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4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10
11 #include <ev.h>
12
13 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */
17 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */
23 }
24
25 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */
30 }
31
32 int
33 main (void)
34 {
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */
46 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47
48 return 0;
49 }
50
9=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
10 52
53The newest version of this document is also available as a html-formatted
54web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
55time: L<http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.html>.
56
11Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 57Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
12file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 58file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
13these event sources and provide your program with events. 59these event sources and provide your program with events.
14 60
15To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 61To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
16(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 62(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
17communicate events via a callback mechanism. 63communicate events via a callback mechanism.
21details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 67details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
22watcher. 68watcher.
23 69
24=head1 FEATURES 70=head1 FEATURES
25 71
26Libev supports select, poll, the linux-specific epoll and the bsd-specific 72Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
27kqueue mechanisms for file descriptor events, relative timers, absolute 73BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
28timers with customised rescheduling, signal events, process status change 74for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
29events (related to SIGCHLD), and event watchers dealing with the event 75(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers
30loop mechanism itself (idle, prepare and check watchers). It also is quite 76with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals
77(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event
78watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>,
79C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as
80file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events
81(C<ev_fork>).
82
83It also is quite fast (see this
31fast (see this L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing 84L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
32it to libevent for example). 85for example).
33 86
34=head1 CONVENTIONS 87=head1 CONVENTIONS
35 88
36Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration 89Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will
37will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info 90be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about
38about various configuration options please have a look at the file 91various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in
39F<README.embed> in the libev distribution. If libev was configured without 92this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event
40support for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial 93loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop>
41argument of name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) 94(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument.
42will not have this argument.
43 95
44=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 96=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION
45 97
46Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 98Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
47(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 99(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
48the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 100the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
49called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 101called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
50to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 102to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
51it, you should treat it as such. 103it, you should treat it as some floatingpoint value. Unlike the name
104component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
105throughout libev.
52 106
53=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 107=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
54 108
55These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 109These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
56library in any way. 110library in any way.
61 115
62Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 116Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
63C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 117C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
64you actually want to know. 118you actually want to know.
65 119
120=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
121
122Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
123either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
124this is a subsecond-resolution C<sleep ()>.
125
66=item int ev_version_major () 126=item int ev_version_major ()
67 127
68=item int ev_version_minor () 128=item int ev_version_minor ()
69 129
70You can find out the major and minor version numbers of the library 130You can find out the major and minor ABI version numbers of the library
71you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and 131you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
72C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global 132C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global
73symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the 133symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the
74version of the library your program was compiled against. 134version of the library your program was compiled against.
75 135
136These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
137release version.
138
76Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 139Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
77as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 140as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
78compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 141compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
79not a problem. 142not a problem.
80 143
81Example: make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 144Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
82version: 145version.
83 146
84 assert (("libev version mismatch", 147 assert (("libev version mismatch",
85 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 148 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
86 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 149 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
87 150
117 180
118See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 181See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
119 182
120=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 183=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
121 184
122Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar to the 185Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
123realloc C function, the semantics are identical). It is used to allocate 186semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to
124and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory 187allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when
125needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially 188memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some
126destructive action. The default is your system realloc function. 189potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc
190function.
127 191
128You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 192You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
129free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 193free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
130or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 194or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
131 195
132Example: replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 196Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
133retries: better than mine). 197retries).
134 198
135 static void * 199 static void *
136 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, long size) 200 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
137 { 201 {
138 for (;;) 202 for (;;)
139 { 203 {
140 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 204 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
141 205
157callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 221callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no
158matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 222matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
159requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 223requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
160(such as abort). 224(such as abort).
161 225
162Example: do the same thing as libev does internally: 226Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
163 227
164 static void 228 static void
165 fatal_error (const char *msg) 229 fatal_error (const char *msg)
166 { 230 {
167 perror (msg); 231 perror (msg);
217C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 281C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
218override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 282override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
219useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 283useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
220around bugs. 284around bugs.
221 285
286=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
287
288Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after
289a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by
290enabling this flag.
291
292This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
293and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
294iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
295Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
296without a syscall and thus I<very> fast, but my Linux system also has
297C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
298
299The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
300forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
301flag.
302
303This flag setting cannot be overriden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
304environment variable.
305
222=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 306=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
223 307
224This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 308This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
225libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 309libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
226but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 310but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
235lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 319lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds).
236 320
237=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 321=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
238 322
239For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 323For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
240but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 324but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
241O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 325like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
242either O(1) or O(active_fds). 326epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
327of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
328cases and rewiring a syscall per fd change, no fork support and bad
329support for dup:
243 330
244While stopping and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration will 331While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
245result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 332will result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident
246(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 333(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
247best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 334best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
248well if you register events for both fds. 335very well if you register events for both fds.
249 336
250Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 337Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
251need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 338need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
252(or space) is available. 339(or space) is available.
253 340
254=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 341=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
255 342
256Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 343Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
257was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work with 344was broken on I<all> BSDs (usually it doesn't work with anything but
258anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course its 345sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course it's completely
346useless. On NetBSD, it seems to work for all the FD types I tested, so it
259completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 347is used by default there). For this reason it's not being "autodetected"
260unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 348unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
261C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 349C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
350system like NetBSD.
262 351
263It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 352It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
264kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 353kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed,
265course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 354of course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does
266extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to four event changes per 355never cause an extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to two event
267incident, so its best to avoid that. 356changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it drops fds
357silently in similarly hard-to-detetc cases.
268 358
269=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 359=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
270 360
271This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 361This is not implemented yet (and might never be).
272 362
273=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 363=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
274 364
275This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 365This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
276it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 366it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
277 367
278Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 368Please note that solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
279notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 369notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
280blocking when no data (or space) is available. 370blocking when no data (or space) is available.
281 371
282=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 372=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
283 373
313Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 403Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
314always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 404always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
315handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 405handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
316undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 406undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
317 407
318Example: try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 408Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
319 409
320 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 410 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
321 if (!epoller) 411 if (!epoller)
322 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 412 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
323 413
326Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 416Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
327etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 417etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
328sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 418sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
329responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 419responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before>
330calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 420calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
331the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 421the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
332for example). 422for example).
423
424Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
425this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers)
426would need to be stopped manually.
427
428In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
429rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
430pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
431C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
333 432
334=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 433=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
335 434
336Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 435Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
337earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 436earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
361 460
362Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 461Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
363C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 462C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
364after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 463after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
365 464
465=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
466
467Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
468the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
469happily wraps around with enough iterations.
470
471This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
472"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
473C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
474
366=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 475=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
367 476
368Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 477Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
369use. 478use.
370 479
372 481
373Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop 482Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop
374received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 483received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
375change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 484change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
376time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 485time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
377event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 486event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
378 487
379=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 488=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
380 489
381Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 490Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
382after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 491after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
403libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 512libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
404usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 513usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
405 514
406Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 515Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
407 516
517 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
408 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 518 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return.
409 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 519 - Queue all prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers.
410 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 520 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state.
411 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 521 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
412 - Update the "event loop time". 522 - Update the "event loop time".
413 - Calculate for how long to block. 523 - Calculate for how long to block.
414 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 524 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
422 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 532 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
423 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 533 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
424 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 534 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
425 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 535 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *.
426 536
427Example: queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 537Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding
428anymore. 538anymore.
429 539
430 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 540 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
431 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 541 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
432 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 542 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
452visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 562visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
453no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 563no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
454way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 564way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
455libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 565libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>.
456 566
457Example: create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 567Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
458running when nothing else is active. 568running when nothing else is active.
459 569
460 struct dv_signal exitsig; 570 struct ev_signal exitsig;
461 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 571 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
462 ev_signal_start (myloop, &exitsig); 572 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
463 evf_unref (myloop); 573 evf_unref (loop);
464 574
465Example: for some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 575Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
466 576
467 ev_ref (myloop); 577 ev_ref (loop);
468 ev_signal_stop (myloop, &exitsig); 578 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
579
580=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
581
582=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
583
584These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
585for events. Both are by default C<0>, meaning that libev will try to
586invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum latency.
587
588Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
589allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks to
590increase efficiency of loop iterations.
591
592The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
593handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
594the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
595events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
596overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
597
598By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
599time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
600at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
601C<ev_timer>) will be not affected.
602
603Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
604to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
605latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
606will not be affected.
607
608Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the io collect
609interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
610interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
611usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
612as this approsaches the timing granularity of most systems.
469 613
470=back 614=back
471 615
472 616
473=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 617=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
653=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 797=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
654 798
655Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 799Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
656events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 800events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
657is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 801is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
658C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 802C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
659libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 803make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
804it).
660 805
661=item callback = ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 806=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
662 807
663Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 808Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
664 809
665=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 810=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
666 811
667Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 812Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
668(modulo threads). 813(modulo threads).
814
815=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
816
817=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
818
819Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
820integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
821(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
822before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
823from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
824
825This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
826invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
827example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
828watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
829
830If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
831you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
832
833You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
834pending.
835
836The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
837always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
838
839Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
840fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
841or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
842
843=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
844
845Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
846C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
847can deal with that fact.
848
849=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
850
851If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
852and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
853watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
669 854
670=back 855=back
671 856
672 857
673=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 858=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
694 { 879 {
695 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 880 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
696 ... 881 ...
697 } 882 }
698 883
699More interesting and less C-conformant ways of catsing your callback type 884More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
700have been omitted.... 885instead have been omitted.
886
887Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
888watchers:
889
890 struct my_biggy
891 {
892 int some_data;
893 ev_timer t1;
894 ev_timer t2;
895 }
896
897In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
898you need to use C<offsetof>:
899
900 #include <stddef.h>
901
902 static void
903 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
904 {
905 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
906 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
907 }
908
909 static void
910 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
911 {
912 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
913 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
914 }
701 915
702 916
703=head1 WATCHER TYPES 917=head1 WATCHER TYPES
704 918
705This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 919This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
750it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 964it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
751C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 965C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
752 966
753If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 967If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
754play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 968play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
755wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 969whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
756such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 970such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
757its own, so its quite safe to use). 971its own, so its quite safe to use).
972
973=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
974
975Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
976descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means,
977such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
978descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
979this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
980registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
981fact, a different file descriptor.
982
983To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
984the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
985will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
986it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
987you I<have> to call C<ev_io_set> (or C<ev_io_init>) when you change the
988descriptor even if the file descriptor number itself did not change.
989
990This is how one would do it normally anyway, the important point is that
991the libev application should not optimise around libev but should leave
992optimisations to libev.
993
994=head3 The special problem of dup'ed file descriptors
995
996Some backends (e.g. epoll), cannot register events for file descriptors,
997but only events for the underlying file descriptions. That menas when you
998have C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors and register events for them, only one
999file descriptor might actually receive events.
1000
1001There is no workaorund possible except not registering events
1002for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors or to resort to
1003C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1004
1005=head3 The special problem of fork
1006
1007Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1008useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1009it in the child.
1010
1011To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1012C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1013enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1014C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1015
1016
1017=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
758 1018
759=over 4 1019=over 4
760 1020
761=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1021=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
762 1022
774 1034
775The events being watched. 1035The events being watched.
776 1036
777=back 1037=back
778 1038
779Example: call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1039Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
780readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1040readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
781attempt to read a whole line in the callback: 1041attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
782 1042
783 static void 1043 static void
784 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1044 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
785 { 1045 {
786 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1046 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
816 1076
817The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1077The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed,
818but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1078but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
819order of execution is undefined. 1079order of execution is undefined.
820 1080
1081=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1082
821=over 4 1083=over 4
822 1084
823=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1085=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
824 1086
825=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1087=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
838=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1100=item ev_timer_again (loop)
839 1101
840This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1102This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
841repeating. The exact semantics are: 1103repeating. The exact semantics are:
842 1104
1105If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1106
843If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it. 1107If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
844 1108
845If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 1109If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
846value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 1110C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
847 1111
848This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1112This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
849example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called 1113example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle
850idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, 1114timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
851say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do 1115seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
852this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling 1116configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
853C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1117C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
854you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1118you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
855socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if 1119socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
856need be. 1120automatically restart it if need be.
857 1121
858You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether 1122That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
859and only ever use the C<repeat> value: 1123altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
860 1124
861 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 1125 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
862 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1126 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
863 ... 1127 ...
864 timer->again = 17.; 1128 timer->again = 17.;
865 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1129 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
866 ... 1130 ...
867 timer->again = 10.; 1131 timer->again = 10.;
868 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1132 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
869 1133
870This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want 1134This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
871to modify its timeout value. 1135you want to modify its timeout value.
872 1136
873=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1137=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
874 1138
875The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1139The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
876or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1140or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
877which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 1141which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
878 1142
879=back 1143=back
880 1144
881Example: create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1145Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
882 1146
883 static void 1147 static void
884 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1148 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
885 { 1149 {
886 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1150 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
888 1152
889 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1153 struct ev_timer mytimer;
890 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1154 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
891 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1155 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
892 1156
893Example: create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1157Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
894inactivity. 1158inactivity.
895 1159
896 static void 1160 static void
897 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1161 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
898 { 1162 {
918but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1182but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
919to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1183to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
920periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1184periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now ()
921+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1185+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will
922take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1186take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger
923roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1187roughly 10 seconds later).
924again).
925 1188
926They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1189They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as
927triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1190triggering an event on each midnight, local time or other, complicated,
1191rules.
928 1192
929As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1193As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the
930time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1194time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
931during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1195during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
932 1196
1197=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1198
933=over 4 1199=over 4
934 1200
935=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1201=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
936 1202
937=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb) 1203=item ev_periodic_set (ev_periodic *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat, reschedule_cb)
939Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1205Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
940operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1206operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
941 1207
942=over 4 1208=over 4
943 1209
944=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1210=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
945 1211
946In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1212In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time
947C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1213C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs,
948that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1214that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the
949system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1215system time reaches or surpasses this time.
950 1216
951=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1217=item * non-repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
952 1218
953In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1219In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
954C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N) and then repeat, regardless 1220C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
955of any time jumps. 1221and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
956 1222
957This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1223This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
958time: 1224time:
959 1225
960 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1226 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
966 1232
967Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1233Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
968C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1234C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
969time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1235time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
970 1236
1237For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1238C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1239this value.
1240
971=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1241=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
972 1242
973In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1243In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
974ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1244ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
975reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1245reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
976current time as second argument. 1246current time as second argument.
977 1247
978NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1248NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
979ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1249ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it,
980return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by 1250return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
981starting a prepare watcher). 1251starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is legal).
982 1252
983Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1253Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w,
984ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1254ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
985 1255
986 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1256 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1009Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1279Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1010when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1280when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1011a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1281a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1012program when the crontabs have changed). 1282program when the crontabs have changed).
1013 1283
1284=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1285
1286When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1287absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1288
1289Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1290timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1291
1014=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1292=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1015 1293
1016The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1294The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1017take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1295take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1018called. 1296called.
1021 1299
1022The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is 1300The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1023switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1301switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1024the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1302the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1025 1303
1304=item ev_tstamp at [read-only]
1305
1306When active, contains the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1307trigger next.
1308
1026=back 1309=back
1027 1310
1028Example: call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1311Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1029system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1312system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1030potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1313potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability.
1031 1314
1032 static void 1315 static void
1033 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1316 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1037 1320
1038 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1321 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1039 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1322 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1040 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1323 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1041 1324
1042Example: the same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1325Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1043 1326
1044 #include <math.h> 1327 #include <math.h>
1045 1328
1046 static ev_tstamp 1329 static ev_tstamp
1047 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1330 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1049 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1332 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1050 } 1333 }
1051 1334
1052 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1335 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1053 1336
1054Example: call a callback every hour, starting now: 1337Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1055 1338
1056 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1339 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1057 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1340 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1058 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1341 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1059 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1342 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1071with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1354with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1072as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1355as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1073watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1356watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1074SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1357SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1075 1358
1359=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1360
1076=over 4 1361=over 4
1077 1362
1078=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1363=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1079 1364
1080=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1365=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1091 1376
1092=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1377=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1093 1378
1094Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1379Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1095some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1380some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies).
1381
1382=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1096 1383
1097=over 4 1384=over 4
1098 1385
1099=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1386=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid)
1100 1387
1120The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems 1407The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1121C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details). 1408C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1122 1409
1123=back 1410=back
1124 1411
1125Example: try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1412Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1126 1413
1127 static void 1414 static void
1128 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1415 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1129 { 1416 {
1130 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1417 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1145not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1432not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1146not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 1433not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1147otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 1434otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1148the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1435the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1149 1436
1437The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is
1438relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined.
1439
1150Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 1440Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1151calls C<stat (2)> regulalry on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 1441calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1152can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 1442can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1153a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 1443a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1154unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around 1444unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around
1155five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also 1445five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also
1156impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats 1446impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats
1158 1448
1159This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers, 1449This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1160as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1450as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1161resource-intensive. 1451resource-intensive.
1162 1452
1163At the time of this writing, no specific OS backends are implemented, but 1453At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1164if demand increases, at least a kqueue and inotify backend will be added. 1454implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1455reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1456semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1457to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1458usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1459polling.
1460
1461=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1165 1462
1166=over 4 1463=over 4
1167 1464
1168=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1465=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1169 1466
1233 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1530 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1234 1531
1235 1532
1236=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1533=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1237 1534
1238Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1535Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1239(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1536priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1240as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1537count).
1241imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1538
1242watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1539That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1540(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1541triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1542are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1243until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1543iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1244busy. 1544and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1245 1545
1246The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1546The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1247active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1547active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1248 1548
1249Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1549Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1250effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 1550effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
1251"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1551"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1252event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1552event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1253 1553
1554=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1555
1254=over 4 1556=over 4
1255 1557
1256=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1558=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1257 1559
1258Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 1560Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1259kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1561kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1260believe me. 1562believe me.
1261 1563
1262=back 1564=back
1263 1565
1264Example: dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle>, start it, and in the 1566Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1265callback, free it. Alos, use no error checking, as usual. 1567callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1266 1568
1267 static void 1569 static void
1268 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1570 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1269 { 1571 {
1270 free (w); 1572 free (w);
1315with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 1617with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
1316of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 1618of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
1317loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1619loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1318low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1620low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1319 1621
1622It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1623priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1624after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1625too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1626supports this, they will be called before other C<ev_check> watchers did
1627their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other event
1628loops those other event loops might be in an unusable state until their
1629C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to coexist peacefully with
1630others).
1631
1632=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1633
1320=over 4 1634=over 4
1321 1635
1322=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1636=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1323 1637
1324=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1638=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1327parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1641parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1328macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1642macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1329 1643
1330=back 1644=back
1331 1645
1332Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1646There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1333and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1647into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1648(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1649use for an actually working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib>
1650embeds a Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV
1651into the Glib event loop).
1652
1653Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1334in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1654and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1335pseudo-code only of course: 1655is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1656priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1657the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1336 1658
1337 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1659 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1338 static ev_timer tw; 1660 static ev_timer tw;
1339 1661
1340 static void 1662 static void
1341 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1663 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1342 { 1664 {
1343 // set the relevant poll flags
1344 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1345 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1346 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1347 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1348 } 1665 }
1349 1666
1350 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1667 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1351 static void 1668 static void
1352 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1669 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1353 { 1670 {
1354 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1671 int timeout = 3600000;
1672 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1355 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1673 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1356 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1674 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1357 1675
1358 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1676 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1359 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1677 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1360 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1678 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1361 1679
1362 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1680 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1363 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1681 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1364 { 1682 {
1365 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1683 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1366 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1684 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1367 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1685 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1368 1686
1369 fds [i].revents = 0; 1687 fds [i].revents = 0;
1370 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1371 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1688 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1372 } 1689 }
1373 } 1690 }
1374 1691
1375 // stop all watchers after blocking 1692 // stop all watchers after blocking
1377 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 1694 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1378 { 1695 {
1379 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 1696 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1380 1697
1381 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1698 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1699 {
1700 // set the relevant poll flags
1701 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1702 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
1703 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
1704 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1705 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1706
1707 // now stop the watcher
1382 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 1708 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1709 }
1383 1710
1384 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 1711 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1712 }
1713
1714Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
1715in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
1716
1717Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
1718notification (adns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
1719callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
1720
1721 static void
1722 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1723 {
1724 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1725 update_now (EV_A);
1726
1727 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
1728 }
1729
1730 static void
1731 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
1732 {
1733 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
1734 update_now (EV_A);
1735
1736 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1737 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
1738 }
1739
1740 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
1741
1742Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
1743want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, youc na override
1744their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
1745loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
1746this.
1747
1748 static gint
1749 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
1750 {
1751 int got_events = 0;
1752
1753 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1754 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
1755
1756 if (timeout >= 0)
1757 // create/start timer
1758
1759 // poll
1760 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1761
1762 // stop timer again
1763 if (timeout >= 0)
1764 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
1765
1766 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
1767 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
1768 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
1769
1770 return got_events;
1385 } 1771 }
1386 1772
1387 1773
1388=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 1774=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1389 1775
1390This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 1776This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1391into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded 1777into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded
1392loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect 1778loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect
1393fashion and must not be used). 1779fashion and must not be used). (See portability notes, below).
1394 1780
1395There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and 1781There are primarily two reasons you would want that: work around bugs and
1396prioritise I/O. 1782prioritise I/O.
1397 1783
1398As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support 1784As an example for a bug workaround, the kqueue backend might only support
1453 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed); 1839 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1454 } 1840 }
1455 else 1841 else
1456 loop_lo = loop_hi; 1842 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1457 1843
1844=head2 Portability notes
1845
1846Kqueue is nominally embeddable, but this is broken on all BSDs that I
1847tried, in various ways. Usually the embedded event loop will simply never
1848receive events, sometimes it will only trigger a few times, sometimes in a
1849loop. Epoll is also nominally embeddable, but many Linux kernel versions
1850will always eport the epoll fd as ready, even when no events are pending.
1851
1852While libev allows embedding these backends (they are contained in
1853C<ev_embeddable_backends ()>), take extreme care that it will actually
1854work.
1855
1856When in doubt, create a dynamic event loop forced to use sockets (this
1857usually works) and possibly another thread and a pipe or so to report to
1858your main event loop.
1859
1860=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1861
1458=over 4 1862=over 4
1459 1863
1460=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1864=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1461 1865
1462=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 1866=item ev_embed_set (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1471 1875
1472Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 1876Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1473similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 1877similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1474apropriate way for embedded loops. 1878apropriate way for embedded loops.
1475 1879
1476=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only] 1880=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1477 1881
1478The embedded event loop. 1882The embedded event loop.
1479 1883
1480=back 1884=back
1481 1885
1488event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 1892event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1489and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 1893and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1490C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 1894C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1491handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 1895handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1492 1896
1897=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1898
1493=over 4 1899=over 4
1494 1900
1495=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1901=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1496 1902
1497Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 1903Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1593 1999
1594To use it, 2000To use it,
1595 2001
1596 #include <ev++.h> 2002 #include <ev++.h>
1597 2003
1598(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 2004This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1599and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 2005of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1600namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 2006put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2007options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1601 2008
1602It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 2009Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1603C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2010classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
2011that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
2012you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
2013
2014Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
2015used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
2016need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
2017types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
2018it).
1604 2019
1605Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 2020Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1606 2021
1607=over 4 2022=over 4
1608 2023
1624 2039
1625All of those classes have these methods: 2040All of those classes have these methods:
1626 2041
1627=over 4 2042=over 4
1628 2043
1629=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2044=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1630 2045
1631=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2046=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1632 2047
1633=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2048=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1634 2049
1635The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2050The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1636the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2051with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1637C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2052
1638before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 2053The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1639automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 2054C<set> method before starting it.
2055
2056It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
2057method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
2058
2059(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
2060not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1640 2061
1641The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 2062The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
2063
2064=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
2065
2066This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
2067signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
2068first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
2069parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
2070
2071This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
2072the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
2073callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
2074your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2075thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2076
2077Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2078
2079 struct myclass
2080 {
2081 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2082 }
2083
2084 myclass obj;
2085 ev::io iow;
2086 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2087
2088=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2089
2090Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2091callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2092C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2093
2094The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2095
2096See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2097
2098Example:
2099
2100 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2101 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1642 2102
1643=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2103=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1644 2104
1645Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2105Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1646do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2106do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1647 2107
1648=item w->set ([args]) 2108=item w->set ([args])
1649 2109
1650Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2110Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be
1651called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2111called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1652automatically stopped and restarted. 2112automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2113method.
1653 2114
1654=item w->start () 2115=item w->start ()
1655 2116
1656Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 2117Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1657constructor already takes the loop. 2118constructor already stores the event loop.
1658 2119
1659=item w->stop () 2120=item w->stop ()
1660 2121
1661Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2122Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1662 2123
1663=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2124=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1664 2125
1665For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2126For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1666C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2127C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1667 2128
1668=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2129=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1669 2130
1670Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2131Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1671 2132
1672=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2133=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1673 2134
1674Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2135Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1675 2136
1676=back 2137=back
1677 2138
1687 2148
1688 myclass (); 2149 myclass ();
1689 } 2150 }
1690 2151
1691 myclass::myclass (int fd) 2152 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1692 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1693 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1694 { 2153 {
2154 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2155 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
2156
1695 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2157 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1696 } 2158 }
1697 2159
1698 2160
1699=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2161=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1700 2162
1701Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2163Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamantal
1702C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and 2164of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1703callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2165functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1704 2166
1705To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2167To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1706following macros are defined: 2168following macros are defined:
1707 2169
1708=over 4 2170=over 4
1740Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2202Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1741loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2203loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1742 2204
1743=back 2205=back
1744 2206
1745Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of 2207Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
1746wether multiple loops are supported or not. 2208macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2209or not.
1747 2210
1748 static void 2211 static void
1749 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2212 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1750 { 2213 {
1751 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2214 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1754 ev_check check; 2217 ev_check check;
1755 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2218 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1756 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2219 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1757 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2220 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1758 2221
1759
1760=head1 EMBEDDING 2222=head1 EMBEDDING
1761 2223
1762Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2224Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1763applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2225applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1764Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2226Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1765and rxvt-unicode. 2227and rxvt-unicode.
1766 2228
1767The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your 2229The goal is to enable you to just copy the necessary files into your
1768source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so 2230source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1769you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of 2231you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1770libev somewhere in your source tree). 2232libev somewhere in your source tree).
1771 2233
1772=head2 FILESETS 2234=head2 FILESETS
1803 ev_vars.h 2265 ev_vars.h
1804 ev_wrap.h 2266 ev_wrap.h
1805 2267
1806 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2268 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1807 2269
1808 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default) 2270 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
1809 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2271 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1810 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2272 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1811 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2273 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1812 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2274 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1813 2275
1862 2324
1863If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2325If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1864monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2326monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use
1865of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2327of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
1866usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2328usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1867the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2329the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
1868to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2330to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
1869function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2331function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1870 2332
1871=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2333=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1872 2334
1873If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2335If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1874realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2336realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at
1875runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2337runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will
1876be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2338be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1877(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2339(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
1878in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2340note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2341
2342=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2343
2344If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2345and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
1879 2346
1880=item EV_USE_SELECT 2347=item EV_USE_SELECT
1881 2348
1882If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2349If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
1883C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2350C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no
1938 2405
1939=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2406=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
1940 2407
1941reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2408reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
1942 2409
2410=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2411
2412If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2413interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2414be detected at runtime.
2415
1943=item EV_H 2416=item EV_H
1944 2417
1945The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2418The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
1946undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This 2419undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This
1947can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2420can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
1970will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2443will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
1971additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2444additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
1972for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2445for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
1973argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2446argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
1974 2447
2448=item EV_MINPRI
2449
2450=item EV_MAXPRI
2451
2452The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
2453C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
2454provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
2455to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
2456
2457When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
2458all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
2459and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
2460fine.
2461
2462If your embedding app does not need any priorities, defining these both to
2463C<0> will save some memory and cpu.
2464
1975=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 2465=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
1976 2466
1977If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 2467If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
1978defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 2468defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
1979code. 2469code.
1980 2470
2471=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
2472
2473If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
2474defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2475code.
2476
1981=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 2477=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
1982 2478
1983If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If 2479If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
1984defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 2480defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
1985 2481
2002=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 2498=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2003 2499
2004C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 2500C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2005pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 2501pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2006than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 2502than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2007increase this value. 2503increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2504
2505=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2506
2507C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2508inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2509usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2510watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2511two).
2008 2512
2009=item EV_COMMON 2513=item EV_COMMON
2010 2514
2011By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 2515By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2012this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 2516this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2025 2529
2026=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 2530=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2027 2531
2028Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2532Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2029and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 2533and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2030definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 2534definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
2031their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2535their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2032avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 2536avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2033method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 2537method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
2538
2539=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
2540
2541If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a dll) and you need a list of
2542exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
2543all public symbols, one per line:
2544
2545 Symbols.ev for libev proper
2546 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
2547
2548This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
2549multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
2550itself, but sometimes it is inconvinient to avoid this).
2551
2552A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
2553include before including F<ev.h>:
2554
2555 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
2556
2557This would create a file F<wrap.h> which essentially looks like this:
2558
2559 #define ev_backend myprefix_ev_backend
2560 #define ev_check_start myprefix_ev_check_start
2561 #define ev_check_stop myprefix_ev_check_stop
2562 ...
2034 2563
2035=head2 EXAMPLES 2564=head2 EXAMPLES
2036 2565
2037For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 2566For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2038verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 2567verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2041interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file 2570interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
2042will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header 2571will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
2043file. 2572file.
2044 2573
2045The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 2574The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2046that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices: 2575that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2047 2576
2577 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2048 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 2578 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2049 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 2579 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2050 #define EV_PERIODICS 0 2580 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
2581 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
2582 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2051 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 2583 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
2584 #define EV_MINPRI 0
2585 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2052 2586
2053 #include "ev++.h" 2587 #include "ev++.h"
2054 2588
2055And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 2589And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2056 2590
2062 2596
2063In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 2597In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2064libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 2598libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2065documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 2599documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2066 2600
2601All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
2602extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
2603happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
2604mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
2605it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
2606
2067=over 4 2607=over 4
2068 2608
2069=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 2609=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2070 2610
2611This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
2612there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
2613have to skip those 100 watchers.
2614
2071=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 2615=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2072 2616
2617That means that for changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
2618as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
2619
2073=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 2620=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
2074 2621
2622These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
2075=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 2623=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
2076 2624
2077=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % 16)) 2625=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2626
2627These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
2628correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
2629have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
2078 2630
2079=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 2631=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
2080 2632
2081=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 2633=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2082 2634
2635A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
2636libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel).
2637
2083=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 2638=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
2084 2639
2640=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
2641
2642Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
2643priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
2644linearly search all the priorities.
2645
2085=back 2646=back
2086 2647
2087 2648
2088=head1 AUTHOR 2649=head1 AUTHOR
2089 2650

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