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Revision 1.58 by root, Wed Nov 28 11:31:34 2007 UTC vs.
Revision 1.171 by root, Tue Jul 8 09:49:15 2008 UTC

2 2
3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C 3libev - a high performance full-featured event loop written in C
4 4
5=head1 SYNOPSIS 5=head1 SYNOPSIS
6 6
7 #include <ev.h> 7 #include <ev.h>
8 8
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM 9=head2 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10 10
11 // a single header file is required
11 #include <ev.h> 12 #include <ev.h>
12 13
14 // every watcher type has its own typedef'd struct
15 // with the name ev_<type>
13 ev_io stdin_watcher; 16 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher; 17 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15 18
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */ 19 // all watcher callbacks have a similar signature
20 // this callback is called when data is readable on stdin
17 static void 21 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents) 22 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 { 23 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */ 24 puts ("stdin ready");
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */ 25 // for one-shot events, one must manually stop the watcher
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */ 26 // with its corresponding stop function.
27 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w);
28
29 // this causes all nested ev_loop's to stop iterating
30 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL);
23 } 31 }
24 32
33 // another callback, this time for a time-out
25 static void 34 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 35 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 { 36 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */ 37 puts ("timeout");
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */ 38 // this causes the innermost ev_loop to stop iterating
39 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE);
30 } 40 }
31 41
32 int 42 int
33 main (void) 43 main (void)
34 { 44 {
45 // use the default event loop unless you have special needs
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 46 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36 47
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */ 48 // initialise an io watcher, then start it
49 // this one will watch for stdin to become readable
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ); 50 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 51 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40 52
53 // initialise a timer watcher, then start it
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */ 54 // simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.); 55 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher); 56 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44 57
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */ 58 // now wait for events to arrive
46 ev_loop (loop, 0); 59 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47 60
61 // unloop was called, so exit
48 return 0; 62 return 0;
49 } 63 }
50 64
51=head1 DESCRIPTION 65=head1 DESCRIPTION
52 66
67The newest version of this document is also available as an html-formatted
68web page you might find easier to navigate when reading it for the first
69time: L<http://pod.tst.eu/http://cvs.schmorp.de/libev/ev.pod>.
70
53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 71Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 72file descriptor being readable or a timeout occurring), and it will manage
55these event sources and provide your program with events. 73these event sources and provide your program with events.
56 74
57To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process 75To do this, it must take more or less complete control over your process
58(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then 76(or thread) by executing the I<event loop> handler, and will then
59communicate events via a callback mechanism. 77communicate events via a callback mechanism.
61You register interest in certain events by registering so-called I<event 79You register interest in certain events by registering so-called I<event
62watchers>, which are relatively small C structures you initialise with the 80watchers>, which are relatively small C structures you initialise with the
63details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 81details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
64watcher. 82watcher.
65 83
66=head1 FEATURES 84=head2 FEATURES
67 85
68Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the 86Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
69BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms 87BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
70for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface 88for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
71(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers 89(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers
78 96
79It also is quite fast (see this 97It also is quite fast (see this
80L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent 98L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
81for example). 99for example).
82 100
83=head1 CONVENTIONS 101=head2 CONVENTIONS
84 102
85Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will 103Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default (and most common)
86be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about 104configuration will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For
87various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in 105more info about various configuration options please have a look at
88this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event 106B<EMBED> section in this manual. If libev was configured without support
89loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop> 107for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of
90(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument. 108name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have
109this argument.
91 110
92=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 111=head2 TIME REPRESENTATION
93 112
94Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 113Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
95(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 114(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
96the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 115the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
97called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 116called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
98to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 117to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
99it, you should treat it as such. 118it, you should treat it as some floating point value. Unlike the name
119component C<stamp> might indicate, it is also used for time differences
120throughout libev.
121
122=head1 ERROR HANDLING
123
124Libev knows three classes of errors: operating system errors, usage errors
125and internal errors (bugs).
126
127When libev catches an operating system error it cannot handle (for example
128a system call indicating a condition libev cannot fix), it calls the callback
129set via C<ev_set_syserr_cb>, which is supposed to fix the problem or
130abort. The default is to print a diagnostic message and to call C<abort
131()>.
132
133When libev detects a usage error such as a negative timer interval, then
134it will print a diagnostic message and abort (via the C<assert> mechanism,
135so C<NDEBUG> will disable this checking): these are programming errors in
136the libev caller and need to be fixed there.
137
138Libev also has a few internal error-checking C<assert>ions, and also has
139extensive consistency checking code. These do not trigger under normal
140circumstances, as they indicate either a bug in libev or worse.
141
100 142
101=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 143=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
102 144
103These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 145These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
104library in any way. 146library in any way.
109 151
110Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the 152Returns the current time as libev would use it. Please note that the
111C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp 153C<ev_now> function is usually faster and also often returns the timestamp
112you actually want to know. 154you actually want to know.
113 155
156=item ev_sleep (ev_tstamp interval)
157
158Sleep for the given interval: The current thread will be blocked until
159either it is interrupted or the given time interval has passed. Basically
160this is a sub-second-resolution C<sleep ()>.
161
114=item int ev_version_major () 162=item int ev_version_major ()
115 163
116=item int ev_version_minor () 164=item int ev_version_minor ()
117 165
118You can find out the major and minor version numbers of the library 166You can find out the major and minor ABI version numbers of the library
119you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and 167you linked against by calling the functions C<ev_version_major> and
120C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global 168C<ev_version_minor>. If you want, you can compare against the global
121symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the 169symbols C<EV_VERSION_MAJOR> and C<EV_VERSION_MINOR>, which specify the
122version of the library your program was compiled against. 170version of the library your program was compiled against.
123 171
172These version numbers refer to the ABI version of the library, not the
173release version.
174
124Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 175Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
125as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 176as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
126compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 177compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
127not a problem. 178not a problem.
128 179
129Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 180Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
130version. 181version.
131 182
132 assert (("libev version mismatch", 183 assert (("libev version mismatch",
133 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 184 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
134 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 185 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
135 186
136=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends () 187=item unsigned int ev_supported_backends ()
137 188
138Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*> 189Return the set of all backends (i.e. their corresponding C<EV_BACKEND_*>
139value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their 190value) compiled into this binary of libev (independent of their
141a description of the set values. 192a description of the set values.
142 193
143Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and 194Example: make sure we have the epoll method, because yeah this is cool and
144a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11 195a must have and can we have a torrent of it please!!!11
145 196
146 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex", 197 assert (("sorry, no epoll, no sex",
147 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL)); 198 ev_supported_backends () & EVBACKEND_EPOLL));
148 199
149=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends () 200=item unsigned int ev_recommended_backends ()
150 201
151Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also 202Return the set of all backends compiled into this binary of libev and also
152recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one 203recommended for this platform. This set is often smaller than the one
153returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on 204returned by C<ev_supported_backends>, as for example kqueue is broken on
154most BSDs and will not be autodetected unless you explicitly request it 205most BSDs and will not be auto-detected unless you explicitly request it
155(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that 206(assuming you know what you are doing). This is the set of backends that
156libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly. 207libev will probe for if you specify no backends explicitly.
157 208
158=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends () 209=item unsigned int ev_embeddable_backends ()
159 210
163C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for 214C<ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_supported_backends ()>, likewise for
164recommended ones. 215recommended ones.
165 216
166See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 217See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
167 218
168=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, size_t size)) 219=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
169 220
170Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype and semantics are 221Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
171identical to the realloc C function). It is used to allocate and free 222semantics are identical to the C<realloc> C89/SuS/POSIX function). It is
172memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory needs to be 223used to allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero
173allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially destructive 224when memory needs to be allocated (C<size != 0>), the library might abort
174action. The default is your system realloc function. 225or take some potentially destructive action.
226
227Since some systems (at least OpenBSD and Darwin) fail to implement
228correct C<realloc> semantics, libev will use a wrapper around the system
229C<realloc> and C<free> functions by default.
175 230
176You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 231You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
177free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 232free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
178or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 233or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
179 234
180Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 235Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
181retries). 236retries (example requires a standards-compliant C<realloc>).
182 237
183 static void * 238 static void *
184 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size) 239 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
185 { 240 {
186 for (;;) 241 for (;;)
197 ... 252 ...
198 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc); 253 ev_set_allocator (persistent_realloc);
199 254
200=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg)); 255=item ev_set_syserr_cb (void (*cb)(const char *msg));
201 256
202Set the callback function to call on a retryable syscall error (such 257Set the callback function to call on a retryable system call error (such
203as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string 258as failed select, poll, epoll_wait). The message is a printable string
204indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this 259indicating the system call or subsystem causing the problem. If this
205callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 260callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the situation, no
206matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 261matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
207requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 262requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
208(such as abort). 263(such as abort).
209 264
210Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too. 265Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
224=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP 279=head1 FUNCTIONS CONTROLLING THE EVENT LOOP
225 280
226An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two 281An event loop is described by a C<struct ev_loop *>. The library knows two
227types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child 282types of such loops, the I<default> loop, which supports signals and child
228events, and dynamically created loops which do not. 283events, and dynamically created loops which do not.
229
230If you use threads, a common model is to run the default event loop
231in your main thread (or in a separate thread) and for each thread you
232create, you also create another event loop. Libev itself does no locking
233whatsoever, so if you mix calls to the same event loop in different
234threads, make sure you lock (this is usually a bad idea, though, even if
235done correctly, because it's hideous and inefficient).
236 284
237=over 4 285=over 4
238 286
239=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags) 287=item struct ev_loop *ev_default_loop (unsigned int flags)
240 288
244flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards). 292flags. If that is troubling you, check C<ev_backend ()> afterwards).
245 293
246If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this 294If you don't know what event loop to use, use the one returned from this
247function. 295function.
248 296
297Note that this function is I<not> thread-safe, so if you want to use it
298from multiple threads, you have to lock (note also that this is unlikely,
299as loops cannot bes hared easily between threads anyway).
300
301The default loop is the only loop that can handle C<ev_signal> and
302C<ev_child> watchers, and to do this, it always registers a handler
303for C<SIGCHLD>. If this is a problem for your application you can either
304create a dynamic loop with C<ev_loop_new> that doesn't do that, or you
305can simply overwrite the C<SIGCHLD> signal handler I<after> calling
306C<ev_default_init>.
307
249The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific 308The flags argument can be used to specify special behaviour or specific
250backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). 309backends to use, and is usually specified as C<0> (or C<EVFLAG_AUTO>).
251 310
252The following flags are supported: 311The following flags are supported:
253 312
258The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right 317The default flags value. Use this if you have no clue (it's the right
259thing, believe me). 318thing, believe me).
260 319
261=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV> 320=item C<EVFLAG_NOENV>
262 321
263If this flag bit is ored into the flag value (or the program runs setuid 322If this flag bit is or'ed into the flag value (or the program runs setuid
264or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable 323or setgid) then libev will I<not> look at the environment variable
265C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will 324C<LIBEV_FLAGS>. Otherwise (the default), this environment variable will
266override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is 325override the flags completely if it is found in the environment. This is
267useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work 326useful to try out specific backends to test their performance, or to work
268around bugs. 327around bugs.
269 328
329=item C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>
330
331Instead of calling C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork> manually after
332a fork, you can also make libev check for a fork in each iteration by
333enabling this flag.
334
335This works by calling C<getpid ()> on every iteration of the loop,
336and thus this might slow down your event loop if you do a lot of loop
337iterations and little real work, but is usually not noticeable (on my
338GNU/Linux system for example, C<getpid> is actually a simple 5-insn sequence
339without a system call and thus I<very> fast, but my GNU/Linux system also has
340C<pthread_atfork> which is even faster).
341
342The big advantage of this flag is that you can forget about fork (and
343forget about forgetting to tell libev about forking) when you use this
344flag.
345
346This flag setting cannot be overridden or specified in the C<LIBEV_FLAGS>
347environment variable.
348
270=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend) 349=item C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> (value 1, portable select backend)
271 350
272This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as 351This is your standard select(2) backend. Not I<completely> standard, as
273libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds, 352libev tries to roll its own fd_set with no limits on the number of fds,
274but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when 353but if that fails, expect a fairly low limit on the number of fds when
275using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its usually 354using this backend. It doesn't scale too well (O(highest_fd)), but its
276the fastest backend for a low number of fds. 355usually the fastest backend for a low number of (low-numbered :) fds.
356
357To get good performance out of this backend you need a high amount of
358parallelism (most of the file descriptors should be busy). If you are
359writing a server, you should C<accept ()> in a loop to accept as many
360connections as possible during one iteration. You might also want to have
361a look at C<ev_set_io_collect_interval ()> to increase the amount of
362readiness notifications you get per iteration.
277 363
278=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows) 364=item C<EVBACKEND_POLL> (value 2, poll backend, available everywhere except on windows)
279 365
280And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated than 366And this is your standard poll(2) backend. It's more complicated
281select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial limit on the 367than select, but handles sparse fds better and has no artificial
282number of fds you can use (except it will slow down considerably with a 368limit on the number of fds you can use (except it will slow down
283lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select, i.e. O(total_fds). 369considerably with a lot of inactive fds). It scales similarly to select,
370i.e. O(total_fds). See the entry for C<EVBACKEND_SELECT>, above, for
371performance tips.
284 372
285=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux) 373=item C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL> (value 4, Linux)
286 374
287For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select, 375For few fds, this backend is a bit little slower than poll and select,
288but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale like 376but it scales phenomenally better. While poll and select usually scale
289O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd), epoll scales 377like O(total_fds) where n is the total number of fds (or the highest fd),
290either O(1) or O(active_fds). 378epoll scales either O(1) or O(active_fds). The epoll design has a number
379of shortcomings, such as silently dropping events in some hard-to-detect
380cases and requiring a system call per fd change, no fork support and bad
381support for dup.
291 382
292While stopping and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration will 383While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher in the same iteration
293result in some caching, there is still a syscall per such incident 384will result in some caching, there is still a system call per such incident
294(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its 385(because the fd could point to a different file description now), so its
295best to avoid that. Also, dup()ed file descriptors might not work very 386best to avoid that. Also, C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors might not work
296well if you register events for both fds. 387very well if you register events for both fds.
297 388
298Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you 389Please note that epoll sometimes generates spurious notifications, so you
299need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data 390need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid blocking when no data
300(or space) is available. 391(or space) is available.
301 392
393Best performance from this backend is achieved by not unregistering all
394watchers for a file descriptor until it has been closed, if possible, i.e.
395keep at least one watcher active per fd at all times.
396
397While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this feature is broken in
398all kernel versions tested so far.
399
302=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones) 400=item C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE> (value 8, most BSD clones)
303 401
304Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it 402Kqueue deserves special mention, as at the time of this writing, it
305was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work with 403was broken on all BSDs except NetBSD (usually it doesn't work reliably
306anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course its 404with anything but sockets and pipes, except on Darwin, where of course
307completely useless). For this reason its not being "autodetected" 405it's completely useless). For this reason it's not being "auto-detected"
308unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using 406unless you explicitly specify it explicitly in the flags (i.e. using
309C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>). 407C<EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>) or libev was compiled on a known-to-be-good (-enough)
408system like NetBSD.
409
410You still can embed kqueue into a normal poll or select backend and use it
411only for sockets (after having made sure that sockets work with kqueue on
412the target platform). See C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
310 413
311It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the 414It scales in the same way as the epoll backend, but the interface to the
312kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of 415kernel is more efficient (which says nothing about its actual speed, of
313course). While starting and stopping an I/O watcher does not cause an 416course). While stopping, setting and starting an I/O watcher does never
314extra syscall as with epoll, it still adds up to four event changes per 417cause an extra system call as with C<EVBACKEND_EPOLL>, it still adds up to
315incident, so its best to avoid that. 418two event changes per incident, support for C<fork ()> is very bad and it
419drops fds silently in similarly hard-to-detect cases.
420
421This backend usually performs well under most conditions.
422
423While nominally embeddable in other event loops, this doesn't work
424everywhere, so you might need to test for this. And since it is broken
425almost everywhere, you should only use it when you have a lot of sockets
426(for which it usually works), by embedding it into another event loop
427(e.g. C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>) and using it only for
428sockets.
316 429
317=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8) 430=item C<EVBACKEND_DEVPOLL> (value 16, Solaris 8)
318 431
319This is not implemented yet (and might never be). 432This is not implemented yet (and might never be, unless you send me an
433implementation). According to reports, C</dev/poll> only supports sockets
434and is not embeddable, which would limit the usefulness of this backend
435immensely.
320 436
321=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10) 437=item C<EVBACKEND_PORT> (value 32, Solaris 10)
322 438
323This uses the Solaris 10 port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris, 439This uses the Solaris 10 event port mechanism. As with everything on Solaris,
324it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)). 440it's really slow, but it still scales very well (O(active_fds)).
325 441
326Please note that solaris ports can result in a lot of spurious 442Please note that Solaris event ports can deliver a lot of spurious
327notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid 443notifications, so you need to use non-blocking I/O or other means to avoid
328blocking when no data (or space) is available. 444blocking when no data (or space) is available.
445
446While this backend scales well, it requires one system call per active
447file descriptor per loop iteration. For small and medium numbers of file
448descriptors a "slow" C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL> backend
449might perform better.
450
451On the positive side, ignoring the spurious readiness notifications, this
452backend actually performed to specification in all tests and is fully
453embeddable, which is a rare feat among the OS-specific backends.
329 454
330=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL> 455=item C<EVBACKEND_ALL>
331 456
332Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried 457Try all backends (even potentially broken ones that wouldn't be tried
333with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as 458with C<EVFLAG_AUTO>). Since this is a mask, you can do stuff such as
334C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>. 459C<EVBACKEND_ALL & ~EVBACKEND_KQUEUE>.
335 460
461It is definitely not recommended to use this flag.
462
336=back 463=back
337 464
338If one or more of these are ored into the flags value, then only these 465If one or more of these are or'ed into the flags value, then only these
339backends will be tried (in the reverse order as given here). If none are 466backends will be tried (in the reverse order as listed here). If none are
340specified, most compiled-in backend will be tried, usually in reverse 467specified, all backends in C<ev_recommended_backends ()> will be tried.
341order of their flag values :)
342 468
343The most typical usage is like this: 469The most typical usage is like this:
344 470
345 if (!ev_default_loop (0)) 471 if (!ev_default_loop (0))
346 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?"); 472 fatal ("could not initialise libev, bad $LIBEV_FLAGS in environment?");
347 473
348Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow 474Restrict libev to the select and poll backends, and do not allow
349environment settings to be taken into account: 475environment settings to be taken into account:
350 476
351 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV); 477 ev_default_loop (EVBACKEND_POLL | EVBACKEND_SELECT | EVFLAG_NOENV);
352 478
353Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if 479Use whatever libev has to offer, but make sure that kqueue is used if
354available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private 480available (warning, breaks stuff, best use only with your own private
355event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds): 481event loop and only if you know the OS supports your types of fds):
356 482
357 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE); 483 ev_default_loop (ev_recommended_backends () | EVBACKEND_KQUEUE);
358 484
359=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags) 485=item struct ev_loop *ev_loop_new (unsigned int flags)
360 486
361Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 487Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
362always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 488always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
363handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 489handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
364undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 490undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
365 491
492Note that this function I<is> thread-safe, and the recommended way to use
493libev with threads is indeed to create one loop per thread, and using the
494default loop in the "main" or "initial" thread.
495
366Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 496Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
367 497
368 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 498 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
369 if (!epoller) 499 if (!epoller)
370 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 500 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
371 501
372=item ev_default_destroy () 502=item ev_default_destroy ()
373 503
374Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state 504Destroys the default loop again (frees all memory and kernel state
375etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal 505etc.). None of the active event watchers will be stopped in the normal
376sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your 506sense, so e.g. C<ev_is_active> might still return true. It is your
377responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yoursef I<before> 507responsibility to either stop all watchers cleanly yourself I<before>
378calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually 508calling this function, or cope with the fact afterwards (which is usually
379the easiest thing, youc na just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them 509the easiest thing, you can just ignore the watchers and/or C<free ()> them
380for example). 510for example).
511
512Note that certain global state, such as signal state, will not be freed by
513this function, and related watchers (such as signal and child watchers)
514would need to be stopped manually.
515
516In general it is not advisable to call this function except in the
517rare occasion where you really need to free e.g. the signal handling
518pipe fds. If you need dynamically allocated loops it is better to use
519C<ev_loop_new> and C<ev_loop_destroy>).
381 520
382=item ev_loop_destroy (loop) 521=item ev_loop_destroy (loop)
383 522
384Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an 523Like C<ev_default_destroy>, but destroys an event loop created by an
385earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>. 524earlier call to C<ev_loop_new>.
386 525
387=item ev_default_fork () 526=item ev_default_fork ()
388 527
528This function sets a flag that causes subsequent C<ev_loop> iterations
389This function reinitialises the kernel state for backends that have 529to reinitialise the kernel state for backends that have one. Despite the
390one. Despite the name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense 530name, you can call it anytime, but it makes most sense after forking, in
391after forking, in either the parent or child process (or both, but that 531the child process (or both child and parent, but that again makes little
392again makes little sense). 532sense). You I<must> call it in the child before using any of the libev
533functions, and it will only take effect at the next C<ev_loop> iteration.
393 534
394You I<must> call this function in the child process after forking if and 535On the other hand, you only need to call this function in the child
395only if you want to use the event library in both processes. If you just 536process if and only if you want to use the event library in the child. If
396fork+exec, you don't have to call it. 537you just fork+exec, you don't have to call it at all.
397 538
398The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call 539The function itself is quite fast and it's usually not a problem to call
399it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in 540it just in case after a fork. To make this easy, the function will fit in
400quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>: 541quite nicely into a call to C<pthread_atfork>:
401 542
402 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork); 543 pthread_atfork (0, 0, ev_default_fork);
403 544
404At the moment, C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and C<EVBACKEND_POLL> are safe to use
405without calling this function, so if you force one of those backends you
406do not need to care.
407
408=item ev_loop_fork (loop) 545=item ev_loop_fork (loop)
409 546
410Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by 547Like C<ev_default_fork>, but acts on an event loop created by
411C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop 548C<ev_loop_new>. Yes, you have to call this on every allocated event loop
412after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem. 549after fork, and how you do this is entirely your own problem.
550
551=item int ev_is_default_loop (loop)
552
553Returns true when the given loop actually is the default loop, false otherwise.
554
555=item unsigned int ev_loop_count (loop)
556
557Returns the count of loop iterations for the loop, which is identical to
558the number of times libev did poll for new events. It starts at C<0> and
559happily wraps around with enough iterations.
560
561This value can sometimes be useful as a generation counter of sorts (it
562"ticks" the number of loop iterations), as it roughly corresponds with
563C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> calls.
413 564
414=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop) 565=item unsigned int ev_backend (loop)
415 566
416Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in 567Returns one of the C<EVBACKEND_*> flags indicating the event backend in
417use. 568use.
420 571
421Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop 572Returns the current "event loop time", which is the time the event loop
422received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not 573received events and started processing them. This timestamp does not
423change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base 574change as long as callbacks are being processed, and this is also the base
424time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the 575time used for relative timers. You can treat it as the timestamp of the
425event occuring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it). 576event occurring (or more correctly, libev finding out about it).
426 577
427=item ev_loop (loop, int flags) 578=item ev_loop (loop, int flags)
428 579
429Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called 580Finally, this is it, the event handler. This function usually is called
430after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling 581after you initialised all your watchers and you want to start handling
442A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle 593A flags value of C<EVLOOP_NONBLOCK> will look for new events, will handle
443those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in 594those events and any outstanding ones, but will not block your process in
444case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop. 595case there are no events and will return after one iteration of the loop.
445 596
446A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if 597A flags value of C<EVLOOP_ONESHOT> will look for new events (waiting if
447neccessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block 598necessary) and will handle those and any outstanding ones. It will block
448your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after 599your process until at least one new event arrives, and will return after
449one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some 600one iteration of the loop. This is useful if you are waiting for some
450external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other 601external event in conjunction with something not expressible using other
451libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is 602libev watchers. However, a pair of C<ev_prepare>/C<ev_check> watchers is
452usually a better approach for this kind of thing. 603usually a better approach for this kind of thing.
453 604
454Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does: 605Here are the gory details of what C<ev_loop> does:
455 606
456 * If there are no active watchers (reference count is zero), return. 607 - Before the first iteration, call any pending watchers.
457 - Queue prepare watchers and then call all outstanding watchers. 608 * If EVFLAG_FORKCHECK was used, check for a fork.
609 - If a fork was detected (by any means), queue and call all fork watchers.
610 - Queue and call all prepare watchers.
458 - If we have been forked, recreate the kernel state. 611 - If we have been forked, detach and recreate the kernel state
612 as to not disturb the other process.
459 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes. 613 - Update the kernel state with all outstanding changes.
460 - Update the "event loop time". 614 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()).
461 - Calculate for how long to block. 615 - Calculate for how long to sleep or block, if at all
616 (active idle watchers, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK or not having
617 any active watchers at all will result in not sleeping).
618 - Sleep if the I/O and timer collect interval say so.
462 - Block the process, waiting for any events. 619 - Block the process, waiting for any events.
463 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events. 620 - Queue all outstanding I/O (fd) events.
464 - Update the "event loop time" and do time jump handling. 621 - Update the "event loop time" (ev_now ()), and do time jump adjustments.
465 - Queue all outstanding timers. 622 - Queue all outstanding timers.
466 - Queue all outstanding periodics. 623 - Queue all outstanding periodics.
467 - If no events are pending now, queue all idle watchers. 624 - Unless any events are pending now, queue all idle watchers.
468 - Queue all check watchers. 625 - Queue all check watchers.
469 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first). 626 - Call all queued watchers in reverse order (i.e. check watchers first).
470 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 627 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
471 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 628 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
472 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 629 - If ev_unloop has been called, or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
473 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 630 were used, or there are no active watchers, return, otherwise
631 continue with step *.
474 632
475Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 633Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outstanding
476anymore. 634anymore.
477 635
478 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 636 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
479 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 637 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
480 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 638 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
481 ... jobs done. yeah! 639 ... jobs done or somebody called unloop. yeah!
482 640
483=item ev_unloop (loop, how) 641=item ev_unloop (loop, how)
484 642
485Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it 643Can be used to make a call to C<ev_loop> return early (but only after it
486has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either 644has processed all outstanding events). The C<how> argument must be either
487C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or 645C<EVUNLOOP_ONE>, which will make the innermost C<ev_loop> call return, or
488C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return. 646C<EVUNLOOP_ALL>, which will make all nested C<ev_loop> calls return.
647
648This "unloop state" will be cleared when entering C<ev_loop> again.
489 649
490=item ev_ref (loop) 650=item ev_ref (loop)
491 651
492=item ev_unref (loop) 652=item ev_unref (loop)
493 653
498returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For 658returning, ev_unref() after starting, and ev_ref() before stopping it. For
499example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not 659example, libev itself uses this for its internal signal pipe: It is not
500visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 660visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
501no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 661no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
502way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 662way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
503libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 663libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>
664(but only if the watcher wasn't active before, or was active before,
665respectively).
504 666
505Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 667Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
506running when nothing else is active. 668running when nothing else is active.
507 669
508 struct ev_signal exitsig; 670 struct ev_signal exitsig;
509 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 671 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
510 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig); 672 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
511 evf_unref (loop); 673 evf_unref (loop);
512 674
513Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 675Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
514 676
515 ev_ref (loop); 677 ev_ref (loop);
516 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig); 678 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
679
680=item ev_set_io_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
681
682=item ev_set_timeout_collect_interval (loop, ev_tstamp interval)
683
684These advanced functions influence the time that libev will spend waiting
685for events. Both time intervals are by default C<0>, meaning that libev
686will try to invoke timer/periodic callbacks and I/O callbacks with minimum
687latency.
688
689Setting these to a higher value (the C<interval> I<must> be >= C<0>)
690allows libev to delay invocation of I/O and timer/periodic callbacks
691to increase efficiency of loop iterations (or to increase power-saving
692opportunities).
693
694The background is that sometimes your program runs just fast enough to
695handle one (or very few) event(s) per loop iteration. While this makes
696the program responsive, it also wastes a lot of CPU time to poll for new
697events, especially with backends like C<select ()> which have a high
698overhead for the actual polling but can deliver many events at once.
699
700By setting a higher I<io collect interval> you allow libev to spend more
701time collecting I/O events, so you can handle more events per iteration,
702at the cost of increasing latency. Timeouts (both C<ev_periodic> and
703C<ev_timer>) will be not affected. Setting this to a non-null value will
704introduce an additional C<ev_sleep ()> call into most loop iterations.
705
706Likewise, by setting a higher I<timeout collect interval> you allow libev
707to spend more time collecting timeouts, at the expense of increased
708latency (the watcher callback will be called later). C<ev_io> watchers
709will not be affected. Setting this to a non-null value will not introduce
710any overhead in libev.
711
712Many (busy) programs can usually benefit by setting the I/O collect
713interval to a value near C<0.1> or so, which is often enough for
714interactive servers (of course not for games), likewise for timeouts. It
715usually doesn't make much sense to set it to a lower value than C<0.01>,
716as this approaches the timing granularity of most systems.
717
718Setting the I<timeout collect interval> can improve the opportunity for
719saving power, as the program will "bundle" timer callback invocations that
720are "near" in time together, by delaying some, thus reducing the number of
721times the process sleeps and wakes up again. Another useful technique to
722reduce iterations/wake-ups is to use C<ev_periodic> watchers and make sure
723they fire on, say, one-second boundaries only.
724
725=item ev_loop_verify (loop)
726
727This function only does something when C<EV_VERIFY> support has been
728compiled in. It tries to go through all internal structures and checks
729them for validity. If anything is found to be inconsistent, it will print
730an error message to standard error and call C<abort ()>.
731
732This can be used to catch bugs inside libev itself: under normal
733circumstances, this function will never abort as of course libev keeps its
734data structures consistent.
517 735
518=back 736=back
519 737
520 738
521=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 739=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
522 740
523A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 741A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
524interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 742interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
525become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that: 743become readable, you would create an C<ev_io> watcher for that:
526 744
527 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 745 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
528 { 746 {
529 ev_io_stop (w); 747 ev_io_stop (w);
530 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 748 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
531 } 749 }
532 750
533 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0); 751 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
534 struct ev_io stdin_watcher; 752 struct ev_io stdin_watcher;
535 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb); 753 ev_init (&stdin_watcher, my_cb);
536 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 754 ev_io_set (&stdin_watcher, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
537 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher); 755 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
538 ev_loop (loop, 0); 756 ev_loop (loop, 0);
539 757
540As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your 758As you can see, you are responsible for allocating the memory for your
541watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack, 759watcher structures (and it is usually a bad idea to do this on the stack,
542although this can sometimes be quite valid). 760although this can sometimes be quite valid).
543 761
544Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init 762Each watcher structure must be initialised by a call to C<ev_init
545(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This 763(watcher *, callback)>, which expects a callback to be provided. This
546callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of io 764callback gets invoked each time the event occurs (or, in the case of I/O
547watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given 765watchers, each time the event loop detects that the file descriptor given
548is readable and/or writable). 766is readable and/or writable).
549 767
550Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro 768Each watcher type has its own C<< ev_<type>_set (watcher *, ...) >> macro
551with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro 769with arguments specific to this watcher type. There is also a macro
621=item C<EV_FORK> 839=item C<EV_FORK>
622 840
623The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see 841The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
624C<ev_fork>). 842C<ev_fork>).
625 843
844=item C<EV_ASYNC>
845
846The given async watcher has been asynchronously notified (see C<ev_async>).
847
626=item C<EV_ERROR> 848=item C<EV_ERROR>
627 849
628An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 850An unspecified error has occurred, the watcher has been stopped. This might
629happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 851happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
630ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 852ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
631problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping 853problem. You best act on it by reporting the problem and somehow coping
632with the watcher being stopped. 854with the watcher being stopped.
633 855
634Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error, 856Libev will usually signal a few "dummy" events together with an error,
635for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if 857for example it might indicate that a fd is readable or writable, and if
636your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope 858your callbacks is well-written it can just attempt the operation and cope
637with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 859with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multi-threaded
638programs, though, so beware. 860programs, though, so beware.
639 861
640=back 862=back
641 863
642=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 864=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
672Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments 894Although some watcher types do not have type-specific arguments
673(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro. 895(e.g. C<ev_prepare>) you still need to call its C<set> macro.
674 896
675=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args]) 897=item C<ev_TYPE_init> (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback, [args])
676 898
677This convinience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro 899This convenience macro rolls both C<ev_init> and C<ev_TYPE_set> macro
678calls into a single call. This is the most convinient method to initialise 900calls into a single call. This is the most convenient method to initialise
679a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course. 901a watcher. The same limitations apply, of course.
680 902
681=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher) 903=item C<ev_TYPE_start> (loop *, ev_TYPE *watcher)
682 904
683Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive 905Starts (activates) the given watcher. Only active watchers will receive
701=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher) 923=item bool ev_is_pending (ev_TYPE *watcher)
702 924
703Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding 925Returns a true value iff the watcher is pending, (i.e. it has outstanding
704events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 926events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
705is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 927is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
706C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 928C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe), you must not change its priority, and you must
707libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 929make sure the watcher is available to libev (e.g. you cannot C<free ()>
930it).
708 931
709=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 932=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
710 933
711Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 934Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
712 935
713=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 936=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
714 937
715Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time 938Change the callback. You can change the callback at virtually any time
716(modulo threads). 939(modulo threads).
940
941=item ev_set_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher, priority)
942
943=item int ev_priority (ev_TYPE *watcher)
944
945Set and query the priority of the watcher. The priority is a small
946integer between C<EV_MAXPRI> (default: C<2>) and C<EV_MINPRI>
947(default: C<-2>). Pending watchers with higher priority will be invoked
948before watchers with lower priority, but priority will not keep watchers
949from being executed (except for C<ev_idle> watchers).
950
951This means that priorities are I<only> used for ordering callback
952invocation after new events have been received. This is useful, for
953example, to reduce latency after idling, or more often, to bind two
954watchers on the same event and make sure one is called first.
955
956If you need to suppress invocation when higher priority events are pending
957you need to look at C<ev_idle> watchers, which provide this functionality.
958
959You I<must not> change the priority of a watcher as long as it is active or
960pending.
961
962The default priority used by watchers when no priority has been set is
963always C<0>, which is supposed to not be too high and not be too low :).
964
965Setting a priority outside the range of C<EV_MINPRI> to C<EV_MAXPRI> is
966fine, as long as you do not mind that the priority value you query might
967or might not have been adjusted to be within valid range.
968
969=item ev_invoke (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, int revents)
970
971Invoke the C<watcher> with the given C<loop> and C<revents>. Neither
972C<loop> nor C<revents> need to be valid as long as the watcher callback
973can deal with that fact.
974
975=item int ev_clear_pending (loop, ev_TYPE *watcher)
976
977If the watcher is pending, this function returns clears its pending status
978and returns its C<revents> bitset (as if its callback was invoked). If the
979watcher isn't pending it does nothing and returns C<0>.
717 980
718=back 981=back
719 982
720 983
721=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER 984=head2 ASSOCIATING CUSTOM DATA WITH A WATCHER
725to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and 988to associate arbitrary data with your watcher. If you need more data and
726don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data 989don't want to allocate memory and store a pointer to it in that data
727member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own 990member, you can also "subclass" the watcher type and provide your own
728data: 991data:
729 992
730 struct my_io 993 struct my_io
731 { 994 {
732 struct ev_io io; 995 struct ev_io io;
733 int otherfd; 996 int otherfd;
734 void *somedata; 997 void *somedata;
735 struct whatever *mostinteresting; 998 struct whatever *mostinteresting;
736 } 999 }
737 1000
738And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you 1001And since your callback will be called with a pointer to the watcher, you
739can cast it back to your own type: 1002can cast it back to your own type:
740 1003
741 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents) 1004 static void my_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w_, int revents)
742 { 1005 {
743 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 1006 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
744 ... 1007 ...
745 } 1008 }
746 1009
747More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type 1010More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
748instead have been omitted. 1011instead have been omitted.
749 1012
750Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple 1013Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
751watchers: 1014watchers:
752 1015
753 struct my_biggy 1016 struct my_biggy
754 { 1017 {
755 int some_data; 1018 int some_data;
756 ev_timer t1; 1019 ev_timer t1;
757 ev_timer t2; 1020 ev_timer t2;
758 } 1021 }
759 1022
760In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated, 1023In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
761you need to use C<offsetof>: 1024you need to use C<offsetof>:
762 1025
763 #include <stddef.h> 1026 #include <stddef.h>
764 1027
765 static void 1028 static void
766 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1029 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
767 { 1030 {
768 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1031 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
769 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1)); 1032 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
770 } 1033 }
771 1034
772 static void 1035 static void
773 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1036 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
774 { 1037 {
775 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy * 1038 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
776 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2)); 1039 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
777 } 1040 }
778 1041
779 1042
780=head1 WATCHER TYPES 1043=head1 WATCHER TYPES
781 1044
782This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 1045This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
806In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 1069In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
807fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 1070fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
808descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 1071descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
809required if you know what you are doing). 1072required if you know what you are doing).
810 1073
811You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends
812(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file
813descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing
814to the same underlying file/socket/etc. description (that is, they share
815the same underlying "file open").
816
817If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 1074If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
818(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 1075(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
819C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 1076C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
820 1077
821Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to 1078Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
822receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might 1079receive "spurious" readiness notifications, that is your callback might
823be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block 1080be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
824because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a 1081because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
825lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into 1082lot of those (for example Solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
826this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus 1083this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
827it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning 1084it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
828C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives. 1085C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
829 1086
830If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not 1087If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
831play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test 1088play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to separately re-test
832wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface 1089whether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
833such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on 1090such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
834its own, so its quite safe to use). 1091its own, so its quite safe to use).
835 1092
1093=head3 The special problem of disappearing file descriptors
1094
1095Some backends (e.g. kqueue, epoll) need to be told about closing a file
1096descriptor (either by calling C<close> explicitly or by any other means,
1097such as C<dup>). The reason is that you register interest in some file
1098descriptor, but when it goes away, the operating system will silently drop
1099this interest. If another file descriptor with the same number then is
1100registered with libev, there is no efficient way to see that this is, in
1101fact, a different file descriptor.
1102
1103To avoid having to explicitly tell libev about such cases, libev follows
1104the following policy: Each time C<ev_io_set> is being called, libev
1105will assume that this is potentially a new file descriptor, otherwise
1106it is assumed that the file descriptor stays the same. That means that
1107you I<have> to call C<ev_io_set> (or C<ev_io_init>) when you change the
1108descriptor even if the file descriptor number itself did not change.
1109
1110This is how one would do it normally anyway, the important point is that
1111the libev application should not optimise around libev but should leave
1112optimisations to libev.
1113
1114=head3 The special problem of dup'ed file descriptors
1115
1116Some backends (e.g. epoll), cannot register events for file descriptors,
1117but only events for the underlying file descriptions. That means when you
1118have C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors or weirder constellations, and register
1119events for them, only one file descriptor might actually receive events.
1120
1121There is no workaround possible except not registering events
1122for potentially C<dup ()>'ed file descriptors, or to resort to
1123C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1124
1125=head3 The special problem of fork
1126
1127Some backends (epoll, kqueue) do not support C<fork ()> at all or exhibit
1128useless behaviour. Libev fully supports fork, but needs to be told about
1129it in the child.
1130
1131To support fork in your programs, you either have to call
1132C<ev_default_fork ()> or C<ev_loop_fork ()> after a fork in the child,
1133enable C<EVFLAG_FORKCHECK>, or resort to C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or
1134C<EVBACKEND_POLL>.
1135
1136=head3 The special problem of SIGPIPE
1137
1138While not really specific to libev, it is easy to forget about SIGPIPE:
1139when reading from a pipe whose other end has been closed, your program
1140gets send a SIGPIPE, which, by default, aborts your program. For most
1141programs this is sensible behaviour, for daemons, this is usually
1142undesirable.
1143
1144So when you encounter spurious, unexplained daemon exits, make sure you
1145ignore SIGPIPE (and maybe make sure you log the exit status of your daemon
1146somewhere, as that would have given you a big clue).
1147
1148
1149=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions
1150
836=over 4 1151=over 4
837 1152
838=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 1153=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
839 1154
840=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 1155=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
841 1156
842Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to 1157Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
843rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or 1158receive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
844C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 1159C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
845 1160
846=item int fd [read-only] 1161=item int fd [read-only]
847 1162
848The file descriptor being watched. 1163The file descriptor being watched.
850=item int events [read-only] 1165=item int events [read-only]
851 1166
852The events being watched. 1167The events being watched.
853 1168
854=back 1169=back
1170
1171=head3 Examples
855 1172
856Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 1173Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
857readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 1174readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
858attempt to read a whole line in the callback. 1175attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
859 1176
860 static void 1177 static void
861 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1178 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
862 { 1179 {
863 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 1180 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
864 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors 1181 .. read from stdin here (or from w->fd) and haqndle any I/O errors
865 } 1182 }
866 1183
867 ... 1184 ...
868 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0); 1185 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
869 struct ev_io stdin_readable; 1186 struct ev_io stdin_readable;
870 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 1187 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
871 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 1188 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
872 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1189 ev_loop (loop, 0);
873 1190
874 1191
875=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts 1192=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
876 1193
877Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 1194Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
878given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 1195given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
879 1196
880The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 1197The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
881times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to last years 1198times out after an hour and you reset your system clock to January last
882time, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because 1199year, it will still time out after (roughly) and hour. "Roughly" because
883detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the 1200detecting time jumps is hard, and some inaccuracies are unavoidable (the
884monotonic clock option helps a lot here). 1201monotonic clock option helps a lot here).
885 1202
886The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()> 1203The relative timeouts are calculated relative to the C<ev_now ()>
887time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time 1204time. This is usually the right thing as this timestamp refers to the time
889you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout 1206you suspect event processing to be delayed and you I<need> to base the timeout
890on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this: 1207on the current time, use something like this to adjust for this:
891 1208
892 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.); 1209 ev_timer_set (&timer, after + ev_now () - ev_time (), 0.);
893 1210
894The callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when its timeout has passed, 1211The callback is guaranteed to be invoked only after its timeout has passed,
895but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then 1212but if multiple timers become ready during the same loop iteration then
896order of execution is undefined. 1213order of execution is undefined.
897 1214
1215=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1216
898=over 4 1217=over 4
899 1218
900=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1219=item ev_timer_init (ev_timer *, callback, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
901 1220
902=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat) 1221=item ev_timer_set (ev_timer *, ev_tstamp after, ev_tstamp repeat)
903 1222
904Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat> is 1223Configure the timer to trigger after C<after> seconds. If C<repeat>
905C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped. If it is positive, then the 1224is C<0.>, then it will automatically be stopped once the timeout is
906timer will automatically be configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds 1225reached. If it is positive, then the timer will automatically be
907later, again, and again, until stopped manually. 1226configured to trigger again C<repeat> seconds later, again, and again,
1227until stopped manually.
908 1228
909The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if you 1229The timer itself will do a best-effort at avoiding drift, that is, if
910configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will trigger at 1230you configure a timer to trigger every 10 seconds, then it will normally
911exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot keep up with 1231trigger at exactly 10 second intervals. If, however, your program cannot
912the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to do stuff) the 1232keep up with the timer (because it takes longer than those 10 seconds to
913timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration. 1233do stuff) the timer will not fire more than once per event loop iteration.
914 1234
915=item ev_timer_again (loop) 1235=item ev_timer_again (loop, ev_timer *)
916 1236
917This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is 1237This will act as if the timer timed out and restart it again if it is
918repeating. The exact semantics are: 1238repeating. The exact semantics are:
919 1239
1240If the timer is pending, its pending status is cleared.
1241
920If the timer is started but nonrepeating, stop it. 1242If the timer is started but non-repeating, stop it (as if it timed out).
921 1243
922If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 1244If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the
923value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 1245C<repeat> value), or reset the running timer to the C<repeat> value.
924 1246
925This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 1247This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
926example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called 1248example: Imagine you have a TCP connection and you want a so-called idle
927idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, 1249timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60
928say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do 1250seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to
929this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling 1251configure an C<ev_timer> with a C<repeat> value of C<60> and then call
930C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If 1252C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
931you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the 1253you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
932socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if 1254socket, you can C<ev_timer_stop> the timer, and C<ev_timer_again> will
933need be. 1255automatically restart it if need be.
934 1256
935You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether 1257That means you can ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start>
936and only ever use the C<repeat> value: 1258altogether and only ever use the C<repeat> value and C<ev_timer_again>:
937 1259
938 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.); 1260 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
939 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1261 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
940 ... 1262 ...
941 timer->again = 17.; 1263 timer->again = 17.;
942 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1264 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
943 ... 1265 ...
944 timer->again = 10.; 1266 timer->again = 10.;
945 ev_timer_again (loop, timer); 1267 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
946 1268
947This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want 1269This is more slightly efficient then stopping/starting the timer each time
948to modify its timeout value. 1270you want to modify its timeout value.
949 1271
950=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write] 1272=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
951 1273
952The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out 1274The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
953or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any), 1275or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
954which is also when any modifications are taken into account. 1276which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
955 1277
956=back 1278=back
957 1279
1280=head3 Examples
1281
958Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 1282Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
959 1283
960 static void 1284 static void
961 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1285 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
962 { 1286 {
963 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 1287 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
964 } 1288 }
965 1289
966 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1290 struct ev_timer mytimer;
967 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 1291 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
968 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 1292 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
969 1293
970Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 1294Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
971inactivity. 1295inactivity.
972 1296
973 static void 1297 static void
974 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 1298 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
975 { 1299 {
976 .. ten seconds without any activity 1300 .. ten seconds without any activity
977 } 1301 }
978 1302
979 struct ev_timer mytimer; 1303 struct ev_timer mytimer;
980 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */ 1304 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, timeout_cb, 0., 10.); /* note, only repeat used */
981 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */ 1305 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); /* start timer */
982 ev_loop (loop, 0); 1306 ev_loop (loop, 0);
983 1307
984 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 1308 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
985 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 1309 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
986 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 1310 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
987 1311
988 1312
989=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron? 1313=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
990 1314
991Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 1315Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
992(and unfortunately a bit complex). 1316(and unfortunately a bit complex).
993 1317
994Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 1318Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
995but on wallclock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher 1319but on wall clock time (absolute time). You can tell a periodic watcher
996to trigger "at" some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a 1320to trigger after some specific point in time. For example, if you tell a
997periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifiying e.g. C<ev_now () 1321periodic watcher to trigger in 10 seconds (by specifying e.g. C<ev_now ()
998+ 10.>) and then reset your system clock to the last year, then it will 1322+ 10.>, that is, an absolute time not a delay) and then reset your system
1323clock to January of the previous year, then it will take more than year
999take a year to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would trigger 1324to trigger the event (unlike an C<ev_timer>, which would still trigger
1000roughly 10 seconds later and of course not if you reset your system time 1325roughly 10 seconds later as it uses a relative timeout).
1001again).
1002 1326
1003They can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers, such as 1327C<ev_periodic>s can also be used to implement vastly more complex timers,
1004triggering an event on eahc midnight, local time. 1328such as triggering an event on each "midnight, local time", or other
1329complicated, rules.
1005 1330
1006As with timers, the callback is guarenteed to be invoked only when the 1331As with timers, the callback is guaranteed to be invoked only when the
1007time (C<at>) has been passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready 1332time (C<at>) has passed, but if multiple periodic timers become ready
1008during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined. 1333during the same loop iteration then order of execution is undefined.
1334
1335=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1009 1336
1010=over 4 1337=over 4
1011 1338
1012=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb) 1339=item ev_periodic_init (ev_periodic *, callback, ev_tstamp at, ev_tstamp interval, reschedule_cb)
1013 1340
1016Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of 1343Lots of arguments, lets sort it out... There are basically three modes of
1017operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex: 1344operation, and we will explain them from simplest to complex:
1018 1345
1019=over 4 1346=over 4
1020 1347
1021=item * absolute timer (interval = reschedule_cb = 0) 1348=item * absolute timer (at = time, interval = reschedule_cb = 0)
1022 1349
1023In this configuration the watcher triggers an event at the wallclock time 1350In this configuration the watcher triggers an event after the wall clock
1024C<at> and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time jump occurs, 1351time C<at> has passed and doesn't repeat. It will not adjust when a time
1025that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will run when the 1352jump occurs, that is, if it is to be run at January 1st 2011 then it will
1026system time reaches or surpasses this time. 1353run when the system time reaches or surpasses this time.
1027 1354
1028=item * non-repeating interval timer (interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0) 1355=item * repeating interval timer (at = offset, interval > 0, reschedule_cb = 0)
1029 1356
1030In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next 1357In this mode the watcher will always be scheduled to time out at the next
1031C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N) and then repeat, regardless 1358C<at + N * interval> time (for some integer N, which can also be negative)
1032of any time jumps. 1359and then repeat, regardless of any time jumps.
1033 1360
1034This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system 1361This can be used to create timers that do not drift with respect to system
1035time: 1362time, for example, here is a C<ev_periodic> that triggers each hour, on
1363the hour:
1036 1364
1037 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0); 1365 ev_periodic_set (&periodic, 0., 3600., 0);
1038 1366
1039This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers, 1367This doesn't mean there will always be 3600 seconds in between triggers,
1040but only that the the callback will be called when the system time shows a 1368but only that the callback will be called when the system time shows a
1041full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible 1369full hour (UTC), or more correctly, when the system time is evenly divisible
1042by 3600. 1370by 3600.
1043 1371
1044Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that 1372Another way to think about it (for the mathematically inclined) is that
1045C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible 1373C<ev_periodic> will try to run the callback in this mode at the next possible
1046time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps. 1374time where C<time = at (mod interval)>, regardless of any time jumps.
1047 1375
1376For numerical stability it is preferable that the C<at> value is near
1377C<ev_now ()> (the current time), but there is no range requirement for
1378this value, and in fact is often specified as zero.
1379
1380Note also that there is an upper limit to how often a timer can fire (CPU
1381speed for example), so if C<interval> is very small then timing stability
1382will of course deteriorate. Libev itself tries to be exact to be about one
1383millisecond (if the OS supports it and the machine is fast enough).
1384
1048=item * manual reschedule mode (reschedule_cb = callback) 1385=item * manual reschedule mode (at and interval ignored, reschedule_cb = callback)
1049 1386
1050In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being 1387In this mode the values for C<interval> and C<at> are both being
1051ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the 1388ignored. Instead, each time the periodic watcher gets scheduled, the
1052reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the 1389reschedule callback will be called with the watcher as first, and the
1053current time as second argument. 1390current time as second argument.
1054 1391
1055NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher, 1392NOTE: I<This callback MUST NOT stop or destroy any periodic watcher,
1056ever, or make any event loop modifications>. If you need to stop it, 1393ever, or make ANY event loop modifications whatsoever>.
1057return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop it afterwards (e.g. by
1058starting a prepare watcher).
1059 1394
1395If you need to stop it, return C<now + 1e30> (or so, fudge fudge) and stop
1396it afterwards (e.g. by starting an C<ev_prepare> watcher, which is the
1397only event loop modification you are allowed to do).
1398
1060Its prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, 1399The callback prototype is C<ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic
1061ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.: 1400*w, ev_tstamp now)>, e.g.:
1062 1401
1063 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1402 static ev_tstamp my_rescheduler (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1064 { 1403 {
1065 return now + 60.; 1404 return now + 60.;
1066 } 1405 }
1068It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value 1407It must return the next time to trigger, based on the passed time value
1069(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It 1408(that is, the lowest time value larger than to the second argument). It
1070will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but 1409will usually be called just before the callback will be triggered, but
1071might be called at other times, too. 1410might be called at other times, too.
1072 1411
1073NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is later than the 1412NOTE: I<< This callback must always return a time that is higher than or
1074passed C<now> value >>. Not even C<now> itself will do, it I<must> be larger. 1413equal to the passed C<now> value >>.
1075 1414
1076This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that 1415This can be used to create very complex timers, such as a timer that
1077triggers on each midnight, local time. To do this, you would calculate the 1416triggers on "next midnight, local time". To do this, you would calculate the
1078next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How 1417next midnight after C<now> and return the timestamp value for this. How
1079you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main 1418you do this is, again, up to you (but it is not trivial, which is the main
1080reason I omitted it as an example). 1419reason I omitted it as an example).
1081 1420
1082=back 1421=back
1086Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1425Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
1087when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1426when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
1088a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1427a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
1089program when the crontabs have changed). 1428program when the crontabs have changed).
1090 1429
1430=item ev_tstamp ev_periodic_at (ev_periodic *)
1431
1432When active, returns the absolute time that the watcher is supposed to
1433trigger next.
1434
1435=item ev_tstamp offset [read-write]
1436
1437When repeating, this contains the offset value, otherwise this is the
1438absolute point in time (the C<at> value passed to C<ev_periodic_set>).
1439
1440Can be modified any time, but changes only take effect when the periodic
1441timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1442
1091=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write] 1443=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1092 1444
1093The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only 1445The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1094take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being 1446take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1095called. 1447called.
1100switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when 1452switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1101the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called. 1453the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1102 1454
1103=back 1455=back
1104 1456
1457=head3 Examples
1458
1105Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1459Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
1106system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1460system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
1107potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1461potentially a lot of jitter, but good long-term stability.
1108 1462
1109 static void 1463 static void
1110 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1464 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
1111 { 1465 {
1112 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows) 1466 ... its now a full hour (UTC, or TAI or whatever your clock follows)
1113 } 1467 }
1114 1468
1115 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1469 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1116 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1470 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
1117 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1471 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1118 1472
1119Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1473Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
1120 1474
1121 #include <math.h> 1475 #include <math.h>
1122 1476
1123 static ev_tstamp 1477 static ev_tstamp
1124 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1478 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
1125 { 1479 {
1126 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1480 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
1127 } 1481 }
1128 1482
1129 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1483 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
1130 1484
1131Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now: 1485Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
1132 1486
1133 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1487 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
1134 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1488 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
1135 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1489 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
1136 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1490 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
1137 1491
1138 1492
1139=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled! 1493=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
1140 1494
1141Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1495Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
1148with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long 1502with the kernel (thus it coexists with your own signal handlers as long
1149as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal 1503as you don't register any with libev). Similarly, when the last signal
1150watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to 1504watcher for a signal is stopped libev will reset the signal handler to
1151SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before). 1505SIG_DFL (regardless of what it was set to before).
1152 1506
1507If possible and supported, libev will install its handlers with
1508C<SA_RESTART> behaviour enabled, so system calls should not be unduly
1509interrupted. If you have a problem with system calls getting interrupted by
1510signals you can block all signals in an C<ev_check> watcher and unblock
1511them in an C<ev_prepare> watcher.
1512
1513=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1514
1153=over 4 1515=over 4
1154 1516
1155=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum) 1517=item ev_signal_init (ev_signal *, callback, int signum)
1156 1518
1157=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1519=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1163 1525
1164The signal the watcher watches out for. 1526The signal the watcher watches out for.
1165 1527
1166=back 1528=back
1167 1529
1530=head3 Examples
1531
1532Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1533
1534 static void
1535 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1536 {
1537 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1538 }
1539
1540 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1541 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1542 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1543
1168 1544
1169=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes 1545=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1170 1546
1171Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1547Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1172some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1548some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). It
1549is permissible to install a child watcher I<after> the child has been
1550forked (which implies it might have already exited), as long as the event
1551loop isn't entered (or is continued from a watcher).
1552
1553Only the default event loop is capable of handling signals, and therefore
1554you can only register child watchers in the default event loop.
1555
1556=head3 Process Interaction
1557
1558Libev grabs C<SIGCHLD> as soon as the default event loop is
1559initialised. This is necessary to guarantee proper behaviour even if
1560the first child watcher is started after the child exits. The occurrence
1561of C<SIGCHLD> is recorded asynchronously, but child reaping is done
1562synchronously as part of the event loop processing. Libev always reaps all
1563children, even ones not watched.
1564
1565=head3 Overriding the Built-In Processing
1566
1567Libev offers no special support for overriding the built-in child
1568processing, but if your application collides with libev's default child
1569handler, you can override it easily by installing your own handler for
1570C<SIGCHLD> after initialising the default loop, and making sure the
1571default loop never gets destroyed. You are encouraged, however, to use an
1572event-based approach to child reaping and thus use libev's support for
1573that, so other libev users can use C<ev_child> watchers freely.
1574
1575=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1173 1576
1174=over 4 1577=over 4
1175 1578
1176=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid) 1579=item ev_child_init (ev_child *, callback, int pid, int trace)
1177 1580
1178=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid) 1581=item ev_child_set (ev_child *, int pid, int trace)
1179 1582
1180Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or 1583Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of process C<pid> (or
1181I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look 1584I<any> process if C<pid> is specified as C<0>). The callback can look
1182at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see 1585at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see
1183the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems 1586the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems
1184C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the 1587C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the
1185process causing the status change. 1588process causing the status change. C<trace> must be either C<0> (only
1589activate the watcher when the process terminates) or C<1> (additionally
1590activate the watcher when the process is stopped or continued).
1186 1591
1187=item int pid [read-only] 1592=item int pid [read-only]
1188 1593
1189The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id. 1594The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id.
1190 1595
1197The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems 1602The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1198C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details). 1603C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1199 1604
1200=back 1605=back
1201 1606
1202Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1607=head3 Examples
1203 1608
1609Example: C<fork()> a new process and install a child handler to wait for
1610its completion.
1611
1612 ev_child cw;
1613
1204 static void 1614 static void
1205 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1615 child_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_child *w, int revents)
1206 { 1616 {
1207 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1617 ev_child_stop (EV_A_ w);
1618 printf ("process %d exited with status %x\n", w->rpid, w->rstatus);
1208 } 1619 }
1209 1620
1210 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1621 pid_t pid = fork ();
1211 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1622
1212 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1623 if (pid < 0)
1624 // error
1625 else if (pid == 0)
1626 {
1627 // the forked child executes here
1628 exit (1);
1629 }
1630 else
1631 {
1632 ev_child_init (&cw, child_cb, pid, 0);
1633 ev_child_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &cw);
1634 }
1213 1635
1214 1636
1215=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change? 1637=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1216 1638
1217This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls 1639This watches a file system path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1218C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed 1640C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1219compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did. 1641compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1220 1642
1221The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does 1643The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1222not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does 1644not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1223not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is 1645not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1224otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of 1646otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1225the stat buffer having unspecified contents. 1647the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1648
1649The path I<should> be absolute and I<must not> end in a slash. If it is
1650relative and your working directory changes, the behaviour is undefined.
1226 1651
1227Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply 1652Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1228calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You 1653calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1229can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify 1654can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1230a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable, 1655a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1237as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be 1662as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1238resource-intensive. 1663resource-intensive.
1239 1664
1240At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is 1665At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1241implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the 1666implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1667reader, note, however, that the author sees no way of implementing ev_stat
1242reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the 1668semantics with kqueue). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should
1243semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs 1669not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev
1244to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are 1670sometimes needs to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify,
1245usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no 1671but changes are usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there
1246polling. 1672will be no polling.
1673
1674=head3 ABI Issues (Largefile Support)
1675
1676Libev by default (unless the user overrides this) uses the default
1677compilation environment, which means that on systems with large file
1678support disabled by default, you get the 32 bit version of the stat
1679structure. When using the library from programs that change the ABI to
1680use 64 bit file offsets the programs will fail. In that case you have to
1681compile libev with the same flags to get binary compatibility. This is
1682obviously the case with any flags that change the ABI, but the problem is
1683most noticeably disabled with ev_stat and large file support.
1684
1685The solution for this is to lobby your distribution maker to make large
1686file interfaces available by default (as e.g. FreeBSD does) and not
1687optional. Libev cannot simply switch on large file support because it has
1688to exchange stat structures with application programs compiled using the
1689default compilation environment.
1690
1691=head3 Inotify
1692
1693When C<inotify (7)> support has been compiled into libev (generally only
1694available on Linux) and present at runtime, it will be used to speed up
1695change detection where possible. The inotify descriptor will be created lazily
1696when the first C<ev_stat> watcher is being started.
1697
1698Inotify presence does not change the semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers
1699except that changes might be detected earlier, and in some cases, to avoid
1700making regular C<stat> calls. Even in the presence of inotify support
1701there are many cases where libev has to resort to regular C<stat> polling.
1702
1703(There is no support for kqueue, as apparently it cannot be used to
1704implement this functionality, due to the requirement of having a file
1705descriptor open on the object at all times).
1706
1707=head3 The special problem of stat time resolution
1708
1709The C<stat ()> system call only supports full-second resolution portably, and
1710even on systems where the resolution is higher, many file systems still
1711only support whole seconds.
1712
1713That means that, if the time is the only thing that changes, you can
1714easily miss updates: on the first update, C<ev_stat> detects a change and
1715calls your callback, which does something. When there is another update
1716within the same second, C<ev_stat> will be unable to detect it as the stat
1717data does not change.
1718
1719The solution to this is to delay acting on a change for slightly more
1720than a second (or till slightly after the next full second boundary), using
1721a roughly one-second-delay C<ev_timer> (e.g. C<ev_timer_set (w, 0., 1.02);
1722ev_timer_again (loop, w)>).
1723
1724The C<.02> offset is added to work around small timing inconsistencies
1725of some operating systems (where the second counter of the current time
1726might be be delayed. One such system is the Linux kernel, where a call to
1727C<gettimeofday> might return a timestamp with a full second later than
1728a subsequent C<time> call - if the equivalent of C<time ()> is used to
1729update file times then there will be a small window where the kernel uses
1730the previous second to update file times but libev might already execute
1731the timer callback).
1732
1733=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1247 1734
1248=over 4 1735=over 4
1249 1736
1250=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval) 1737=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1251 1738
1255C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to 1742C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1256be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose 1743be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1257a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same 1744a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1258path for as long as the watcher is active. 1745path for as long as the watcher is active.
1259 1746
1260The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, 1747The callback will receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected, relative
1261relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the 1748to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the last change
1262last change was detected). 1749was detected).
1263 1750
1264=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *) 1751=item ev_stat_stat (loop, ev_stat *)
1265 1752
1266Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the 1753Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1267watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid 1754watched path in your callback, you could call this function to avoid
1268detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be 1755detecting this change (while introducing a race condition if you are not
1269useful simply to find out the new values. 1756the only one changing the path). Can also be useful simply to find out the
1757new values.
1270 1758
1271=item ev_statdata attr [read-only] 1759=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1272 1760
1273The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of 1761The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is
1274C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types 1762C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1275suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there 1763suitable for your system, but you can only rely on the POSIX-standardised
1764members to be present. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there was
1276was some error while C<stat>ing the file. 1765some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1277 1766
1278=item ev_statdata prev [read-only] 1767=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1279 1768
1280The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever 1769The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1281C<prev> != C<attr>. 1770C<prev> != C<attr>, or, more precisely, one or more of these members
1771differ: C<st_dev>, C<st_ino>, C<st_mode>, C<st_nlink>, C<st_uid>,
1772C<st_gid>, C<st_rdev>, C<st_size>, C<st_atime>, C<st_mtime>, C<st_ctime>.
1282 1773
1283=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only] 1774=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1284 1775
1285The specified interval. 1776The specified interval.
1286 1777
1287=item const char *path [read-only] 1778=item const char *path [read-only]
1288 1779
1289The filesystem path that is being watched. 1780The file system path that is being watched.
1290 1781
1291=back 1782=back
1292 1783
1784=head3 Examples
1785
1293Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes. 1786Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1294 1787
1295 static void 1788 static void
1296 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents) 1789 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1297 { 1790 {
1298 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */ 1791 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1299 if (w->attr.st_nlink) 1792 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1300 { 1793 {
1301 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size); 1794 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1302 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1795 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1303 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime); 1796 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1304 } 1797 }
1305 else 1798 else
1306 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */ 1799 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1307 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. " 1800 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1308 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n"); 1801 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1309 } 1802 }
1310 1803
1311 ... 1804 ...
1312 ev_stat passwd; 1805 ev_stat passwd;
1313 1806
1314 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd"); 1807 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1315 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd); 1808 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1809
1810Example: Like above, but additionally use a one-second delay so we do not
1811miss updates (however, frequent updates will delay processing, too, so
1812one might do the work both on C<ev_stat> callback invocation I<and> on
1813C<ev_timer> callback invocation).
1814
1815 static ev_stat passwd;
1816 static ev_timer timer;
1817
1818 static void
1819 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1820 {
1821 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ w);
1822
1823 /* now it's one second after the most recent passwd change */
1824 }
1825
1826 static void
1827 stat_cb (EV_P_ ev_stat *w, int revents)
1828 {
1829 /* reset the one-second timer */
1830 ev_timer_again (EV_A_ &timer);
1831 }
1832
1833 ...
1834 ev_stat_init (&passwd, stat_cb, "/etc/passwd", 0.);
1835 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1836 ev_timer_init (&timer, timer_cb, 0., 1.02);
1316 1837
1317 1838
1318=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do... 1839=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1319 1840
1320Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1841Idle watchers trigger events when no other events of the same or higher
1321(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1842priority are pending (prepare, check and other idle watchers do not
1322as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1843count).
1323imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1844
1324watchers are being called again and again, once per event loop iteration - 1845That is, as long as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts
1846(or even signals, imagine) of the same or higher priority it will not be
1847triggered. But when your process is idle (or only lower-priority watchers
1848are pending), the idle watchers are being called once per event loop
1325until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events and becomes 1849iteration - until stopped, that is, or your process receives more events
1326busy. 1850and becomes busy again with higher priority stuff.
1327 1851
1328The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are 1852The most noteworthy effect is that as long as any idle watchers are
1329active, the process will not block when waiting for new events. 1853active, the process will not block when waiting for new events.
1330 1854
1331Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful 1855Apart from keeping your process non-blocking (which is a useful
1332effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do 1856effect on its own sometimes), idle watchers are a good place to do
1333"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the 1857"pseudo-background processing", or delay processing stuff to after the
1334event loop has handled all outstanding events. 1858event loop has handled all outstanding events.
1335 1859
1860=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1861
1336=over 4 1862=over 4
1337 1863
1338=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback) 1864=item ev_idle_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1339 1865
1340Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any 1866Initialises and configures the idle watcher - it has no parameters of any
1341kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1867kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1342believe me. 1868believe me.
1343 1869
1344=back 1870=back
1345 1871
1872=head3 Examples
1873
1346Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the 1874Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1347callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual. 1875callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1348 1876
1349 static void 1877 static void
1350 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1878 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1351 { 1879 {
1352 free (w); 1880 free (w);
1353 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has 1881 // now do something you wanted to do when the program has
1354 // no longer asnything immediate to do. 1882 // no longer anything immediate to do.
1355 } 1883 }
1356 1884
1357 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1885 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1358 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1886 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1359 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1887 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1360 1888
1361 1889
1362=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop! 1890=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1363 1891
1364Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1892Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1383 1911
1384This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1912This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1385to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1913to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1386them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1914them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1387provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1915provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1388any events that occured (by checking the pending status of all watchers 1916any events that occurred (by checking the pending status of all watchers
1389and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer 1917and stopping them) and call back into the library. The I/O and timer
1390callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless, 1918callbacks will never actually be called (but must be valid nevertheless,
1391because you never know, you know?). 1919because you never know, you know?).
1392 1920
1393As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate 1921As another example, the Perl Coro module uses these hooks to integrate
1397with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine 1925with priority higher than or equal to the event loop and one coroutine
1398of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event 1926of lower priority, but only once, using idle watchers to keep the event
1399loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping 1927loop from blocking if lower-priority coroutines are active, thus mapping
1400low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks). 1928low-priority coroutines to idle/background tasks).
1401 1929
1930It is recommended to give C<ev_check> watchers highest (C<EV_MAXPRI>)
1931priority, to ensure that they are being run before any other watchers
1932after the poll. Also, C<ev_check> watchers (and C<ev_prepare> watchers,
1933too) should not activate ("feed") events into libev. While libev fully
1934supports this, they might get executed before other C<ev_check> watchers
1935did their job. As C<ev_check> watchers are often used to embed other
1936(non-libev) event loops those other event loops might be in an unusable
1937state until their C<ev_check> watcher ran (always remind yourself to
1938coexist peacefully with others).
1939
1940=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1941
1402=over 4 1942=over 4
1403 1943
1404=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback) 1944=item ev_prepare_init (ev_prepare *, callback)
1405 1945
1406=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback) 1946=item ev_check_init (ev_check *, callback)
1409parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1949parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1410macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1950macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1411 1951
1412=back 1952=back
1413 1953
1414Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers 1954=head3 Examples
1415and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and 1955
1956There are a number of principal ways to embed other event loops or modules
1957into libev. Here are some ideas on how to include libadns into libev
1958(there is a Perl module named C<EV::ADNS> that does this, which you could
1959use as a working example. Another Perl module named C<EV::Glib> embeds a
1960Glib main context into libev, and finally, C<Glib::EV> embeds EV into the
1961Glib event loop).
1962
1963Method 1: Add IO watchers and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler,
1416in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is 1964and in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows
1417pseudo-code only of course: 1965is pseudo-code only of course. This requires you to either use a low
1966priority for the check watcher or use C<ev_clear_pending> explicitly, as
1967the callbacks for the IO/timeout watchers might not have been called yet.
1418 1968
1419 static ev_io iow [nfd]; 1969 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1420 static ev_timer tw; 1970 static ev_timer tw;
1421 1971
1422 static void 1972 static void
1423 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents) 1973 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1424 { 1974 {
1425 // set the relevant poll flags
1426 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1427 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1428 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1429 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1430 } 1975 }
1431 1976
1432 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking 1977 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1433 static void 1978 static void
1434 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents) 1979 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1435 { 1980 {
1436 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd]; 1981 int timeout = 3600000;
1982 struct pollfd fds [nfd];
1437 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc. 1983 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1438 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ())); 1984 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1439 1985
1440 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */ 1986 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1441 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3); 1987 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1442 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw); 1988 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1443 1989
1444 // create on ev_io per pollfd 1990 // create one ev_io per pollfd
1445 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 1991 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1446 { 1992 {
1447 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd, 1993 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1448 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0) 1994 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1449 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0))); 1995 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1450 1996
1451 fds [i].revents = 0; 1997 fds [i].revents = 0;
1452 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1453 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i); 1998 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1454 } 1999 }
1455 } 2000 }
1456 2001
1457 // stop all watchers after blocking 2002 // stop all watchers after blocking
1458 static void 2003 static void
1459 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents) 2004 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1460 { 2005 {
1461 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw); 2006 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1462 2007
1463 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i) 2008 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
2009 {
2010 // set the relevant poll flags
2011 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
2012 struct pollfd *fd = fds + i;
2013 int revents = ev_clear_pending (iow + i);
2014 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
2015 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
2016
2017 // now stop the watcher
1464 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i); 2018 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
2019 }
1465 2020
1466 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop)); 2021 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1467 } 2022 }
2023
2024Method 2: This would be just like method 1, but you run C<adns_afterpoll>
2025in the prepare watcher and would dispose of the check watcher.
2026
2027Method 3: If the module to be embedded supports explicit event
2028notification (libadns does), you can also make use of the actual watcher
2029callbacks, and only destroy/create the watchers in the prepare watcher.
2030
2031 static void
2032 timer_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
2033 {
2034 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
2035 update_now (EV_A);
2036
2037 adns_processtimeouts (ads, &tv_now);
2038 }
2039
2040 static void
2041 io_cb (EV_P_ ev_io *w, int revents)
2042 {
2043 adns_state ads = (adns_state)w->data;
2044 update_now (EV_A);
2045
2046 if (revents & EV_READ ) adns_processreadable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
2047 if (revents & EV_WRITE) adns_processwriteable (ads, w->fd, &tv_now);
2048 }
2049
2050 // do not ever call adns_afterpoll
2051
2052Method 4: Do not use a prepare or check watcher because the module you
2053want to embed is too inflexible to support it. Instead, you can override
2054their poll function. The drawback with this solution is that the main
2055loop is now no longer controllable by EV. The C<Glib::EV> module does
2056this.
2057
2058 static gint
2059 event_poll_func (GPollFD *fds, guint nfds, gint timeout)
2060 {
2061 int got_events = 0;
2062
2063 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2064 // create/start io watcher that sets the relevant bits in fds[n] and increment got_events
2065
2066 if (timeout >= 0)
2067 // create/start timer
2068
2069 // poll
2070 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
2071
2072 // stop timer again
2073 if (timeout >= 0)
2074 ev_timer_stop (EV_A_ &to);
2075
2076 // stop io watchers again - their callbacks should have set
2077 for (n = 0; n < nfds; ++n)
2078 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ iow [n]);
2079
2080 return got_events;
2081 }
1468 2082
1469 2083
1470=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough... 2084=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1471 2085
1472This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 2086This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1514portable one. 2128portable one.
1515 2129
1516So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared 2130So when you want to use this feature you will always have to be prepared
1517that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around 2131that you cannot get an embeddable loop. The recommended way to get around
1518this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to 2132this is to have a separate variables for your embeddable loop, try to
1519create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything: 2133create it, and if that fails, use the normal loop for everything.
1520 2134
1521 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0); 2135=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
1522 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
1523 struct ev_embed embed;
1524
1525 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
1526 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
1527 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
1528 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
1529 : 0;
1530
1531 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
1532 if (loop_lo)
1533 {
1534 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
1535 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
1536 }
1537 else
1538 loop_lo = loop_hi;
1539 2136
1540=over 4 2137=over 4
1541 2138
1542=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop) 2139=item ev_embed_init (ev_embed *, callback, struct ev_loop *embedded_loop)
1543 2140
1545 2142
1546Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be 2143Configures the watcher to embed the given loop, which must be
1547embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be 2144embeddable. If the callback is C<0>, then C<ev_embed_sweep> will be
1548invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback 2145invoked automatically, otherwise it is the responsibility of the callback
1549to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done, 2146to invoke it (it will continue to be called until the sweep has been done,
1550if you do not want thta, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher). 2147if you do not want that, you need to temporarily stop the embed watcher).
1551 2148
1552=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *) 2149=item ev_embed_sweep (loop, ev_embed *)
1553 2150
1554Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 2151Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1555similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 2152similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1556apropriate way for embedded loops. 2153appropriate way for embedded loops.
1557 2154
1558=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only] 2155=item struct ev_loop *other [read-only]
1559 2156
1560The embedded event loop. 2157The embedded event loop.
1561 2158
1562=back 2159=back
2160
2161=head3 Examples
2162
2163Example: Try to get an embeddable event loop and embed it into the default
2164event loop. If that is not possible, use the default loop. The default
2165loop is stored in C<loop_hi>, while the embeddable loop is stored in
2166C<loop_lo> (which is C<loop_hi> in the case no embeddable loop can be
2167used).
2168
2169 struct ev_loop *loop_hi = ev_default_init (0);
2170 struct ev_loop *loop_lo = 0;
2171 struct ev_embed embed;
2172
2173 // see if there is a chance of getting one that works
2174 // (remember that a flags value of 0 means autodetection)
2175 loop_lo = ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ()
2176 ? ev_loop_new (ev_embeddable_backends () & ev_recommended_backends ())
2177 : 0;
2178
2179 // if we got one, then embed it, otherwise default to loop_hi
2180 if (loop_lo)
2181 {
2182 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_lo);
2183 ev_embed_start (loop_hi, &embed);
2184 }
2185 else
2186 loop_lo = loop_hi;
2187
2188Example: Check if kqueue is available but not recommended and create
2189a kqueue backend for use with sockets (which usually work with any
2190kqueue implementation). Store the kqueue/socket-only event loop in
2191C<loop_socket>. (One might optionally use C<EVFLAG_NOENV>, too).
2192
2193 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_init (0);
2194 struct ev_loop *loop_socket = 0;
2195 struct ev_embed embed;
2196
2197 if (ev_supported_backends () & ~ev_recommended_backends () & EVBACKEND_KQUEUE)
2198 if ((loop_socket = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_KQUEUE))
2199 {
2200 ev_embed_init (&embed, 0, loop_socket);
2201 ev_embed_start (loop, &embed);
2202 }
2203
2204 if (!loop_socket)
2205 loop_socket = loop;
2206
2207 // now use loop_socket for all sockets, and loop for everything else
1563 2208
1564 2209
1565=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork 2210=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
1566 2211
1567Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because 2212Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
1570event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called, 2215event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1571and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling 2216and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1572C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork 2217C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1573handlers will be invoked, too, of course. 2218handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1574 2219
2220=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2221
1575=over 4 2222=over 4
1576 2223
1577=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback) 2224=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1578 2225
1579Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any 2226Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1580kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 2227kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1581believe me. 2228believe me.
2229
2230=back
2231
2232
2233=head2 C<ev_async> - how to wake up another event loop
2234
2235In general, you cannot use an C<ev_loop> from multiple threads or other
2236asynchronous sources such as signal handlers (as opposed to multiple event
2237loops - those are of course safe to use in different threads).
2238
2239Sometimes, however, you need to wake up another event loop you do not
2240control, for example because it belongs to another thread. This is what
2241C<ev_async> watchers do: as long as the C<ev_async> watcher is active, you
2242can signal it by calling C<ev_async_send>, which is thread- and signal
2243safe.
2244
2245This functionality is very similar to C<ev_signal> watchers, as signals,
2246too, are asynchronous in nature, and signals, too, will be compressed
2247(i.e. the number of callback invocations may be less than the number of
2248C<ev_async_sent> calls).
2249
2250Unlike C<ev_signal> watchers, C<ev_async> works with any event loop, not
2251just the default loop.
2252
2253=head3 Queueing
2254
2255C<ev_async> does not support queueing of data in any way. The reason
2256is that the author does not know of a simple (or any) algorithm for a
2257multiple-writer-single-reader queue that works in all cases and doesn't
2258need elaborate support such as pthreads.
2259
2260That means that if you want to queue data, you have to provide your own
2261queue. But at least I can tell you would implement locking around your
2262queue:
2263
2264=over 4
2265
2266=item queueing from a signal handler context
2267
2268To implement race-free queueing, you simply add to the queue in the signal
2269handler but you block the signal handler in the watcher callback. Here is an example that does that for
2270some fictitious SIGUSR1 handler:
2271
2272 static ev_async mysig;
2273
2274 static void
2275 sigusr1_handler (void)
2276 {
2277 sometype data;
2278
2279 // no locking etc.
2280 queue_put (data);
2281 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2282 }
2283
2284 static void
2285 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2286 {
2287 sometype data;
2288 sigset_t block, prev;
2289
2290 sigemptyset (&block);
2291 sigaddset (&block, SIGUSR1);
2292 sigprocmask (SIG_BLOCK, &block, &prev);
2293
2294 while (queue_get (&data))
2295 process (data);
2296
2297 if (sigismember (&prev, SIGUSR1)
2298 sigprocmask (SIG_UNBLOCK, &block, 0);
2299 }
2300
2301(Note: pthreads in theory requires you to use C<pthread_setmask>
2302instead of C<sigprocmask> when you use threads, but libev doesn't do it
2303either...).
2304
2305=item queueing from a thread context
2306
2307The strategy for threads is different, as you cannot (easily) block
2308threads but you can easily preempt them, so to queue safely you need to
2309employ a traditional mutex lock, such as in this pthread example:
2310
2311 static ev_async mysig;
2312 static pthread_mutex_t mymutex = PTHREAD_MUTEX_INITIALIZER;
2313
2314 static void
2315 otherthread (void)
2316 {
2317 // only need to lock the actual queueing operation
2318 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2319 queue_put (data);
2320 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2321
2322 ev_async_send (EV_DEFAULT_ &mysig);
2323 }
2324
2325 static void
2326 mysig_cb (EV_P_ ev_async *w, int revents)
2327 {
2328 pthread_mutex_lock (&mymutex);
2329
2330 while (queue_get (&data))
2331 process (data);
2332
2333 pthread_mutex_unlock (&mymutex);
2334 }
2335
2336=back
2337
2338
2339=head3 Watcher-Specific Functions and Data Members
2340
2341=over 4
2342
2343=item ev_async_init (ev_async *, callback)
2344
2345Initialises and configures the async watcher - it has no parameters of any
2346kind. There is a C<ev_asynd_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
2347believe me.
2348
2349=item ev_async_send (loop, ev_async *)
2350
2351Sends/signals/activates the given C<ev_async> watcher, that is, feeds
2352an C<EV_ASYNC> event on the watcher into the event loop. Unlike
2353C<ev_feed_event>, this call is safe to do in other threads, signal or
2354similar contexts (see the discussion of C<EV_ATOMIC_T> in the embedding
2355section below on what exactly this means).
2356
2357This call incurs the overhead of a system call only once per loop iteration,
2358so while the overhead might be noticeable, it doesn't apply to repeated
2359calls to C<ev_async_send>.
2360
2361=item bool = ev_async_pending (ev_async *)
2362
2363Returns a non-zero value when C<ev_async_send> has been called on the
2364watcher but the event has not yet been processed (or even noted) by the
2365event loop.
2366
2367C<ev_async_send> sets a flag in the watcher and wakes up the loop. When
2368the loop iterates next and checks for the watcher to have become active,
2369it will reset the flag again. C<ev_async_pending> can be used to very
2370quickly check whether invoking the loop might be a good idea.
2371
2372Not that this does I<not> check whether the watcher itself is pending, only
2373whether it has been requested to make this watcher pending.
1582 2374
1583=back 2375=back
1584 2376
1585 2377
1586=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 2378=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
1597or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or 2389or timeout without having to allocate/configure/start/stop/free one or
1598more watchers yourself. 2390more watchers yourself.
1599 2391
1600If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events 2392If C<fd> is less than 0, then no I/O watcher will be started and events
1601is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and 2393is being ignored. Otherwise, an C<ev_io> watcher for the given C<fd> and
1602C<events> set will be craeted and started. 2394C<events> set will be created and started.
1603 2395
1604If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be 2396If C<timeout> is less than 0, then no timeout watcher will be
1605started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and 2397started. Otherwise an C<ev_timer> watcher with after = C<timeout> (and
1606repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of 2398repeat = 0) will be started. While C<0> is a valid timeout, it is of
1607dubious value. 2399dubious value.
1609The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets 2401The callback has the type C<void (*cb)(int revents, void *arg)> and gets
1610passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of 2402passed an C<revents> set like normal event callbacks (a combination of
1611C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg> 2403C<EV_ERROR>, C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_TIMEOUT>) and the C<arg>
1612value passed to C<ev_once>: 2404value passed to C<ev_once>:
1613 2405
1614 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg) 2406 static void stdin_ready (int revents, void *arg)
1615 { 2407 {
1616 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT) 2408 if (revents & EV_TIMEOUT)
1617 /* doh, nothing entered */; 2409 /* doh, nothing entered */;
1618 else if (revents & EV_READ) 2410 else if (revents & EV_READ)
1619 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */; 2411 /* stdin might have data for us, joy! */;
1620 } 2412 }
1621 2413
1622 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0); 2414 ev_once (STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ, 10., stdin_ready, 0);
1623 2415
1624=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents) 2416=item ev_feed_event (ev_loop *, watcher *, int revents)
1625 2417
1626Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event 2418Feeds the given event set into the event loop, as if the specified event
1627had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an 2419had happened for the specified watcher (which must be a pointer to an
1632Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected 2424Feed an event on the given fd, as if a file descriptor backend detected
1633the given events it. 2425the given events it.
1634 2426
1635=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum) 2427=item ev_feed_signal_event (ev_loop *loop, int signum)
1636 2428
1637Feed an event as if the given signal occured (C<loop> must be the default 2429Feed an event as if the given signal occurred (C<loop> must be the default
1638loop!). 2430loop!).
1639 2431
1640=back 2432=back
1641 2433
1642 2434
1658 2450
1659=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities 2451=item * Priorities are not currently supported. Initialising priorities
1660will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there 2452will fail and all watchers will have the same priority, even though there
1661is an ev_pri field. 2453is an ev_pri field.
1662 2454
2455=item * In libevent, the last base created gets the signals, in libev, the
2456first base created (== the default loop) gets the signals.
2457
1663=item * Other members are not supported. 2458=item * Other members are not supported.
1664 2459
1665=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need 2460=item * The libev emulation is I<not> ABI compatible to libevent, you need
1666to use the libev header file and library. 2461to use the libev header file and library.
1667 2462
1668=back 2463=back
1669 2464
1670=head1 C++ SUPPORT 2465=head1 C++ SUPPORT
1671 2466
1672Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow 2467Libev comes with some simplistic wrapper classes for C++ that mainly allow
1673you to use some convinience methods to start/stop watchers and also change 2468you to use some convenience methods to start/stop watchers and also change
1674the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects. 2469the callback model to a model using method callbacks on objects.
1675 2470
1676To use it, 2471To use it,
1677 2472
1678 #include <ev++.h> 2473 #include <ev++.h>
1679 2474
1680(it is not installed by default). This automatically includes F<ev.h> 2475This automatically includes F<ev.h> and puts all of its definitions (many
1681and puts all of its definitions (many of them macros) into the global 2476of them macros) into the global namespace. All C++ specific things are
1682namespace. All C++ specific things are put into the C<ev> namespace. 2477put into the C<ev> namespace. It should support all the same embedding
2478options as F<ev.h>, most notably C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>.
1683 2479
1684It should support all the same embedding options as F<ev.h>, most notably 2480Care has been taken to keep the overhead low. The only data member the C++
1685C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. 2481classes add (compared to plain C-style watchers) is the event loop pointer
2482that the watcher is associated with (or no additional members at all if
2483you disable C<EV_MULTIPLICITY> when embedding libev).
2484
2485Currently, functions, and static and non-static member functions can be
2486used as callbacks. Other types should be easy to add as long as they only
2487need one additional pointer for context. If you need support for other
2488types of functors please contact the author (preferably after implementing
2489it).
1686 2490
1687Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace: 2491Here is a list of things available in the C<ev> namespace:
1688 2492
1689=over 4 2493=over 4
1690 2494
1706 2510
1707All of those classes have these methods: 2511All of those classes have these methods:
1708 2512
1709=over 4 2513=over 4
1710 2514
1711=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *) 2515=item ev::TYPE::TYPE ()
1712 2516
1713=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (object *, object::method *, struct ev_loop *) 2517=item ev::TYPE::TYPE (struct ev_loop *)
1714 2518
1715=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE 2519=item ev::TYPE::~TYPE
1716 2520
1717The constructor takes a pointer to an object and a method pointer to 2521The constructor (optionally) takes an event loop to associate the watcher
1718the event handler callback to call in this class. The constructor calls 2522with. If it is omitted, it will use C<EV_DEFAULT>.
1719C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the C<set> method 2523
1720before starting it. If you do not specify a loop then the constructor 2524The constructor calls C<ev_init> for you, which means you have to call the
1721automatically associates the default loop with this watcher. 2525C<set> method before starting it.
2526
2527It will not set a callback, however: You have to call the templated C<set>
2528method to set a callback before you can start the watcher.
2529
2530(The reason why you have to use a method is a limitation in C++ which does
2531not allow explicit template arguments for constructors).
1722 2532
1723The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active. 2533The destructor automatically stops the watcher if it is active.
2534
2535=item w->set<class, &class::method> (object *)
2536
2537This method sets the callback method to call. The method has to have a
2538signature of C<void (*)(ev_TYPE &, int)>, it receives the watcher as
2539first argument and the C<revents> as second. The object must be given as
2540parameter and is stored in the C<data> member of the watcher.
2541
2542This method synthesizes efficient thunking code to call your method from
2543the C callback that libev requires. If your compiler can inline your
2544callback (i.e. it is visible to it at the place of the C<set> call and
2545your compiler is good :), then the method will be fully inlined into the
2546thunking function, making it as fast as a direct C callback.
2547
2548Example: simple class declaration and watcher initialisation
2549
2550 struct myclass
2551 {
2552 void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2553 }
2554
2555 myclass obj;
2556 ev::io iow;
2557 iow.set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb> (&obj);
2558
2559=item w->set<function> (void *data = 0)
2560
2561Also sets a callback, but uses a static method or plain function as
2562callback. The optional C<data> argument will be stored in the watcher's
2563C<data> member and is free for you to use.
2564
2565The prototype of the C<function> must be C<void (*)(ev::TYPE &w, int)>.
2566
2567See the method-C<set> above for more details.
2568
2569Example:
2570
2571 static void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents) { }
2572 iow.set <io_cb> ();
1724 2573
1725=item w->set (struct ev_loop *) 2574=item w->set (struct ev_loop *)
1726 2575
1727Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only 2576Associates a different C<struct ev_loop> with this watcher. You can only
1728do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either). 2577do this when the watcher is inactive (and not pending either).
1729 2578
1730=item w->set ([args]) 2579=item w->set ([arguments])
1731 2580
1732Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same args. Must be 2581Basically the same as C<ev_TYPE_set>, with the same arguments. Must be
1733called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets 2582called at least once. Unlike the C counterpart, an active watcher gets
1734automatically stopped and restarted. 2583automatically stopped and restarted when reconfiguring it with this
2584method.
1735 2585
1736=item w->start () 2586=item w->start ()
1737 2587
1738Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument as the 2588Starts the watcher. Note that there is no C<loop> argument, as the
1739constructor already takes the loop. 2589constructor already stores the event loop.
1740 2590
1741=item w->stop () 2591=item w->stop ()
1742 2592
1743Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument. 2593Stops the watcher if it is active. Again, no C<loop> argument.
1744 2594
1745=item w->again () C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only 2595=item w->again () (C<ev::timer>, C<ev::periodic> only)
1746 2596
1747For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding 2597For C<ev::timer> and C<ev::periodic>, this invokes the corresponding
1748C<ev_TYPE_again> function. 2598C<ev_TYPE_again> function.
1749 2599
1750=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 2600=item w->sweep () (C<ev::embed> only)
1751 2601
1752Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 2602Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1753 2603
1754=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only 2604=item w->update () (C<ev::stat> only)
1755 2605
1756Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>. 2606Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1757 2607
1758=back 2608=back
1759 2609
1760=back 2610=back
1761 2611
1762Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 2612Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
1763the constructor. 2613the constructor.
1764 2614
1765 class myclass 2615 class myclass
1766 { 2616 {
1767 ev_io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents); 2617 ev::io io; void io_cb (ev::io &w, int revents);
1768 ev_idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents); 2618 ev:idle idle void idle_cb (ev::idle &w, int revents);
1769 2619
1770 myclass (); 2620 myclass (int fd)
1771 } 2621 {
2622 io .set <myclass, &myclass::io_cb > (this);
2623 idle.set <myclass, &myclass::idle_cb> (this);
1772 2624
1773 myclass::myclass (int fd)
1774 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1775 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1776 {
1777 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 2625 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
2626 }
1778 } 2627 };
2628
2629
2630=head1 OTHER LANGUAGE BINDINGS
2631
2632Libev does not offer other language bindings itself, but bindings for a
2633number of languages exist in the form of third-party packages. If you know
2634any interesting language binding in addition to the ones listed here, drop
2635me a note.
2636
2637=over 4
2638
2639=item Perl
2640
2641The EV module implements the full libev API and is actually used to test
2642libev. EV is developed together with libev. Apart from the EV core module,
2643there are additional modules that implement libev-compatible interfaces
2644to C<libadns> (C<EV::ADNS>), C<Net::SNMP> (C<Net::SNMP::EV>) and the
2645C<libglib> event core (C<Glib::EV> and C<EV::Glib>).
2646
2647It can be found and installed via CPAN, its homepage is at
2648L<http://software.schmorp.de/pkg/EV>.
2649
2650=item Python
2651
2652Python bindings can be found at L<http://code.google.com/p/pyev/>. It
2653seems to be quite complete and well-documented. Note, however, that the
2654patch they require for libev is outright dangerous as it breaks the ABI
2655for everybody else, and therefore, should never be applied in an installed
2656libev (if python requires an incompatible ABI then it needs to embed
2657libev).
2658
2659=item Ruby
2660
2661Tony Arcieri has written a ruby extension that offers access to a subset
2662of the libev API and adds file handle abstractions, asynchronous DNS and
2663more on top of it. It can be found via gem servers. Its homepage is at
2664L<http://rev.rubyforge.org/>.
2665
2666=item D
2667
2668Leandro Lucarella has written a D language binding (F<ev.d>) for libev, to
2669be found at L<http://git.llucax.com.ar/?p=software/ev.d.git;a=summary>.
2670
2671=back
1779 2672
1780 2673
1781=head1 MACRO MAGIC 2674=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1782 2675
1783Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is 2676Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundamental
1784C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and 2677of which is C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines whether (most)
1785callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument. 2678functions and callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1786 2679
1787To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the 2680To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1788following macros are defined: 2681following macros are defined:
1789 2682
1790=over 4 2683=over 4
1793 2686
1794This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2687This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1795loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument, 2688loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
1796C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example: 2689C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
1797 2690
1798 ev_unref (EV_A); 2691 ev_unref (EV_A);
1799 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher); 2692 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
1800 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0); 2693 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1801 2694
1802It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope, 2695It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
1803which is often provided by the following macro. 2696which is often provided by the following macro.
1804 2697
1805=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_> 2698=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
1806 2699
1807This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev 2700This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1808loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter, 2701loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
1809C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example: 2702C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
1810 2703
1811 // this is how ev_unref is being declared 2704 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
1812 static void ev_unref (EV_P); 2705 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
1813 2706
1814 // this is how you can declare your typical callback 2707 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
1815 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2708 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1816 2709
1817It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite 2710It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
1818suitable for use with C<EV_A>. 2711suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
1819 2712
1820=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> 2713=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
1821 2714
1822Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default 2715Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1823loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default"). 2716loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1824 2717
2718=item C<EV_DEFAULT_UC>, C<EV_DEFAULT_UC_>
2719
2720Usage identical to C<EV_DEFAULT> and C<EV_DEFAULT_>, but requires that the
2721default loop has been initialised (C<UC> == unchecked). Their behaviour
2722is undefined when the default loop has not been initialised by a previous
2723execution of C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_> or C<ev_default_init (...)>.
2724
2725It is often prudent to use C<EV_DEFAULT> when initialising the first
2726watcher in a function but use C<EV_DEFAULT_UC> afterwards.
2727
1825=back 2728=back
1826 2729
1827Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of 2730Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, utilising the above
1828wether multiple loops are supported or not. 2731macros so it will work regardless of whether multiple loops are supported
2732or not.
1829 2733
1830 static void 2734 static void
1831 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents) 2735 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1832 { 2736 {
1833 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w); 2737 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1834 } 2738 }
1835 2739
1836 ev_check check; 2740 ev_check check;
1837 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb); 2741 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1838 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check); 2742 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1839 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0); 2743 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1840
1841 2744
1842=head1 EMBEDDING 2745=head1 EMBEDDING
1843 2746
1844Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 2747Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1845applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 2748applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1846Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe) 2749Game Server, the EV perl module, the GNU Virtual Private Ethernet (gvpe)
1847and rxvt-unicode. 2750and rxvt-unicode.
1848 2751
1849The goal is to enable you to just copy the neecssary files into your 2752The goal is to enable you to just copy the necessary files into your
1850source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so 2753source directory without having to change even a single line in them, so
1851you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of 2754you can easily upgrade by simply copying (or having a checked-out copy of
1852libev somewhere in your source tree). 2755libev somewhere in your source tree).
1853 2756
1854=head2 FILESETS 2757=head2 FILESETS
1855 2758
1856Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files 2759Depending on what features you need you need to include one or more sets of files
1857in your app. 2760in your application.
1858 2761
1859=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP 2762=head3 CORE EVENT LOOP
1860 2763
1861To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual 2764To include only the libev core (all the C<ev_*> functions), with manual
1862configuration (no autoconf): 2765configuration (no autoconf):
1863 2766
1864 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2767 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
1865 #include "ev.c" 2768 #include "ev.c"
1866 2769
1867This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a 2770This will automatically include F<ev.h>, too, and should be done in a
1868single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use 2771single C source file only to provide the function implementations. To use
1869it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best 2772it, do the same for F<ev.h> in all files wishing to use this API (best
1870done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and 2773done by writing a wrapper around F<ev.h> that you can include instead and
1871where you can put other configuration options): 2774where you can put other configuration options):
1872 2775
1873 #define EV_STANDALONE 1 2776 #define EV_STANDALONE 1
1874 #include "ev.h" 2777 #include "ev.h"
1875 2778
1876Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++ 2779Both header files and implementation files can be compiled with a C++
1877compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated 2780compiler (at least, thats a stated goal, and breakage will be treated
1878as a bug). 2781as a bug).
1879 2782
1880You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory 2783You need the following files in your source tree, or in a directory
1881in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev): 2784in your include path (e.g. in libev/ when using -Ilibev):
1882 2785
1883 ev.h 2786 ev.h
1884 ev.c 2787 ev.c
1885 ev_vars.h 2788 ev_vars.h
1886 ev_wrap.h 2789 ev_wrap.h
1887 2790
1888 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 2791 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1889 2792
1890 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default) 2793 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is enabled by default)
1891 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2794 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1892 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2795 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1893 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2796 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1894 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 2797 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1895 2798
1896F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 2799F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
1897to compile this single file. 2800to compile this single file.
1898 2801
1899=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 2802=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
1900 2803
1901To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 2804To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
1902 2805
1903 #include "event.c" 2806 #include "event.c"
1904 2807
1905in the file including F<ev.c>, and: 2808in the file including F<ev.c>, and:
1906 2809
1907 #include "event.h" 2810 #include "event.h"
1908 2811
1909in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>. 2812in the files that want to use the libevent API. This also includes F<ev.h>.
1910 2813
1911You need the following additional files for this: 2814You need the following additional files for this:
1912 2815
1913 event.h 2816 event.h
1914 event.c 2817 event.c
1915 2818
1916=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 2819=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
1917 2820
1918Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 2821Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your configuration in
1919whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 2822whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
1920F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then 2823F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
1921include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 2824include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
1922 2825
1923For this of course you need the m4 file: 2826For this of course you need the m4 file:
1924 2827
1925 libev.m4 2828 libev.m4
1926 2829
1927=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS 2830=head2 PREPROCESSOR SYMBOLS/MACROS
1928 2831
1929Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to define 2832Libev can be configured via a variety of preprocessor symbols you have to
1930before including any of its files. The default is not to build for multiplicity 2833define before including any of its files. The default in the absence of
1931and only include the select backend. 2834autoconf is noted for every option.
1932 2835
1933=over 4 2836=over 4
1934 2837
1935=item EV_STANDALONE 2838=item EV_STANDALONE
1936 2839
1941F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone. 2844F<event.h> that are not directly supported by the libev core alone.
1942 2845
1943=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC 2846=item EV_USE_MONOTONIC
1944 2847
1945If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2848If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1946monotonic clock option at both compiletime and runtime. Otherwise no use 2849monotonic clock option at both compile time and runtime. Otherwise no use
1947of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you 2850of the monotonic clock option will be attempted. If you enable this, you
1948usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when 2851usually have to link against librt or something similar. Enabling it when
1949the functionality isn't available is safe, though, althoguh you have 2852the functionality isn't available is safe, though, although you have
1950to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime> 2853to make sure you link against any libraries where the C<clock_gettime>
1951function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>). 2854function is hiding in (often F<-lrt>).
1952 2855
1953=item EV_USE_REALTIME 2856=item EV_USE_REALTIME
1954 2857
1955If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the 2858If defined to be C<1>, libev will try to detect the availability of the
1956realtime clock option at compiletime (and assume its availability at 2859real-time clock option at compile time (and assume its availability at
1957runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the realtime clock option will 2860runtime if successful). Otherwise no use of the real-time clock option will
1958be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get 2861be attempted. This effectively replaces C<gettimeofday> by C<clock_get
1959(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See tzhe note about libraries 2862(CLOCK_REALTIME, ...)> and will not normally affect correctness. See the
1960in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though. 2863note about libraries in the description of C<EV_USE_MONOTONIC>, though.
2864
2865=item EV_USE_NANOSLEEP
2866
2867If defined to be C<1>, libev will assume that C<nanosleep ()> is available
2868and will use it for delays. Otherwise it will use C<select ()>.
2869
2870=item EV_USE_EVENTFD
2871
2872If defined to be C<1>, then libev will assume that C<eventfd ()> is
2873available and will probe for kernel support at runtime. This will improve
2874C<ev_signal> and C<ev_async> performance and reduce resource consumption.
2875If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc
28762.7 or newer, otherwise disabled.
1961 2877
1962=item EV_USE_SELECT 2878=item EV_USE_SELECT
1963 2879
1964If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the 2880If undefined or defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the
1965C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at autodetection will be done: if no 2881C<select>(2) backend. No attempt at auto-detection will be done: if no
1966other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend 2882other method takes over, select will be it. Otherwise the select backend
1967will not be compiled in. 2883will not be compiled in.
1968 2884
1969=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET 2885=item EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET
1970 2886
1971If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set> 2887If defined to C<1>, then the select backend will use the system C<fd_set>
1972structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing 2888structure. This is useful if libev doesn't compile due to a missing
1973C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it misguesses the bitset layout on 2889C<NFDBITS> or C<fd_mask> definition or it mis-guesses the bitset layout on
1974exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some 2890exotic systems. This usually limits the range of file descriptors to some
1975low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only 2891low limit such as 1024 or might have other limitations (winsocket only
1976allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might 2892allows 64 sockets). The C<FD_SETSIZE> macro, set before compilation, might
1977influence the size of the C<fd_set> used. 2893influence the size of the C<fd_set> used.
1978 2894
1984be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call 2900be used is the winsock select). This means that it will call
1985C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise, 2901C<_get_osfhandle> on the fd to convert it to an OS handle. Otherwise,
1986it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even 2902it is assumed that all these functions actually work on fds, even
1987on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms. 2903on win32. Should not be defined on non-win32 platforms.
1988 2904
2905=item EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE
2906
2907If C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> is enabled, then libev needs a way to map
2908file descriptors to socket handles. When not defining this symbol (the
2909default), then libev will call C<_get_osfhandle>, which is usually
2910correct. In some cases, programs use their own file descriptor management,
2911in which case they can provide this function to map fds to socket handles.
2912
1989=item EV_USE_POLL 2913=item EV_USE_POLL
1990 2914
1991If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2) 2915If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the C<poll>(2)
1992backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It 2916backend. Otherwise it will be enabled on non-win32 platforms. It
1993takes precedence over select. 2917takes precedence over select.
1994 2918
1995=item EV_USE_EPOLL 2919=item EV_USE_EPOLL
1996 2920
1997If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux 2921If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux
1998C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime, 2922C<epoll>(7) backend. Its availability will be detected at runtime,
1999otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the 2923otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2000preferred backend for GNU/Linux systems. 2924backend for GNU/Linux systems. If undefined, it will be enabled if the
2925headers indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2001 2926
2002=item EV_USE_KQUEUE 2927=item EV_USE_KQUEUE
2003 2928
2004If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style 2929If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the BSD style
2005C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime, 2930C<kqueue>(2) backend. Its actual availability will be detected at runtime,
2018otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred 2943otherwise another method will be used as fallback. This is the preferred
2019backend for Solaris 10 systems. 2944backend for Solaris 10 systems.
2020 2945
2021=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2946=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
2022 2947
2023reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2948Reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
2024 2949
2025=item EV_USE_INOTIFY 2950=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2026 2951
2027If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify 2952If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2028interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will 2953interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2029be detected at runtime. 2954be detected at runtime. If undefined, it will be enabled if the headers
2955indicate GNU/Linux + Glibc 2.4 or newer, otherwise disabled.
2956
2957=item EV_ATOMIC_T
2958
2959Libev requires an integer type (suitable for storing C<0> or C<1>) whose
2960access is atomic with respect to other threads or signal contexts. No such
2961type is easily found in the C language, so you can provide your own type
2962that you know is safe for your purposes. It is used both for signal handler "locking"
2963as well as for signal and thread safety in C<ev_async> watchers.
2964
2965In the absence of this define, libev will use C<sig_atomic_t volatile>
2966(from F<signal.h>), which is usually good enough on most platforms.
2030 2967
2031=item EV_H 2968=item EV_H
2032 2969
2033The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2970The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
2034undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This 2971undefined is C<"ev.h"> in F<event.h>, F<ev.c> and F<ev++.h>. This can be
2035can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2972used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
2036 2973
2037=item EV_CONFIG_H 2974=item EV_CONFIG_H
2038 2975
2039If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override 2976If C<EV_STANDALONE> isn't C<1>, this variable can be used to override
2040F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to 2977F<ev.c>'s idea of where to find the F<config.h> file, similarly to
2041C<EV_H>, above. 2978C<EV_H>, above.
2042 2979
2043=item EV_EVENT_H 2980=item EV_EVENT_H
2044 2981
2045Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea 2982Similarly to C<EV_H>, this macro can be used to override F<event.c>'s idea
2046of how the F<event.h> header can be found. 2983of how the F<event.h> header can be found, the default is C<"event.h">.
2047 2984
2048=item EV_PROTOTYPES 2985=item EV_PROTOTYPES
2049 2986
2050If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function 2987If defined to be C<0>, then F<ev.h> will not define any function
2051prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is 2988prototypes, but still define all the structs and other symbols. This is
2058will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2995will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
2059additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2996additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
2060for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2997for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
2061argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2998argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
2062 2999
3000=item EV_MINPRI
3001
3002=item EV_MAXPRI
3003
3004The range of allowed priorities. C<EV_MINPRI> must be smaller or equal to
3005C<EV_MAXPRI>, but otherwise there are no non-obvious limitations. You can
3006provide for more priorities by overriding those symbols (usually defined
3007to be C<-2> and C<2>, respectively).
3008
3009When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to linearly search
3010all the priorities, so having many of them (hundreds) uses a lot of space
3011and time, so using the defaults of five priorities (-2 .. +2) is usually
3012fine.
3013
3014If your embedding application does not need any priorities, defining these both to
3015C<0> will save some memory and CPU.
3016
2063=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 3017=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
2064 3018
2065If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If 3019If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
2066defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of 3020defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2067code. 3021code.
2068 3022
3023=item EV_IDLE_ENABLE
3024
3025If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then idle watchers are supported. If
3026defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
3027code.
3028
2069=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE 3029=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2070 3030
2071If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If 3031If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
2072defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3032defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2073 3033
2079=item EV_FORK_ENABLE 3039=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2080 3040
2081If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If 3041If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2082defined to be C<0>, then they are not. 3042defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2083 3043
3044=item EV_ASYNC_ENABLE
3045
3046If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then async watchers are supported. If
3047defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
3048
2084=item EV_MINIMAL 3049=item EV_MINIMAL
2085 3050
2086If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some 3051If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2087speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override 3052speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently this is used to override some
2088some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64. 3053inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% code size on amd64. It also selects a
3054much smaller 2-heap for timer management over the default 4-heap.
2089 3055
2090=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE 3056=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2091 3057
2092C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3058C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2093pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more 3059pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2094than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to 3060than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2095increase this value (I<must> be a power of two). 3061increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2096 3062
2097=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE 3063=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2098 3064
2099C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by 3065C<ev_stat> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2100inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), 3066inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2101usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat> 3067usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2102watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of 3068watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2103two). 3069two).
2104 3070
3071=item EV_USE_4HEAP
3072
3073Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3074timer and periodics heap, libev uses a 4-heap when this symbol is defined
3075to C<1>. The 4-heap uses more complicated (longer) code but has
3076noticeably faster performance with many (thousands) of watchers.
3077
3078The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3079(disabled).
3080
3081=item EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT
3082
3083Heaps are not very cache-efficient. To improve the cache-efficiency of the
3084timer and periodics heap, libev can cache the timestamp (I<at>) within
3085the heap structure (selected by defining C<EV_HEAP_CACHE_AT> to C<1>),
3086which uses 8-12 bytes more per watcher and a few hundred bytes more code,
3087but avoids random read accesses on heap changes. This improves performance
3088noticeably with with many (hundreds) of watchers.
3089
3090The default is C<1> unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set in which case it is C<0>
3091(disabled).
3092
3093=item EV_VERIFY
3094
3095Controls how much internal verification (see C<ev_loop_verify ()>) will
3096be done: If set to C<0>, no internal verification code will be compiled
3097in. If set to C<1>, then verification code will be compiled in, but not
3098called. If set to C<2>, then the internal verification code will be
3099called once per loop, which can slow down libev. If set to C<3>, then the
3100verification code will be called very frequently, which will slow down
3101libev considerably.
3102
3103The default is C<1>, unless C<EV_MINIMAL> is set, in which case it will be
3104C<0.>
3105
2105=item EV_COMMON 3106=item EV_COMMON
2106 3107
2107By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 3108By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
2108this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 3109this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
2109members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files, 3110members. You have to define it each time you include one of the files,
2110though, and it must be identical each time. 3111though, and it must be identical each time.
2111 3112
2112For example, the perl EV module uses something like this: 3113For example, the perl EV module uses something like this:
2113 3114
2114 #define EV_COMMON \ 3115 #define EV_COMMON \
2115 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 3116 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
2116 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 3117 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
2117 3118
2118=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type) 3119=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
2119 3120
2120=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents) 3121=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
2121 3122
2122=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb) 3123=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
2123 3124
2124Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 3125Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
2125and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 3126and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
2126definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 3127definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.h> header file for
2127their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 3128their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
2128avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use 3129avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
2129method calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 3130method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
3131
3132=head2 EXPORTED API SYMBOLS
3133
3134If you need to re-export the API (e.g. via a DLL) and you need a list of
3135exported symbols, you can use the provided F<Symbol.*> files which list
3136all public symbols, one per line:
3137
3138 Symbols.ev for libev proper
3139 Symbols.event for the libevent emulation
3140
3141This can also be used to rename all public symbols to avoid clashes with
3142multiple versions of libev linked together (which is obviously bad in
3143itself, but sometimes it is inconvenient to avoid this).
3144
3145A sed command like this will create wrapper C<#define>'s that you need to
3146include before including F<ev.h>:
3147
3148 <Symbols.ev sed -e "s/.*/#define & myprefix_&/" >wrap.h
3149
3150This would create a file F<wrap.h> which essentially looks like this:
3151
3152 #define ev_backend myprefix_ev_backend
3153 #define ev_check_start myprefix_ev_check_start
3154 #define ev_check_stop myprefix_ev_check_stop
3155 ...
2130 3156
2131=head2 EXAMPLES 3157=head2 EXAMPLES
2132 3158
2133For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 3159For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
2134verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 3160verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
2137interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file 3163interface) and F<EV.xs> (implementation) files. Only the F<EV.xs> file
2138will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header 3164will be compiled. It is pretty complex because it provides its own header
2139file. 3165file.
2140 3166
2141The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file 3167The usage in rxvt-unicode is simpler. It has a F<ev_cpp.h> header file
2142that everybody includes and which overrides some autoconf choices: 3168that everybody includes and which overrides some configure choices:
2143 3169
3170 #define EV_MINIMAL 1
2144 #define EV_USE_POLL 0 3171 #define EV_USE_POLL 0
2145 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0 3172 #define EV_MULTIPLICITY 0
2146 #define EV_PERIODICS 0 3173 #define EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE 0
3174 #define EV_STAT_ENABLE 0
3175 #define EV_FORK_ENABLE 0
2147 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h> 3176 #define EV_CONFIG_H <config.h>
3177 #define EV_MINPRI 0
3178 #define EV_MAXPRI 0
2148 3179
2149 #include "ev++.h" 3180 #include "ev++.h"
2150 3181
2151And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 3182And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
2152 3183
2153 #include "ev_cpp.h" 3184 #include "ev_cpp.h"
2154 #include "ev.c" 3185 #include "ev.c"
3186
3187
3188=head1 THREADS AND COROUTINES
3189
3190=head2 THREADS
3191
3192Libev itself is completely thread-safe, but it uses no locking. This
3193means that you can use as many loops as you want in parallel, as long as
3194only one thread ever calls into one libev function with the same loop
3195parameter.
3196
3197Or put differently: calls with different loop parameters can be done in
3198parallel from multiple threads, calls with the same loop parameter must be
3199done serially (but can be done from different threads, as long as only one
3200thread ever is inside a call at any point in time, e.g. by using a mutex
3201per loop).
3202
3203If you want to know which design (one loop, locking, or multiple loops
3204without or something else still) is best for your problem, then I cannot
3205help you. I can give some generic advice however:
3206
3207=over 4
3208
3209=item * most applications have a main thread: use the default libev loop
3210in that thread, or create a separate thread running only the default loop.
3211
3212This helps integrating other libraries or software modules that use libev
3213themselves and don't care/know about threading.
3214
3215=item * one loop per thread is usually a good model.
3216
3217Doing this is almost never wrong, sometimes a better-performance model
3218exists, but it is always a good start.
3219
3220=item * other models exist, such as the leader/follower pattern, where one
3221loop is handed through multiple threads in a kind of round-robin fashion.
3222
3223Choosing a model is hard - look around, learn, know that usually you can do
3224better than you currently do :-)
3225
3226=item * often you need to talk to some other thread which blocks in the
3227event loop - C<ev_async> watchers can be used to wake them up from other
3228threads safely (or from signal contexts...).
3229
3230=back
3231
3232=head2 COROUTINES
3233
3234Libev is much more accommodating to coroutines ("cooperative threads"):
3235libev fully supports nesting calls to it's functions from different
3236coroutines (e.g. you can call C<ev_loop> on the same loop from two
3237different coroutines and switch freely between both coroutines running the
3238loop, as long as you don't confuse yourself). The only exception is that
3239you must not do this from C<ev_periodic> reschedule callbacks.
3240
3241Care has been invested into making sure that libev does not keep local
3242state inside C<ev_loop>, and other calls do not usually allow coroutine
3243switches.
2155 3244
2156 3245
2157=head1 COMPLEXITIES 3246=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2158 3247
2159In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside 3248In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2160libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the 3249libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2161documentation for C<ev_default_init>. 3250documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2162 3251
3252All of the following are about amortised time: If an array needs to be
3253extended, libev needs to realloc and move the whole array, but this
3254happens asymptotically never with higher number of elements, so O(1) might
3255mean it might do a lengthy realloc operation in rare cases, but on average
3256it is much faster and asymptotically approaches constant time.
3257
2163=over 4 3258=over 4
2164 3259
2165=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers) 3260=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2166 3261
3262This means that, when you have a watcher that triggers in one hour and
3263there are 100 watchers that would trigger before that then inserting will
3264have to skip roughly seven (C<ld 100>) of these watchers.
3265
2167=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers) 3266=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat or calling again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2168 3267
3268That means that changing a timer costs less than removing/adding them
3269as only the relative motion in the event queue has to be paid for.
3270
2169=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1) 3271=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2170 3272
3273These just add the watcher into an array or at the head of a list.
3274
2171=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1) 3275=item Stopping check/prepare/idle/fork/async watchers: O(1)
2172 3276
2173=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE)) 3277=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2174 3278
3279These watchers are stored in lists then need to be walked to find the
3280correct watcher to remove. The lists are usually short (you don't usually
3281have many watchers waiting for the same fd or signal).
3282
2175=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1) 3283=item Finding the next timer in each loop iteration: O(1)
3284
3285By virtue of using a binary or 4-heap, the next timer is always found at a
3286fixed position in the storage array.
2176 3287
2177=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd) 3288=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2178 3289
2179=item Activating one watcher: O(1) 3290A change means an I/O watcher gets started or stopped, which requires
3291libev to recalculate its status (and possibly tell the kernel, depending
3292on backend and whether C<ev_io_set> was used).
3293
3294=item Activating one watcher (putting it into the pending state): O(1)
3295
3296=item Priority handling: O(number_of_priorities)
3297
3298Priorities are implemented by allocating some space for each
3299priority. When doing priority-based operations, libev usually has to
3300linearly search all the priorities, but starting/stopping and activating
3301watchers becomes O(1) w.r.t. priority handling.
3302
3303=item Sending an ev_async: O(1)
3304
3305=item Processing ev_async_send: O(number_of_async_watchers)
3306
3307=item Processing signals: O(max_signal_number)
3308
3309Sending involves a system call I<iff> there were no other C<ev_async_send>
3310calls in the current loop iteration. Checking for async and signal events
3311involves iterating over all running async watchers or all signal numbers.
2180 3312
2181=back 3313=back
2182 3314
2183 3315
3316=head1 WIN32 PLATFORM LIMITATIONS AND WORKAROUNDS
3317
3318Win32 doesn't support any of the standards (e.g. POSIX) that libev
3319requires, and its I/O model is fundamentally incompatible with the POSIX
3320model. Libev still offers limited functionality on this platform in
3321the form of the C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> backend, and only supports socket
3322descriptors. This only applies when using Win32 natively, not when using
3323e.g. cygwin.
3324
3325Lifting these limitations would basically require the full
3326re-implementation of the I/O system. If you are into these kinds of
3327things, then note that glib does exactly that for you in a very portable
3328way (note also that glib is the slowest event library known to man).
3329
3330There is no supported compilation method available on windows except
3331embedding it into other applications.
3332
3333Not a libev limitation but worth mentioning: windows apparently doesn't
3334accept large writes: instead of resulting in a partial write, windows will
3335either accept everything or return C<ENOBUFS> if the buffer is too large,
3336so make sure you only write small amounts into your sockets (less than a
3337megabyte seems safe, but thsi apparently depends on the amount of memory
3338available).
3339
3340Due to the many, low, and arbitrary limits on the win32 platform and
3341the abysmal performance of winsockets, using a large number of sockets
3342is not recommended (and not reasonable). If your program needs to use
3343more than a hundred or so sockets, then likely it needs to use a totally
3344different implementation for windows, as libev offers the POSIX readiness
3345notification model, which cannot be implemented efficiently on windows
3346(Microsoft monopoly games).
3347
3348A typical way to use libev under windows is to embed it (see the embedding
3349section for details) and use the following F<evwrap.h> header file instead
3350of F<ev.h>:
3351
3352 #define EV_STANDALONE /* keeps ev from requiring config.h */
3353 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* configure libev for windows select */
3354
3355 #include "ev.h"
3356
3357And compile the following F<evwrap.c> file into your project (make sure
3358you do I<not> compile the F<ev.c> or any other embedded soruce files!):
3359
3360 #include "evwrap.h"
3361 #include "ev.c"
3362
3363=over 4
3364
3365=item The winsocket select function
3366
3367The winsocket C<select> function doesn't follow POSIX in that it
3368requires socket I<handles> and not socket I<file descriptors> (it is
3369also extremely buggy). This makes select very inefficient, and also
3370requires a mapping from file descriptors to socket handles (the Microsoft
3371C runtime provides the function C<_open_osfhandle> for this). See the
3372discussion of the C<EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET>, C<EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET> and
3373C<EV_FD_TO_WIN32_HANDLE> preprocessor symbols for more info.
3374
3375The configuration for a "naked" win32 using the Microsoft runtime
3376libraries and raw winsocket select is:
3377
3378 #define EV_USE_SELECT 1
3379 #define EV_SELECT_IS_WINSOCKET 1 /* forces EV_SELECT_USE_FD_SET, too */
3380
3381Note that winsockets handling of fd sets is O(n), so you can easily get a
3382complexity in the O(n²) range when using win32.
3383
3384=item Limited number of file descriptors
3385
3386Windows has numerous arbitrary (and low) limits on things.
3387
3388Early versions of winsocket's select only supported waiting for a maximum
3389of C<64> handles (probably owning to the fact that all windows kernels
3390can only wait for C<64> things at the same time internally; Microsoft
3391recommends spawning a chain of threads and wait for 63 handles and the
3392previous thread in each. Great).
3393
3394Newer versions support more handles, but you need to define C<FD_SETSIZE>
3395to some high number (e.g. C<2048>) before compiling the winsocket select
3396call (which might be in libev or elsewhere, for example, perl does its own
3397select emulation on windows).
3398
3399Another limit is the number of file descriptors in the Microsoft runtime
3400libraries, which by default is C<64> (there must be a hidden I<64> fetish
3401or something like this inside Microsoft). You can increase this by calling
3402C<_setmaxstdio>, which can increase this limit to C<2048> (another
3403arbitrary limit), but is broken in many versions of the Microsoft runtime
3404libraries.
3405
3406This might get you to about C<512> or C<2048> sockets (depending on
3407windows version and/or the phase of the moon). To get more, you need to
3408wrap all I/O functions and provide your own fd management, but the cost of
3409calling select (O(n²)) will likely make this unworkable.
3410
3411=back
3412
3413
3414=head1 PORTABILITY REQUIREMENTS
3415
3416In addition to a working ISO-C implementation, libev relies on a few
3417additional extensions:
3418
3419=over 4
3420
3421=item C<void (*)(ev_watcher_type *, int revents)> must have compatible
3422calling conventions regardless of C<ev_watcher_type *>.
3423
3424Libev assumes not only that all watcher pointers have the same internal
3425structure (guaranteed by POSIX but not by ISO C for example), but it also
3426assumes that the same (machine) code can be used to call any watcher
3427callback: The watcher callbacks have different type signatures, but libev
3428calls them using an C<ev_watcher *> internally.
3429
3430=item C<sig_atomic_t volatile> must be thread-atomic as well
3431
3432The type C<sig_atomic_t volatile> (or whatever is defined as
3433C<EV_ATOMIC_T>) must be atomic w.r.t. accesses from different
3434threads. This is not part of the specification for C<sig_atomic_t>, but is
3435believed to be sufficiently portable.
3436
3437=item C<sigprocmask> must work in a threaded environment
3438
3439Libev uses C<sigprocmask> to temporarily block signals. This is not
3440allowed in a threaded program (C<pthread_sigmask> has to be used). Typical
3441pthread implementations will either allow C<sigprocmask> in the "main
3442thread" or will block signals process-wide, both behaviours would
3443be compatible with libev. Interaction between C<sigprocmask> and
3444C<pthread_sigmask> could complicate things, however.
3445
3446The most portable way to handle signals is to block signals in all threads
3447except the initial one, and run the default loop in the initial thread as
3448well.
3449
3450=item C<long> must be large enough for common memory allocation sizes
3451
3452To improve portability and simplify using libev, libev uses C<long>
3453internally instead of C<size_t> when allocating its data structures. On
3454non-POSIX systems (Microsoft...) this might be unexpectedly low, but
3455is still at least 31 bits everywhere, which is enough for hundreds of
3456millions of watchers.
3457
3458=item C<double> must hold a time value in seconds with enough accuracy
3459
3460The type C<double> is used to represent timestamps. It is required to
3461have at least 51 bits of mantissa (and 9 bits of exponent), which is good
3462enough for at least into the year 4000. This requirement is fulfilled by
3463implementations implementing IEEE 754 (basically all existing ones).
3464
3465=back
3466
3467If you know of other additional requirements drop me a note.
3468
3469
3470=head1 COMPILER WARNINGS
3471
3472Depending on your compiler and compiler settings, you might get no or a
3473lot of warnings when compiling libev code. Some people are apparently
3474scared by this.
3475
3476However, these are unavoidable for many reasons. For one, each compiler
3477has different warnings, and each user has different tastes regarding
3478warning options. "Warn-free" code therefore cannot be a goal except when
3479targeting a specific compiler and compiler-version.
3480
3481Another reason is that some compiler warnings require elaborate
3482workarounds, or other changes to the code that make it less clear and less
3483maintainable.
3484
3485And of course, some compiler warnings are just plain stupid, or simply
3486wrong (because they don't actually warn about the condition their message
3487seems to warn about).
3488
3489While libev is written to generate as few warnings as possible,
3490"warn-free" code is not a goal, and it is recommended not to build libev
3491with any compiler warnings enabled unless you are prepared to cope with
3492them (e.g. by ignoring them). Remember that warnings are just that:
3493warnings, not errors, or proof of bugs.
3494
3495
3496=head1 VALGRIND
3497
3498Valgrind has a special section here because it is a popular tool that is
3499highly useful, but valgrind reports are very hard to interpret.
3500
3501If you think you found a bug (memory leak, uninitialised data access etc.)
3502in libev, then check twice: If valgrind reports something like:
3503
3504 ==2274== definitely lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3505 ==2274== possibly lost: 0 bytes in 0 blocks.
3506 ==2274== still reachable: 256 bytes in 1 blocks.
3507
3508Then there is no memory leak. Similarly, under some circumstances,
3509valgrind might report kernel bugs as if it were a bug in libev, or it
3510might be confused (it is a very good tool, but only a tool).
3511
3512If you are unsure about something, feel free to contact the mailing list
3513with the full valgrind report and an explanation on why you think this is
3514a bug in libev. However, don't be annoyed when you get a brisk "this is
3515no bug" answer and take the chance of learning how to interpret valgrind
3516properly.
3517
3518If you need, for some reason, empty reports from valgrind for your project
3519I suggest using suppression lists.
3520
3521
2184=head1 AUTHOR 3522=head1 AUTHOR
2185 3523
2186Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 3524Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
2187 3525

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