity detected)
1929 last_activity = ev_now (loop); 2016 last_activity = ev_now (EV_A);
2017
2018When your timeout value changes, then the timeout can be changed by simply
2019providing a new value, stopping the timer and calling the callback, which
2020will again do the right thing (for example, time out immediately :).
2021
2022 timeout = new_value;
2023 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &timer);
2024 callback (EV_A_ &timer, 0);
1930 2025
1931This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the 2026This technique is slightly more complex, but in most cases where the
1932time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient. 2027time-out is unlikely to be triggered, much more efficient.
1933
1934Changing the timeout is trivial as well (if it isn't hard-coded in the
1935callback :) - just change the timeout and invoke the callback, which will
1936fix things for you.
1937 2028
1938=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts. 2029=item 4. Wee, just use a double-linked list for your timeouts.
1939 2030
1940If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all 2031If there is not one request, but many thousands (millions...), all
1941employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can 2032employing some kind of timeout with the same timeout value, then one can
1968Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is 2059Method #1 is almost always a bad idea, and buys you nothing. Method #4 is
1969rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays 2060rather complicated, but extremely efficient, something that really pays
1970off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually 2061off after the first million or so of active timers, i.e. it's usually
1971overkill :) 2062overkill :)
1972 2063
2064=head3 The special problem of being too early
2065
2066If you ask a timer to call your callback after three seconds, then
2067you expect it to be invoked after three seconds - but of course, this
2068cannot be guaranteed to infinite precision. Less obviously, it cannot be
2069guaranteed to any precision by libev - imagine somebody suspending the
2070process with a STOP signal for a few hours for example.
2071
2072So, libev tries to invoke your callback as soon as possible I<after> the
2073delay has occurred, but cannot guarantee this.
2074
2075A less obvious failure mode is calling your callback too early: many event
2076loops compare timestamps with a "elapsed delay >= requested delay", but
2077this can cause your callback to be invoked much earlier than you would
2078expect.
2079
2080To see why, imagine a system with a clock that only offers full second
2081resolution (think windows if you can't come up with a broken enough OS
2082yourself). If you schedule a one-second timer at the time 500.9, then the
2083event loop will schedule your timeout to elapse at a system time of 500
2084(500.9 truncated to the resolution) + 1, or 501.
2085
2086If an event library looks at the timeout 0.1s later, it will see "501 >=
2087501" and invoke the callback 0.1s after it was started, even though a
2088one-second delay was requested - this is being "too early", despite best
2089intentions.
2090
2091This is the reason why libev will never invoke the callback if the elapsed
2092delay equals the requested delay, but only when the elapsed delay is
2093larger than the requested delay. In the example above, libev would only invoke
2094the callback at system time 502, or 1.1s after the timer was started.
2095
2096So, while libev cannot guarantee that your callback will be invoked
2097exactly when requested, it I<can> and I<does> guarantee that the requested
2098delay has actually elapsed, or in other words, it always errs on the "too
2099late" side of things.
2100
1973=head3 The special problem of time updates 2101=head3 The special problem of time updates
1974 2102
1975Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes at 2103Establishing the current time is a costly operation (it usually takes
1976least two system calls): EV therefore updates its idea of the current 2104at least one system call): EV therefore updates its idea of the current
1977time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a 2105time only before and after C<ev_run> collects new events, which causes a
1978growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling 2106growing difference between C<ev_now ()> and C<ev_time ()> when handling
1979lots of events in one iteration. 2107lots of events in one iteration.
1980 2108
1981The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2109The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
1982time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 2110time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
1983of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 2111of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
1984you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the 2112you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
1985timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 2113timeout on the current time, use something like the following to adjust
2114for it:
1986 2115
1987 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 2116 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + (ev_time () - ev_now ()), 0.);
1988 2117
1989If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2118If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
1990update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2119update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
1991()>. 2120()>, although that will push the event time of all outstanding events
2121further into the future.
2122
2123=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks
2124
2125Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal
2126"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time
2127jumps).
2128
2129Neither of these clocks is synchronised with each other or any other clock
2130on the system, so C<ev_time ()> might return a considerably different time
2131than C<gettimeofday ()> or C<time ()>. On a GNU/Linux system, for example,
2132a call to C<gettimeofday> might return a second count that is one higher
2133than a directly following call to C<time>.
2134
2135The moral of this is to only compare libev-related timestamps with
2136C<ev_time ()> and C<ev_now ()>, at least if you want better precision than
2137a second or so.
2138
2139One more problem arises due to this lack of synchronisation: if libev uses
2140the system monotonic clock and you compare timestamps from C<ev_time>
2141or C<ev_now> from when you started your timer and when your callback is
2142invoked, you will find that sometimes the callback is a bit "early".
2143
2144This is because C<ev_timer>s work in real time, not wall clock time, so
2145libev makes sure your callback is not invoked before the delay happened,
2146I<measured according to the real time>, not the system clock.
2147
2148If your timeouts are based on a physical timescale (e.g. "time out this
2149connection after 100 seconds") then this shouldn't bother you as it is
2150exactly the right behaviour.
2151
2152If you want to compare wall clock/system timestamps to your timers, then
2153you need to use C<ev_periodic>s, as these are based on the wall clock
2154time, where your comparisons will always generate correct results.
1992 2155
1993=head3 The special problems of suspended animation 2156=head3 The special problems of suspended animation
1994 2157
1995When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that 2158When you leave the server world it is quite customary to hit machines that
1996can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend? 2159can suspend/hibernate - what happens to the clocks during such a suspend?
2026 2189
2027=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2190=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
2028 2191
2029=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2192=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
2030 2193
2031Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> 2194Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds (fractional and
2032is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is 2195negative values are supported). If C<repeat> is C<0.>, then it will
2033reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be 2196automatically be stopped once the timeout is reached. If it is positive,
2034configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again, 2197then the timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat>
2035until stopped manually. 2198seconds later, again, and again, until stopped manually.
2036 2199
2037The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if 2200The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
2038you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally 2201you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
2039trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot 2202trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
2040keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to 2203keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
2041do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 2204do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
2042 2205
2043=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *) 2206=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
2044 2207
2045This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 2208This will act as if the timer timed out, and restarts it again if it is
2046repeating. The exact semantics are: 2209repeating. It basically works like calling C<ev_timer_stop>, updating the
2210timeout to the C<repeat> value and calling C<ev_timer_start>.
2047 2211
2212The exact semantics are as in the following rules, all of which will be
2213applied to the watcher:
2214
2215=over 4
2216
2048If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared. 2217=item If the timer is pending, the pending status is always cleared.
2049 2218
2050If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out). 2219=item If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed
2220out, without invoking it).
2051 2221
2052If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the 2222=item If the timer is repeating, make the C<repeat> value the new timeout
2053C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value. 2223and start the timer, if necessary.
2054 2224
2225=back
2226
2055This sounds a bit complicated, see L<Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a 2227This sounds a bit complicated, see L</Be smart about timeouts>, above, for a
2056usage example. 2228usage example.
2057 2229
2058=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *) 2230=item ev_tstamp ev_timer_remaining (loop, ev_timer *)
2059 2231
2060Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active, 2232Returns the remaining time until a timer fires. If the timer is active,
2113Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 2285Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
2114(and unfortunately a bit complex). 2286(and unfortunately a bit complex).
2115 2287
2116Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or 2288Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or
2117relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time 2289relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
2118(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calender or clock). The 2290(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calendar or clock). The
2119difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real 2291difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real
2120time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your 2292time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your
2121wrist-watch). 2293wrist-watch).
2122 2294
2123You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point 2295You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point
2128C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting 2300C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting
2129it, as it uses a relative timeout). 2301it, as it uses a relative timeout).
2130 2302
2131C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex 2303C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex
2132timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or 2304timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
2133other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as 2305other complicated rules. This cannot easily be done with C<ev_timer>
2134those cannot react to time jumps. 2306watchers, as those cannot react to time jumps.
2135 2307
2136As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2308As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
2137point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2309point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
2138timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2310timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
2139earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2311earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
2180 2352
2181Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 2353Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
2182C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 2354C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
2183time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 2355time where C<time = offset (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
2184 2356
2185For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<offset> value is near 2357The C<interval> I<MUST> be positive, and for numerical stability, the
2186C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for 2358interval value should be higher than C<1/8192> (which is around 100
2187this value, and in fact is often specified as zero. 2359microseconds) and C<offset> should be higher than C<0> and should have
2360at most a similar magnitude as the current time (say, within a factor of
2361ten). Typical values for offset are, in fact, C<0> or something between
2362C<0> and C<interval>, which is also the recommended range.
2188 2363
2189Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU 2364Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
2190speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability 2365speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
2191will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one 2366will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
2192millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough). 2367millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
2222 2397
2223NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or 2398NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
2224equal to the passed C<now> value >>. 2399equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
2225 2400
2226This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 2401This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
2227triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the 2402triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate
2228next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 2403the next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for
2229you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 2404this. Here is a (completely untested, no error checking) example on how to
2230reason I omitted it as an example). 2405do this:
2406
2407 #include <time.h>
2408
2409 static ev_tstamp
2410 my_rescheduler (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
2411 {
2412 time_t tnow = (time_t)now;
2413 struct tm tm;
2414 localtime_r (&tnow, &tm);
2415
2416 tm.tm_sec = tm.tm_min = tm.tm_hour = 0; // midnight current day
2417 ++tm.tm_mday; // midnight next day
2418
2419 return mktime (&tm);
2420 }
2421
2422Note: this code might run into trouble on days that have more then two
2423midnights (beginning and end).
2231 2424
2232=back 2425=back
2233 2426
2234=item ev_periodic_again (loop, ev_periodic *) 2427=item ev_periodic_again (loop, ev_periodic *)
2235 2428
2300 2493
2301 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2494 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2302 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 2495 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
2303 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 2496 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
2304 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2497 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
2305 2498
2306 2499
2307=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2500=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2308 2501
2309Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2502Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2310signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2503signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2320only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your 2513only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2321default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for 2514default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2322C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At 2515C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2323the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop. 2516the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2324 2517
2325When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2518Only after the first watcher for a signal is started will libev actually
2326with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2519register something with the kernel. It thus coexists with your own signal
2327you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2520handlers as long as you don't register any with libev for the same signal.
2328 2521
2329If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2522If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2330C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2523C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2331not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2524not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2332interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2525interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2335=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create 2528=head3 The special problem of inheritance over fork/execve/pthread_create
2336 2529
2337Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition 2530Both the signal mask (C<sigprocmask>) and the signal disposition
2338(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after 2531(C<sigaction>) are unspecified after starting a signal watcher (and after
2339stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal, 2532stopping it again), that is, libev might or might not block the signal,
2340and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler. 2533and might or might not set or restore the installed signal handler (but
2534see C<EVFLAG_NOSIGMASK>).
2341 2535
2342While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never 2536While this does not matter for the signal disposition (libev never
2343sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on 2537sets signals to C<SIG_IGN>, so handlers will be reset to C<SIG_DFL> on
2344C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect 2538C<execve>), this matters for the signal mask: many programs do not expect
2345certain signals to be blocked. 2539certain signals to be blocked.
2516 2710
2517=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2711=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
2518 2712
2519This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2713This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
2520C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed) 2714C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
2521and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if 2715and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback
2522it did. 2716if it did. Starting the watcher C<stat>'s the file, so only changes that
2717happen after the watcher has been started will be reported.
2523 2718
2524The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2719The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
2525not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not 2720not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
2526exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the 2721exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
2527C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at 2722C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
2757Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 2952Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
2758effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 2953effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
2759"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 2954"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
2760event loop has handled all outstanding events. 2955event loop has handled all outstanding events.
2761 2956
2957=head3 Abusing an C<ev_idle> watcher for its side-effect
2958
2959As long as there is at least one active idle watcher, libev will never
2960sleep unnecessarily. Or in other words, it will loop as fast as possible.
2961For this to work, the idle watcher doesn't need to be invoked at all - the
2962lowest priority will do.
2963
2964This mode of operation can be useful together with an C<ev_check> watcher,
2965to do something on each event loop iteration - for example to balance load
2966between different connections.
2967
2968See L</Abusing an ev_check watcher for its side-effect> for a longer
2969example.
2970
2762=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 2971=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2763 2972
2764=over 4 2973=over 4
2765 2974
2766=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback) 2975=item ev_idle_init (ev_idle *, callback)
2777callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 2986callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
2778 2987
2779 static void 2988 static void
2780 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents) 2989 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_idle *w, int revents)
2781 { 2990 {
2991 // stop the watcher
2992 ev_idle_stop (loop, w);
2993
2994 // now we can free it
2782 free (w); 2995 free (w);
2996
2783 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 2997 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
2784 // no longer anything immediate to do. 2998 // no longer anything immediate to do.
2785 } 2999 }
2786 3000
2787 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle)); 3001 ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (ev_idle));
2789 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher); 3003 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_watcher);
2790 3004
2791 3005
2792=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 3006=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
2793 3007
2794Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in pairs: 3008Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs:
2795prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 3009prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2796afterwards. 3010afterwards.
2797 3011
2798You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter 3012You I<must not> call C<ev_run> (or similar functions that enter the
2799the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 3013current event loop) or C<ev_loop_fork> from either C<ev_prepare> or
2800watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 3014C<ev_check> watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine,
2801rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 3015however. The rationale behind this is that you do not need to check
2802those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 3016for recursion in those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be
2803C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 3017C<ev_prepare>, blocking, C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each
2804called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 3018kind they will always be called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
2805 3019
2806Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 3020Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
2807their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track 3021their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
2808variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 3022variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
2809coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 3023coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
2827with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 3041with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
2828of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 3042of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
2829loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 3043loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
2830low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 3044low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
2831 3045
2832It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) 3046When used for this purpose, it is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers
2833priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers 3047highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>) priority, to ensure that they are being run before
2834after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare> watchers). 3048any other watchers after the poll (this doesn't matter for C<ev_prepare>
3049watchers).
2835 3050
2836Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not 3051Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers, too) should not
2837activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they 3052activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully supports this, they
2838might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As 3053might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers did their job. As
2839C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event 3054C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other (non-libev) event
2840loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their 3055loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
2841C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with 3056C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
2842others). 3057others).
3058
3059=head3 Abusing an C<ev_check> watcher for its side-effect
3060
3061C<ev_check> (and less often also C<ev_prepare>) watchers can also be
3062useful because they are called once per event loop iteration. For
3063example, if you want to handle a large number of connections fairly, you
3064normally only do a bit of work for each active connection, and if there
3065is more work to do, you wait for the next event loop iteration, so other
3066connections have a chance of making progress.
3067
3068Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the
3069next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible -
3070without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked.
3071
3072This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a
3073single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active
3074C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop
3075will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets
3076invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that.
2843 3077
2844=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members 3078=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2845 3079
2846=over 4 3080=over 4
2847 3081
3048 3282
3049=over 4 3283=over 4
3050 3284
3051=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3285=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3052 3286
3053=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3287=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3054 3288
3055Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 3289Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
3056embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 3290embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
3057invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 3291invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
3058to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 3292to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
3079used). 3313used).
3080 3314
3081 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 3315 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
3082 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 3316 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
3083 ev_embed embed; 3317 ev_embed embed;
3084 3318
3085 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 3319 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
3086 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 3320 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
3087 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 3321 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
3088 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 3322 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
3089 : 0; 3323 : 0;
3103C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 3337C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
3104 3338
3105 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 3339 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
3106 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 3340 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
3107 ev_embed embed; 3341 ev_embed embed;
3108 3342
3109 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 3343 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
3110 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 3344 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
3111 { 3345 {
3112 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 3346 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
3113 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 3347 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
3121 3355
3122=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3356=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
3123 3357
3124Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3358Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
3125whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling 3359whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
3126C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the 3360C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the event loop blocks next
3127event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3361and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, and only in the child
3128and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3362after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling C<ev_default_fork> cheats
3129C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3363and calls it in the wrong process, the fork handlers will be invoked, too,
3130handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3364of course.
3131 3365
3132=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3366=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3133 3367
3134Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set 3368Most uses of C<fork ()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3135up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3369up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3136sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3370sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
3137 3371
3138This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3372This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
3139in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3373in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
3216 atexit (program_exits); 3450 atexit (program_exits);
3217 3451
3218 3452
3219=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop 3453=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up an event loop
3220 3454
3221In general, you cannot use an C<ev_run> from multiple threads or other 3455In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
3222asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event 3456asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
3223loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads). 3457loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
3224 3458
3225Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control, 3459Sometimes, however, you need to wake up an event loop you do not control,
3226for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async> 3460for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what C<ev_async>
3228it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe. 3462it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal safe.
3229 3463
3230This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals, 3464This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
3231too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed 3465too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
3232(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of 3466(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
3233C<ev_async_sent> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind 3467C<ev_async_send> calls). In fact, you could use signal watchers as a kind
3234of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused 3468of "global async watchers" by using a watcher on an otherwise unused
3235signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread, 3469signal, and C<ev_feed_signal> to signal this watcher from another thread,
3236even without knowing which loop owns the signal. 3470even without knowing which loop owns the signal.
3237
3238Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
3239just the default loop.
3240 3471
3241=head3 Queueing 3472=head3 Queueing
3242 3473
3243C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason 3474C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
3244is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a 3475is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
3336trust me. 3567trust me.
3337 3568
3338=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *) 3569=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
3339 3570
3340Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds 3571Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
3341an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike 3572an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop, and instantly
3573returns.
3574
3342C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads, signal or 3575Unlike C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do from other threads,
3343similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding 3576signal or similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the
3344section below on what exactly this means). 3577embedding section below on what exactly this means).
3345 3578
3346Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get 3579Note that, as with other watchers in libev, multiple events might get
3347compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at this 3580compressed into a single callback invocation (another way to look at
3348is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered, set on C<ev_async_send>, 3581this is that C<ev_async> watchers are level-triggered: they are set on
3349reset when the event loop detects that). 3582C<ev_async_send>, reset when the event loop detects that).
3350 3583
3351This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per event loop 3584This call incurs the overhead of at most one extra system call per event
3352iteration, so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to 3585loop iteration, if the event loop is blocked, and no syscall at all if
3353repeated calls to C<ev_async_send> for the same event loop. 3586the event loop (or your program) is processing events. That means that
3587repeated calls are basically free (there is no need to avoid calls for
3588performance reasons) and that the overhead becomes smaller (typically
3589zero) under load.
3354 3590
3355=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *) 3591=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
3356 3592
3357Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the 3593Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
3358watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the 3594watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
3375 3611
3376There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now. 3612There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now.
3377 3613
3378=over 4 3614=over 4
3379 3615
3380=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback) 3616=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback, arg)
3381 3617
3382This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your 3618This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your
3383callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both 3619callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both
3384watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd 3620watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd
3385or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 3621or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
3413 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 3649 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
3414 3650
3415=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents) 3651=item ev_feed_fd_event (loop, int fd, int revents)
3416 3652
3417Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 3653Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
3418the given events it. 3654the given events.
3419 3655
3420=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum) 3656=item ev_feed_signal_event (loop, int signum)
3421 3657
3422Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>, 3658Feed an event as if the given signal occurred. See also C<ev_feed_signal>,
3423which is async-safe. 3659which is async-safe.
3429 3665
3430This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately 3666This section explains some common idioms that are not immediately
3431obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this 3667obvious. Note that examples are sprinkled over the whole manual, and this
3432section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else. 3668section only contains stuff that wouldn't fit anywhere else.
3433 3669
3434=over 4 3670=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
3435 3671
3436=item Model/nested event loop invocations and exit conditions. 3672Each watcher has, by default, a C<void *data> member that you can read
3673or modify at any time: libev will completely ignore it. This can be used
3674to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
3675don't want to allocate memory separately and store a pointer to it in that
3676data member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
3677data:
3678
3679 struct my_io
3680 {
3681 ev_io io;
3682 int otherfd;
3683 void *somedata;
3684 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
3685 };
3686
3687 ...
3688 struct my_io w;
3689 ev_io_init (&w.io, my_cb, fd, EV_READ);
3690
3691And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
3692can cast it back to your own type:
3693
3694 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w_, int revents)
3695 {
3696 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
3697 ...
3698 }
3699
3700More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback
3701function type instead have been omitted.
3702
3703=head2 BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPOSITE WATCHERS
3704
3705Another common scenario is to use some data structure with multiple
3706embedded watchers, in effect creating your own watcher that combines
3707multiple libev event sources into one "super-watcher":
3708
3709 struct my_biggy
3710 {
3711 int some_data;
3712 ev_timer t1;
3713 ev_timer t2;
3714 }
3715
3716In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more
3717complicated: Either you store the address of your C<my_biggy> struct in
3718the C<data> member of the watcher (for woozies or C++ coders), or you need
3719to use some pointer arithmetic using C<offsetof> inside your watchers (for
3720real programmers):
3721
3722 #include <stddef.h>
3723
3724 static void
3725 t1_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3726 {
3727 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3728 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
3729 }
3730
3731 static void
3732 t2_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
3733 {
3734 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *)
3735 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
3736 }
3737
3738=head2 AVOIDING FINISHING BEFORE RETURNING
3739
3740Often you have structures like this in event-based programs:
3741
3742 callback ()
3743 {
3744 free (request);
3745 }
3746
3747 request = start_new_request (..., callback);
3748
3749The intent is to start some "lengthy" operation. The C<request> could be
3750used to cancel the operation, or do other things with it.
3751
3752It's not uncommon to have code paths in C<start_new_request> that
3753immediately invoke the callback, for example, to report errors. Or you add
3754some caching layer that finds that it can skip the lengthy aspects of the
3755operation and simply invoke the callback with the result.
3756
3757The problem here is that this will happen I<before> C<start_new_request>
3758has returned, so C<request> is not set.
3759
3760Even if you pass the request by some safer means to the callback, you
3761might want to do something to the request after starting it, such as
3762canceling it, which probably isn't working so well when the callback has
3763already been invoked.
3764
3765A common way around all these issues is to make sure that
3766C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If
3767C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially
3768delay invoking the callback by using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher for
3769example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher and
3770pushing it into the pending queue:
3771
3772 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback);
3773 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0);
3774
3775This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is
3776invoked, while not delaying callback invocation too much.
3777
3778=head2 MODEL/NESTED EVENT LOOP INVOCATIONS AND EXIT CONDITIONS
3437 3779
3438Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have 3780Often (especially in GUI toolkits) there are places where you have
3439I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively 3781I<modal> interaction, which is most easily implemented by recursively
3440invoking C<ev_run>. 3782invoking C<ev_run>.
3441 3783
3442This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the 3784This 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 3785main 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 3786a 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 3787and 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. 3788other combination: In these cases, a simple C<ev_break> will not work.
3447 3789
3448The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run> 3790The 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 3791invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3450triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>: 3792triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3451 3793
3453 int exit_main_loop = 0; 3795 int exit_main_loop = 0;
3454 3796
3455 while (!exit_main_loop) 3797 while (!exit_main_loop)
3456 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE); 3798 ev_run (EV_DEFAULT_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3457 3799
3458 // in a model watcher 3800 // in a modal watcher
3459 int exit_nested_loop = 0; 3801 int exit_nested_loop = 0;
3460 3802
3461 while (!exit_nested_loop) 3803 while (!exit_nested_loop)
3462 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE); 3804 ev_run (EV_A_ EVRUN_ONCE);
3463 3805
3470 exit_main_loop = 1; 3812 exit_main_loop = 1;
3471 3813
3472 // exit both 3814 // exit both
3473 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1; 3815 exit_main_loop = exit_nested_loop = 1;
3474 3816
3475=back 3817=head2 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE
3818
3819Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
3820thread from where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
3821created/added/removed.
3822
3823For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
3824which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
3825languages).
3826
3827The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
3828variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
3829event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
3830
3831First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
3832
3833 typedef struct {
3834 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
3835 ev_async async_w;
3836 thread_t tid;
3837 cond_t invoke_cv;
3838 } userdata;
3839
3840 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
3841 {
3842 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
3843 static userdata u;
3844
3845 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
3846 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3847
3848 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
3849 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
3850
3851 // now associate this with the loop
3852 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
3853 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
3854 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
3855
3856 // then create the thread running ev_run
3857 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
3858 }
3859
3860The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
3861solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
3862that might have been added:
3863
3864 static void
3865 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
3866 {
3867 // just used for the side effects
3868 }
3869
3870The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
3871protecting the loop data, respectively.
3872
3873 static void
3874 l_release (EV_P)
3875 {
3876 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3877 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3878 }
3879
3880 static void
3881 l_acquire (EV_P)
3882 {
3883 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3884 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3885 }
3886
3887The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
3888into C<ev_run>:
3889
3890 void *
3891 l_run (void *thr_arg)
3892 {
3893 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
3894
3895 l_acquire (EV_A);
3896 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
3897 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
3898 l_release (EV_A);
3899
3900 return 0;
3901 }
3902
3903Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
3904signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
3905writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
3906have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
3907and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
3908watchers is very beneficial):
3909
3910 static void
3911 l_invoke (EV_P)
3912 {
3913 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3914
3915 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
3916 {
3917 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
3918 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
3919 }
3920 }
3921
3922Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
3923will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
3924thread to continue:
3925
3926 static void
3927 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
3928 {
3929 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3930
3931 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3932 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
3933 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
3934 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3935 }
3936
3937Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
3938event loop, you will now have to lock:
3939
3940 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
3941 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
3942
3943 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
3944
3945 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
3946 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
3947 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
3948 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
3949
3950Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
3951an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
3952about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
3953watchers in the next event loop iteration.
3954
3955=head2 THREADS, COROUTINES, CONTINUATIONS, QUEUES... INSTEAD OF CALLBACKS
3956
3957While the overhead of a callback that e.g. schedules a thread is small, it
3958is still an overhead. If you embed libev, and your main usage is with some
3959kind of threads or coroutines, you might want to customise libev so that
3960doesn't need callbacks anymore.
3961
3962Imagine you have coroutines that you can switch to using a function
3963C<switch_to (coro)>, that libev runs in a coroutine called C<libev_coro>
3964and that due to some magic, the currently active coroutine is stored in a
3965global called C<current_coro>. Then you can build your own "wait for libev
3966event" primitive by changing C<EV_CB_DECLARE> and C<EV_CB_INVOKE> (note
3967the differing C<;> conventions):
3968
3969 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3970 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3971
3972That means instead of having a C callback function, you store the
3973coroutine to switch to in each watcher, and instead of having libev call
3974your callback, you instead have it switch to that coroutine.
3975
3976A coroutine might now wait for an event with a function called
3977C<wait_for_event>. (the watcher needs to be started, as always, but it doesn't
3978matter when, or whether the watcher is active or not when this function is
3979called):
3980
3981 void
3982 wait_for_event (ev_watcher *w)
3983 {
3984 ev_set_cb (w, current_coro);
3985 switch_to (libev_coro);
3986 }
3987
3988That basically suspends the coroutine inside C<wait_for_event> and
3989continues the libev coroutine, which, when appropriate, switches back to
3990this or any other coroutine.
3991
3992You can do similar tricks if you have, say, threads with an event queue -
3993instead of storing a coroutine, you store the queue object and instead of
3994switching to a coroutine, you push the watcher onto the queue and notify
3995any waiters.
3996
3997To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two
3998files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files:
3999
4000 // my_ev.h
4001 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
4002 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
4003 #include "../libev/ev.h"
4004
4005 // my_ev.c
4006 #define EV_H "my_ev.h"
4007 #include "../libev/ev.c"
4008
4009And then use F<my_ev.h> when you would normally use F<ev.h>, and compile
4010F<my_ev.c> into your project. When properly specifying include paths, you
4011can even use F<ev.h> as header file name directly.
3476 4012
3477 4013
3478=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION 4014=head1 LIBEVENT EMULATION
3479 4015
3480Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot 4016Libev offers a compatibility emulation layer for libevent. It cannot
3510 4046
3511=back 4047=back
3512 4048
3513=head1 C++ SUPPORT 4049=head1 C++ SUPPORT
3514 4050
4051=head2 C API
4052
4053The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the
4054libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API
4055will work fine.
4056
4057Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed
4058to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all other
4059callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic reschedule
4060callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<noexcept>
4061specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C and
4062C++ you can use the C<EV_NOEXCEPT> macro for this:
4063
4064 static void
4065 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_NOEXCEPT
4066 {
4067 perror (msg);
4068 abort ();
4069 }
4070
4071 ...
4072 ev_set_syserr_cb (fatal_error);
4073
4074The only API functions that can currently throw exceptions are C<ev_run>,
4075C<ev_invoke>, C<ev_invoke_pending> and C<ev_loop_destroy> (the latter
4076because it runs cleanup watchers).
4077
4078Throwing exceptions in watcher callbacks is only supported if libev itself
4079is compiled with a C++ compiler or your C and C++ environments allow
4080throwing exceptions through C libraries (most do).
4081
4082=head2 C++ API
4083
3515Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 4084Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
3516you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 4085you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
3517the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 4086the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
3518 4087
3519To use it, 4088To use it,
3520 4089
3521 #include <ev++.h> 4090 #include <ev++.h>
3522 4091
3523This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 4092This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
3524of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 4093of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
3525put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 4094put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
3534with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy 4103with C<operator ()> can be used as callbacks. Other types should be easy
3535to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If 4104to add as long as they only need one additional pointer for context. If
3536you need support for other types of functors please contact the author 4105you need support for other types of functors please contact the author
3537(preferably after implementing it). 4106(preferably after implementing it).
3538 4107
4108For all this to work, your C++ compiler either has to use the same calling
4109conventions as your C compiler (for static member functions), or you have
4110to embed libev and compile libev itself as C++.
4111
3539Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 4112Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
3540 4113
3541=over 4 4114=over 4
3542 4115
3543=item C<ev::READ>, C<ev::WRITE> etc. 4116=item C<ev::READ>, C<ev::WRITE> etc.
3552=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc. 4125=item C<ev::io>, C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic>, C<ev::idle>, C<ev::sig> etc.
3553 4126
3554For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of 4127For each C<ev_TYPE> watcher in F<ev.h> there is a corresponding class of
3555the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal> 4128the same name in the C<ev> namespace, with the exception of C<ev_signal>
3556which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro 4129which is called C<ev::sig> to avoid clashes with the C<signal> macro
3557defines by many implementations. 4130defined by many implementations.
3558 4131
3559All of those classes have these methods: 4132All of those classes have these methods:
3560 4133
3561=over 4 4134=over 4
3562 4135
3624 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents) 4197 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
3625 { 4198 {
3626 ... 4199 ...
3627 } 4200 }
3628 } 4201 }
3629 4202
3630 myfunctor f; 4203 myfunctor f;
3631 4204
3632 ev::io w; 4205 ev::io w;
3633 w.set (&f); 4206 w.set (&f);
3634 4207
3652Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 4225Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
3653do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 4226do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
3654 4227
3655=item w->set ([arguments]) 4228=item w->set ([arguments])
3656 4229
3657Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Either this 4230Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set> (except for C<ev::embed> watchers>),
3658method or a suitable start method must be called at least once. Unlike the 4231with the same arguments. Either this method or a suitable start method
3659C counterpart, an active watcher gets automatically stopped and restarted 4232must be called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher
3660when reconfiguring it with this method. 4233gets automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
4234method.
4235
4236For C<ev::embed> watchers this method is called C<set_embed>, to avoid
4237clashing with the C<set (loop)> method.
3661 4238
3662=item w->start () 4239=item w->start ()
3663 4240
3664Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the 4241Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
3665constructor already stores the event loop. 4242constructor already stores the event loop.
3695watchers in the constructor. 4272watchers in the constructor.
3696 4273
3697 class myclass 4274 class myclass
3698 { 4275 {
3699 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4276 ev::io io ; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3700 ev::io2 io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 4277 ev::io io2 ; void io2_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
3701 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 4278 ev::idle idle; void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
3702 4279
3703 myclass (int fd) 4280 myclass (int fd)
3704 { 4281 {
3705 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this); 4282 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
3756L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>. 4333L<http://hackage.haskell.org/cgi-bin/hackage-scripts/package/hlibev>.
3757 4334
3758=item D 4335=item D
3759 4336
3760Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to 4337Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
3761be found at L<http://proj.llucax.com.ar/wiki/evd>. 4338be found at L<http://www.llucax.com.ar/proj/ev.d/index.html>.
3762 4339
3763=item Ocaml 4340=item Ocaml
3764 4341
3765Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at 4342Erkki Seppala has written Ocaml bindings for libev, to be found at
3766L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>. 4343L<http://modeemi.cs.tut.fi/~flux/software/ocaml-ev/>.
3769 4346
3770Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the 4347Brian Maher has written a partial interface to libev for lua (at the
3771time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at 4348time of this writing, only C<ev_io> and C<ev_timer>), to be found at
3772L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>. 4349L<http://github.com/brimworks/lua-ev>.
3773 4350
4351=item Javascript
4352
4353Node.js (L<http://nodejs.org>) uses libev as the underlying event library.
4354
4355=item Others
4356
4357There are others, and I stopped counting.
4358
3774=back 4359=back
3775 4360
3776 4361
3777=head1 MACRO MAGIC 4362=head1 MACRO MAGIC
3778 4363
3814suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 4399suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
3815 4400
3816=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 4401=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
3817 4402
3818Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 4403Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
3819loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 4404loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). The default loop
4405will be initialised if it isn't already initialised.
4406
4407For non-multiplicity builds, these macros do nothing, so you always have
4408to initialise the loop somewhere.
3820 4409
3821=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_> 4410=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
3822 4411
3823Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the 4412Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
3824default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour 4413default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
3891 ev_vars.h 4480 ev_vars.h
3892 ev_wrap.h 4481 ev_wrap.h
3893 4482
3894 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 4483 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
3895 4484
3896 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 4485 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled
3897 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4486 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled
3898 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4487 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled
4488 ev_linuxaio.c only when the linux aio backend is enabled
4489 ev_iouring.c only when the linux io_uring backend is enabled
3899 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4490 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled
3900 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4491 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled
3901 4492
3902F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 4493F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
3903to compile this single file. 4494to compile this single file.
3904 4495
3905=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 4496=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
3969supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in 4560supported). It will also not define any of the structs usually found in
3970F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 4561F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
3971 4562
3972In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the 4563In standalone mode, libev will still try to automatically deduce the
3973configuration, but has to be more conservative. 4564configuration, but has to be more conservative.
4565
4566=item EV_USE_FLOOR
4567
4568If defined to be C<1>, libev will use the C<floor ()> function for its
4569periodic reschedule calculations, otherwise libev will fall back on a
4570portable (slower) implementation. If you enable this, you usually have to
4571link against libm or something equivalent. Enabling this when the C<floor>
4572function is not available will fail, so the safe default is to not enable
4573this.
3974 4574
3975=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 4575=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
3976 4576
3977If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 4577If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
3978monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no 4578monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no
4064If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this 4664If programs implement their own fd to handle mapping on win32, then this
4065macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister 4665macro can be used to override the C<close> function, useful to unregister
4066file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close 4666file descriptors again. Note that the replacement function has to close
4067the underlying OS handle. 4667the underlying OS handle.
4068 4668
4669=item EV_USE_WSASOCKET
4670
4671If defined to be C<1>, libev will use C<WSASocket> to create its internal
4672communication socket, which works better in some environments. Otherwise,
4673the normal C<socket> function will be used, which works better in other
4674environments.
4675
4069=item EV_USE_POLL 4676=item EV_USE_POLL
4070 4677
4071If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 4678If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
4072backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 4679backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
4073takes precedence over select. 4680takes precedence over select.
4077If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 4684If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
4078C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 4685C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
4079otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 4686otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
4080backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the 4687backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
4081headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4688headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
4689
4690=item EV_USE_LINUXAIO
4691
4692If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux aio
4693backend (C<EV_USE_EPOLL> must also be enabled). If undefined, it will be
4694enabled on linux, otherwise disabled.
4695
4696=item EV_USE_IOURING
4697
4698If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
4699io_uring backend (C<EV_USE_EPOLL> must also be enabled). Due to it's
4700current limitations it has to be requested explicitly. If undefined, it
4701will be enabled on linux, otherwise disabled.
4082 4702
4083=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 4703=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
4084 4704
4085If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 4705If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
4086C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 4706C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
4108If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 4728If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
4109interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 4729interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
4110be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers 4730be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
4111indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4731indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
4112 4732
4733=item EV_NO_SMP
4734
4735If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that memory is always coherent
4736between threads, that is, threads can be used, but threads never run on
4737different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies
4738and makes libev faster.
4739
4740=item EV_NO_THREADS
4741
4742If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called from
4743different threads (that includes signal handlers), which is a stronger
4744assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, above. This reduces dependencies and makes
4745libev faster.
4746
4113=item EV_ATOMIC_T 4747=item EV_ATOMIC_T
4114 4748
4115Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 4749Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
4116access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such 4750access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No
4117type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type 4751such type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own
4118that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking" 4752type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal
4119as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers. 4753handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async>
4754watchers.
4120 4755
4121In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4756In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
4122(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms. 4757(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
4123 4758
4124=item EV_H (h) 4759=item EV_H (h)
4151will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 4786will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
4152additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 4787additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
4153for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 4788for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
4154argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 4789argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
4155 4790
4791Note that C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_> will no longer provide a
4792default loop when multiplicity is switched off - you always have to
4793initialise the loop manually in this case.
4794
4156=item EV_MINPRI 4795=item EV_MINPRI
4157 4796
4158=item EV_MAXPRI 4797=item EV_MAXPRI
4159 4798
4160The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to 4799The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
4196 #define EV_USE_POLL 1 4835 #define EV_USE_POLL 1
4197 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1 4836 #define EV_CHILD_ENABLE 1
4198 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1 4837 #define EV_ASYNC_ENABLE 1
4199 4838
4200The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following 4839The actual value is a bitset, it can be a combination of the following
4201values: 4840values (by default, all of these are enabled):
4202 4841
4203=over 4 4842=over 4
4204 4843
4205=item C<1> - faster/larger code 4844=item C<1> - faster/larger code
4206 4845
4210code size by roughly 30% on amd64). 4849code size by roughly 30% on amd64).
4211 4850
4212When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with 4851When optimising for size, use of compiler flags such as C<-Os> with
4213gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of 4852gcc is recommended, as well as C<-DNDEBUG>, as libev contains a number of
4214assertions. 4853assertions.
4854
4855The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4856(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4215 4857
4216=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures 4858=item C<2> - faster/larger data structures
4217 4859
4218Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger 4860Replaces the small 2-heap for timer management by a faster 4-heap, larger
4219hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size 4861hash table sizes and so on. This will usually further increase code size
4220and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at 4862and can additionally have an effect on the size of data structures at
4221runtime. 4863runtime.
4222 4864
4865The default is off when C<__OPTIMIZE_SIZE__> is defined by your compiler
4866(e.g. gcc with C<-Os>).
4867
4223=item C<4> - full API configuration 4868=item C<4> - full API configuration
4224 4869
4225This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and 4870This enables priorities (sets C<EV_MAXPRI>=2 and C<EV_MINPRI>=-2), and
4226enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1). 4871enables multiplicity (C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>=1).
4227 4872
4257 4902
4258With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough 4903With an intelligent-enough linker (gcc+binutils are intelligent enough
4259when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by 4904when you use C<-Wl,--gc-sections -ffunction-sections>) functions unused by
4260your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an 4905your program might be left out as well - a binary starting a timer and an
4261I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb. 4906I/O watcher then might come out at only 5Kb.
4907
4908=item EV_API_STATIC
4909
4910If this symbol is defined (by default it is not), then all identifiers
4911will have static linkage. This means that libev will not export any
4912identifiers, and you cannot link against libev anymore. This can be useful
4913when you embed libev, only want to use libev functions in a single file,
4914and do not want its identifiers to be visible.
4915
4916To use this, define C<EV_API_STATIC> and include F<ev.c> in the file that
4917wants to use libev.
4918
4919This option only works when libev is compiled with a C compiler, as C++
4920doesn't support the required declaration syntax.
4262 4921
4263=item EV_AVOID_STDIO 4922=item EV_AVOID_STDIO
4264 4923
4265If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio 4924If this is set to C<1> at compiletime, then libev will avoid using stdio
4266functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size 4925functions (printf, scanf, perror etc.). This will increase the code size
4324in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not 4983in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
4325called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be 4984called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
4326called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the 4985called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
4327verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down 4986verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
4328libev considerably. 4987libev considerably.
4988
4989Verification errors are reported via C's C<assert> mechanism, so if you
4990disable that (e.g. by defining C<NDEBUG>) then no errors will be reported.
4329 4991
4330The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it 4992The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_FEATURES> overrides it, in which case it
4331will be C<0>. 4993will be C<0>.
4332 4994
4333=item EV_COMMON 4995=item EV_COMMON
4410And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 5072And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
4411 5073
4412 #include "ev_cpp.h" 5074 #include "ev_cpp.h"
4413 #include "ev.c" 5075 #include "ev.c"
4414 5076
4415=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS OR LIBRARIES 5077=head1 INTERACTION WITH OTHER PROGRAMS, LIBRARIES OR THE ENVIRONMENT
4416 5078
4417=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES 5079=head2 THREADS AND COROUTINES
4418 5080
4419=head3 THREADS 5081=head3 THREADS
4420 5082
4471default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop 5133default loop and triggering an C<ev_async> watcher from the default loop
4472watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal. 5134watcher callback into the event loop interested in the signal.
4473 5135
4474=back 5136=back
4475 5137
4476=head4 THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE 5138See also L</THREAD LOCKING EXAMPLE>.
4477
4478Here is a fictitious example of how to run an event loop in a different
4479thread than where callbacks are being invoked and watchers are
4480created/added/removed.
4481
4482For a real-world example, see the C<EV::Loop::Async> perl module,
4483which uses exactly this technique (which is suited for many high-level
4484languages).
4485
4486The example uses a pthread mutex to protect the loop data, a condition
4487variable to wait for callback invocations, an async watcher to notify the
4488event loop thread and an unspecified mechanism to wake up the main thread.
4489
4490First, you need to associate some data with the event loop:
4491
4492 typedef struct {
4493 mutex_t lock; /* global loop lock */
4494 ev_async async_w;
4495 thread_t tid;
4496 cond_t invoke_cv;
4497 } userdata;
4498
4499 void prepare_loop (EV_P)
4500 {
4501 // for simplicity, we use a static userdata struct.
4502 static userdata u;
4503
4504 ev_async_init (&u->async_w, async_cb);
4505 ev_async_start (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4506
4507 pthread_mutex_init (&u->lock, 0);
4508 pthread_cond_init (&u->invoke_cv, 0);
4509
4510 // now associate this with the loop
4511 ev_set_userdata (EV_A_ u);
4512 ev_set_invoke_pending_cb (EV_A_ l_invoke);
4513 ev_set_loop_release_cb (EV_A_ l_release, l_acquire);
4514
4515 // then create the thread running ev_loop
4516 pthread_create (&u->tid, 0, l_run, EV_A);
4517 }
4518
4519The callback for the C<ev_async> watcher does nothing: the watcher is used
4520solely to wake up the event loop so it takes notice of any new watchers
4521that might have been added:
4522
4523 static void
4524 async_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
4525 {
4526 // just used for the side effects
4527 }
4528
4529The C<l_release> and C<l_acquire> callbacks simply unlock/lock the mutex
4530protecting the loop data, respectively.
4531
4532 static void
4533 l_release (EV_P)
4534 {
4535 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4536 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4537 }
4538
4539 static void
4540 l_acquire (EV_P)
4541 {
4542 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4543 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4544 }
4545
4546The event loop thread first acquires the mutex, and then jumps straight
4547into C<ev_run>:
4548
4549 void *
4550 l_run (void *thr_arg)
4551 {
4552 struct ev_loop *loop = (struct ev_loop *)thr_arg;
4553
4554 l_acquire (EV_A);
4555 pthread_setcanceltype (PTHREAD_CANCEL_ASYNCHRONOUS, 0);
4556 ev_run (EV_A_ 0);
4557 l_release (EV_A);
4558
4559 return 0;
4560 }
4561
4562Instead of invoking all pending watchers, the C<l_invoke> callback will
4563signal the main thread via some unspecified mechanism (signals? pipe
4564writes? C<Async::Interrupt>?) and then waits until all pending watchers
4565have been called (in a while loop because a) spurious wakeups are possible
4566and b) skipping inter-thread-communication when there are no pending
4567watchers is very beneficial):
4568
4569 static void
4570 l_invoke (EV_P)
4571 {
4572 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4573
4574 while (ev_pending_count (EV_A))
4575 {
4576 wake_up_other_thread_in_some_magic_or_not_so_magic_way ();
4577 pthread_cond_wait (&u->invoke_cv, &u->lock);
4578 }
4579 }
4580
4581Now, whenever the main thread gets told to invoke pending watchers, it
4582will grab the lock, call C<ev_invoke_pending> and then signal the loop
4583thread to continue:
4584
4585 static void
4586 real_invoke_pending (EV_P)
4587 {
4588 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4589
4590 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4591 ev_invoke_pending (EV_A);
4592 pthread_cond_signal (&u->invoke_cv);
4593 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4594 }
4595
4596Whenever you want to start/stop a watcher or do other modifications to an
4597event loop, you will now have to lock:
4598
4599 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
4600 userdata *u = ev_userdata (EV_A);
4601
4602 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
4603
4604 pthread_mutex_lock (&u->lock);
4605 ev_timer_start (EV_A_ &timeout_watcher);
4606 ev_async_send (EV_A_ &u->async_w);
4607 pthread_mutex_unlock (&u->lock);
4608
4609Note that sending the C<ev_async> watcher is required because otherwise
4610an event loop currently blocking in the kernel will have no knowledge
4611about the newly added timer. By waking up the loop it will pick up any new
4612watchers in the next event loop iteration.
4613 5139
4614=head3 COROUTINES 5140=head3 COROUTINES
4615 5141
4616Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"): 5142Libev is very accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
4617libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different 5143libev fully supports nesting calls to its functions from different
4782requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX 5308requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
4783model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in 5309model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
4784the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket 5310the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
4785descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using 5311descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
4786e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers, 5312e.g. cygwin. Actually, it only applies to the microsofts own compilers,
4787as every compielr comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible 5313as every compiler comes with a slightly differently broken/incompatible
4788environment. 5314environment.
4789 5315
4790Lifting these limitations would basically require the full 5316Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
4791re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing, 5317re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into this kind of thing,
4792then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note 5318then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable way (note
4886structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 5412structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
4887assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 5413assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
4888callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 5414callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
4889calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 5415calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
4890 5416
5417=item null pointers and integer zero are represented by 0 bytes
5418
5419Libev uses C<memset> to initialise structs and arrays to C<0> bytes, and
5420relies on this setting pointers and integers to null.
5421
4891=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic 5422=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
4892 5423
4893Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and 5424Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
4894writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures. 5425writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
4895 5426
4908thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would 5439thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
4909be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and 5440be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
4910C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however. 5441C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
4911 5442
4912The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads 5443The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
4913except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 5444except the initial one, and run the signal handling loop in the initial
4914well. 5445thread as well.
4915 5446
4916=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 5447=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
4917 5448
4918To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally 5449To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
4919instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX 5450instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
4925 5456
4926The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to 5457The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
4927have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is 5458have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is
4928good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy 5459good enough for at least into the year 4000 with millisecond accuracy
4929(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by 5460(the design goal for libev). This requirement is overfulfilled by
4930implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones. With 5461implementations using IEEE 754, which is basically all existing ones.
5462
4931IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least 2200. 5463With IEEE 754 doubles, you get microsecond accuracy until at least the
5464year 2255 (and millisecond accuracy till the year 287396 - by then, libev
5465is either obsolete or somebody patched it to use C<long double> or
5466something like that, just kidding).
4932 5467
4933=back 5468=back
4934 5469
4935If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note. 5470If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
4936 5471
4998=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers) 5533=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
4999 5534
5000=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number) 5535=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
5001 5536
5002Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send> 5537Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
5003calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events 5538calls in the current loop iteration and the loop is currently
5539blocked. Checking for async and signal events involves iterating over all
5004involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers. 5540running async watchers or all signal numbers.
5005 5541
5006=back 5542=back
5007 5543
5008 5544
5009=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X 5545=head1 PORTING FROM LIBEV 3.X TO 4.X
5018=over 4 5554=over 4
5019 5555
5020=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism 5556=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5021 5557
5022The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by 5558The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5023C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L<PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L<EMBEDDING> 5559C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</"PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS"> in the L</EMBEDDING>
5024section. 5560section.
5025 5561
5026=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed 5562=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5027 5563
5028These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts: 5564These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:
5071=over 4 5607=over 4
5072 5608
5073=item active 5609=item active
5074 5610
5075A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped. 5611A watcher is active as long as it has been started and not yet stopped.
5076See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5612See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
5077 5613
5078=item application 5614=item application
5079 5615
5080In this document, an application is whatever is using libev. 5616In this document, an application is whatever is using libev.
5081 5617
5117watchers and events. 5653watchers and events.
5118 5654
5119=item pending 5655=item pending
5120 5656
5121A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been 5657A watcher is pending as soon as the corresponding event has been
5122detected. See L<WATCHER STATES> for details. 5658detected. See L</WATCHER STATES> for details.
5123 5659
5124=item real time 5660=item real time
5125 5661
5126The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :) 5662The physical time that is observed. It is apparently strictly monotonic :)
5127 5663
5128=item wall-clock time 5664=item wall-clock time
5129 5665
5130The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually 5666The time and date as shown on clocks. Unlike real time, it can actually
5131be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when the you adjust your 5667be wrong and jump forwards and backwards, e.g. when you adjust your
5132clock. 5668clock.
5133 5669
5134=item watcher 5670=item watcher
5135 5671
5136A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need 5672A data structure that describes interest in certain events. Watchers need
5139=back 5675=back
5140 5676
5141=head1 AUTHOR 5677=head1 AUTHOR
5142 5678
5143Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael 5679Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>, with repeated corrections by Mikael
5144Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta. 5680Magnusson and Emanuele Giaquinta, and minor corrections by many others.
5145 5681

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