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Revision 1.419 by root, Sun Jun 24 14:30:40 2012 UTC vs.
Revision 1.450 by root, Mon Jun 24 00:04:26 2019 UTC

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
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
263 265
264You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 266You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
265free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 267free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
266or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 268or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
267 269
270Example: The following is the C<realloc> function that libev itself uses
271which should work with C<realloc> and C<free> functions of all kinds and
272is probably a good basis for your own implementation.
273
274 static void *
275 ev_realloc_emul (void *ptr, long size) EV_NOEXCEPT
276 {
277 if (size)
278 return realloc (ptr, size);
279
280 free (ptr);
281 return 0;
282 }
283
268Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 284Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
269retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>). 285retries.
270 286
271 static void * 287 static void *
272 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 288 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
273 { 289 {
290 if (!size)
291 {
292 free (ptr);
293 return 0;
294 }
295
274 for (;;) 296 for (;;)
275 { 297 {
276 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 298 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
277 299
278 if (newptr) 300 if (newptr)
396 418
397If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 419If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
398or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 420or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
399C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 421C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
400override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 422override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
401useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 423useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, to work
402around bugs. 424around bugs, or to make libev threadsafe (accessing environment variables
425cannot be done in a threadsafe way, but usually it works if no other
426thread modifies them).
403 427
404=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK> 428=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
405 429
406Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also 430Instead of calling C<ev_loop_fork> manually after a fork, you can also
407make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag. 431make libev check for a fork in each iteration by enabling this flag.
408 432
409This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop, 433This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
410and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop 434and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
411iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my 435iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
412GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence 436GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn
413without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has 437sequence without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux
414C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). 438system also has C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster). (Update: glibc
439versions 2.25 apparently removed the C<getpid> optimisation again).
415 440
416The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and 441The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
417forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this 442forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking, although you still
418flag. 443have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>) when you use this flag.
419 444
420This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS> 445This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
421environment variable. 446environment variable.
422 447
423=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY> 448=item C<EVFLAG_NOINOTIFY>
542All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or 567All this means that, in practice, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> can be as fast or
543faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on 568faster than epoll for maybe up to a hundred file descriptors, depending on
544the usage. So sad. 569the usage. So sad.
545 570
546While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in 571While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
547all kernel versions tested so far. 572a lot of kernel revisions, but probably(!) works in current versions.
573
574This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
575C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
576
577=item C<EVBACKEND_LINUXAIO> (value 64, Linux)
578
579Use the linux-specific linux aio (I<not> C<< aio(7) >> but C<<
580io_submit(2) >>) event interface available in post-4.18 kernels.
581
582If this backend works for you (as of this writing, it was very
583experimental), it is the best event interface available on linux and might
584be well worth enabling it - if it isn't available in your kernel this will
585be detected and this backend will be skipped.
586
587This backend can batch oneshot requests and supports a user-space ring
588buffer to receive events. It also doesn't suffer from most of the design
589problems of epoll (such as not being able to remove event sources from
590the epoll set), and generally sounds too good to be true. Because, this
591being the linux kernel, of course it suffers from a whole new set of
592limitations.
593
594For one, it is not easily embeddable (but probably could be done using
595an event fd at some extra overhead). It also is subject to a system wide
596limit that can be configured in F</proc/sys/fs/aio-max-nr> - each loop
597currently requires C<61> of this number. If no aio requests are left, this
598backend will be skipped during initialisation.
599
600Most problematic in practise, however, is that not all file descriptors
601work with it. For example, in linux 5.1, tcp sockets, pipes, event fds,
602files, F</dev/null> and a few others are supported, but ttys do not work
603properly (a known bug that the kernel developers don't care about, see
604L<https://lore.kernel.org/patchwork/patch/1047453/>), so this is not
605(yet?) a generic event polling interface.
606
607To work around this latter problem, the current version of libev uses
608epoll as a fallback for file deescriptor types that do not work. Epoll
609is used in, kind of, slow mode that hopefully avoids most of its design
610problems and requires 1-3 extra syscalls per active fd every iteration.
548 611
549This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as 612This backend maps C<EV_READ> and C<EV_WRITE> in the same way as
550C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 613C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
551 614
552=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 615=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
569kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 632kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
570course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never 633course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
571cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to 634cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
572two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you 635two event changes per incident. Support for C<fork ()> is very bad (you
573might have to leak fd's on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it 636might have to leak fd's on fork, but it's more sane than epoll) and it
574drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases 637drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
575 638
576This backend usually performs well under most conditions. 639This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
577 640
578While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work 641While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
579everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken 642everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
653Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is 716Example: Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is
654used if available. 717used if available.
655 718
656 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 719 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
657 720
721Example: Similarly, on linux, you mgiht want to take advantage of the
722linux aio backend if possible, but fall back to something else if that
723isn't available.
724
725 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_loop_new (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_LINUXAIO);
726
658=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 727=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
659 728
660Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state 729Destroys an event loop object (frees all memory and kernel state
661etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 730etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
662sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 731sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
678If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new> 747If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use C<ev_loop_new>
679and C<ev_loop_destroy>. 748and C<ev_loop_destroy>.
680 749
681=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 750=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
682 751
683This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations to 752This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_run> iterations
684reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the 753to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite
685name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in 754the name, you can call it anytime you are allowed to start or stop
686the child process. You I<must> call it (or use C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the 755watchers (except inside an C<ev_prepare> callback), but it makes most
756sense after forking, in the child process. You I<must> call it (or use
687child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>. 757C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>) in the child before resuming or calling C<ev_run>.
688 758
759In addition, if you want to reuse a loop (via this function or
760C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>), you I<also> have to ignore C<SIGPIPE>.
761
689Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after 762Again, you I<have> to call it on I<any> loop that you want to re-use after
690a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is 763a fork, I<even if you do not plan to use the loop in the parent>. This is
691because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things 764because some kernel interfaces *cough* I<kqueue> *cough* do funny things
692during fork. 765during fork.
693 766
694On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child 767On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
1393transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these 1466transition between them will be described in more detail - and while these
1394rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing". 1467rules might look complicated, they usually do "the right thing".
1395 1468
1396=over 4 1469=over 4
1397 1470
1398=item initialiased 1471=item initialised
1399 1472
1400Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be 1473Before a watcher can be registered with the event loop it has to be
1401initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to 1474initialised. This can be done with a call to C<ev_TYPE_init>, or calls to
1402C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function. 1475C<ev_init> followed by the watcher-specific C<ev_TYPE_set> function.
1403 1476
1601 1674
1602But really, best use non-blocking mode. 1675But really, best use non-blocking mode.
1603 1676
1604=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors 1677=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1605 1678
1606Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file 1679Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll, linuxaio) need to be told about closing
1607descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other means, 1680a file descriptor (either due to calling C<close> explicitly or any other
1608such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some file 1681means, such as C<dup2>). The reason is that you register interest in some
1609descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop 1682file descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently
1610this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is 1683drop this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then
1611registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in 1684is registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is,
1612fact, a different file descriptor. 1685in fact, a different file descriptor.
1613 1686
1614To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows 1687To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
1615the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev 1688the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
1616will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise 1689will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
1617it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that 1690it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
1666when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to 1739when you rarely read from a file instead of from a socket, and want to
1667reuse the same code path. 1740reuse the same code path.
1668 1741
1669=head3 The special problem of fork 1742=head3 The special problem of fork
1670 1743
1671Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit 1744Some backends (epoll, kqueue, probably linuxaio) do not support C<fork ()>
1672useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about 1745at all or exhibit useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs
1673it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the child. 1746to be told about it in the child if you want to continue to use it in the
1747child.
1674 1748
1675To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork 1749To support fork in your child processes, you have to call C<ev_loop_fork
1676()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to 1750()> after a fork in the child, enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to
1677C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>. 1751C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1678 1752
2024 2098
2025The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 2099The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
2026time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 2100time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
2027of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If 2101of the event triggering whatever timeout you are modifying/starting. If
2028you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the 2102you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the
2029timeout on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 2103timeout on the current time, use something like the following to adjust
2104for it:
2030 2105
2031 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 2106 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + (ev_time () - ev_now ()), 0.);
2032 2107
2033If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an 2108If the event loop is suspended for a long time, you can also force an
2034update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update 2109update of the time returned by C<ev_now ()> by calling C<ev_now_update
2035()>. 2110()>, although that will push the event time of all outstanding events
2111further into the future.
2036 2112
2037=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks 2113=head3 The special problem of unsynchronised clocks
2038 2114
2039Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal 2115Modern systems have a variety of clocks - libev itself uses the normal
2040"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time 2116"wall clock" clock and, if available, the monotonic clock (to avoid time
2103 2179
2104=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2180=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
2105 2181
2106=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 2182=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
2107 2183
2108Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> 2184Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds (fractional and
2109is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is 2185negative values are supported). If C<repeat> is C<0.>, then it will
2110reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be 2186automatically be stopped once the timeout is reached. If it is positive,
2111configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again, 2187then the timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat>
2112until stopped manually. 2188seconds later, again, and again, until stopped manually.
2113 2189
2114The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if 2190The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
2115you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally 2191you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
2116trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot 2192trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
2117keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to 2193keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
2199Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 2275Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
2200(and unfortunately a bit complex). 2276(and unfortunately a bit complex).
2201 2277
2202Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or 2278Unlike C<ev_timer>, periodic watchers are not based on real time (or
2203relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time 2279relative time, the physical time that passes) but on wall clock time
2204(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calender or clock). The 2280(absolute time, the thing you can read on your calendar or clock). The
2205difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real 2281difference is that wall clock time can run faster or slower than real
2206time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your 2282time, and time jumps are not uncommon (e.g. when you adjust your
2207wrist-watch). 2283wrist-watch).
2208 2284
2209You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point 2285You can tell a periodic watcher to trigger after some specific point
2214C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting 2290C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger roughly 10 seconds after starting
2215it, as it uses a relative timeout). 2291it, as it uses a relative timeout).
2216 2292
2217C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex 2293C<ev_periodic> watchers can also be used to implement vastly more complex
2218timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or 2294timers, such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or
2219other complicated rules. This cannot be done with C<ev_timer> watchers, as 2295other complicated rules. This cannot easily be done with C<ev_timer>
2220those cannot react to time jumps. 2296watchers, as those cannot react to time jumps.
2221 2297
2222As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the 2298As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
2223point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple 2299point in time where it is supposed to trigger has passed. If multiple
2224timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with 2300timers become ready during the same loop iteration then the ones with
2225earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values 2301earlier time-out values are invoked before ones with later time-out values
2311 2387
2312NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or 2388NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
2313equal to the passed C<now> value >>. 2389equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
2314 2390
2315This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 2391This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
2316triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the 2392triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate
2317next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 2393the next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for
2318you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 2394this. Here is a (completely untested, no error checking) example on how to
2319reason I omitted it as an example). 2395do this:
2396
2397 #include <time.h>
2398
2399 static ev_tstamp
2400 my_rescheduler (ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
2401 {
2402 time_t tnow = (time_t)now;
2403 struct tm tm;
2404 localtime_r (&tnow, &tm);
2405
2406 tm.tm_sec = tm.tm_min = tm.tm_hour = 0; // midnight current day
2407 ++tm.tm_mday; // midnight next day
2408
2409 return mktime (&tm);
2410 }
2411
2412Note: this code might run into trouble on days that have more then two
2413midnights (beginning and end).
2320 2414
2321=back 2415=back
2322 2416
2323=item ev_periodic_again (loop, ev_periodic *) 2417=item ev_periodic_again (loop, ev_periodic *)
2324 2418
2389 2483
2390 ev_periodic hourly_tick; 2484 ev_periodic hourly_tick;
2391 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 2485 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
2392 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 2486 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
2393 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 2487 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
2394 2488
2395 2489
2396=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 2490=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
2397 2491
2398Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 2492Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
2399signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 2493signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
2409only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your 2503only within the same loop, i.e. you can watch for C<SIGINT> in your
2410default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for 2504default loop and for C<SIGIO> in another loop, but you cannot watch for
2411C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At 2505C<SIGINT> in both the default loop and another loop at the same time. At
2412the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop. 2506the moment, C<SIGCHLD> is permanently tied to the default loop.
2413 2507
2414When the first watcher gets started will libev actually register something 2508Only after the first watcher for a signal is started will libev actually
2415with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long as 2509register something with the kernel. It thus coexists with your own signal
2416you don't register any with libev for the same signal). 2510handlers as long as you don't register any with libev for the same signal.
2417 2511
2418If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with 2512If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
2419C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should 2513C<SA_RESTART> (or equivalent) behaviour enabled, so system calls should
2420not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting 2514not be unduly interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting
2421interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher 2515interrupted by signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher
2606 2700
2607=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 2701=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
2608 2702
2609This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 2703This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
2610C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed) 2704C<stat> on that path in regular intervals (or when the OS says it changed)
2611and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback if 2705and sees if it changed compared to the last time, invoking the callback
2612it did. 2706if it did. Starting the watcher C<stat>'s the file, so only changes that
2707happen after the watcher has been started will be reported.
2613 2708
2614The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 2709The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
2615not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not 2710not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does not
2616exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the 2711exist" (or more correctly "path cannot be stat'ed") is signified by the
2617C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at 2712C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is otherwise always forced to be at
2902 2997
2903Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs: 2998Prepare and check watchers are often (but not always) used in pairs:
2904prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 2999prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
2905afterwards. 3000afterwards.
2906 3001
2907You I<must not> call C<ev_run> or similar functions that enter 3002You I<must not> call C<ev_run> (or similar functions that enter the
2908the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check> 3003current event loop) or C<ev_loop_fork> from either C<ev_prepare> or
2909watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The 3004C<ev_check> watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine,
2910rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in 3005however. The rationale behind this is that you do not need to check
2911those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking, 3006for recursion in those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be
2912C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be 3007C<ev_prepare>, blocking, C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each
2913called in pairs bracketing the blocking call. 3008kind they will always be called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
2914 3009
2915Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 3010Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
2916their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track 3011their use is somewhat advanced. They could be used, for example, to track
2917variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 3012variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
2918coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if 3013coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
2962 3057
2963Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the 3058Using an C<ev_check> watcher is almost enough: it will be called on the
2964next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible - 3059next event loop iteration. However, that isn't as soon as possible -
2965without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked. 3060without external events, your C<ev_check> watcher will not be invoked.
2966 3061
2967
2968This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a 3062This is where C<ev_idle> watchers come in handy - all you need is a
2969single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active 3063single global idle watcher that is active as long as you have one active
2970C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop 3064C<ev_check> watcher. The C<ev_idle> watcher makes sure the event loop
2971will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets 3065will not sleep, and the C<ev_check> watcher makes sure a callback gets
2972invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that. 3066invoked. Neither watcher alone can do that.
3178 3272
3179=over 4 3273=over 4
3180 3274
3181=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3275=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3182 3276
3183=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 3277=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
3184 3278
3185Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 3279Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
3186embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 3280embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
3187invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 3281invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
3188to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 3282to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
3209used). 3303used).
3210 3304
3211 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 3305 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
3212 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0; 3306 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
3213 ev_embed embed; 3307 ev_embed embed;
3214 3308
3215 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works 3309 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
3216 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection) 3310 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
3217 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends () 3311 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
3218 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()) 3312 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
3219 : 0; 3313 : 0;
3233C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too). 3327C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
3234 3328
3235 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 3329 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
3236 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0; 3330 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
3237 ev_embed embed; 3331 ev_embed embed;
3238 3332
3239 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE) 3333 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
3240 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)) 3334 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
3241 { 3335 {
3242 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket); 3336 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
3243 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed); 3337 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
3251 3345
3252=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 3346=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
3253 3347
3254Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 3348Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
3255whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling 3349whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
3256C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the 3350C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the event loop blocks next
3257event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 3351and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, and only in the child
3258and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 3352after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling C<ev_default_fork> cheats
3259C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 3353and calls it in the wrong process, the fork handlers will be invoked, too,
3260handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 3354of course.
3261 3355
3262=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible? 3356=head3 The special problem of life after fork - how is it possible?
3263 3357
3264Most uses of C<fork()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set 3358Most uses of C<fork ()> consist of forking, then some simple calls to set
3265up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This 3359up/change the process environment, followed by a call to C<exec()>. This
3266sequence should be handled by libev without any problems. 3360sequence should be handled by libev without any problems.
3267 3361
3268This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling 3362This changes when the application actually wants to do event handling
3269in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the 3363in the child, or both parent in child, in effect "continuing" after the
3507 3601
3508There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now. 3602There are some other functions of possible interest. Described. Here. Now.
3509 3603
3510=over 4 3604=over 4
3511 3605
3512=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback) 3606=item ev_once (loop, int fd, int events, ev_tstamp timeout, callback, arg)
3513 3607
3514This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your 3608This function combines a simple timer and an I/O watcher, calls your
3515callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both 3609callback on whichever event happens first and automatically stops both
3516watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd 3610watchers. This is useful if you want to wait for a single event on an fd
3517or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 3611or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
3659already been invoked. 3753already been invoked.
3660 3754
3661A common way around all these issues is to make sure that 3755A common way around all these issues is to make sure that
3662C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If 3756C<start_new_request> I<always> returns before the callback is invoked. If
3663C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially 3757C<start_new_request> immediately knows the result, it can artificially
3664delay invoking the callback by e.g. using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher 3758delay invoking the callback by using a C<prepare> or C<idle> watcher for
3665for example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher 3759example, or more sneakily, by reusing an existing (stopped) watcher and
3666and pushing it into the pending queue: 3760pushing it into the pending queue:
3667 3761
3668 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback); 3762 ev_set_cb (watcher, callback);
3669 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0); 3763 ev_feed_event (EV_A_ watcher, 0);
3670 3764
3671This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is 3765This way, C<start_new_request> can safely return before the callback is
3679 3773
3680This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the 3774This brings the problem of exiting - a callback might want to finish the
3681main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but 3775main C<ev_run> call, but not the nested one (e.g. user clicked "Quit", but
3682a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one 3776a modal "Are you sure?" dialog is still waiting), or just the nested one
3683and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some 3777and not the main one (e.g. user clocked "Ok" in a modal dialog), or some
3684other combination: In these cases, C<ev_break> will not work alone. 3778other combination: In these cases, a simple C<ev_break> will not work.
3685 3779
3686The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run> 3780The solution is to maintain "break this loop" variable for each C<ev_run>
3687invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is 3781invocation, and use a loop around C<ev_run> until the condition is
3688triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>: 3782triggered, using C<EVRUN_ONCE>:
3689 3783
3893To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two 3987To embed libev, see L</EMBEDDING>, but in short, it's easiest to create two
3894files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files: 3988files, F<my_ev.h> and F<my_ev.c> that include the respective libev files:
3895 3989
3896 // my_ev.h 3990 // my_ev.h
3897 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb; 3991 #define EV_CB_DECLARE(type) struct my_coro *cb;
3898 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb); 3992 #define EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher) switch_to ((watcher)->cb)
3899 #include "../libev/ev.h" 3993 #include "../libev/ev.h"
3900 3994
3901 // my_ev.c 3995 // my_ev.c
3902 #define EV_H "my_ev.h" 3996 #define EV_H "my_ev.h"
3903 #include "../libev/ev.c" 3997 #include "../libev/ev.c"
3949The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the 4043The normal C API should work fine when used from C++: both ev.h and the
3950libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API 4044libev sources can be compiled as C++. Therefore, code that uses the C API
3951will work fine. 4045will work fine.
3952 4046
3953Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed 4047Proper exception specifications might have to be added to callbacks passed
3954to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all 4048to libev: exceptions may be thrown only from watcher callbacks, all other
3955other callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic 4049callbacks (allocator, syserr, loop acquire/release and periodic reschedule
3956reschedule callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<throw 4050callbacks) must not throw exceptions, and might need a C<noexcept>
3957()> specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C 4051specification. If you have code that needs to be compiled as both C and
3958and C++ you can use the C<EV_THROW> macro for this: 4052C++ you can use the C<EV_NOEXCEPT> macro for this:
3959 4053
3960 static void 4054 static void
3961 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_THROW 4055 fatal_error (const char *msg) EV_NOEXCEPT
3962 { 4056 {
3963 perror (msg); 4057 perror (msg);
3964 abort (); 4058 abort ();
3965 } 4059 }
3966 4060
3980Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 4074Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
3981you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 4075you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
3982the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 4076the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
3983 4077
3984To use it, 4078To use it,
3985 4079
3986 #include <ev++.h> 4080 #include <ev++.h>
3987 4081
3988This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many 4082This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
3989of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are 4083of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
3990put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding 4084put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
4093 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents) 4187 void operator() (ev::io &w, int revents)
4094 { 4188 {
4095 ... 4189 ...
4096 } 4190 }
4097 } 4191 }
4098 4192
4099 myfunctor f; 4193 myfunctor f;
4100 4194
4101 ev::io w; 4195 ev::io w;
4102 w.set (&f); 4196 w.set (&f);
4103 4197
4376 ev_vars.h 4470 ev_vars.h
4377 ev_wrap.h 4471 ev_wrap.h
4378 4472
4379 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 4473 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
4380 4474
4381 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default) 4475 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled
4382 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4476 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled
4383 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4477 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled
4478 ev_linuxaio.c only when the linux aio backend is enabled
4384 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4479 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled
4385 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 4480 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled
4386 4481
4387F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 4482F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
4388to compile this single file. 4483to compile this single file.
4389 4484
4390=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 4485=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
4578If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 4673If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
4579C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 4674C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
4580otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 4675otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
4581backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the 4676backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
4582headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled. 4677headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
4678
4679=item EV_USE_LINUXAIO
4680
4681If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
4682aio backend. Due to it's currenbt limitations it has to be requested
4683explicitly. If undefined, it will be enabled on linux, otherwise
4684disabled.
4583 4685
4584=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 4686=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
4585 4687
4586If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 4688If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
4587C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 4689C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
4618different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies 4720different cpus (or different cpu cores). This reduces dependencies
4619and makes libev faster. 4721and makes libev faster.
4620 4722
4621=item EV_NO_THREADS 4723=item EV_NO_THREADS
4622 4724
4623If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called 4725If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that it will never be called from
4624from different threads, which is a stronger assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, 4726different threads (that includes signal handlers), which is a stronger
4625above. This reduces dependencies and makes libev faster. 4727assumption than C<EV_NO_SMP>, above. This reduces dependencies and makes
4728libev faster.
4626 4729
4627=item EV_ATOMIC_T 4730=item EV_ATOMIC_T
4628 4731
4629Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose 4732Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
4630access is atomic and serialised with respect to other threads or signal 4733access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No
4631contexts. No such type is easily found in the C language, so you can 4734such type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own
4632provide your own type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used 4735type that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal
4633both for signal handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety 4736handler "locking" as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async>
4634in C<ev_async> watchers. 4737watchers.
4635 4738
4636In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile> 4739In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
4637(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms, 4740(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
4638although strictly speaking using a type that also implies a memory fence
4639is required.
4640 4741
4641=item EV_H (h) 4742=item EV_H (h)
4642 4743
4643The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 4744The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
4644undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be 4745undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
5291structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also 5392structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
5292assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher 5393assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
5293callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev 5394callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
5294calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally. 5395calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
5295 5396
5397=item null pointers and integer zero are represented by 0 bytes
5398
5399Libev uses C<memset> to initialise structs and arrays to C<0> bytes, and
5400relies on this setting pointers and integers to null.
5401
5296=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic 5402=item pointer accesses must be thread-atomic
5297 5403
5298Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and 5404Accessing a pointer value must be atomic, it must both be readable and
5299writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures. 5405writable in one piece - this is the case on all current architectures.
5300 5406
5313thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would 5419thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
5314be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and 5420be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
5315C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however. 5421C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
5316 5422
5317The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads 5423The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
5318except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as 5424except the initial one, and run the signal handling loop in the initial
5319well. 5425thread as well.
5320 5426
5321=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes 5427=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
5322 5428
5323To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally 5429To improve portability and simplify its API, libev uses C<long> internally
5324instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX 5430instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On non-POSIX
5428=over 4 5534=over 4
5429 5535
5430=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism 5536=item C<EV_COMPAT3> backwards compatibility mechanism
5431 5537
5432The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by 5538The backward compatibility mechanism can be controlled by
5433C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS> in the L</EMBEDDING> 5539C<EV_COMPAT3>. See L</"PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS"> in the L</EMBEDDING>
5434section. 5540section.
5435 5541
5436=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed 5542=item C<ev_default_destroy> and C<ev_default_fork> have been removed
5437 5543
5438These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts: 5544These calls can be replaced easily by their C<ev_loop_xxx> counterparts:

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