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Revision 1.41 by root, Sat Nov 24 10:19:14 2007 UTC vs.
Revision 1.59 by root, Wed Nov 28 17:32:24 2007 UTC

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
9=head1 EXAMPLE PROGRAM
10
11 #include <ev.h>
12
13 ev_io stdin_watcher;
14 ev_timer timeout_watcher;
15
16 /* called when data readable on stdin */
17 static void
18 stdin_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_io *w, int revents)
19 {
20 /* puts ("stdin ready"); */
21 ev_io_stop (EV_A_ w); /* just a syntax example */
22 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ALL); /* leave all loop calls */
23 }
24
25 static void
26 timeout_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
27 {
28 /* puts ("timeout"); */
29 ev_unloop (EV_A_ EVUNLOOP_ONE); /* leave one loop call */
30 }
31
32 int
33 main (void)
34 {
35 struct ev_loop *loop = ev_default_loop (0);
36
37 /* initialise an io watcher, then start it */
38 ev_io_init (&stdin_watcher, stdin_cb, /*STDIN_FILENO*/ 0, EV_READ);
39 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_watcher);
40
41 /* simple non-repeating 5.5 second timeout */
42 ev_timer_init (&timeout_watcher, timeout_cb, 5.5, 0.);
43 ev_timer_start (loop, &timeout_watcher);
44
45 /* loop till timeout or data ready */
46 ev_loop (loop, 0);
47
48 return 0;
49 }
8 50
9=head1 DESCRIPTION 51=head1 DESCRIPTION
10 52
11Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a 53Libev is an event loop: you register interest in certain events (such as a
12file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage 54file descriptor being readable or a timeout occuring), and it will manage
21details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the 63details of the event, and then hand it over to libev by I<starting> the
22watcher. 64watcher.
23 65
24=head1 FEATURES 66=head1 FEATURES
25 67
26Libev supports select, poll, the linux-specific epoll and the bsd-specific 68Libev supports C<select>, C<poll>, the Linux-specific C<epoll>, the
27kqueue mechanisms for file descriptor events, relative timers, absolute 69BSD-specific C<kqueue> and the Solaris-specific event port mechanisms
28timers with customised rescheduling, signal events, process status change 70for file descriptor events (C<ev_io>), the Linux C<inotify> interface
29events (related to SIGCHLD), and event watchers dealing with the event 71(for C<ev_stat>), relative timers (C<ev_timer>), absolute timers
30loop mechanism itself (idle, prepare and check watchers). It also is quite 72with customised rescheduling (C<ev_periodic>), synchronous signals
73(C<ev_signal>), process status change events (C<ev_child>), and event
74watchers dealing with the event loop mechanism itself (C<ev_idle>,
75C<ev_embed>, C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> watchers) as well as
76file watchers (C<ev_stat>) and even limited support for fork events
77(C<ev_fork>).
78
79It also is quite fast (see this
31fast (see this L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing 80L<benchmark|http://libev.schmorp.de/bench.html> comparing it to libevent
32it to libevent for example). 81for example).
33 82
34=head1 CONVENTIONS 83=head1 CONVENTIONS
35 84
36Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration 85Libev is very configurable. In this manual the default configuration will
37will be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info 86be described, which supports multiple event loops. For more info about
38about various configuration options please have a look at the file 87various configuration options please have a look at B<EMBED> section in
39F<README.embed> in the libev distribution. If libev was configured without 88this manual. If libev was configured without support for multiple event
40support for multiple event loops, then all functions taking an initial 89loops, then all functions taking an initial argument of name C<loop>
41argument of name C<loop> (which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) 90(which is always of type C<struct ev_loop *>) will not have this argument.
42will not have this argument.
43 91
44=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION 92=head1 TIME REPRESENTATION
45 93
46Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the 94Libev represents time as a single floating point number, representing the
47(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near 95(fractional) number of seconds since the (POSIX) epoch (somewhere near
48the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is 96the beginning of 1970, details are complicated, don't ask). This type is
49called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases 97called C<ev_tstamp>, which is what you should use too. It usually aliases
50to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on 98to the C<double> type in C, and when you need to do any calculations on
51it, you should treat it as such. 99it, you should treat it as such.
52 100
53
54=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS 101=head1 GLOBAL FUNCTIONS
55 102
56These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the 103These functions can be called anytime, even before initialising the
57library in any way. 104library in any way.
58 105
77Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch, 124Usually, it's a good idea to terminate if the major versions mismatch,
78as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually 125as this indicates an incompatible change. Minor versions are usually
79compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually 126compatible to older versions, so a larger minor version alone is usually
80not a problem. 127not a problem.
81 128
82Example: make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong 129Example: Make sure we haven't accidentally been linked against the wrong
83version: 130version.
84 131
85 assert (("libev version mismatch", 132 assert (("libev version mismatch",
86 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR 133 ev_version_major () == EV_VERSION_MAJOR
87 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR)); 134 && ev_version_minor () >= EV_VERSION_MINOR));
88 135
118 165
119See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info. 166See the description of C<ev_embed> watchers for more info.
120 167
121=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size)) 168=item ev_set_allocator (void *(*cb)(void *ptr, long size))
122 169
123Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar to the 170Sets the allocation function to use (the prototype is similar - the
124realloc C function, the semantics are identical). It is used to allocate 171semantics is identical - to the realloc C function). It is used to
125and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when memory 172allocate and free memory (no surprises here). If it returns zero when
126needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some potentially 173memory needs to be allocated, the library might abort or take some
127destructive action. The default is your system realloc function. 174potentially destructive action. The default is your system realloc
175function.
128 176
129You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say, 177You could override this function in high-availability programs to, say,
130free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator, 178free some memory if it cannot allocate memory, to use a special allocator,
131or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available. 179or even to sleep a while and retry until some memory is available.
132 180
133Example: replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then 181Example: Replace the libev allocator with one that waits a bit and then
134retries: better than mine). 182retries).
135 183
136 static void * 184 static void *
137 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, long size) 185 persistent_realloc (void *ptr, size_t size)
138 { 186 {
139 for (;;) 187 for (;;)
140 { 188 {
141 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size); 189 void *newptr = realloc (ptr, size);
142 190
158callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no 206callback is set, then libev will expect it to remedy the sitution, no
159matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the 207matter what, when it returns. That is, libev will generally retry the
160requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff 208requested operation, or, if the condition doesn't go away, do bad stuff
161(such as abort). 209(such as abort).
162 210
163Example: do the same thing as libev does internally: 211Example: This is basically the same thing that libev does internally, too.
164 212
165 static void 213 static void
166 fatal_error (const char *msg) 214 fatal_error (const char *msg)
167 { 215 {
168 perror (msg); 216 perror (msg);
314Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is 362Similar to C<ev_default_loop>, but always creates a new event loop that is
315always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot 363always distinct from the default loop. Unlike the default loop, it cannot
316handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by 364handle signal and child watchers, and attempts to do so will be greeted by
317undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled). 365undefined behaviour (or a failed assertion if assertions are enabled).
318 366
319Example: try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else. 367Example: Try to create a event loop that uses epoll and nothing else.
320 368
321 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV); 369 struct ev_loop *epoller = ev_loop_new (EVBACKEND_EPOLL | EVFLAG_NOENV);
322 if (!epoller) 370 if (!epoller)
323 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair"); 371 fatal ("no epoll found here, maybe it hides under your chair");
324 372
423 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will 471 Signals and child watchers are implemented as I/O watchers, and will
424 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed. 472 be handled here by queueing them when their watcher gets executed.
425 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK 473 - If ev_unloop has been called or EVLOOP_ONESHOT or EVLOOP_NONBLOCK
426 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *. 474 were used, return, otherwise continue with step *.
427 475
428Example: queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding 476Example: Queue some jobs and then loop until no events are outsanding
429anymore. 477anymore.
430 478
431 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long 479 ... queue jobs here, make sure they register event watchers as long
432 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..) 480 ... as they still have work to do (even an idle watcher will do..)
433 ev_loop (my_loop, 0); 481 ev_loop (my_loop, 0);
453visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if 501visible to the libev user and should not keep C<ev_loop> from exiting if
454no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent 502no event watchers registered by it are active. It is also an excellent
455way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party 503way to do this for generic recurring timers or from within third-party
456libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>. 504libraries. Just remember to I<unref after start> and I<ref before stop>.
457 505
458Example: create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop> 506Example: Create a signal watcher, but keep it from keeping C<ev_loop>
459running when nothing else is active. 507running when nothing else is active.
460 508
461 struct dv_signal exitsig; 509 struct ev_signal exitsig;
462 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT); 510 ev_signal_init (&exitsig, sig_cb, SIGINT);
463 ev_signal_start (myloop, &exitsig); 511 ev_signal_start (loop, &exitsig);
464 evf_unref (myloop); 512 evf_unref (loop);
465 513
466Example: for some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again. 514Example: For some weird reason, unregister the above signal handler again.
467 515
468 ev_ref (myloop); 516 ev_ref (loop);
469 ev_signal_stop (myloop, &exitsig); 517 ev_signal_stop (loop, &exitsig);
470 518
471=back 519=back
520
472 521
473=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER 522=head1 ANATOMY OF A WATCHER
474 523
475A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your 524A watcher is a structure that you create and register to record your
476interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to 525interest in some event. For instance, if you want to wait for STDIN to
543The signal specified in the C<ev_signal> watcher has been received by a thread. 592The signal specified in the C<ev_signal> watcher has been received by a thread.
544 593
545=item C<EV_CHILD> 594=item C<EV_CHILD>
546 595
547The pid specified in the C<ev_child> watcher has received a status change. 596The pid specified in the C<ev_child> watcher has received a status change.
597
598=item C<EV_STAT>
599
600The path specified in the C<ev_stat> watcher changed its attributes somehow.
548 601
549=item C<EV_IDLE> 602=item C<EV_IDLE>
550 603
551The C<ev_idle> watcher has determined that you have nothing better to do. 604The C<ev_idle> watcher has determined that you have nothing better to do.
552 605
560received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as 613received events. Callbacks of both watcher types can start and stop as
561many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account 614many watchers as they want, and all of them will be taken into account
562(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep 615(for example, a C<ev_prepare> watcher might start an idle watcher to keep
563C<ev_loop> from blocking). 616C<ev_loop> from blocking).
564 617
618=item C<EV_EMBED>
619
620The embedded event loop specified in the C<ev_embed> watcher needs attention.
621
622=item C<EV_FORK>
623
624The event loop has been resumed in the child process after fork (see
625C<ev_fork>).
626
565=item C<EV_ERROR> 627=item C<EV_ERROR>
566 628
567An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might 629An unspecified error has occured, the watcher has been stopped. This might
568happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev 630happen because the watcher could not be properly started because libev
569ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other 631ran out of memory, a file descriptor was found to be closed or any other
576with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded 638with the error from read() or write(). This will not work in multithreaded
577programs, though, so beware. 639programs, though, so beware.
578 640
579=back 641=back
580 642
581=head2 SUMMARY OF GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS 643=head2 GENERIC WATCHER FUNCTIONS
582 644
583In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type, 645In the following description, C<TYPE> stands for the watcher type,
584e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers. 646e.g. C<timer> for C<ev_timer> watchers and C<io> for C<ev_io> watchers.
585 647
586=over 4 648=over 4
595which rolls both calls into one. 657which rolls both calls into one.
596 658
597You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped 659You can reinitialise a watcher at any time as long as it has been stopped
598(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding. 660(or never started) and there are no pending events outstanding.
599 661
600The callbakc is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher, 662The callback is always of type C<void (*)(ev_loop *loop, ev_TYPE *watcher,
601int revents)>. 663int revents)>.
602 664
603=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args]) 665=item C<ev_TYPE_set> (ev_TYPE *, [args])
604 666
605This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to 667This macro initialises the type-specific parts of a watcher. You need to
643events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher 705events but its callback has not yet been invoked). As long as a watcher
644is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but 706is pending (but not active) you must not call an init function on it (but
645C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to 707C<ev_TYPE_set> is safe) and you must make sure the watcher is available to
646libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it). 708libev (e.g. you cnanot C<free ()> it).
647 709
648=item callback = ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher) 710=item callback ev_cb (ev_TYPE *watcher)
649 711
650Returns the callback currently set on the watcher. 712Returns the callback currently set on the watcher.
651 713
652=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback) 714=item ev_cb_set (ev_TYPE *watcher, callback)
653 715
681 { 743 {
682 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_; 744 struct my_io *w = (struct my_io *)w_;
683 ... 745 ...
684 } 746 }
685 747
686More interesting and less C-conformant ways of catsing your callback type 748More interesting and less C-conformant ways of casting your callback type
687have been omitted.... 749instead have been omitted.
750
751Another common scenario is having some data structure with multiple
752watchers:
753
754 struct my_biggy
755 {
756 int some_data;
757 ev_timer t1;
758 ev_timer t2;
759 }
760
761In this case getting the pointer to C<my_biggy> is a bit more complicated,
762you need to use C<offsetof>:
763
764 #include <stddef.h>
765
766 static void
767 t1_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
768 {
769 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
770 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t1));
771 }
772
773 static void
774 t2_cb (EV_P_ struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
775 {
776 struct my_biggy big = (struct my_biggy *
777 (((char *)w) - offsetof (struct my_biggy, t2));
778 }
688 779
689 780
690=head1 WATCHER TYPES 781=head1 WATCHER TYPES
691 782
692This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat 783This section describes each watcher in detail, but will not repeat
693information given in the last section. 784information given in the last section. Any initialisation/set macros,
785functions and members specific to the watcher type are explained.
694 786
787Members are additionally marked with either I<[read-only]>, meaning that,
788while the watcher is active, you can look at the member and expect some
789sensible content, but you must not modify it (you can modify it while the
790watcher is stopped to your hearts content), or I<[read-write]>, which
791means you can expect it to have some sensible content while the watcher
792is active, but you can also modify it. Modifying it may not do something
793sensible or take immediate effect (or do anything at all), but libev will
794not crash or malfunction in any way.
695 795
796
696=head2 C<ev_io> - is this file descriptor readable or writable 797=head2 C<ev_io> - is this file descriptor readable or writable?
697 798
698I/O watchers check whether a file descriptor is readable or writable 799I/O watchers check whether a file descriptor is readable or writable
699in each iteration of the event loop (This behaviour is called 800in each iteration of the event loop, or, more precisely, when reading
700level-triggering because you keep receiving events as long as the 801would not block the process and writing would at least be able to write
701condition persists. Remember you can stop the watcher if you don't want to 802some data. This behaviour is called level-triggering because you keep
702act on the event and neither want to receive future events). 803receiving events as long as the condition persists. Remember you can stop
804the watcher if you don't want to act on the event and neither want to
805receive future events.
703 806
704In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per 807In general you can register as many read and/or write event watchers per
705fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file 808fd as you want (as long as you don't confuse yourself). Setting all file
706descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not 809descriptors to non-blocking mode is also usually a good idea (but not
707required if you know what you are doing). 810required if you know what you are doing).
708 811
709You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends 812You have to be careful with dup'ed file descriptors, though. Some backends
710(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file 813(the linux epoll backend is a notable example) cannot handle dup'ed file
711descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing 814descriptors correctly if you register interest in two or more fds pointing
712to the same underlying file/socket etc. description (that is, they share 815to the same underlying file/socket/etc. description (that is, they share
713the same underlying "file open"). 816the same underlying "file open").
714 817
715If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend 818If you must do this, then force the use of a known-to-be-good backend
716(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and 819(at the time of this writing, this includes only C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> and
717C<EVBACKEND_POLL>). 820C<EVBACKEND_POLL>).
718 821
822Another thing you have to watch out for is that it is quite easy to
823receive "spurious" readyness notifications, that is your callback might
824be called with C<EV_READ> but a subsequent C<read>(2) will actually block
825because there is no data. Not only are some backends known to create a
826lot of those (for example solaris ports), it is very easy to get into
827this situation even with a relatively standard program structure. Thus
828it is best to always use non-blocking I/O: An extra C<read>(2) returning
829C<EAGAIN> is far preferable to a program hanging until some data arrives.
830
831If you cannot run the fd in non-blocking mode (for example you should not
832play around with an Xlib connection), then you have to seperately re-test
833wether a file descriptor is really ready with a known-to-be good interface
834such as poll (fortunately in our Xlib example, Xlib already does this on
835its own, so its quite safe to use).
836
719=over 4 837=over 4
720 838
721=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events) 839=item ev_io_init (ev_io *, callback, int fd, int events)
722 840
723=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events) 841=item ev_io_set (ev_io *, int fd, int events)
724 842
725Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The fd is the file descriptor to rceeive 843Configures an C<ev_io> watcher. The C<fd> is the file descriptor to
726events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or C<EV_READ | 844rceeive events for and events is either C<EV_READ>, C<EV_WRITE> or
727EV_WRITE> to receive the given events. 845C<EV_READ | EV_WRITE> to receive the given events.
728 846
729Please note that most of the more scalable backend mechanisms (for example 847=item int fd [read-only]
730epoll and solaris ports) can result in spurious readyness notifications 848
731for file descriptors, so you practically need to use non-blocking I/O (and 849The file descriptor being watched.
732treat callback invocation as hint only), or retest separately with a safe 850
733interface before doing I/O (XLib can do this), or force the use of either 851=item int events [read-only]
734C<EVBACKEND_SELECT> or C<EVBACKEND_POLL>, which don't suffer from this 852
735problem. Also note that it is quite easy to have your callback invoked 853The events being watched.
736when the readyness condition is no longer valid even when employing
737typical ways of handling events, so its a good idea to use non-blocking
738I/O unconditionally.
739 854
740=back 855=back
741 856
742Example: call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well 857Example: Call C<stdin_readable_cb> when STDIN_FILENO has become, well
743readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could 858readable, but only once. Since it is likely line-buffered, you could
744attempt to read a whole line in the callback: 859attempt to read a whole line in the callback.
745 860
746 static void 861 static void
747 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 862 stdin_readable_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
748 { 863 {
749 ev_io_stop (loop, w); 864 ev_io_stop (loop, w);
756 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ); 871 ev_io_init (&stdin_readable, stdin_readable_cb, STDIN_FILENO, EV_READ);
757 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable); 872 ev_io_start (loop, &stdin_readable);
758 ev_loop (loop, 0); 873 ev_loop (loop, 0);
759 874
760 875
761=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally recurring timeouts 876=head2 C<ev_timer> - relative and optionally repeating timeouts
762 877
763Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a 878Timer watchers are simple relative timers that generate an event after a
764given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that. 879given time, and optionally repeating in regular intervals after that.
765 880
766The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that 881The timers are based on real time, that is, if you register an event that
807 922
808If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat 923If the timer is repeating, either start it if necessary (with the repeat
809value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value. 924value), or reset the running timer to the repeat value.
810 925
811This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical 926This sounds a bit complicated, but here is a useful and typical
812example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called idle 927example: Imagine you have a tcp connection and you want a so-called
813timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been, say, 60 928idle timeout, that is, you want to be called when there have been,
814seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do this is to 929say, 60 seconds of inactivity on the socket. The easiest way to do
815configure an C<ev_timer> with after=repeat=60 and calling ev_timer_again each 930this is to configure an C<ev_timer> with C<after>=C<repeat>=C<60> and calling
816time you successfully read or write some data. If you go into an idle 931C<ev_timer_again> each time you successfully read or write some data. If
817state where you do not expect data to travel on the socket, you can stop 932you go into an idle state where you do not expect data to travel on the
818the timer, and again will automatically restart it if need be. 933socket, you can stop the timer, and again will automatically restart it if
934need be.
935
936You can also ignore the C<after> value and C<ev_timer_start> altogether
937and only ever use the C<repeat> value:
938
939 ev_timer_init (timer, callback, 0., 5.);
940 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
941 ...
942 timer->again = 17.;
943 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
944 ...
945 timer->again = 10.;
946 ev_timer_again (loop, timer);
947
948This is more efficient then stopping/starting the timer eahc time you want
949to modify its timeout value.
950
951=item ev_tstamp repeat [read-write]
952
953The current C<repeat> value. Will be used each time the watcher times out
954or C<ev_timer_again> is called and determines the next timeout (if any),
955which is also when any modifications are taken into account.
819 956
820=back 957=back
821 958
822Example: create a timer that fires after 60 seconds. 959Example: Create a timer that fires after 60 seconds.
823 960
824 static void 961 static void
825 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 962 one_minute_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
826 { 963 {
827 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here 964 .. one minute over, w is actually stopped right here
829 966
830 struct ev_timer mytimer; 967 struct ev_timer mytimer;
831 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.); 968 ev_timer_init (&mytimer, one_minute_cb, 60., 0.);
832 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer); 969 ev_timer_start (loop, &mytimer);
833 970
834Example: create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of 971Example: Create a timeout timer that times out after 10 seconds of
835inactivity. 972inactivity.
836 973
837 static void 974 static void
838 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents) 975 timeout_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_timer *w, int revents)
839 { 976 {
848 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity": 985 // and in some piece of code that gets executed on any "activity":
849 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds 986 // reset the timeout to start ticking again at 10 seconds
850 ev_timer_again (&mytimer); 987 ev_timer_again (&mytimer);
851 988
852 989
853=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron 990=head2 C<ev_periodic> - to cron or not to cron?
854 991
855Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile 992Periodic watchers are also timers of a kind, but they are very versatile
856(and unfortunately a bit complex). 993(and unfortunately a bit complex).
857 994
858Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time) 995Unlike C<ev_timer>'s, they are not based on real time (or relative time)
950Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful 1087Simply stops and restarts the periodic watcher again. This is only useful
951when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return 1088when you changed some parameters or the reschedule callback would return
952a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like 1089a different time than the last time it was called (e.g. in a crond like
953program when the crontabs have changed). 1090program when the crontabs have changed).
954 1091
1092=item ev_tstamp interval [read-write]
1093
1094The current interval value. Can be modified any time, but changes only
1095take effect when the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being
1096called.
1097
1098=item ev_tstamp (*reschedule_cb)(struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) [read-write]
1099
1100The current reschedule callback, or C<0>, if this functionality is
1101switched off. Can be changed any time, but changes only take effect when
1102the periodic timer fires or C<ev_periodic_again> is being called.
1103
955=back 1104=back
956 1105
957Example: call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the 1106Example: Call a callback every hour, or, more precisely, whenever the
958system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have 1107system clock is divisible by 3600. The callback invocation times have
959potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability. 1108potentially a lot of jittering, but good long-term stability.
960 1109
961 static void 1110 static void
962 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents) 1111 clock_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_io *w, int revents)
966 1115
967 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1116 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
968 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0); 1117 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 3600., 0);
969 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1118 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
970 1119
971Example: the same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it: 1120Example: The same as above, but use a reschedule callback to do it:
972 1121
973 #include <math.h> 1122 #include <math.h>
974 1123
975 static ev_tstamp 1124 static ev_tstamp
976 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now) 1125 my_scheduler_cb (struct ev_periodic *w, ev_tstamp now)
978 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.; 1127 return fmod (now, 3600.) + 3600.;
979 } 1128 }
980 1129
981 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb); 1130 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 0., 0., my_scheduler_cb);
982 1131
983Example: call a callback every hour, starting now: 1132Example: Call a callback every hour, starting now:
984 1133
985 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick; 1134 struct ev_periodic hourly_tick;
986 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb, 1135 ev_periodic_init (&hourly_tick, clock_cb,
987 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0); 1136 fmod (ev_now (loop), 3600.), 3600., 0);
988 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick); 1137 ev_periodic_start (loop, &hourly_tick);
989 1138
990 1139
991=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled 1140=head2 C<ev_signal> - signal me when a signal gets signalled!
992 1141
993Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific 1142Signal watchers will trigger an event when the process receives a specific
994signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev 1143signal one or more times. Even though signals are very asynchronous, libev
995will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the 1144will try it's best to deliver signals synchronously, i.e. as part of the
996normal event processing, like any other event. 1145normal event processing, like any other event.
1009=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum) 1158=item ev_signal_set (ev_signal *, int signum)
1010 1159
1011Configures the watcher to trigger on the given signal number (usually one 1160Configures the watcher to trigger on the given signal number (usually one
1012of the C<SIGxxx> constants). 1161of the C<SIGxxx> constants).
1013 1162
1163=item int signum [read-only]
1164
1165The signal the watcher watches out for.
1166
1014=back 1167=back
1015 1168
1016 1169
1017=head2 C<ev_child> - wait for pid status changes 1170=head2 C<ev_child> - watch out for process status changes
1018 1171
1019Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to 1172Child watchers trigger when your process receives a SIGCHLD in response to
1020some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies). 1173some child status changes (most typically when a child of yours dies).
1021 1174
1022=over 4 1175=over 4
1030at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see 1183at the C<rstatus> member of the C<ev_child> watcher structure to see
1031the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems 1184the status word (use the macros from C<sys/wait.h> and see your systems
1032C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the 1185C<waitpid> documentation). The C<rpid> member contains the pid of the
1033process causing the status change. 1186process causing the status change.
1034 1187
1188=item int pid [read-only]
1189
1190The process id this watcher watches out for, or C<0>, meaning any process id.
1191
1192=item int rpid [read-write]
1193
1194The process id that detected a status change.
1195
1196=item int rstatus [read-write]
1197
1198The process exit/trace status caused by C<rpid> (see your systems
1199C<waitpid> and C<sys/wait.h> documentation for details).
1200
1035=back 1201=back
1036 1202
1037Example: try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM. 1203Example: Try to exit cleanly on SIGINT and SIGTERM.
1038 1204
1039 static void 1205 static void
1040 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents) 1206 sigint_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_signal *w, int revents)
1041 { 1207 {
1042 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL); 1208 ev_unloop (loop, EVUNLOOP_ALL);
1045 struct ev_signal signal_watcher; 1211 struct ev_signal signal_watcher;
1046 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT); 1212 ev_signal_init (&signal_watcher, sigint_cb, SIGINT);
1047 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb); 1213 ev_signal_start (loop, &sigint_cb);
1048 1214
1049 1215
1216=head2 C<ev_stat> - did the file attributes just change?
1217
1218This watches a filesystem path for attribute changes. That is, it calls
1219C<stat> regularly (or when the OS says it changed) and sees if it changed
1220compared to the last time, invoking the callback if it did.
1221
1222The path does not need to exist: changing from "path exists" to "path does
1223not exist" is a status change like any other. The condition "path does
1224not exist" is signified by the C<st_nlink> field being zero (which is
1225otherwise always forced to be at least one) and all the other fields of
1226the stat buffer having unspecified contents.
1227
1228Since there is no standard to do this, the portable implementation simply
1229calls C<stat (2)> regularly on the path to see if it changed somehow. You
1230can specify a recommended polling interval for this case. If you specify
1231a polling interval of C<0> (highly recommended!) then a I<suitable,
1232unspecified default> value will be used (which you can expect to be around
1233five seconds, although this might change dynamically). Libev will also
1234impose a minimum interval which is currently around C<0.1>, but thats
1235usually overkill.
1236
1237This watcher type is not meant for massive numbers of stat watchers,
1238as even with OS-supported change notifications, this can be
1239resource-intensive.
1240
1241At the time of this writing, only the Linux inotify interface is
1242implemented (implementing kqueue support is left as an exercise for the
1243reader). Inotify will be used to give hints only and should not change the
1244semantics of C<ev_stat> watchers, which means that libev sometimes needs
1245to fall back to regular polling again even with inotify, but changes are
1246usually detected immediately, and if the file exists there will be no
1247polling.
1248
1249=over 4
1250
1251=item ev_stat_init (ev_stat *, callback, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1252
1253=item ev_stat_set (ev_stat *, const char *path, ev_tstamp interval)
1254
1255Configures the watcher to wait for status changes of the given
1256C<path>. The C<interval> is a hint on how quickly a change is expected to
1257be detected and should normally be specified as C<0> to let libev choose
1258a suitable value. The memory pointed to by C<path> must point to the same
1259path for as long as the watcher is active.
1260
1261The callback will be receive C<EV_STAT> when a change was detected,
1262relative to the attributes at the time the watcher was started (or the
1263last change was detected).
1264
1265=item ev_stat_stat (ev_stat *)
1266
1267Updates the stat buffer immediately with new values. If you change the
1268watched path in your callback, you could call this fucntion to avoid
1269detecting this change (while introducing a race condition). Can also be
1270useful simply to find out the new values.
1271
1272=item ev_statdata attr [read-only]
1273
1274The most-recently detected attributes of the file. Although the type is of
1275C<ev_statdata>, this is usually the (or one of the) C<struct stat> types
1276suitable for your system. If the C<st_nlink> member is C<0>, then there
1277was some error while C<stat>ing the file.
1278
1279=item ev_statdata prev [read-only]
1280
1281The previous attributes of the file. The callback gets invoked whenever
1282C<prev> != C<attr>.
1283
1284=item ev_tstamp interval [read-only]
1285
1286The specified interval.
1287
1288=item const char *path [read-only]
1289
1290The filesystem path that is being watched.
1291
1292=back
1293
1294Example: Watch C</etc/passwd> for attribute changes.
1295
1296 static void
1297 passwd_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, ev_stat *w, int revents)
1298 {
1299 /* /etc/passwd changed in some way */
1300 if (w->attr.st_nlink)
1301 {
1302 printf ("passwd current size %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_size);
1303 printf ("passwd current atime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1304 printf ("passwd current mtime %ld\n", (long)w->attr.st_mtime);
1305 }
1306 else
1307 /* you shalt not abuse printf for puts */
1308 puts ("wow, /etc/passwd is not there, expect problems. "
1309 "if this is windows, they already arrived\n");
1310 }
1311
1312 ...
1313 ev_stat passwd;
1314
1315 ev_stat_init (&passwd, passwd_cb, "/etc/passwd");
1316 ev_stat_start (loop, &passwd);
1317
1318
1050=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do 1319=head2 C<ev_idle> - when you've got nothing better to do...
1051 1320
1052Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending 1321Idle watchers trigger events when there are no other events are pending
1053(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long 1322(prepare, check and other idle watchers do not count). That is, as long
1054as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals, 1323as your process is busy handling sockets or timeouts (or even signals,
1055imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle 1324imagine) it will not be triggered. But when your process is idle all idle
1073kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless, 1342kind. There is a C<ev_idle_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1074believe me. 1343believe me.
1075 1344
1076=back 1345=back
1077 1346
1078Example: dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle>, start it, and in the 1347Example: Dynamically allocate an C<ev_idle> watcher, start it, and in the
1079callback, free it. Alos, use no error checking, as usual. 1348callback, free it. Also, use no error checking, as usual.
1080 1349
1081 static void 1350 static void
1082 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents) 1351 idle_cb (struct ev_loop *loop, struct ev_idle *w, int revents)
1083 { 1352 {
1084 free (w); 1353 free (w);
1089 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle)); 1358 struct ev_idle *idle_watcher = malloc (sizeof (struct ev_idle));
1090 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb); 1359 ev_idle_init (idle_watcher, idle_cb);
1091 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb); 1360 ev_idle_start (loop, idle_cb);
1092 1361
1093 1362
1094=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop 1363=head2 C<ev_prepare> and C<ev_check> - customise your event loop!
1095 1364
1096Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem: 1365Prepare and check watchers are usually (but not always) used in tandem:
1097prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers 1366prepare watchers get invoked before the process blocks and check watchers
1098afterwards. 1367afterwards.
1099 1368
1369You I<must not> call C<ev_loop> or similar functions that enter
1370the current event loop from either C<ev_prepare> or C<ev_check>
1371watchers. Other loops than the current one are fine, however. The
1372rationale behind this is that you do not need to check for recursion in
1373those watchers, i.e. the sequence will always be C<ev_prepare>, blocking,
1374C<ev_check> so if you have one watcher of each kind they will always be
1375called in pairs bracketing the blocking call.
1376
1100Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and 1377Their main purpose is to integrate other event mechanisms into libev and
1101their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track 1378their use is somewhat advanced. This could be used, for example, to track
1102variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a 1379variable changes, implement your own watchers, integrate net-snmp or a
1103coroutine library and lots more. 1380coroutine library and lots more. They are also occasionally useful if
1381you cache some data and want to flush it before blocking (for example,
1382in X programs you might want to do an C<XFlush ()> in an C<ev_prepare>
1383watcher).
1104 1384
1105This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need 1385This is done by examining in each prepare call which file descriptors need
1106to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for 1386to be watched by the other library, registering C<ev_io> watchers for
1107them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries 1387them and starting an C<ev_timer> watcher for any timeouts (many libraries
1108provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for 1388provide just this functionality). Then, in the check watcher you check for
1130parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set> 1410parameters of any kind. There are C<ev_prepare_set> and C<ev_check_set>
1131macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless. 1411macros, but using them is utterly, utterly and completely pointless.
1132 1412
1133=back 1413=back
1134 1414
1135Example: *TODO*. 1415Example: To include a library such as adns, you would add IO watchers
1416and a timeout watcher in a prepare handler, as required by libadns, and
1417in a check watcher, destroy them and call into libadns. What follows is
1418pseudo-code only of course:
1136 1419
1420 static ev_io iow [nfd];
1421 static ev_timer tw;
1137 1422
1423 static void
1424 io_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_io *w, int revents)
1425 {
1426 // set the relevant poll flags
1427 // could also call adns_processreadable etc. here
1428 struct pollfd *fd = (struct pollfd *)w->data;
1429 if (revents & EV_READ ) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLIN;
1430 if (revents & EV_WRITE) fd->revents |= fd->events & POLLOUT;
1431 }
1432
1433 // create io watchers for each fd and a timer before blocking
1434 static void
1435 adns_prepare_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_prepare *w, int revents)
1436 {
1437 int timeout = 3600000;truct pollfd fds [nfd];
1438 // actual code will need to loop here and realloc etc.
1439 adns_beforepoll (ads, fds, &nfd, &timeout, timeval_from (ev_time ()));
1440
1441 /* the callback is illegal, but won't be called as we stop during check */
1442 ev_timer_init (&tw, 0, timeout * 1e-3);
1443 ev_timer_start (loop, &tw);
1444
1445 // create on ev_io per pollfd
1446 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1447 {
1448 ev_io_init (iow + i, io_cb, fds [i].fd,
1449 ((fds [i].events & POLLIN ? EV_READ : 0)
1450 | (fds [i].events & POLLOUT ? EV_WRITE : 0)));
1451
1452 fds [i].revents = 0;
1453 iow [i].data = fds + i;
1454 ev_io_start (loop, iow + i);
1455 }
1456 }
1457
1458 // stop all watchers after blocking
1459 static void
1460 adns_check_cb (ev_loop *loop, ev_check *w, int revents)
1461 {
1462 ev_timer_stop (loop, &tw);
1463
1464 for (int i = 0; i < nfd; ++i)
1465 ev_io_stop (loop, iow + i);
1466
1467 adns_afterpoll (adns, fds, nfd, timeval_from (ev_now (loop));
1468 }
1469
1470
1138=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough 1471=head2 C<ev_embed> - when one backend isn't enough...
1139 1472
1140This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop 1473This is a rather advanced watcher type that lets you embed one event loop
1141into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded 1474into another (currently only C<ev_io> events are supported in the embedded
1142loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect 1475loop, other types of watchers might be handled in a delayed or incorrect
1143fashion and must not be used). 1476fashion and must not be used).
1221 1554
1222Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works 1555Make a single, non-blocking sweep over the embedded loop. This works
1223similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most 1556similarly to C<ev_loop (embedded_loop, EVLOOP_NONBLOCK)>, but in the most
1224apropriate way for embedded loops. 1557apropriate way for embedded loops.
1225 1558
1559=item struct ev_loop *loop [read-only]
1560
1561The embedded event loop.
1562
1563=back
1564
1565
1566=head2 C<ev_fork> - the audacity to resume the event loop after a fork
1567
1568Fork watchers are called when a C<fork ()> was detected (usually because
1569whoever is a good citizen cared to tell libev about it by calling
1570C<ev_default_fork> or C<ev_loop_fork>). The invocation is done before the
1571event loop blocks next and before C<ev_check> watchers are being called,
1572and only in the child after the fork. If whoever good citizen calling
1573C<ev_default_fork> cheats and calls it in the wrong process, the fork
1574handlers will be invoked, too, of course.
1575
1576=over 4
1577
1578=item ev_fork_init (ev_signal *, callback)
1579
1580Initialises and configures the fork watcher - it has no parameters of any
1581kind. There is a C<ev_fork_set> macro, but using it is utterly pointless,
1582believe me.
1583
1226=back 1584=back
1227 1585
1228 1586
1229=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS 1587=head1 OTHER FUNCTIONS
1230 1588
1392 1750
1393=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only 1751=item w->sweep () C<ev::embed> only
1394 1752
1395Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>. 1753Invokes C<ev_embed_sweep>.
1396 1754
1755=item w->update () C<ev::stat> only
1756
1757Invokes C<ev_stat_stat>.
1758
1397=back 1759=back
1398 1760
1399=back 1761=back
1400 1762
1401Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in 1763Example: Define a class with an IO and idle watcher, start one of them in
1413 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb), 1775 : io (this, &myclass::io_cb),
1414 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb) 1776 idle (this, &myclass::idle_cb)
1415 { 1777 {
1416 io.start (fd, ev::READ); 1778 io.start (fd, ev::READ);
1417 } 1779 }
1780
1781
1782=head1 MACRO MAGIC
1783
1784Libev can be compiled with a variety of options, the most fundemantal is
1785C<EV_MULTIPLICITY>. This option determines wether (most) functions and
1786callbacks have an initial C<struct ev_loop *> argument.
1787
1788To make it easier to write programs that cope with either variant, the
1789following macros are defined:
1790
1791=over 4
1792
1793=item C<EV_A>, C<EV_A_>
1794
1795This provides the loop I<argument> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1796loop argument"). The C<EV_A> form is used when this is the sole argument,
1797C<EV_A_> is used when other arguments are following. Example:
1798
1799 ev_unref (EV_A);
1800 ev_timer_add (EV_A_ watcher);
1801 ev_loop (EV_A_ 0);
1802
1803It assumes the variable C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *> is in scope,
1804which is often provided by the following macro.
1805
1806=item C<EV_P>, C<EV_P_>
1807
1808This provides the loop I<parameter> for functions, if one is required ("ev
1809loop parameter"). The C<EV_P> form is used when this is the sole parameter,
1810C<EV_P_> is used when other parameters are following. Example:
1811
1812 // this is how ev_unref is being declared
1813 static void ev_unref (EV_P);
1814
1815 // this is how you can declare your typical callback
1816 static void cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1817
1818It declares a parameter C<loop> of type C<struct ev_loop *>, quite
1819suitable for use with C<EV_A>.
1820
1821=item C<EV_DEFAULT>, C<EV_DEFAULT_>
1822
1823Similar to the other two macros, this gives you the value of the default
1824loop, if multiple loops are supported ("ev loop default").
1825
1826=back
1827
1828Example: Declare and initialise a check watcher, working regardless of
1829wether multiple loops are supported or not.
1830
1831 static void
1832 check_cb (EV_P_ ev_timer *w, int revents)
1833 {
1834 ev_check_stop (EV_A_ w);
1835 }
1836
1837 ev_check check;
1838 ev_check_init (&check, check_cb);
1839 ev_check_start (EV_DEFAULT_ &check);
1840 ev_loop (EV_DEFAULT_ 0);
1841
1418 1842
1419=head1 EMBEDDING 1843=head1 EMBEDDING
1420 1844
1421Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host 1845Libev can (and often is) directly embedded into host
1422applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra 1846applications. Examples of applications that embed it include the Deliantra
1462 ev_vars.h 1886 ev_vars.h
1463 ev_wrap.h 1887 ev_wrap.h
1464 1888
1465 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only 1889 ev_win32.c required on win32 platforms only
1466 1890
1467 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is is by default) 1891 ev_select.c only when select backend is enabled (which is by default)
1468 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 1892 ev_poll.c only when poll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1469 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default) 1893 ev_epoll.c only when the epoll backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1470 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default) 1894 ev_kqueue.c only when the kqueue backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1471 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default) 1895 ev_port.c only when the solaris port backend is enabled (disabled by default)
1472 1896
1473F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need 1897F<ev.c> includes the backend files directly when enabled, so you only need
1474to compile a single file. 1898to compile this single file.
1475 1899
1476=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API 1900=head3 LIBEVENT COMPATIBILITY API
1477 1901
1478To include the libevent compatibility API, also include: 1902To include the libevent compatibility API, also include:
1479 1903
1492 1916
1493=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT 1917=head3 AUTOCONF SUPPORT
1494 1918
1495Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in 1919Instead of using C<EV_STANDALONE=1> and providing your config in
1496whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your 1920whatever way you want, you can also C<m4_include([libev.m4])> in your
1497F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> off. F<ev.c> will then include 1921F<configure.ac> and leave C<EV_STANDALONE> undefined. F<ev.c> will then
1498F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly. 1922include F<config.h> and configure itself accordingly.
1499 1923
1500For this of course you need the m4 file: 1924For this of course you need the m4 file:
1501 1925
1502 libev.m4 1926 libev.m4
1503 1927
1597 2021
1598=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL 2022=item EV_USE_DEVPOLL
1599 2023
1600reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above. 2024reserved for future expansion, works like the USE symbols above.
1601 2025
2026=item EV_USE_INOTIFY
2027
2028If defined to be C<1>, libev will compile in support for the Linux inotify
2029interface to speed up C<ev_stat> watchers. Its actual availability will
2030be detected at runtime.
2031
1602=item EV_H 2032=item EV_H
1603 2033
1604The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if 2034The name of the F<ev.h> header file used to include it. The default if
1605undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This 2035undefined is C<< <ev.h> >> in F<event.h> and C<"ev.h"> in F<ev.c>. This
1606can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts. 2036can be used to virtually rename the F<ev.h> header file in case of conflicts.
1629will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create 2059will have the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument, and you can create
1630additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support 2060additional independent event loops. Otherwise there will be no support
1631for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer 2061for multiple event loops and there is no first event loop pointer
1632argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop. 2062argument. Instead, all functions act on the single default loop.
1633 2063
1634=item EV_PERIODICS 2064=item EV_PERIODIC_ENABLE
1635 2065
1636If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported, 2066If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then periodic timers are supported. If
1637otherwise not. This saves a few kb of code. 2067defined to be C<0>, then they are not. Disabling them saves a few kB of
2068code.
2069
2070=item EV_EMBED_ENABLE
2071
2072If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then embed watchers are supported. If
2073defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2074
2075=item EV_STAT_ENABLE
2076
2077If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then stat watchers are supported. If
2078defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2079
2080=item EV_FORK_ENABLE
2081
2082If undefined or defined to be C<1>, then fork watchers are supported. If
2083defined to be C<0>, then they are not.
2084
2085=item EV_MINIMAL
2086
2087If you need to shave off some kilobytes of code at the expense of some
2088speed, define this symbol to C<1>. Currently only used for gcc to override
2089some inlining decisions, saves roughly 30% codesize of amd64.
2090
2091=item EV_PID_HASHSIZE
2092
2093C<ev_child> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2094pid. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>), usually more
2095than enough. If you need to manage thousands of children you might want to
2096increase this value (I<must> be a power of two).
2097
2098=item EV_INOTIFY_HASHSIZE
2099
2100C<ev_staz> watchers use a small hash table to distribute workload by
2101inotify watch id. The default size is C<16> (or C<1> with C<EV_MINIMAL>),
2102usually more than enough. If you need to manage thousands of C<ev_stat>
2103watchers you might want to increase this value (I<must> be a power of
2104two).
1638 2105
1639=item EV_COMMON 2106=item EV_COMMON
1640 2107
1641By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining 2108By default, all watchers have a C<void *data> member. By redefining
1642this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of 2109this macro to a something else you can include more and other types of
1647 2114
1648 #define EV_COMMON \ 2115 #define EV_COMMON \
1649 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \ 2116 SV *self; /* contains this struct */ \
1650 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */ 2117 SV *cb_sv, *fh /* note no trailing ";" */
1651 2118
1652=item EV_CB_DECLARE(type) 2119=item EV_CB_DECLARE (type)
1653 2120
1654=item EV_CB_INVOKE(watcher,revents) 2121=item EV_CB_INVOKE (watcher, revents)
1655 2122
1656=item ev_set_cb(ev,cb) 2123=item ev_set_cb (ev, cb)
1657 2124
1658Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher, 2125Can be used to change the callback member declaration in each watcher,
1659and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member 2126and the way callbacks are invoked and set. Must expand to a struct member
1660definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for 2127definition and a statement, respectively. See the F<ev.v> header file for
1661their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to 2128their default definitions. One possible use for overriding these is to
1662avoid the ev_loop pointer as first argument in all cases, or to use method 2129avoid the C<struct ev_loop *> as first argument in all cases, or to use
1663calls instead of plain function calls in C++. 2130method calls instead of plain function calls in C++.
1664 2131
1665=head2 EXAMPLES 2132=head2 EXAMPLES
1666 2133
1667For a real-world example of a program the includes libev 2134For a real-world example of a program the includes libev
1668verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module 2135verbatim, you can have a look at the EV perl module
1685And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled: 2152And a F<ev_cpp.C> implementation file that contains libev proper and is compiled:
1686 2153
1687 #include "ev_cpp.h" 2154 #include "ev_cpp.h"
1688 #include "ev.c" 2155 #include "ev.c"
1689 2156
2157
2158=head1 COMPLEXITIES
2159
2160In this section the complexities of (many of) the algorithms used inside
2161libev will be explained. For complexity discussions about backends see the
2162documentation for C<ev_default_init>.
2163
2164=over 4
2165
2166=item Starting and stopping timer/periodic watchers: O(log skipped_other_timers)
2167
2168=item Changing timer/periodic watchers (by autorepeat, again): O(log skipped_other_timers)
2169
2170=item Starting io/check/prepare/idle/signal/child watchers: O(1)
2171
2172=item Stopping check/prepare/idle watchers: O(1)
2173
2174=item Stopping an io/signal/child watcher: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_(fd/signal/pid % EV_PID_HASHSIZE))
2175
2176=item Finding the next timer per loop iteration: O(1)
2177
2178=item Each change on a file descriptor per loop iteration: O(number_of_watchers_for_this_fd)
2179
2180=item Activating one watcher: O(1)
2181
2182=back
2183
2184
1690=head1 AUTHOR 2185=head1 AUTHOR
1691 2186
1692Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>. 2187Marc Lehmann <libev@schmorp.de>.
1693 2188

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